Compression Fractures are fractures that involve the spine that results in part of a vertebra (back bone) or bone that collapses. The most common cause is osteoporosis (weak or brittle bones) that impacts the spine. If multiple vertebrae are fractured, it can cause the spinal column to become shortened and curved. These fractures can be extremely painful and can result in decreased lung capacity, abdominal distention, and rib or hip discomfort.

Common causes of these fractures are osteoporosis, trauma, and cancer spreading to bone. Most vertebral compression fractures respond to conservative treatment. Failure of conservative therapy for compression fractures raises the spectre of surgical intervention with one of two minimally invasive techniques—vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty. Both techniques strengthen and stabilize the spine, which can decrease or relieve the pain of vertebral compression fractures. Talk with one of our physicians to find out which treatment option is best for you.