Compression Fractures - Medical Jurisprudence, Inc.

Compression Fractures

A compression fracture is a common fracture of the spine. The vertebrae are the bones of the back, and when a compression fracture occurs, these boney tissues collapse. This can occur for three main reasons; osteoporosis, tumor or trauma to the back. This article seeks to discuss compression fractures that occur as a result of trauma.

The lumbar spine provides not only stability but also support during ambulation. For this reason, any injury that changes the shape of the lumbar spine invariably changes the posture of the spine and increases or decreases the lumbar curve. Lumbar compressions can be devastating injuries for two specific reasons. The first is that the fracture can cause direct bone pain from the fracture itself – pain that does not resolve. Secondly, the fracture can alter the mechanics of the posture. This can equate to secondary pain in the hip, sacroiliac joints and spinal joints. Further, patients who have postural changes are at an increased risk for falls and accidents.

Severe compression fractures can involve the spinal cord or nerve roots. This can not only cause pain and postural changes but also neurological impairment. The degree of the neurological injury is usually due to the amount of force that was involved in the injury.

Fractures that occur from trauma often require rigid bracing to protect the bone for a period of six to ten weeks. If bone is noted in the spinal canal, surgery to remove the bone and fuse the vertebrae may be necessary in order to stabilize the spine. Surgery will also be necessary if there is any loss of function due to bone pressing on the spinal cord or spinal nerves.

If your client has sustained spinal injury due to a motor vehicle accident or injured their spine in any trauma, please contact Medical Jurisprudence, Inc. so we can help you make a difference in their lives.

References:

Freedman, K. Compression Fractures of the Back. (2006). Retrieved from www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus.

Sherman, A. and Razack, N. Lumbar Compression Fracture(2007). Retrieved from www.emedicine.com/pmr/topic66.htm.

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