Spinal fractures generally fall into two categories — those following high-energy trauma like a car accident, or those that result from a low-level energy cause like a simple fall, which are usually more of a manifestation of an underlying bone health problem, explained Endeavor Health orthopaedic surgeon Jimmy Zhu, MD.
“In young, healthy people spinal fractures are typically the result of a high-energy trauma like an accident or fall from a significant height,” said Dr. Zhu who specializes in spinal surgery. “Those fractures, especially in the neck or lumbar region, can often jeopardize the spinal cord and nerves, so it’s very important to discern if the fracture is stable or not.”
It’s important to have a spinal surgeon or specialist review any X-rays or imaging to see if the integrity of the spine is still intact, explained Dr. Zhu. “Sometimes fractures need to be repaired surgically to avoid major trauma to the nerves,” he added.
Fractures that result from a low-energy level trauma, like a fall while walking or even very strenuous yard work, are common in older people and typically represent poor bone health, or osteoporosis. Up to 30% of women will be impacted by osteoporosis, and more than 1.5 million Americans are estimated to suffer vertebral compression fractures annually.
For a patient with osteoporosis who suffers a spinal fracture, the risk of having another fracture increases dramatically, so optimizing bone health must be a priority. Dr. Zhu recommends that patients see their primary care physician or specialist to start treatment to prevent additional fragility fractures.
Risk for osteoporosis/low bone density increases with smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, lower estrogen levels, anorexia, certain medications, and age (women over age 50).
Some ways to prevent spinal fractures and optimize bone health include:
- Screenings. Following recommendations for bone density screenings is important and can be a way to diagnose and treat poor bone health before a fall.
- Healthy lifestyle. A healthy diet and regular weight-bearing exercise are both vital to maintaining strong bones.
- Early diagnosis and treatment. “We’re seeing more and more of these fragility fractures as people are living longer,” said Dr. Zhu. “So early diagnosis and treatment are key as they can prevent these potentially debilitating fractures.”
When a fracture does occur, it’s important to immobilize the spine as quickly as possible and see a specialist for a thorough exam to determine the integrity of the spine and whether treatment is warranted.
“Sometimes people neglect fractures and when the bones don’t heal in the right manner it can lead to serious complications,” said Dr. Zhu.
