Vertebral Fracture

A vertebral fracture should always be taken seriously. The vertebrae, or bones of the spinal column, play important roles in the body's mobility, stability and neural protection. These 26 individual units that make up the vertebral column also encase the nerves of the spinal cord. Injury or disease of the vertebrae can affect overall health and even be life threatening, in some extreme cases.

Interspersing the vertebrae are discs of cartilaginous tissue that separate and cushion the bones during everyday movement and contact with other objects. Vertebrae and discs have such a close relationship that the health of both must be considered in order to correct a disturbance in either entity. Vertebrae can fracture due to blows or spinal degeneration. Discs lose their flexibility as they age and can break down.

Consequences of Vertebral Fractures

Vertebral fractures can be detected by X-rays. If a trauma has been experienced or unexplained pain in the spine or limbs recurs or does not disappear, patients should consult a doctor. Bone fractures may be signs of osteoporosis, cancer or Paget's disease. Repairing the damaged area is important. Broken chips of bone may cause spinal deformity or the growth of bone spurs to counteract the friction. Sharp edges may irritate or rupture the discs.

Nerve impingement is a common complication of spinal damage. When nerves are crowded due to vertebra or disc abnormalities, pain can become chronic in other areas of the body. Special diagnostic techniques performed at the Bonati Institute can help to locate vertebral fractures or other sources of ongoing pain.