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Care of a Compression Fracture to a Spinal Disc

According to Emory Healthcare, compression fractures of the thoracic and lumbar spine almost never involve neurological injury, and are more prevalent in older people with osteoporosis. Compression fractures of a spinal disc can be very painful. With prompt treatment by your doctor, and following a physical therapy regimen, your pain can be controlled during the healing process.

  1. Symptoms

    • If you have osteoporosis, you may not have any symptoms until a fall or strain causes a bone fracture.

    Causes

    • Osteoporosis causes bones to lose density, and eventually normal daily activities can cause a compression fracture in a spinal disc.

    Diagnosis

    • A compression fracture of a spinal disc will be evident on an X-ray. If osteoporosis is suspected, a bone density test may be ordered.

    Pain Medication

    • If hot or cold compresses don't relieve spinal disc pain, pain-relieving drugs may be prescribed. Oral medications such as analgesics, muscle relaxants and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories can reduce swelling and muscle tension and alleviate spinal disc pain. Aspirin and ibuprofen don't require a prescription and can also provide relief.

      Pain relievers don't resolve the underlying problem, but can give the body a chance to heal. If you're still having pain after three days, consult your doctor.

    Osteoporosis Medication

    • Prescription medications can be prescribed that keep bone mass from breaking down and can increase bone density in the hip and spine, preventing fractures from a fall.

      Side effects can include nausea and pain in the abdomen. Talk to your doctor if you've had ulcers or acid reflux, as you have an increased risk of developing an inflamed esophagus.

      If side effects are too severe, your doctor may have you take the medication once a week or once a month.

    Physical Therapy

    • Performing physical therapy exercises strengthens the muscles, increases flexibility and can prevent re-injuring yourself when bending, lifting, or stretching. Physical therapy can teach you posture training, and relaxation exercises that can relieve spinal disc pain.
      Continue performing exercises at home, while maintaining good posture. A physical or occupational therapist can show you how to put less strain on your spine as you perform your daily routines.

    Acupuncture

    • Acupuncture may help relieve spinal disc pain and muscle spasms through the insertion of fine needles in the body. Each needle stimulates one of 2,000 nerve centers that control the flow of energy, and are linked to specific parts of the body.
      Why acupuncture relieves pain is unclear, but one theory is that endorphins may be stimulated by the inserted needles during acupuncture treatment, creating a pain-free feeling in the affected area.
      Acupuncture does not work for all patients, but since it's a minimally invasive procedure, some think it's a treatment option that needs further investigation.

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