The bones of the back are called the vertebrae. A vertebral fracture is a break in one of these bones.
A vertebral fracture can be caused by:
Other than trauma, osteoporosis is the main cause of most vertebral fractures.
Factors that increase the risk of osteoporosis include the following:
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done.
Test may include:
Treatment includes:
Vertebroplasty is a relatively new procedure. Liquid cement is injected into the vertebra. It can help relieve the pain associated with vertebral fractures. This is not a common operation. It is not suitable for everyone. Talk with your doctor to see if this option may be right for you.
Your doctor may prescribe:
To prevent further bone loss, medications may include:
If osteoporosis is the cause of your fracture, your doctor may prescribe the following:
If you are diagnosed with a vertebral fracture, follow your doctor's instructions .
Building strong bones will help prevent fractures. However, most bone strength is attained by women before they are age 25. That makes maintaining bone density and strength at older ages even more important.
RESOURCES:
National Osteoporosis Foundation
http://www.nof.org/
Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases
National Resource Center, National Institutes of Health
http://www.osteo.org/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Orthopaedic Association
http://www.coa-aco.org/
Women's Health Matters
http://www.womenshealthmatters.ca/
References:
American Medical Association website. Available at: http://www.ama-assn.org/ .
Osteoporosis. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Practice Bulletin. No. 50. 2004 June.
Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases website. Available at: http://www.osteo.org .
Prevention of osteoporosis and fractures. Am Fam Physician . 1999 July.
Last reviewed February 2009 by Robert E. Leach, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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