Bones within the spine are called vertebra. Fractures to the spine typically occur from high-energy trauma such as motor vehicle wrecks or falls. When a fracture develops from minimal trauma, it is usually due to an underlying condition such as osteoporosis. When fractures occur, nerves are usually involved, muscles spasm and supporting ligaments are sprained. Pain and limited motion are usually present. Walking and standing can also be limited and painful.
Pain from Osteoporosis Fractures
According to the Office of the Surgeon General, more than 1.5 million people in the United States suffer a fracture each year because of weak bones. Osteoporosis is characterized by low bone mass and deterioration of bone structure that causes bones to become weak and fracture easily. Once a fracture occurs, it triggers muscles spasms involving muscles that support the spine. Standing and walking causes increased pain as the muscles have to work harder to hold up the injured area of the spine.
High-Impact Fractures
A high-impact fracture causes severe pain. The impact can cause blood to pool from broken blood vessels. Muscle bruising might also be present. If the vertebra of the spine were caused to bend rapidly, torn ligaments might be involved. Nerves within the muscles and ligaments can create severe pain, often requiring medication and cold packs to reduce symptoms.
Unstable Spine Fractures
MayoClinic.com reports that in most cases, fractured vertebrae heal without any help. Sometimes if the spinal column is unstable, surgeons can fuse two or more vertebral bodies together, using bone grafts and metal plates, screws, rods or cages. After surgery, the surgical incisions will cause significant pain. Movement is painful because of inflammation and swelling. The muscles of the spine might go into severe spasms as an attempt to support the surgery site.
Types of Vertebra Fractures
A chance fracture results from a high-impact trauma. This might occur when the upper body is thrown forward in a car wreck and the hips are held in place by a seat belt. The vertebra is torn apart, separating the upper and lower half of the bone. Another type is called a transverse fracture. This involves twisting or rotation or extreme side bending of the bone. Dislocation fractures involve one vertebra shifting on top of another.
Considerations
Fractures of the spine produce soft tissue disturbances. Damage to the spinal cord might occur, leading to paralysis. Most fractures resolve with rest, medication and rehabilitation. The stages of fracture healing involves the impact followed by inflammation. The body then creates a callus or thickening over the fracture. Bone minerals penetrate into the site to make it solid. Over time, the body smooths and removes the excess callus minerals.
