Compression Fractures

Your back pain tells you there’s an issue. But getting it taken care of can make you nervous, raising questions about convenience, effectiveness, and the time required to heal. Let’s get you answers and relief, starting with a diagnosis. Our world-class spinal-injury specialists test for tenderness and sensitivity along the spine. They may administer an X-ray and additional tests. Together, these help us create a customized wellness program designed to improve your ability to perform day-to-day activities and get you back to doing the things you love. These tests include:

• CAT Scan
• MRI Scan
• Nuclear Bone Scan

The more you know about your compression fracture, the better equipped you'll be to move forward with more confidence and ease. The expert spinal-care doctors at AdventHealth give you clarity and understanding by identifying the type of injury you have and its source. People who have osteoporosis may be at a higher risk of spinal fractures. Types of compression fractures include:

• Burst fracture occurs when both the front and back walls of the vertebra collapse.
• Crush fracture happens when the whole vertebra breaks.
• Wedge fracture is the most common type of compression fracture and occurs when the front wall of the fractured vertebra collapses into the spine.

We want to offer complete clarity. After we figure out what type of fracture you have, we’ll work to determine how old the fracture is, if any nerves are affected, and whether there are other causes of your pain. With each step, we'll give you the compression fracture treatments you need so you can focus on living the life you love.

You want to get back to feeling like yourself again — pain-free, mobile, and strong. Using our whole-person approach to care, our AdventHealth network of nationally recognized spine-injury experts can help you get closer to your goal. Spinal compression fracture treatment is typically two-pronged, including both non-surgical care and minimally invasive procedures. We may start you off with bed rest, back braces, or physical therapy, as well as a range of medications to help ease your pain, including:

• Antidepressants to Treat Nerve Pain
• Muscle Relaxants
• Narcotic Pain Medications
• Over-The-Counter Pain Medications, Including Acetaminophen and Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Sometimes, your care plan includes a recommendation for surgery. We use the most minimally invasive techniques possible for more minimal scarring and a faster recovery time. The procedures can include kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty, techniques that aim to stabilize your spine and put you on a path to healing.