What is a Spinal (Vertebrae) Fracture?
What is a Spinal (Vertebrae) Fracture?A vertebral fracture is a break in one or more bones that make up the spine. A spine fracture may only affect the bone or may also cause a tear in the spinal cord.
Types of Spinal Fractures
TypesThere are many types of spinal fractures, each with its own different treatment approach. Some include:
- Compression fractures, are usually caused by osteoporosis or another disorder that weakens the spinal bones. The vertebral body compresses down on itself without compressing the spinal canal. A vertebral compression fracture is usually managed without surgery.
- Burst fractures, where a vertebra shatters in multiple directions, can compress the spinal canal and spinal cord. A burst fracture can often require surgery.
- Chance fractures happen when there is excessive flexion (bending) of the spine in one direction. High-speed car accidents commonly cause them. The vertebral body fractures as well as the posterior spinal bones. A chance fracture can often require surgery to stabilize the spine.
- Stress fractures (spondylolysis) occur in some athletes who bend their spine backward excessively when landing from a jump or when lifting heavy weights.
- Pathological fractures occur due to tumors within the spinal canal. Need for surgery depends on the type of tumor and the stability of the spine. Sometimes radiation can be used instead of surgery.
Classification of Spinal Fractures
ClassificationSpinal fractures can be classified in several ways. The first concerns the alignment of the spine:
- Stable fractures are fractures that do not push the vertebrae out of alignment and are less likely to require surgery than unstable fractures
- Unstable fractures push vertebrae out of their usual alignment. They risk the spine collapsing on its and compressing the spinal cord. These fractures are more serious than stable fractures and are more likely to require surgical treatment and cause complications.
Signs & Symptoms of Fractured Spines
SymptomsSome minor spinal fractures, like compression fractures caused by osteoporosis, will not cause noticeable symptoms. These spinal fractures may only be diagnosed during imaging tests for another condition. Fractures caused by trauma are more likely to cause symptoms, though these may not be recognized during initial treatment of injuries.
When fractured spine symptoms do occur, they can include:
- Back or neck pain
- Tingling or numbness
- Paralysis or weakness in limbs
- Loss of bowel or bladder control
- Muscle spasms
- Loss of height
- Hunched back (kyphosis)
These fractured spine symptoms could also have other causes. It is best to see a spine specialist for an examination and evaluation to learn what is causing your symptoms so you can start treatment and prevent complications.
What Causes Vertebral Fractures?
CausesCompression fractures can be caused by various conditions that weaken the vertebrae or cause a loss of bone density, including:
Burst and chance fractures are due to physical trauma, such as that sustained during:
- Car accidents
- A fall from a high height
- Violence, such as a gunshot wound
- Sports injuries
- Spinal tumors
Risk Factors
Risk FactorsThough spinal fractures can happen to anyone, certain factors contribute to a higher risk of sustaining this type of injury. These include:
- Not wearing a seatbelt while driving
- Participating in contact sports
- Smoking
- Being over the age of 50
Prevention
PreventionYou can take some steps to reduce your risk of sustaining a spinal fracture due to trauma or bone density loss. These include:
- Wearing a seatbelt
- Exercising and maintaining a healthy diet
- Wearing proper protective gear while playing sports
- Not smoking
- Getting screened for osteoporosis
Trust NewYork-Presbyterian for Fractured Spine Care
The spine experts at NewYork-Presbyterian can identify the symptoms of a spinal fracture or other spinal cord injuries and work quickly to get you the necessary care. Our multidisciplinary team will work with you to craft a treatment plan based on your unique case and lifestyle.