Alternate Names : Vertebral compression fractures
Definition
Compression fractures of the back are broken vertebrae, which are the bones of the spine.
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
In a compression fracture of the vertebra, the vertebral bone collapses. More than one vertebra may be affected. This condition may be caused by:
- Osteoporosis (the most common cause), which is caused by weakening of the bone due to the loss of calcium and other factors.
- Trauma to the back
- Tumors that started in the bone or spread to the bone from elsewhere
When the fracture occurs as a result of osteoporosis, the vertebrae in the chest (thoracic) or the lower back are usually affected. During the early stages, a break in the bone can get worse without any symptoms. Pain or other symptoms may be worse with walking, and are often not present when resting.
Multiple fractures may lead to kyphosis, a hump-like curvature of the spine (like the Hunchback of Notre Dame).
Pictures & Images
Compression fracture
In a compression fracture the body of the bone tissue of the vertebra collapses. This can occur because of trauma or a disease process such as osteoporosis or a tumor.
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Compression fractures of the back : Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
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Compression fractures of the back : Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests
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Compression fractures of the back : Treatment
Review Date : 11/30/2009
Reviewed By : David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc., and C. Benjamin Ma, MD, Assistant Professor, Chief, Sports Medicine and Shoulder Service, UCSF Dept of Orthopaedic Surgery.
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