Vertebral Fractures

Don’t Ignore Back Pain: Understanding and Treating Vertebral Compression Fractures

Sudden back pain after a fall, a simple movement, or even a cough might not be just a pulled muscle—it could be a vertebral compression fracture. These small spinal fractures often go undiagnosed but can cause lasting pain, posture changes, and loss of mobility if not treated promptly.

At Pain Management Solutions, we specialize in diagnosing and managing vertebral fractures with targeted, non-surgical treatments designed to reduce pain and restore stability—so you can get back to living your life without constant discomfort.

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What Is a Vertebral Compression Fracture?

A vertebral compression fracture (VCF) occurs when one of the bones in your spine (a vertebra) collapses or compresses. Most commonly seen in the mid to lower back, these fractures often result from:

• Osteoporosis (weakened bones due to aging or hormonal changes)
• Trauma (such as a fall or accident)
• Cancer or metastatic disease (weakened bones from tumors)
• Spinal degeneration or previous spine surgery

In osteoporotic fractures, even minor stresses—like lifting a grocery bag, sneezing, or bending—can cause a vertebra to fracture.

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Symptoms of a Vertebral Fracture

• Sudden, sharp back pain that worsens with standing or movement
• Loss of height or a stooped posture (“dowager’s hump”)
• Limited spinal mobility
• Tenderness over the affected vertebra
• Ongoing, dull back pain that doesn’t improve with rest

Because the symptoms often mimic other back conditions, many vertebral fractures go unrecognized or misdiagnosed without imaging.

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Diagnosis and Evaluation

At Pain Management Solutions, Dr. Francis Pecoraro performs a thorough evaluation and will order imaging—typically X-rays, MRI, or CT scans—to confirm the presence and severity of a compression fracture. We also assess for underlying conditions like osteoporosis or metastatic disease that may have contributed to the fracture.

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Treatment Options for Vertebral Fractures

Our treatment approach depends on the severity of the fracture and your overall health. Options may include:

• Conservative care – Bracing, physical therapy, and medication for stable fractures
• Pain management – Including image-guided injections such as:
  • Epidural steroid injections for associated nerve inflammation
  • Facet or medial branch blocks for pain from spinal instability
  • Nerve blocks for radiating or complex pain patterns
• Vertebral augmentation referral – If conservative measures fail, we may coordinate referral for kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty, minimally invasive procedures to stabilize the fractured vertebra

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You Don’t Have to Live with Spine Pain

Left untreated, vertebral compression fractures can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and loss of independence—but early treatment can make a dramatic difference. At Pain Management Solutions, our goal is to help you heal safely, relieve pain, and prevent future fractures through proactive care.

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If Your Back Pain Started Suddenly—Get It Checked

Whether from osteoporosis, trauma, or unknown causes, vertebral fractures are more common than many people realize. If you’ve had a sudden onset of back pain or are at risk for bone loss, contact Pain Management Solutions today to schedule an evaluation.