Compression Fractures of the Spine Treated in Louisiana
A spinal compression fracture occurs when one of the bones of the spine cracks and collapses, often causing sudden back pain, loss of height, and a stooped posture. LA Pain Doctor diagnoses and treats compression fractures for patients in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA with minimally invasive procedures that can bring fast relief.
Request an AppointmentWhat Causes Compression Fractures?
The vertebrae are the stacked bones that make up your spine. When they become weak, they can collapse under everyday pressure. The most common causes include:
- Osteoporosis, which thins and weakens bones, especially in older adults and postmenopausal women
- Falls, car accidents, and other trauma
- Cancer that has spread to the spine
- Long-term use of steroid medications that affect bone strength
In people with osteoporosis, a fracture can happen from something as simple as lifting a grocery bag, coughing, or bending forward.
Signs and Symptoms
- Sudden, sharp back pain, often in the middle or lower back
- Pain that worsens when standing or walking and eases when lying down
- Loss of height over time
- A curved, hunched-forward posture
- Limited spinal movement and difficulty twisting or bending
Diagnosis
Your provider will review your symptoms and medical history and order imaging such as X-rays, an MRI, or a CT scan to confirm the fracture and determine whether it is new or old. This information helps decide which treatment is most likely to help.
Minimally Invasive Treatment Options
Some fractures heal with rest, bracing, and medication. When pain continues, two minimally invasive procedures can stabilize the fractured bone and provide significant relief. Kyphoplasty uses a small balloon to restore some height to the collapsed vertebra before filling it with bone cement. Vertebroplasty injects bone cement directly into the fracture to stabilize it. Both are outpatient procedures, and many patients feel better within days.
We also encourage patients to work with their primary care doctor on bone health to help prevent future fractures. Learn about living with osteoarthritis or explore our lower back pain treatment and other conditions such as Degenerative Disc Disease and Scoliosis.
Frequently Asked Questions About Compression Fracture Treatment
What does a spinal compression fracture feel like?
It often causes sudden, sharp back pain that worsens with standing or walking and improves when lying down.
Can a compression fracture heal on its own?
Some fractures heal with rest and bracing over several weeks to months, but painful fractures may need kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty.
Is osteoporosis the main cause?
Yes. Osteoporosis is the most common cause of spinal compression fractures, especially in older adults.
What are the treatment options?
Options include rest, bracing, medication, and minimally invasive procedures such as kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty.
How fast do kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty work?
Many patients experience significant pain relief within a few days of the procedure.
Can compression fractures cause height loss?
Yes. Collapsed vertebrae can lead to height loss and a forward-curved posture over time.
Where can I get treatment for a compression fracture?
LA Pain Doctor treats spinal compression fractures at our offices in Metairie, LaPlace, Harvey, Hammond, and Lutcher, LA. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office to schedule.
Get Relief From Spinal Fracture Pain
Fast, minimally invasive treatment is available. Call (504) 229-4866 - Metairie Office , (504) 229-4866 - Laplace Office , (504) 229-4866 - Harvey Office , (504) 229-4866 - Hammond Office or (504) 229-4866 - Lutcher Office or request an appointment online today.