Vertebral Compression FractureMedical Author:
Andrew Jenis, MD
Medical Editor:
Brian F Chinnock, MD
Medical Editor:
Francisco Talavera, PharmD, PhD
Medical Editor:
James Ungar, MD
Vertebral Compression Fracture OverviewA vertebral compression fracture occurs when the bones of the spine become broken due to trauma. Usually the trauma necessary to break the bones of the spine is quite large. In certain circumstances, however, such as in elderly people and in people with cancer, these same bones can break with little or no force. The vertebrae most commonly broken are those in the lower back. Viewer Comments & ReviewsVertebral Compression Fracture - TreatmentThe eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:What treatment has been effective for your vertebral compression fracture? |
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Vertebral Compression Fracture
Prevention of Osteoporosis Introduction
Osteoporosis (porous bone) is a disease in which bones become weak and are more likely to break (fracture). Without prevention or treatment, osteoporosis can progress without pain or symptoms until a fracture occurs. Fractures from osteoporosis commonly occur in the hip, spine, and wrist.
Osteoporosis is the underlying cause of more than 1.5 million fractures annually (300,000 hip fractures, approximately 700,000 vertebral fractures, 250,000 wrist fractures, and more than 300,000 fractures in other areas). The estimated national cost (hospitals and nursing homes) for osteoporosis and related injuries is $14 billion each year in the United States.
Osteoporosis is not just an "old woman's disease." Although it is more common in white or Asian women older than 50 years of age, osteoporosis can occur in almost any person at any age. In fact, more than 2 million American men have osteoporosis, and in women, bone l...
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Lumbar Compression Fracture »
The lumbar vertebrae are the 5 largest and strongest of all vertebrae in the spine.
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