What Are Vertebral Compression Fractures?
Vertebral compression fractures are a quite common complication of osteoporosis, affecting more than 700,000 Americans every year. Fracture risk increases with age, with four in 10 white women older than 50 years experiencing a hip, spine, or vertebral fracture in their lifetime.
Potential Results From Having a Vertebral Compression Fracture
Vertebral compression fractures can lead to chronic pain, disfigurement, height loss, impaired activities of daily living, increased risk of pressure sores, pneumonia, and psychological distress. Patients with an acute vertebral compression fracture may report abrupt onset of back pain with position changes, coughing, sneezing, or lifting.
