Exam + imaging when needed
Conservative care first when appropriate
Vertebroplasty/kyphoplasty when indicated
Led by Kamal Woods, MD, MBA, FAANS
A vertebral compression fracture happens when a bone in the spine (a vertebra) cracks and partially collapses. This can cause sudden pain, reduced mobility, and posture changes. It's most common in the thoracic (mid-back) area, but can happen anywhere along the spine.
Why it matters:
Left untreated, some fractures can contribute to progressive spinal curvature (kyphosis), ongoing pain, and higher risk of future fractures—especially when bone density is low.
"Don't wait" reasons to be evaluated quickly
If you have new severe pain after a fall, worsening pain that limits daily life, or symptoms that don't improve, it's worth getting checked to confirm whether a fracture is present and whether it's stable.
Patient benefit:
We focus on confirming the cause (osteoporosis vs. trauma vs. other) so treatment is targeted—not guesswork.
If pain remains severe or function is significantly limited, some patients may benefit from procedures like vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty, which stabilize the fractured vertebra using bone cement.
Important note: Not every patient is a candidate. The right option depends on whether pain is truly coming from the fracture (and the fracture's age/cause).
Bone cement is injected to stabilize the fracture.
A small balloon is used first to create space and can help restore some height before cement is placed.
What patients care about:
These procedures are typically minimally invasive and may provide meaningful pain relief for the right candidate.
Patient benefit:
The goal isn't just "getting through this fracture"—it's reducing the odds of the next one.
Some stable fractures improve with conservative care (meds, bracing, time, and rehab), but evaluation matters to confirm stability and rule out other causes.
Imaging plus exam helps determine whether pain correlates with a compression fracture versus other spine conditions.
No. Many are treated without surgery; minimally invasive options may be considered when pain is severe or persistent and the fracture is the true pain source.
When the front of a vertebra collapses, it can create a wedge shape and contribute to kyphosis over time.
It's generally considered minimally invasive, using a small puncture rather than a large incision.
If pain is sudden/severe (especially after a fall) or you're losing function, schedule an evaluation. Confirming the cause early helps guide the safest plan.
