Condition guide
Vertebral Compression Fractures
A collapse in a spinal bone that can cause sudden or persistent back pain.
Overview
A vertebral compression fracture occurs when a vertebral body, the weight-bearing block at the front of a spinal segment, loses height. Osteoporosis is the most common setting: bone weakened by reduced density can collapse under loads that healthy bone handles easily, sometimes from a minor fall, a stumble, or even forceful coughing.
These fractures are common in older adults, particularly women after menopause, and are probably underdiagnosed, since some people attribute the resulting back pain to general aging. Timely evaluation matters because it clarifies the fracture's age and stability, determines whether the fracture explains the pain, and opens a window to address underlying bone health.
Symptoms
- Sudden, focal back pain at a specific spinal level
- Pain that worsens with standing, walking, or changing position
- Partial relief when lying down
- Pain after a minor fall or without any clear injury
- Loss of height over time
- A newly more stooped or rounded posture
Possible causes
Osteoporosis and reduced bone density are the leading causes. Trauma, long-term steroid medication, certain medical conditions, and treatments that affect bone metabolism also weaken vertebrae. Some fractures occur during routine activities in people with significantly reduced bone density.
How it is diagnosed
Evaluation includes examination and imaging to confirm the fracture, determine its age, and assess whether it is stable. MRI can show whether the fracture is recent and whether bone marrow swelling matches the painful area, which matters when deciding on treatment. Because reduced bone density usually underlies these fractures, appropriate medical workup of bone health is part of the evaluation.
Treatment options
Care depends on the fracture's age and stability. Options include medication for pain control, brief bracing in selected cases, gradual activity progression, and treatment of the underlying bone health, which is essential for preventing future fractures. For recent, painful fractures that have not improved with conservative care, kyphoplasty may be considered to stabilize the fracture and reduce pain.
When to see a specialist
New, severe, or focal back pain after a minor fall or twist, especially in someone with osteoporosis or risk factors for it, deserves timely assessment rather than waiting. Older adults with sudden back pain and no clear cause should also be evaluated, since these fractures are frequently missed.
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
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This information is educational and does not replace an individual medical evaluation. If you have a medical emergency, call 911.