How is vertebral compression fracture treated?

A compression fracture occurs when a vertebra loses height under load. It can cause sudden or gradually increasing back pain, often in the lower or upper back, and may make standing or turning difficult. Examination and imaging help confirm the fracture, its stability, and whether nearby nerves are affected. Osteoporosis is a frequent underlying concern, so treatment should address bone strength as well as pain.

Many stable fractures are managed with appropriate pain relief, temporary activity modification, and a gradual return to movement. A brace may be considered for selected people. Physiotherapy can help restore posture, walking tolerance, trunk control, and confidence. Bisphosphonate therapy or another bone-health plan may be discussed when osteoporosis is present. Kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty may be considered in carefully selected cases when pain remains limiting despite initial care.

Follow the movement limits given by your clinician and avoid lifting, twisting, or high-impact exercise until cleared. Gentle walking is often used to prevent prolonged inactivity, with progression based on pain and stability. Take prescribed medicines as directed and report troublesome side effects. Keep follow-up appointments so healing, posture, mobility, and bone health can be reviewed together.

Seek emergency care for new leg weakness, numbness around the groin, loss of bladder or bowel control, or severe pain after major trauma. Contact a clinician promptly for rapidly worsening pain, fever, new difficulty walking, or pain that is not controlled by the agreed plan.

Ask whether the fracture is stable, how much activity is safe, and whether a brace or physiotherapy is appropriate. Discuss osteoporosis assessment, bone-protection treatment, warning symptoms, and what would make kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty reasonable.