Spinal compression fractures

Orthopedics | About spine surgery | Diagnosis | Treatment | Recovery and rehabilitation

Spinal compression fractures are sometimes called vertebral compression fractures. These types of bone breaks can be caused by injuries or osteoporosis, a condition that weakens the bones.

How is spinal stenosis treated?

We always try to find the least invasive treatment plan — one that requires no surgery or the simplest surgery possible. Most people don't need surgery. If your quality of life continues to be affected after nonsurgical treatment, surgery may be the best choice. 

If needed, the two most common surgeries for a spinal compression fracture are vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty. Both of these surgeries help with healing and:

• Reducing pain
• Stabilizing the bones to keep them from moving
• Restoring some or all of any height that's been lost