How does a vertebral compression fracture develop?
This type of fracture typically results when osteoporosis, the “brittle bone” disease, weakens the bones in the spine. Lack of calcium or other nutritional as well as hormonal defficiencies, as well as sustained use of some medicines can also lead to weaker bones. Although a fall or a jump may cause the fracture, the bones sometimes collapse from the body’s own weight. This type of fracture happens most often in the thoracic region, or middle section, of the spine. A simple movement, such as bending or lifting, may cause the fracture. Over a period of time, multiple fractures of the fronts of the vertebrae may collapse and wedge together. This will cause what is commonly called a dowager’s hump, or kyphotic deformity, in some women as their spines bend forward and they develop a rounded back. Lax or injured ligaments in the spine may also be involved. What are the symptoms of a vertebral compression fracture? If the injury occurs suddenly, severe pain or weakness will be experienced in
