Understanding and Managing Vertebral Body Compression Fractures

At Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah, we recognize how vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) can affect every aspect of your life—causing pain, reduced mobility, and a decline in overall quality of life. Our expert team specializes in diagnosing and treating these painful spinal injuries with advanced, non-surgical and minimally invasive solutions tailored to each patient.

A vertebral compression fracture occurs when a vertebra in the spine collapses or becomes compressed due to trauma or weakening of the bone. These fractures most commonly affect the thoracic (mid-back) and lumbar (lower back) regions of the spine.

Compression fractures can result from:

• Osteoporosis (the most common cause)
• Trauma, such as a fall or car accident
• Cancer that has spread to the spine
• Long-term use of corticosteroids, which weaken bone over time

These fractures can range from mild to severe and may lead to chronic pain, spinal deformity (like kyphosis), and impaired function.

Osteoporosis is the leading contributor to compression fractures, especially in older adults. Weakened bones are more susceptible to minor stresses that would not normally cause a fracture.

Additional risk factors include:

• Age over 50
• Female gender, especially postmenopausal women
• History of bone cancer or metastatic disease
• Smoking and excessive alcohol use
• Sedentary lifestyle or lack of weight-bearing exercise
• Poor nutrition or calcium/vitamin D deficiency

Being aware of these risk factors can help with early detection and prevention.

Symptoms of a vertebral compression fracture can vary, but commonly include:

• Sudden onset of back pain, often in the mid or lower spine
• Pain that worsens with standing, walking, or lifting
• Loss of height over time
• Stooped posture or visible spinal curvature
• Limited spinal mobility
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness (if nerves are affected)

Some fractures may occur gradually and remain undetected until the pain becomes persistent.

At Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah, our diagnosis begins with a detailed medical history and physical exam. We often use imaging studies for a comprehensive assessment:

• X-rays: To detect bone collapse or deformity
• MRI: To assess soft tissue involvement, recent versus old fractures, and potential spinal cord compression
• CT scans: For detailed bone imaging and pre-surgical planning if necessary

Early and accurate diagnosis is critical to preventing further complications and initiating the most effective treatment.

Most vertebral compression fractures can be managed without surgery, especially when diagnosed early. We offer a variety of conservative treatment options including:

• Pain management: NSAIDs, acetaminophen, or prescription pain relievers
• Activity modification: Avoiding heavy lifting and high-impact activities
• Bracing: Wearing a back brace to support healing and reduce motion
• Physical therapy: Gentle exercises to improve posture, mobility, and strength
• Osteoporosis treatment: Medications and supplements to strengthen bones and prevent future fractures

Our personalized approach focuses on reducing pain, supporting healing, and restoring function.

When conservative care is not enough, we offer cutting-edge interventional options:

• Vertebroplasty: Injection of bone cement into the fractured vertebra to stabilize the spine and relieve pain
• Kyphoplasty: A balloon is inserted and inflated to restore height before cement is injected, reducing deformity

These procedures are typically outpatient, require minimal recovery time, and can significantly improve pain and mobility.

Surgical intervention is rare but may be necessary in cases of:

• Spinal instability or severe deformity
• Progressive neurological symptoms due to nerve compression
• Fractures that do not heal with conservative or minimally invasive treatment

Our specialists thoroughly evaluate all options and prioritize the least invasive, most effective solutions for each patient.

Patients trust Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah for our:

• Board-certified spine and pain management experts
• Advanced imaging and diagnostic capabilities
• Comprehensive, personalized care plans
• Commitment to minimally invasive and regenerative treatments
• Supportive rehabilitation programs focused on full recovery

We're here to guide you through every step of your healing journey—helping you stand taller, feel better, and live pain-free.