Lumbar Compression Fractures
Lumbar compression fractures occur when the vertebra in the spine collapse from the normal height to about half its size. A compression fracture is when the bone tissue of the vertebral body collapses. At times there can be multiple compression fractures of the spine. Osteoporosis is the most common cause of compression fractures. Other may include tumors and trauma to the back. If it results in any damage to the spinal cord symptoms may include numbness, tingling, and weakness. Depending on the area of the back, most compression fractures do not cause neurological symptoms. A spine x-ray shows at least one compressed vertebra that is shorter than the other vertebra. If there is no history of trauma, a bone density test needs to be done to evaluate for osteoporosis. If checking for a tumor that possibly made the vertebra weak, a CT or MRI scan can be used for evaluation. Majority of lumbar compression fractures are caused by osteoporosis in the elderly. These fractures generally do not cause spinal cord injury. Treatment includes treating the osteoporosis, employ back braces, or a minimally invasive technique.
Lumbar compression fractures occur when the vertebra in the spine collapse from the normal height to about half its size. A compression fracture is when the bone tissue of the vertebral body collapses. At times there can be multiple compression fractures of the spine. Osteoporosis is the most common cause of compression fractures. Other may include tumors and trauma to the back. If it results in any damage to the spinal cord symptoms may include numbness, tingling, and weakness. Depending on the area of the back, most compression fractures do not cause neurological symptoms. A spine x-ray shows at least one compressed vertebra that is shorter than the other vertebra. If there is no history of trauma, a bone density test needs to be done to evaluate for osteoporosis. If checking for a tumor that possibly made the vertebra weak, a CT or MRI scan can be used for evaluation. Majority of lumbar compression fractures are caused by osteoporosis in the elderly. These fractures generally do not cause spinal cord injury. Treatment includes treating the osteoporosis, employ back braces, or a minimally invasive technique.
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