How to Manage Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures (OVCF)

An osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture (OVCF) happens when the bones in your spine become fragile due to a condition called osteoporosis. Osteoporosis weakens bones, making them more likely to break even with little pressure, such as bending or lifting something light. These fractures are most common in older adults, especially women after menopause.

Each year, over half a million people in the United States experience OVCFs, which typically affect the spine, particularly in the upper back and lower back areas. While these fractures can sometimes happen from something as small as a cough or sneeze, they are often caused by more noticeable things like a fall.

What Are the Causes and Risk Factors for OVCFs?

Several factors can increase the risk of developing OVCFs:

Age and Gender: Women, especially after menopause, are more likely to develop OVCFs. The risk grows with age.
Previous Fractures: If you’ve had a fracture in the past, your chances of getting another one go up significantly.
Osteoporosis: When your bones are weak, they are more prone to breaking. Low bone density is a key cause of OVCFs.
Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, poor nutrition (lack of calcium and vitamin D), being inactive, and drinking too much alcohol or caffeine can all increase fracture risk.
Family History: If someone in your family has osteoporosis, you’re more likely to develop it too.

How Do You Know If You Have OVCF?

The most common sign of an OVCF is back pain, which can range from mild to severe. The pain may feel like a dull ache or sharp stab, often in the middle or lower back. Other signs include:

Loss of height over time
Difficulty standing up straight
Pain that may spread to the ribs, hips, or buttocks
Trouble moving due to pain or stiffness

Sometimes, OVCFs happen without any noticeable injury, so you might not even know something caused the fracture. It could just be simple movements, like bending over or getting up from a chair, that trigger the pain.

How Do Doctors Diagnose OVCFs?

If you’re experiencing back pain, your doctor will likely start by reviewing your medical history and may perform a physical exam to check for signs of a fracture. For a more accurate diagnosis, imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs might be needed. These tests will help your doctor see if there is any compression in the bones of your spine.

Your doctor may also recommend a bone density test to check for osteoporosis. This test will show how strong your bones are and help determine if you’re at risk for future fractures.

How Are OVCFs Treated?

1. Pain Relief & Rest:
If you have an OVCF, pain relief is the first step. Your doctor might recommend over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. While rest is important, it’s usually best to stay active and avoid long periods of bed rest, as it can weaken your muscles and slow recovery.

2. Bracing for Support:
For extra support and to reduce pressure on your spine, wearing a back brace can be helpful. It can reduce pain and help you move more comfortably as your back heals. However, your doctor will guide you on how long to wear it.

3. Physical Therapy & Exercise:
Once your pain begins to improve, your doctor or physical therapist may recommend exercises to strengthen your back and improve your posture. Strengthening exercises are key to preventing further fractures. Simple exercises like walking, balance exercises, and low-impact aerobics can help.

4. Nutrition for Bone Health:
Eating a balanced diet with plenty of calcium (1000-1200 mg) and vitamin D (800-1000 IU) is important for your bone health. Foods like leafy greens, dairy products, and fish are great sources. Vitamin D can also be produced by getting enough sunlight, so try to spend some time outside each day.

5. Surgery (If Needed):
In some cases, if pain is severe or does not improve with other treatments, surgery may be necessary. There are two common procedures: vertebroplasty (injecting cement into the fractured bone) and kyphoplasty (using a balloon to lift the bone and then filling it with cement). These can help relieve pain and improve spinal stability.

How to Prevent Future Fractures

The best way to prevent future fractures is to keep your bones strong:

Exercise: Regular weight-bearing activities like walking and strength training can help build bone strength and reduce the risk of fractures.
Healthy Habits: Avoid smoking, limit alcohol, and eat a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.
Medication: Your doctor may recommend medications to help strengthen your bones and prevent further fractures.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience persistent back pain, have difficulty standing up straight, or notice other signs like loss of height, it’s important to see your doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can help you manage pain and prevent further issues with your spine.

Osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures are a common but treatable condition. With proper care, including pain management, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes, you can improve your quality of life and prevent future fractures. If you are at risk for osteoporosis, or if you already have a fracture, talk to your doctor about ways to manage your bone health and avoid complications.

If you need more information or have questions about how to manage osteoporosis or OVCFs, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. They can help guide you through treatment options and find the best solutions for your health.

NEW PATIENTS

Step 1

Call today to schedule your convenient appointment.

Step 2

Pre-register your important health information on your phone or computer to save time.

Step 3

Meet your new doctor for a customized plan and start moving toward your goal!

Discover how we may help!

We are the Memphis area’s top-rated chiropractic group, providing you with gentle chiropractic care, dry needle therapy, exercise therapy, and therapeutic massage.

2845 Summer Oaks Dr, Memphis, TN 38134
(901) 377-2340

Life Shouldn't Hurt!

You Deserve To Feel Great. We Can Help!
Your go-to Chiropractor in Memphis, TN

Richard L. Cole, DC, DACNB, DAIPM, FIACN, FICC
Jeffrey D. Luebbe, DC, CCRD, CCSP
W. Steven Vollmer, DC, DAAPM
Bradford J. Cole, DC, MS, CSCS
J. Colby Poston, DC
Daniel H. Smith, DC
2845 Summer Oaks Dr., Memphis, TN 38134
(901) 377-2340

Monday – Friday:
8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday :
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Walk-ins are Welcome!