Overview
Understanding vertebral compression fractures
Some compression fractures cause sudden focal back pain, while others are found after gradual height loss or a change in posture. The cause matters because treatment may need to address bone health or another underlying disease as well as pain.
Imaging helps confirm the fracture and determine whether it is recent. MRI or other testing may be used when the age, cause, or effect on nearby nerves is unclear.
Useful context
What people may notice
- Sudden mid-back or low-back pain after a minor movement, fall, or without a clear event
- Pain that worsens with standing or walking
- Tenderness over a specific spinal level
- Loss of height or a more rounded upper-back posture over time
At the clinic
How evaluation works
- 01
Review the onset, trauma history, osteoporosis risk, cancer history, and medication use.
- 02
Examine posture, focal tenderness, movement, strength, sensation, and gait.
- 03
Use X-ray, CT, MRI, or bone-density testing as indicated.
- 04
Discuss bone-health treatment, bracing, activity, medication, rehabilitation, and procedural or surgical options according to the fracture and cause.
References
Sources and further reading
These references provide general education. They do not replace advice from a clinician who knows your health history.