Fractures of the spine, called compression fractures, are common problems for people with osteoporosis. The most common fracture type starts at the bottom end of the spine and goes up to where it meets the pelvis. This occurs when there is a lot of pressure on your vertebrae. It can be from sitting or standing in one position for an extended period. In Shrewsbury, New Jersey, some centers offer treatment for compression fracture. They employ minimally invasive remedies in serving patients. Therefore, book an appointment with a competent specialist in treating compression fracture in Shrewsbury, NJ.
What is a Compression Fracture?
A compression fracture is a break in the bone that is caused by constant pressure. It can be due to a person’s weight or excessive force applied to the bone over time, such as osteoporosis or repeat trauma from sports activities. A diagnosis of this type of injury would be made through an x-ray and may require surgery for repair if not treated appropriately.
Risk Factors
- Age: People over 50 are at a greater risk for compression fractures than those younger due to post-menopausal women having weaker bones than they did when they were younger. For example, you could break your hip if you fall from a standing height.
- Bone conditions: Diseases such as osteoporosis and cancer can weaken bones, making them more susceptible to compression fractures.
- Weight: This puts pressure on bones, increasing the risk of fracture.
- Activities: People who participate in activities that involve repetitive use of force on their bones, such as running or sports, are more likely to get compression fractures than people who do not.
Symptoms of Compression Fractures
- Pain in the bones which may be worse during activities
- Numbness, weakness, and difficulty walking.
Treatment Options for Compression Fractures
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is very effective in the treatment of compression fractures. People with the condition must be able to move around to avoid complications. These are just some of the rehabilitation exercises that have been found helpful in the treatment of compression fractures-
- Range-of-motion exercises
- Strengthening exercises
- Circular movements
- Balance exercises
It is also crucial for people with compression fractures to maintain a healthy weight. This is because being overweight puts extra stress on your bones, which increases your risk of getting them fractured. Take calcium supplements since osteoporosis can weaken your bones and make them more susceptible to compression injuries.
Vertebroplasty
If conservative treatments, such as wearing a cast or undergoing physical therapy, do not help relieve pain and improve function, your doctor may recommend vertebroplasty. It’s a surgical procedure that involves the injection of bone cement into the broken vertebrae. The cement will help to stabilize the fracture and reduce pain.
Compression fractures are a common problem for people with osteoporosis. While they can happen due to excessive force applied over time, such as from sports activities or repetitive motions that put pressure on the bone, it is most likely those who have weakened bones will experience this type of injury. The symptoms include pain and numbness near the area where you suffer your fracture.
