Definition & Overview
Spinal fractures are different than a broken arm or leg. A fracture or dislocation of a vertebra can cause bone fragments to pinch and damage the spinal nerves or spinal cord.
Injuries can range from relatively mild ligament and muscle strains to fractures and dislocations of the bony vertebrae, to debilitating spinal cord damage. Depending on severity, you may experience pain, difficulty walking, or paralysis.
[Image of spinal fracture types]
Symptoms & Signs
Symptoms vary depending on the severity and location of the injury. They include:
- Back or neck pain
- Numbness or tingling
- Muscle spasm
- Weakness
- Bowel/bladder changes
- Paralysis (loss of movement in arms or legs)
Causes
Fractures of the spine typically result from high-energy trauma or underlying conditions:
- Car or motorcycle collisions
- Falls from significant heights
- Sports accidents
- Diseases such as Osteoporosis and Spine Tumors
Treatment Options
Treatment begins with pain management and stabilization to prevent further injury. Depending on the fracture type and stability, bracing or surgery may be necessary.
Braces & Orthotics
Your doctor may prescribe a brace after a spinal injury or surgery. It will immobilize your spine while you heal and control pain by restricting movement.
Spinal Fusion Surgery
Fusion is the joining of two vertebrae with a bone graft held together with hardware such as plates, rods, hooks, pedicle screws, or cages.
Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation
The Role of Physical Therapy:
As your body heals from a spinal fracture, physical therapy becomes a vital part of your recovery plan. A physical therapist will work with you to strengthen your spinal muscles so that your spine is supported and functions better.
Even a minor fracture can change how your spine carries weight, adding stress to muscles. Therapy helps realign this balance.
What to expect:
- Strengthening of core and back muscles
- Improved posture and body mechanics
- A customized home exercise plan
