Spine Fractures

The spine is a complex structure made up of vertebrae, discs, joints, ligaments, and nerves that work together to support the body and allow movement. Over time, these structures naturally experience wear and tear that can lead to arthritis and degeneration within the spine.

Spine arthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joints of the spine begins to break down. As degeneration progresses, inflammation, bone spurs, stiffness, and nerve compression may develop. At Fox Valley Orthopedics, we provide personalized treatment plans designed to reduce pain, improve mobility, and help patients maintain long-term spine health.

What are Spine Fractures?

A spinal fracture occurs when one or more of the vertebrae—the individual bones that form your spinal column—become broken. These injuries can result from high-impact trauma, such as a sports collision or a vehicle accident, but they can also occur during simple activities like a fall if a patient has compromised bone density. Typically, these fractures are marked by the onset of acute back pain that intensifies whenever the person moves.

What Causes Spine Fractures?

There are generally two categories of events that lead to spinal fractures:

• High-Energy Trauma:This includes severe impacts such as car or motorcycle accidents, falls from significant heights, or high-velocity sports injuries.
• Low-Energy Events: In individuals with osteoporosis or other conditions that weaken the bones, a fracture can occur during routine movements, such as reaching for an object, twisting the torso, or experiencing a minor trip and fall.

While these injuries can happen anywhere along the column, they are most frequently seen in the lower and middle sections of the back.

What Types of Spine Fractures are There?

The stability and severity of the injury differ across these types. Some fractures are considered stable and can be managed with bracing while they heal; however, unstable fractures may necessitate surgical intervention to protect the nerves and spinal cord from damage.

How are Spine Fractures Diagnosed?

The diagnostic process begins with a comprehensive physical examination and a neurological evaluation. Your provider will likely assess your strength, sensation, and reflexes to determine the extent of the injury. Following the exam, imaging tests are used to confirm the fracture and evaluate its stability.

What are the Treatment Options for Spine Fractures?

The approach to treatment is determined by the type of fracture, whether the spine remains stable, and if there is any involvement of the nerves.

Nonsurgical Options for Spine Fractures

For mild burst fractures or stable compression fractures, conservative management is often effective. This typically involves a combination of spinal bracing, dedicated rest, pain management strategies, and a gradual rehabilitation program. In certain cases of compression fractures, vertebral augmentation may be recommended to stabilize the bone.

Spine Fracture Surgery

Surgical intervention becomes necessary when the bones are angled out of place or if there are multiple fragmented pieces of bone. Surgery is also the preferred route if the spinal cord, nerves, or supporting ligaments have been compromised.

These procedures generally focus on stabilizing the spinal column using hardware such as cages, rods, or screws.

What is Recovery Like after a Spine Fracture?

Healing from a spinal fracture is a gradual process and typically involves several stages:

• Wearing a supportive brace for a period of several weeks or months
• Engaging in physical therapy to regain posture, strength, and range of motion
• Performing specific rehabilitation exercises to improve overall function and manage pain

Patients who suffered a fracture due to osteoporosis should discuss bone health with their doctor to receive targeted treatment to increase bone density and prevent future breaks. It is important to note that some individuals may continue to experience lingering back pain for several months following the initial injury, even with successful treatment.

Get Expert Spine Fracture Care at Fox Valley Orthopedics

Spine fractures can make it difficult to work, exercise, sleep comfortably, and enjoy everyday activities. At Fox Valley Orthopedics, our experienced spine fracture specialists provide comprehensive care this condition and and other related degenerative spine conditions, including advanced diagnostics, rehabilitation programs, spinal injections, and surgical treatment when necessary.

Call today to make your appointment: (855) FVORTHO | (855) 386-7846.