Treatment for spinal compression fractures aims to reduce pain, stabilize the spine, and repair the fracture. Non-surgical options include bracing, bed rest, physical therapy / back exercises, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Surgery may be required if pain persists following after non-surgical treatment. There are two options for minimally invasive procedures for treating spinal compression fractures.
A deflated balloon called a “bone tamp” is injected into the spine and inflated until it expands to the desired height. The created space is then filled with an orthopedic cement called “polymethylmethacrylate”. The procedure helps to restore the height of the vertebrae, reducing the deformity.
Polymethylmethacrylate is injected into the collapsed vertebra. The injected cement hardens quickly stabilizing the fracture, relieving pressure, and preventing further collapse.