The vertebrae (or "vertebral bodies") are the bones that form the spinal column. A compression fracture of the spine describes a collapse of one or more of these bones.
Anyone can get a compression fracture of the spine from a serious fall or car accident. People with weakened bones can get them from a minor fall or without any trauma at all. Medical problems that cause weakened bones include osteoporosis and osteogenesis imperfecta.
Someone with a compression fracture of the spine may have pain that happens right after an injury. Or they might notice back pain that seems to start without a known cause, but doesn't go away. Sometimes people with a compression fracture of the spine do not have any pain at all.
Over time, a compression fracture can lead to loss of height and curving of the spine.
To diagnose a compression fracture, health care providers talk to patients about their symptoms, do a physical exam, and get X-rays. Sometimes other imaging tests, like a CT scan or MRI, are done to get more information about the fracture and the areas around it. A bone density test may be done to learn more about the strength of the bones.
Treatment for a compression fracture of the spine depends on how severe it is and if there are other medical problems. Treatments may include:
Call your health care provider right away if your child has:
How a child heals from a compression fracture depends on how severe it is and what caused it. Help your child get the best result by going to all follow-up doctor visits, giving medicines as directed, and following instructions about which activities are OK and which to avoid.
Reviewed by: Jeanne M. Franzone, MD
Date Reviewed: Apr 10, 2023
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