Spinal Fracture Treatment: What to Expect

Spinal fractures can occur suddenly from trauma, but in many cases, the spine fractures as a result of osteoporosis. The risk of spine fracture increases for people age 65 and older. A fracture in any part of the spine is not only painful; it can significantly impact your mobility and quality of life. 

Fortunately, there are several treatment options available to address spinal fractures, ranging from conservative approaches for the early stages to advanced procedures. At Innovative Pain Medicine, pain management specialist Usman Saleem, MD, MSPT, uses the latest approaches to treat acute and chronic pain caused by issues such as spinal fractures. 

Early-stage spinal fracture treatment 

How Dr. Saleem treats your broken vertebra depends on the cause, location, and the specific type of spine fracture. Treatment is tailored to your specific needs following a comprehensive evaluation. During the early stages of treating a fractured vertebra, here is what you can expect:

Anti-inflammatory medication

In the early stages of spinal fracture treatment, Dr. Saleem may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), to help manage pain and reduce inflammation. These medications can alleviate discomfort, allowing you to effectively engage in other aspects of your treatment plan.

Bracing

Bracing is a common approach used for spinal fracture treatment, particularly for fractures caused by osteoporosis. Braces support the spine and help stabilize the fractured area, reducing pain and promoting healing. The type and duration of bracing will depend on the severity and location of the fracture, as well as your overall health.

Bisphosphonates

Bisphosphonates are medications that can help strengthen bone density and slow the progression of spinal fractures. They work by inhibiting bone breakdown and promoting bone formation. These medications are often prescribed for patients with osteoporosis or those at risk of developing spinal fractures.

Advanced treatment: kyphoplasty

For more advanced cases of spinal fractures or in situations where conservative treatment has failed to provide adequate relief, Dr. Saleem may recommend kyphoplasty. This minimally invasive surgical procedure aims to restore vertebral body height and relieve pain caused by spinal fractures. 

Here's a closer look at how the procedure works:

Preoperative evaluation

Before performing kyphoplasty, Dr. Saleem will conduct a thorough evaluation to assess your suitability for the procedure. This may involve medical imaging, physical examinations, and reviewing your medical history.

Balloon placement

During the procedure, Dr. Saleem will make a small incision and insert a narrow tube into the fractured vertebra under the guidance of fluoroscopy imaging. Then, a balloon-like device will be carefully placed and inflated to create a cavity or space within the vertebra.

Balloon deflation and cement Injection

After the cavity is created, the balloon is deflated and removed. Dr. Saleem then injects bone cement into the cavity. The cement hardens quickly, stabilizing the vertebra and providing structural support.

Healing and recovery

Following kyphoplasty, patients typically experience immediate pain relief. You may be advised to wear a brace briefly to support the treated area during initial healing. You can gradually resume your normal activities as recommended.

Benefits of kyphoplasty

Kyphoplasty offers several benefits for individuals with spinal fractures. It aims to reduce pain caused by spinal fractures almost immediately after the procedure. Following kyphoplasty, patients often experience improved mobility, allowing them to participate in daily activities with less pain and restriction.

By creating a cavity and injecting bone cement, kyphoplasty helps restore vertebral body height, improving overall spinal alignment. The procedure helps stabilize the spine, reducing the risk of progressive kyphosis or hunchback deformity.

Spinal fractures can significantly impact your quality of life, but various treatment options are available. It's crucial to consult with a qualified pain management specialist to determine the most suitable treatment approach.

To learn more about spinal fracture treatment at Innovative Pain Medicine, contact us for a consultation. We have four locations in New York: Williston Park, Queens, Brooklyn, and Port Jefferson Station.

With the right treatment plan, individuals with spinal fractures can regain functionality and enjoy an improved quality of life. Get help for your spinal fracture today.