Overview
A vertebral compression fracture happens when a vertebra (a bone of the spine) collapses. It is most often caused by osteoporosis, but it can also result from trauma or, less commonly, tumors.
Many fractures heal with time, pain control and bracing. For painful fractures that do not improve, kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty may be options. Treating the underlying bone health is an important part of care.
Watch: Vertebral Compression Fractures explained
Video: “Mayo Clinic Minute: How vertebroplasty can reduce back pain caused by spine fractures” from Mayo Clinic on YouTube. It loads from youtube-nocookie.com only when you press play. Shown for general education; GSMC did not produce it. Watch on YouTube
Common symptoms
- Sudden onset of mid or low back pain
- Pain worse with standing or walking
- Pain eased by lying down
- Height loss or a stooped posture
Causes and risk factors
- Osteoporosis
- Falls or trauma
- Long-term steroid use
- Cancer involving the spine
How it is diagnosed
X-rays, MRI or CT scans help confirm the fracture and its age. MRI can show whether a fracture is recent, which matters when planning treatment.
Treatment options
Care is stepped: most people start with self-care and physical therapy, and move to the next step only if pain continues. Some problems, such as nerve weakness, may skip ahead. Your exam, imaging and goals decide which options fit you.
Self-care and lifestyle
Short rest, then gentle activity; fall prevention and bone-healthy nutrition.
Physical therapy and medications
Pain medicine, a brace for comfort and an osteoporosis evaluation and treatment.
Injections and nerve blocks
Nerve blocks are occasionally used for pain control.
Minimally invasive procedures
Kyphoplasty or vertebroplasty may be considered for a painful fracture that is not improving.
Surgical evaluation
Surgery is considered for unstable fractures or nerve compression.
Learn how we approach care: our care philosophy · nonsurgical options · second opinions.
When to seek urgent care
Call 911 or go to the emergency department for new or rapidly worsening weakness, numbness in the groin or inner thighs, loss of bladder or bowel control, severe pain after a significant fall or accident, or pain with fever or unexplained weight loss.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if I have a compression fracture?
Sudden back pain, especially in someone with osteoporosis, should be evaluated. Imaging is needed to confirm.
Will it heal on its own?
Many fractures heal over several weeks to a few months. Treatment focuses on comfort and mobility during healing.
When is kyphoplasty considered?
For painful fractures that limit function and have not improved with conservative care, after imaging confirms a suitable fracture.
This page is general patient education and does not replace advice from your own clinician. Individual results vary.