Spinal Fractures

Spinal fractures are usually the result of road traffic accidents, falls and sporting activities. The spine can fail anywhere but the mobile segments of the cervical and thoraco-lumbar areas are most vulnerable. Inappropriate treatment can have devastating neurological consequences.

• Trauma: Spinal fractures are most commonly caused by trauma, such as a fall, car accident, or sports injury.
• Osteoporosis: Spinal fractures are most commonly caused by trauma, such as a fall, car accident, or sports injury.
• Cancer: Cancer can weaken the bones and make them more likely to fracture, or it can directly cause spinal fractures by spreading to the spine.
• Other medical conditions: Other medical conditions that can increase the risk of spinal fractures include arthritis, infections, and metabolic disorders.

The symptoms of a spinal fracture can vary depending on the location and severity of the injury. Common symptoms include:

• Back pain: Pain at the site of the fracture, which may be mild to severe and worsen with movement or weight-bearing.
• Limited mobility: Difficulty bending or twisting the spine due to pain or instability.
• Nerve compression symptoms: Fractures that result in bone fragments pressing on nerves can cause radiating pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs.
• Kyphosis: In some cases, multiple fractures or a collapse of multiple vertebrae can lead to an exaggerated rounding of the upper back.

If you experience any of these symptoms after a trauma or fall, it is important to see a doctor right away.

To diagnose a spinal fracture, your doctor will perform a physical examination and ask about your medical history. They may also order imaging tests, such as X-rays, MRI scans, or CT scans, to get a better view of your spine.

Treatment for spinal fractures depends on the type and severity of the fracture, as well as your overall health and symptoms. Conservative treatments for stable fractures may include:

• Pain management: Over-the-counter or prescription pain medications to relieve discomfort.
• Bracing: Wearing a back brace to provide support and stabilise the spine during the healing process.
• Rest and limited activity: Avoiding activities that may exacerbate the fracture.
• Physical therapy: To strengthen surrounding muscles and improve flexibility.

For unstable fractures, or those causing significant pain or nerve compression, more aggressive treatments may be required, including:

• Minimally invasive procedures: Vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty, where bone cement is injected into the fractured vertebra to stabilise it and reduce pain.
• Surgery: In certain cases, spinal fusion surgery may be necessary to stabilise the spine, especially when there is spinal instability or neurological complications.

Treatment for spinal fractures can help to:

• Relieve pain and improve function.
• Prevent further damage to the spine and nerves.
• Improve quality of life.

All medical treatments carry some risks. The risks associated with spinal fracture treatments will vary depending on the specific treatment being used. Some potential risks include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Nerve damage
• Allergic reaction
• Anaesthesia complications

The recovery time for spinal fractures can vary depending on the type and severity of the fracture, as well as your overall health. For most people, it takes 6-12 weeks for a spinal fracture to heal completely. However, it may take longer for people with osteoporosis or other underlying medical conditions to heal completely.