Compression Fracture Specialist
As many as 1.5 million compression fractures occur every year in the United States, and most often in those with osteoporosis. These fractures can lead to chronic back pain and affect mobility if not properly treated. At Texas Brain & Spine Center, with offices in Webster and Lake Jackson, Texas, skilled neurosurgeon James Gregory Bonnen, MD, offers treatments for compression fractures, including minimally invasive surgical options, to relieve pain and support healing. To schedule an appointment for an evaluation, call your nearest office or click the online booking button.
Compression Fracture Q & A
What is a compression fracture?
A compression fracture refers to a break in your vertebrae, which are the bones that make up your spinal column and protect your spinal canal.
These types of fractures can occur after an injury, such as a car accident or sports injury. However, osteoporosis is the most common cause of compression fractures.
Osteoporosis is a bone disease that causes your bones to be weak and more susceptible to fractures. If you have osteoporosis, you can easily break a bone doing everyday things, such as walking down the stairs or coughing.
What are the symptoms of a compression fracture?
The onset and severity of your compression fracture symptoms may depend on the underlying cause. If you develop a compression fracture after an accident, you may experience sudden and sharp back pain that’s difficult to ignore.
However, if your compression fracture is a result of osteoporosis, your symptoms may develop slowly over time. Common symptoms of compression due to osteoporosis include:
Dull back pain that worsens over time
Loss in height
Decreased spinal mobility
Stooped posture
Numbness, tingling, or weakness
Loss of bowel or bladder control
A compression fracture caused by osteoporosis can go undiagnosed for some time and may only be found incidentally after getting an X-ray for an unrelated issue.
What are compression fracture treatments?
Treatment for your compression fracture may depend on the underlying cause. If your compression fracture is due to osteoporosis, treatment may focus on medications and supplements that improve bone strength and health.
Other treatments may include:
Pain medication
Activity modification
Back brace
Physical therapy
If conservative measures fail to improve your compression fracture and/or symptoms, surgery may be recommended.
What are the surgical treatments for compression fractures?
Dr. Bonnen is a skilled neurosurgeon who specializes in minimally invasive procedures for the treatment of spinal disorders and can review your compression fracture surgical options during a consultation. He may recommend:
Kyphoplasty
During kyphoplasty, Dr. Bonnen stabilizes your compression fracture with a special cement after he’s repositioned your bones with an inflated surgical balloon.
Spinal fusion surgery
During spinal fusion surgery, Dr. Bonnen fuses two vertebrae together to minimize movement and alleviate pain.
Dr. Bonnen determines the best procedure for your compression fracture based on the underlying cause and your overall health. He reviews the details of the procedure with you, including how to prepare for it and what to expect afterward.
To get relief from your compression fracture pain, call Texas Brain & Spine Center to discuss your surgical options.