Vertebral compression fractures occur when the vertebral body of a vertebra collapses, which can lead to severe pain, deformation and loss of height of the spine. These fractures occur more frequently in the thoracic spine (the middle portion of the spine), especially in its lower, most affected being the T11 and T12 vertebrae and even the first lumbar vertebra.

The main cause of vertebral compression fractures is osteoporosis. If the spine is osteoporotic, the bones at its level thin and even the slightest trauma or fall could cause a fracture.

➢ back pain with sudden onset, pain that intensifies with prolonged standing or with walking and improves with rest on the back

➢ limited mobility of the spine, with possible deformities

➢ possible loss of height

The vertebrae (bones of the spine) are placed on top of each other and are joined by the articular facets and intervertebral discs, which are located between each vertebra. Spinal nerves protrude from the spinal marrow through the intervertebral holes.

When the vertebrae collapse, most of the time they tend to do it frontally. Depending on its severity, it will also be determined by the level of compression that occurs. Also, if there is underlying weakness of the bone, as it happens in osteoporosis, then the compression will probably be more pronounced. In a younger person without osteoporosis, the trauma should have a force high enough to fracture a vertebra.

The diagnosis of a vertebral compression fracture is not easy to establish, requiring a physical examination accompanied by an X-ray or an MRI examination. If the fracture is severe, a CT scan (CT scan) is indicated.

Anti-inflammatory and pain relievers help relieve pain and inflammation, but are recommended for short periods of time, maximum 7-14 days.

It is a relatively minor surgical procedure, although it requires general anesthesia. More precisely, a small balloon is placed in the vertebral body and is inflated to create a cavity inside the collapsed vertebrae. This is then filled with cement, then, after the balloon has been removed, the space in the vertebra is filled with cement, which hardens in a few minutes stabilizing and increasing the height of the vertebrae.

Elderly people are recommended to rest more in bed.

Activities or movements that cause or accentuate back pain will be avoided.

The most important movement to be avoided is bending (bending) frontally because this places a lot of stress on the front of the vertebrae.

Also, avoid lifting heavy objects.

Wearing an orthosis in the affected area can help prevent additional movement. It also helps keep the spine in a neutral position, which alleviates the pressure on the fractured vertebrae, emphasizing the healing process.

➢ Since osteoporosis is one of the most common causes of compression fractures, bone health should be maintained with a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, as well as with exercise performed regularly.

➢ The lifting of heavy objects is done from squat position, the weight is held with both arms, push into the legs for lifting. Do not bend the back forward.