Compression Fractures of the Spine

Compression fractures of the spine are a painful and often overlooked condition that can significantly affect quality of life—especially in older adults. At The Pain Experts of Arizona, our experienced team of pain specialists provides accurate diagnoses and non-surgical treatment options for patients suffering from spinal compression fractures. We proudly serve patients in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa, offering tailored care in a trusted pain clinic setting.

What Are Compression Fractures?

A compression fracture occurs when the vertebral body—one of the drum-shaped bones that form your spine—collapses under pressure. These fractures are most commonly caused by osteoporosis, but they can also result from cancer, traumatic injury, or other underlying conditions that weaken the bone.

When the front portion of the vertebra collapses and the back remains intact, the bone takes on a wedge-like shape. This can lead to spinal deformity, chronic pain, and loss of height over time. In more serious cases, fragments of the bone can press on the spinal cord or nerves, leading to neurological symptoms.

Symptoms of Compression Fractures

Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the fracture and the cause. Common signs include:

• Sudden, sharp back pain

• Gradually increasing or dull pain over time

• Pain that worsens with standing, walking, or sitting for long periods

• Loss of height

• Rounded back or kyphosis

• Mild to severe discomfort, often located in the middle or lower spine

Many patients with osteoporosis-related fractures may not experience immediate symptoms, making it crucial to consult a pain doctor if back pain develops without an obvious cause.

Causes of Compression Fractures

Several factors can lead to spinal compression fractures:

• Osteoporosis: The most common cause, especially in older women

• Metastatic cancer: Cancer that spreads to the bone

• Trauma or injury: Even minor falls or impacts in patients with weakened bones

• Bone infections or diseases: Conditions that affect bone strength and integrity

If you’re experiencing back pain and fall into any of these categories, visiting a pain clinic like ours in Gilbert is the first step toward relief.

Types of Compression Fractures

Compression fractures are classified into three primary types:

• Wedge fractures: The most common type. The front of the vertebra collapses while the back remains intact. This can lead to a hunched posture or spinal deformity.

• Crush fractures: The entire vertebral body collapses. These are typically more stable than burst fractures.

• Burst fractures: A severe fracture where the bone breaks in multiple directions and fragments may press on spinal nerves. This requires urgent medical care.

Our pain specialists in Phoenix can evaluate the type and severity of your fracture and recommend the most effective treatment plan.

Diagnostic Testing for Compression Fractures

Diagnosing a spinal compression fracture begins with a thorough physical exam and review of your medical history. Additional imaging and diagnostic tools may include:

• X-rays: The initial test to identify changes in vertebral shape

• MRI scans: Useful for evaluating soft tissues and determining the age of the fracture

• CT scans: Provide more detailed imaging for complex or unclear cases

• Bone scans: Sometimes used to detect subtle fractures or underlying disease

• Kyphoplasty assessment: Evaluation for minimally invasive procedures

• Tomography: Occasionally used to capture additional views of the spine

If you’re in Scottsdale, our pain clinic offers these advanced diagnostic tools to ensure a clear and accurate diagnosis.

Compression Fracture Treatment Options

Most compression fractures can be treated non-surgically, especially when diagnosed early. At The Pain Experts of Arizona, we focus on conservative, evidence-based approaches, which may include:

• Pain relievers: Over-the-counter or prescription medications

• Bracing: Helps to stabilize the spine and prevent further collapse

• Physical therapy: Improves mobility, posture, and spinal strength

• Activity modification: Encourages safe movement and avoids aggravating the injury

• Bone cement procedures: Minimally invasive options like vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty, which stabilize the fractured bone and relieve pain

• Surgical options: Reserved for severe cases like burst fractures with nerve involvement

If you’re in Mesa and need help managing your pain, our pain clinic offers both conventional therapies and interventional procedures to treat compression fractures effectively.

Important Facts About Compression Fractures

• Common in older adults, especially women with osteoporosis

• May occur with minimal trauma or no apparent cause

• Many patients don’t experience symptoms

• Pain typically improves within one to three months

• Osteoporosis-related fractures often worsen with prolonged standing or sitting

• Early diagnosis and treatment reduce the risk of spinal deformity and further fractures

Contact

Compression fractures of the spine can cause lasting pain and impact your ability to move, stand, or perform daily activities. But with expert care and timely treatment, recovery is possible. Whether your fracture is due to osteoporosis, trauma, or another condition, a pain doctor at The Pain Experts of Arizona can help you find relief and stability. Serving Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa, our pain clinic is committed to restoring your quality of life with personalized, non-surgical solutions.

Call us today at 480-950-9393 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward feeling better.

The Pain Experts of Arizona – Your Partners in Pain Relief and Recovery.

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