A Vancouver Chiropractic Clinic Discusses Compression Fractures

A compression fracture is typically caused by osteoporosis. It is defined as a vertebral bone in the spinal area that has decreased in height by at least 15 to 20% due to fracture. They can occur in vertebrae anywhere within the spine, but are often most prevalent in the upper back (thoracic spine). The particular area is the lower vertebrae of that section in the T10, T11, and T12. It is very rare for a compression factor to occur in an area higher than T7. They are also common in the upper lumbar segments as well.

Aside from compression fracture, a spinal fracture due to the weak bones occurring from osteoporosis can also be called a vertebral fracture, osteoporotic fracture, or wedge fracture.

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“Wedge fracture” is a phrase used because the fracture usually happens in the vertebra in the front, leading to the bone collapsing in front of the spine. This will leave the back of the bone the same, such as in a wedge. A wedge compression fracture is usually a very mechanically stable fracture. Click here to learn more about wedge compression fractures or osteoporosis, click here.

Our next blog will further discuss the types of compression fractures and their treatments. For more information about compression fractures or how your Vancouver WA chiropractor can help, click here to contact A Family and Sports Chiropractic Clinic today!