Kyphoplasty Aftercare: 8 Strategies for Preventing New Compression Fractures

A vertebral compression fracture is painful and disruptive, limiting your mobility and independence. For many people, kyphoplasty relieves the pain and improves quality of life by stabilizing the fracture and restoring vertebral height.

While this procedure treats the fracture, it doesn’t address the underlying cause: osteoporosis, a disorder that weakens bones, making them susceptible to fractures. Having one vertebral compression fracture from osteoporosis may increase your risk of another.

Our pain specialists at Alliance Spine & Pain Centers focus on relieving pain and addressing its root cause. As experts in osteoporosis and minimally invasive treatments like kyphoplasty, we emphasize prevention as a key part of recovery.

In recognition of Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month, here are eight strategies that might help you prevent new compression fractures after kyphoplasty.

1. Feed your bones calcium and vitamin D

Calcium is essential for bone strength, with most of it stored in your bones. Adults typically need about 1,200 milligrams of calcium per day. Good sources include:

• Cow’s milk
• Fortified plant milk, juice, or cereal
• Yogurt
• Cottage cheese
• Sardines
• Salmon with bones
• Leafy greens

Vitamin D supports calcium absorption. Aim for 15 to 20 micrograms daily from egg yolks, fatty fish, and fortified foods like milk and cereal. 

When you can’t meet the needs of these essential bone health nutrients from food alone, talk to your doctor about dietary supplements.

2. Get serious about osteoporosis treatment

Kyphoplasty fixes your fracture, but it doesn’t prevent future breaks. Osteoporosis medications can help build and maintain bone density, potentially lowering your risk of more fractures. 

Your doctor can tell you more about these medications and how to start or adjust your plan for bone support.

3. Engage in safe, weight-bearing exercise

Exercise stimulates bone growth and improves strength, and activities like walking, yoga, and strength training support bone health and mobility.

It’s important to engage in exercises that fit your health goals and needs. A physical therapist can help you develop a safe and effective plan.

4. Take steps to reduce your risk of falls

Falls are a common cause of fractures in people with osteoporosis. Keep hallways clear, improve lighting, and remove tripping hazards in your home to reduce fall risk. Wear supportive, nonslip footwear for added safety.

Exercise can also reduce your risk of falls by improving balance, strength, and coordination. 

5. Improve posture and body mechanics

Proper posture helps distribute weight evenly across your spine, reducing strain. Sit and stand so your ears, shoulders, and hips are in a straight line. 

Take extra precautions when lifting to better protect the spine. Bend at your hips and knees and use your legs instead of your back when picking up items. 

6. Avoid smoking and limit alcohol

Smoking weakens bones and slows healing, while excessive alcohol increases fracture and fall risk. Quitting smoking and drinking in moderation benefits bone health and may help prevent future compression fractures.

7. Monitor your bone density

Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scans measure bone density and help assess fracture risk. Regular testing, every one to two years, helps you and your doctor track progress and adjust your care plan. 

8. Keep up with follow-up care

Osteoporosis is a chronic disease that requires ongoing medical management. Regular visits with your doctor help ensure that your treatment plan remains effective and supports long-term bone health.  

Kyphoplasty is a life-changer, but protecting your spine requires your ongoing attention. Taking proactive steps now can reduce your risk of future fractures and support long-term mobility and independence. 

If you have a compression fracture or want to learn about treatment options, we can help. In addition to kyphoplasty, we perform vertebroplasty to repair compression fractures and lessen discomfort.

Call Alliance Spine & Pain Centers today or request an appointment online. With multiple locations across the greater Atlanta area, expert care is always within reach. 

We have offices in Augusta, Austell, Brookhaven, Canton, Carrollton, Cartersville, Conyers, Covington, Dallas, Dawsonville, Douglasville, Jasper, Johns Creek, Lawrenceville, Marietta, Peachtree City, Piedmont Metro Hospital in Atlanta, Roswell, Sandy Springs, Suwanee, and Woodstock, Georgia.