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Are you at risk for a vertebral compression fracture?

A vertebral compression fracture—occurs when one of the bones within the spinal column weakens and collapses. Then can be a cause of great pain, and left untreated, can lead to more serious health problems and/or permanent deformity.

When medication, back braces and other traditional forms of medical management do not work, Imaging Healthcare Specialists (IHS) of Southern California has a minimally invasive treatment option. Kyphoplasty effectively strengthens and restores height to the fractured vertebra and can reduce or eliminate pain almost immediately following the procedure.1

How do I know if I have a spine fracture?

Only your doctor can properly diagnose a spine (vertebral compression) fracture with the assistance of diagnostic imaging like MRI or X-ray. However, some of the more common symptoms include:

  • Back pain, and possibly additional pain in the hip, abdomen or thigh
  • Numbness, tingling and weakness
  • Loss of height/hunched appearance
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Urinary incontinence

Osteoporosis is often the cause of spine fractures. Because osteoporosis is a disease that affects bone density, those with this condition can more easily develop spine fractures. Spine fractures can also occur in patients on steroid therapy, in patients with bone metastasis in the spine or multiple myeloma, and in accident victims.

Call 858-677-9957 today for more information.
Learn more about Spine Fractures
Did you know?

Studies have shown that individuals with a spine fracture are at a much higher risk of developing additional fractures, reduced lung function, difficulty controlling the bladder or bowels, decreased quality of life and even death.2,3,4

To reduce your chances of developing vertebral compression fractures:

  • Eat a healthy diet that includes fresh fruit and vegetables
  • Eat calcium-rich foods
  • Ensure your body is getting enough vitamin D
  • Do not smoke
  • Limit alcohol and caffeine
  • Exercise regularly

1. McGirt MJ, Parker SL, Wolinsky JP, Witham TF, Bydon A, Gokaslan ZL. Vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty for the treatment of vertebral compression fractures: an evidenced-based review of the literature. Spine J. 2009;9(6):501–508
2. Lindsay R, Silverman SL, Cooper C, et al. Risk of new vertebral fracture in the year following a fracture. JAMA. 2001 Jan 17;285(3):320–3.
3. Kado DM, Browner WS, Palermo L, Nevitt MC, Genant HK, Cummings SR. Vertebral fractures and mortality in older women: a prospective study. Study of Osteoporotic Fractures Research Group. Arch Intern Med. 1999 Jun 14;159(11):1215–20.
4. Huang MH, Barrett-Connor E, Greendale GA, Kado DM. Hyperkyphotic posture and risk of future osteoporotic fractures: the Rancho Bernardo study. J Bone Miner Res. 2006 Mar;21(3):419–23.

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