Back Fracture Treatment

The treatment for vertebral compression fractures aims at reducing the pain, stabilizing and repairing the fracture.  The non-surgical options for back fractures include medications, back braces (orthotics), bed rest, and certain exercises.

The most common medication for vertebral compression fractures involves non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs which may be prescribed to relieve bone, muscle and nerve pain.  A back brace may be suggested to support the back and immobilize the movements.

Surgery may be needed if the pain still persists despite of the back fracture non-surgical treatment.  There are two minimally invasive surgical procedures for treating vertebral compression fractures are:

  • Kyphoplasty: In this procedure, a deflated balloon called bone tamp is injected into the spine.  The balloon is inflated until it expands to a desired height. The created space is then filled with an orthopedic cement called polymethylmethacrylate.  This procedure helps to restore the height of the vertebrae and reduces the deformity.
  • Vertebroplasty: This technique involves injecting a cement material called polymethylmethacrylate into the collapsed vertebra.  The injected cement hardens quickly stabilizing the fracture, relieves pressure, and prevents further collapse