Your Trusted Spinal Compression FractureTreatment and Prevention Experts In South Dakota
What are Spinal Compression Fractures
These are small breaks or fractures in the vertebrae—bones that form the spine. They typically occur in the middle part of the spine, called the thoracic spine. Our team of expert interventional radiologists may be able to improve symptoms using a minimally invasive procedure.
Symptoms of Spinal Compression Fracture
The most common symptom is back pain. Other symptoms include:
- Pain that worsens upon standing or walking, with some relief when lying down
- Numbness or tingling in the back or legs
- Decreased mobility
- Loss of height
- Hunched over appearance, also called kyphosis
Causes of Spinal Compression Fracture
The most common cause of spinal compression fractures is osteoporosis. They are more common in women over age 50 but can also occur in men.
Diagnosis of Spinal Compression Fracture
The diagnosis of spinal compression fractures begins with a physician asking questions about your medical history and symptoms. A physical examination is performed, and imaging tests such as X-ray, CT, or MRI scans may be required.
Treatment of Spinal Compression Fracture
Dietary and lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of osteoporosis and spinal compression fractures. Spinal compression fractures can be treated using minimally invasive procedures to restore normal spinal function and help reduce pain.
Maintain normal Vitamin D and calcium levels, stop smoking, avoid excessive alcohol intake, and exercise regularly, including resistance training muscle-strengthening activity.
Kyphoplasty: A type of vertebroplasty used to restore the spine’s original shape and curvature, especially in patients with severe compression fractures and stooped posture.
Sacroplasty: Like kyphoplasty but located in the lower back and pelvis. Bone cement is used to stabilize the spine and reduce pain.
Experienced Care for Spinal Compression Fracture Symptoms in the Black Hills
If you are at risk for spinal compression fractures, or have experienced one or more signs and symptoms, please call us at (605) 503-8192 our team of specialists and Black Hills Heart and Vascular to schedule a screening.
