How are osteoporotic spinal fractures treated?

AI-generated illustration. This is not a real patient or a diagnostic image.

In osteoporosis, vertebrae may fracture after a low-energy fall, bending or an everyday movement. Sometimes no clear injury is remembered. This is not confined to very old age; new back pain and loss of height may need assessment.

Initial assessment and treatment

Examination and appropriate imaging investigate the fracture's location, recency, shape and relationship to nerve structures. New weakness or changes in bladder or bowel control require emergency assessment.

Many patients start with pain control, safe early movement, selected supports when needed and rehabilitation. The effects of prolonged immobility are also considered. Investigating and treating osteoporosis to prevent further fractures must not be overlooked.

When are vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty considered?

These procedures are not a routine solution for every spinal fracture. NICE recommends considering them in selected patients with a recent, unhealed fracture and severe ongoing pain despite appropriate pain management. The pain must be confirmed to originate at that fracture level.

The decision is not based simply on whether three months have passed. Research findings, procedural risks and alternatives should be discussed together; immediate or certain freedom from pain should not be promised.

Sources

This article provides general information. Individual diagnosis and treatment require a clinical assessment.