About this episode
Episode 37: Vertebral Compression Fractures: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Dr. Orlando Ortiz joins us on this episode of Bone Talk to discuss vertebral and spine health. Vertebral compression fractures can happen from too much pressure on the vertebral body. This usually results from a combination of bending forward and downward pressure on the spine. Osteoporosis is often a contributing factor. This is the most common type of fracture in people with osteoporosis. Patients who have a compression fracture can have pain even when sitting or standing. They can have trouble breathing, sleeping and reduced mobility. Loss of height is another indicating factor. Often patients don’t realize they’ve had a fracture and attribute the pain to normal aches and part of aging. If left untreated, it can cause your spine to shorten and curve forward. This also impacts daily living and activity. It can contribute to chronic pain that leads to further inactivity. Each fracture (left untreated) can cause other fractures due to the change in the way our weight shifts. Dr. Ortiz shares with us that there are treatments such as balloon kyphoplasty that can help. Studies show that rest, pain management and physical therapy can make us more comfortable, but is not likely to prevent future problems. Interventional procedures can be quite effective at repairing fractures and preventing new ones. They can also help reduce pain and improve mobility.All of your doctors can work together for your best care. It’s key to make sure that you advocate for yourself and get all of your questions answered. As with all medical issues, patients are recommended to do their research. Find a practitioner that will work with your personal doctor and will consider all your health concerns. Knowledge allows you make the best decisions for your spine health. This is a field that’s advancing and seeing great patient outcomes. Become your own health advocate.EPISODE RESOURCES:A. Orlando Ortiz, MD, MBA, FACR, Chairman, Department of Radiology, New York City Health and Hospitals/JacobiOsteoporosis and Your Spine
