What Every Woman Should Know About Spinal Compression Fractures

One in four women in the United States experience a spinal compression fracture after menopause. These fractures often occur without any preceding incident like a fall or major injury, and osteoporosis is usually why.

Because osteoporosis is far more common in women, they’re at greater risk of spinal compression fractures, which can lead to chronic back pain and reduced quality of life.

At Alliance Spine & Pain Centers, with more than 20 locations in Georgia, our specialists provide minimally invasive treatments to relieve discomfort from spinal compression fractures and help you get back to living your active life. 

Here’s what every woman should know about spinal compression fractures and what you can do to protect your spine.

What are spinal compression fractures?

A spinal compression fracture occurs when one of the thick, rounded bones in your spine (vertebral body) breaks and collapses. This collapse shortens the height of the bone and can sometimes press on nearby nerves of the spinal cord, causing pain and other symptoms  

These fractures most often occur in the thoracic spine, or the middle part of the spine, but can happen anywhere in the spinal column. Over time, multiple compression fractures can cause the spine to curve forward, leading to kyphosis, a hunched or stooped posture that can lead to complications like more pain and stiffness, shortness of breath, or acid reflux.

Why women are at higher risk

While spinal compressions can result from impact accidents, osteoporosis is the most common cause. This serious condition weakens bones, making them more likely to break, even from simple movements like bending, lifting groceries, or walking down stairs. 

Women are more likely to develop osteoporosis because they generally have smaller bones than men. While men can also develop osteoporosis, postmenopausal women face the greatest risk due to hormonal changes that accelerate bone loss.

Recognizing symptoms

Sometimes spinal compression fractures cause no symptoms, but one of the first signs is sudden back pain that improves with rest. 

Other symptoms include:

• Back pain that worsens over time
• Difficulty standing, walking, bending, or twisting
• Localized pain to the area of the break
• Muscle weakness
• Tinging sensations in the back
• Loss of height
• Hunched posture

If you have any of the above symptoms, don’t ignore them. Schedule an appointment with our team. An X-ray can confirm whether you have a fracture, and we can help you get the care you need.

Treatment options

Treatment usually begins with conservative care like rest, bracing, and pain medication. Physical therapy can also strengthen the muscles that support the spine to ease pain and improve posture.

If pain persists or worsens despite these measures, our specialists may recommend innovative procedures such as minimally invasive kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty. These advanced techniques help restore vertebral height, stabilize the bone, and relieve pain with little downtime. 

How to protect your spine

While treatments for spinal compression fractures are available, prevention is key. Taking steps to keep your bones strong before and after menopause can reduce risk of osteoporosis and compression fractures. 

Here’s how to support a healthy spine:

• Eat foods rich in calcium and vitamin D
• Take calcium and vitamin D supplements
• Engage in weight-bearing exercises like walking or strength training
• Quit smoking

If you already have osteoporosis, talk to your doctor about nutrition, exercise, and medication that help preserve or rebuild bone density.

Compassionate care for your spine pain

If your back pain is new, persistent, or getting worse, it’s time to get checked. The right diagnosis and treatment plan can make all the difference in your comfort, posture, and quality of life.

As leaders in pain management, the board-certified providers at Alliance Spine & Pain Centers specialize in helping patients find lasting relief through personalized care and the latest treatment options. Call us or request an appointment online at the office nearest you.