What are risk factors for compression fractures?
The risk for spinal compression fracture increases with age. Osteoporosis is the most common risk factor for compression fractures. Osteoporosis is a condition in which there is thinning of the bones, which weakens them. This may be due to a lack of calcium in the diet, certain medications, old age, inactivity or genetic factors. In general, some trauma causes each compression fracture. In cases of severe osteoporosis, the trauma may be minimal, such as, stepping out of a bathtub or lifting a heavy object. Moderate trauma is usually required to create a fracture in patients with mild to moderated osteoporosis. This may range from falling off a chair to an automobile accident. A normal spine may also suffer from a compression fracture when there is a severe forward bending injury. This most commonly occurs with a fall from a height or an automobile accident.
