What are spinal fractures?
Fractures are breaks in the bones of the spinal column. There can be involvement of ligaments and/or joints of the spine as well. Spinal fractures can be stable or unstable.
What causes spinal fractures?
People with osteoporosis, tumors or other underlying conditions that weaken bone can get a spinal fracture with minimal trauma or normal activities of daily living.
Other fractures may be the result high-energy trauma like a car crash, fall, sports accident or act of violence (e.g. gunshot wound).
Males experience high-energy injuries four times more often than females do. The spinal cord may be injured depending on the severity of the fracture.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms include:
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Moderate to severe neck/back pain made worse by movement.
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In some cases when the spinal cord is also involved, numbness, tingling, weakness or bowel/bladder dysfunction.
How are spinal fractures diagnosed?
In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, diagnostic procedures for spinal fractures may include the following:
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x-ray - a diagnostic test which uses invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones, and organs onto film.
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magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) - a diagnostic procedure that uses a combination of large magnets, radiofrequencies, and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body.
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computed tomography scan (Also called a CT or CAT scan.) - a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called slices), both horizontally and vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. CT scans are more detailed than general x-rays.
Treatment for spinal fractures
Specific treatment for sciatica will be determined by your physician based on:
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your age, overall health, and medical history
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extent of the disease
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your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
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expectations for the course of the disease
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your opinion or preference
To help relieve the symptoms of spinal fractures and facilitate healing of the injury, treatment may include:
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nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications
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neck collar or back brace
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halo vest immobilization
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surgery may involve vertebroplasty/kyphoplasty where bone cement is injected into the fracture or fusion procedures to stabilize the area of injury
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