Compression Fractures Treatment Specialist Q&A

There are three types of compression fractures:

Wedge Fracture — The most common type of compression fracture, a wedge fracture usually occurs in the front of the cylinder-shaped vertebra. When the front of the vertebra collapses and the back of the bone remains intact, it results in a wedge shape. A wedge compression fracture is usually a mechanically stable fracture, meaning it is unlikely to undergo further changes; however, it can lead to spinal deformities, such as a hunchback posture.

Crush Fracture — A crush fracture is characterized by a fracture throughout the entire vertebra, often collapsing in on itself. In many cases, these fractures are mechanically stable.

Burst Fracture — Similar to a crush fracture, a burst fracture is more akin to an explosion than an implosion. In a burst fracture, when the vertebra collapses, it breaks out in multiple directions, oftentimes sending pieces of shattered bone into the surrounding tissues of the spine or the spinal cord. This type of fracture is more likely to be unstable and is usually more serious than either a wedge or a crush fracture. In most cases, a burst fracture requires immediate medical attention.

Yes, a compression fracture is a type of break that often occurs in the bones of the spine. Although virtually any bone in the skeletal system can be subjected to a compression fracture, it most commonly occurs in the vertebrae.

While compression fractures are common, they can be serious if left untreated. Without proper treatment, compression fractures can lead to a number of permanent or long-term conditions, such as chronic pain, physical deformity, and damage to the internal organs, including the lungs and heart. There are also a number of other complications that can lead to serious and even fatal symptoms, including medical issues like blood clots. Blood clots can develop due to a lack of mobility during the recovery period.

There are a number of different treatments for compression fractures, such as back braces and medications to strengthen the bones, but the leading treatment for this type of injury is a minimally invasive procedure known as kyphoplasty. This procedure relieves pain, stabilizes the bones and improves mobility. It involves inserting an inflatable device filled with cement, then carefully injecting bone cement to fill in the vertebral void and restore structural integrity. Kyphoplasty is an outpatient procedure, so you can go home the same day, but you will have to have someone drive you home.

The spine care specialists at Global Neuro & Spine are here to help improve your quality of life through tried and true treatments that deliver quality results. Contact us today to book an appointment with our compression fracture treatment specialist, or visit one of our six Florida locations. We serve patients from all across the Sunshine State, in Orlando FL, Conway FL, Edgewood FL, Jensen Beach FL, Ocean Breeze FL, Rio FL, Malabar Palm Bay FL, Melbourne FL, Atlantis FL, Palm Springs FL, Boynton Beach FL, Fort Pierce FL, White City FL, St Lucie FL, Plantation FL, Pine Island Ridge FL, Lauderhill FL, Winter Park FL, Bertha FL, Alafaya FL and surrounding areas.