Spine Fractures

Understanding Spinal Fractures

Spinal fractures occur when one or more of the bones in your spine (vertebrae) break. These fractures can result from:

• Trauma, such as a fall or accident

• Osteoporosis, which weakens the bones and makes them more likely to break—even with minimal stress or movement

Symptoms

Spinal fractures can cause a range of symptoms depending on their severity and location, such as:

• Sudden back pain, especially after a fall or movement

• Reduced mobility or stiffness

• Height loss or a hunched posture (with compression fractures)

• Tingling, numbness, or weakness, if the spinal nerves are affected

Do All Spinal Fractures Need Surgery?

No—most spinal fractures do not need surgery.

This is one of the most important things to understand. The treatment plan depends on:

• The type and severity of the fracture

• Whether the spine is stable

• Whether nerves are affected

• Your overall health and bone strength
  
  

This is why a careful reevaluation with your doctor is essential. Every patient is different, and personalized spine care means that treatment decisions should be made individually—not based on a one-size-fits-all approach.

Treatment Options

1. Conservative Treatment:
For stable fractures, especially in cases of osteoporosis, treatment may include:

• Pain medications

• Back bracing to limit motion and allow healing

• Activity modification and bone health support

2. Minimally Invasive Surgery:
If pain is severe or the fracture is not healing well, your doctor might recommend:

• Kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty: These procedures involve injecting cement into the fractured bone to stabilize it and relieve pain.

3. Spinal Fusion Surgery:
For more complex or unstable fractures, spinal fusion may be needed to stabilize the spine and protect the spinal cord or nerves.

Why Opinions May Differ

It’s not uncommon to hear different opinions from different spine specialists—and that’s okay.

There is a “gray zone” in many spine conditions.
That’s because every spine, every patient, and every situation is unique. What matters most is finding the treatment that’s right for you.

If you’ve experienced a spinal fracture, you don’t have to face the uncertainty alone. We’re here to guide you through the process and offer you the safest, most effective care—whether that’s rest and bracing or a minimally invasive surgical option.