Compression fractures of the back

Alternative names:

vertebral compression fractures

Definition:

A bone break involving the vertebrae of the spine.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

In a compression fracture of the vertebrae, the bone tissue of the vertebral body collapses. More than one vertebrae may be affected. This condition may result from osteoporosis, malignancy, or from trauma or injury to the back. When the fracture occurs as a result of osteoporosis, the lower vertebrae are usually affected and symptoms may be worse with walking. With multiple fractures, kyphosis, a forward hump-like curvature of the spine may result. Pressure on the spinal cord may occur producing symptoms of numbness, tingling, or weakness. Symptoms depend upon the area of the back that is affected, however, most fractures are stable without producing neurological symptoms. The incidence is 9 out of 10,000 people.