5 Signs of a Compression Fracture in Your Spine

Vertebral compression fractures are a common cause of back pain, affecting more than 1.5 million Americans each year. Although they often affect older adults, anyone with osteoporosis or age-related bone changes is susceptible, so it’s important to know how to spot the signs early. Starting treatment promptly can help prevent a fracture from worsening, relieve pain, and support your mobility. 

At The Clinic Houston Chiropractic in Katy, Texas, chiropractor Michael Shiha, DC, regularly works with patients to provide supportive care for compression fractures of the spine. Read on to learn about five of the most common symptoms and how chiropractic care can help.

What is a compression fracture?

A vertebral compression fracture occurs when one of your back bones (vertebrae) cracks or collapses due to excess pressure. These injuries may start small but can worsen over time, causing your vertebrae to collapse further and irritate surrounding nerves and tissues. 

Compression fractures typically affect older adults as bone loss and osteoporosis are more common later in life.

Sign #1: Sudden, severe back pain

Compression fractures often cause back pain that’s sharp, severe, and localized to one area. This pain can worsen over time and typically doesn’t improve with rest. While it can strike at any time, most people notice symptoms directly after an injury, such as a fall, or after lifting something heavy.

Because it can be challenging to know what’s causing your spine pain, working with a chiropractor provides peace of mind and helps ensure you get the right diagnosis. Dr. Shiha can perform a thorough exam and order diagnostic imaging, like X-rays or an MRI, if necessary.

Sign #2: Noticeable height loss

It might seem strange, but severe compression fractures can cause you to lose an inch or more of height. As your affected bone (or bones) become damaged, they may collapse on themselves, which can lead to a hunched or stooped posture.

Chiropractors are trained to notice subtle changes in posture and spinal alignment. Regular checkups can help catch the signs early, supporting your mobility and relieving strain on your surrounding muscles and tissues. 

Sign #3: Visible changes to your posture

When vertebrae collapse, they cause a forward curvature of your spine called kyphosis. For example, you might notice that when you look in the mirror, there’s a visible bulge in your upper back near the top of your spine.

Although kyphosis isn’t always caused by compression fractures, if you notice visible changes to your posture, identifying the source is crucial to protect your back and your mobility. 

Sign #4: Pain that worsens when standing and walking

People with compression fractures often notice that their pain improves when lying down but flares back up when they sit, stand, or walk around. The reason for this is anatomical: Staying upright increases pressure on your affected vertebrae, which can aggravate inflammation and nerve irritation. 

The good news is that a chiropractor can teach you how to move safely. They can also walk you through exercises and stretches that are safe for your condition and coordinate your care with other medical providers as necessary.

Sign #5: Limited spinal mobility

In addition to pain, many people with compression fractures notice significant changes in their ability to twist, bend, and lift objects. Even simple tasks like picking up after your dog or carrying groceries can result in debilitating pain.

Chiropractic care can help reduce some of these challenges through rehabilitative exercises and hands-on techniques. Dr. Shiha can also identify more serious fractures and refer you to an orthopedic or spine specialist if you need more specialized care.

Schedule chiropractic care for a compression fracture

Compression fractures can seriously affect your mobility and quality of life, but you don’t have to live with them. Prompt evaluation and chiropractic techniques may help ease your discomfort and support your recovery.

To learn more, call Dr. Shiha at 346-387-0622 or request an appointment online today.