What to Do Following a Spine Fracture
- Category: Spine Health, Back Surgery, Spine Conditions, Back Pain & Injuries, Spinal Treatments, Spinal Health Tips, Chronic Pain
- Posted On:
- Written By: Inspired Spine
Spine Fracture Treatment & Recovery Information
A spine fracture is a break in one or more bones that make up the spine. Spine fractures can occur due to a fall, car accident, or other high-impact trauma. Symptoms of a spine fracture may include back pain, neck pain, difficulty moving the affected area, and numbness or tingling in the extremities.
If you suspect you have a spine fracture, it is important to seek medical care right away. Here are some things to keep in mind if you have recently suffered a fracture:
Seek Medical Care Right Away
If you think you have a spine fracture, early treatment can help promote a quicker and more complete recovery. Treatment for a spine fracture may include wearing a brace or cast, pain medication, and physical therapy.
Follow your Doctor's Instructions
Chances are that your doctor may require you to wear a brace or cast after your injury. It is important to keep the spine immobilized as it heals to prevent further injury, so be sure to leave on your case or brace as required.
Take Pain Medication as Directed
Pain medication can help relieve discomfort and allow you to participate in physical therapy and other activities necessary to restore movement and function. However, medication will only help to mask your pain instead of treating your condition. So, it’s important to work with your spinal specialist to form a treatment plan that aids in your recovery
Participate in Rehabilitation Exercises
Physical therapy and other movements recommended by your doctor can help strengthen the muscles around the spine and promote healing. Once recovered, you may find that regular stretching, yoga, or other movements continue to help prevent aches and pains.
Be Patient with Your Recovery
Spine fractures can take several weeks or even months to heal completely. During this time, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions and be patient with the healing process.
If conservative options have not helped alleviate your pain, your spine specialist may recommend one of two surgical procedures that have been used to treat vertebral fractures: vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty.
Spine Fracture Treatment in Minnesota
At Inspired Spine, our highly-specialized team helps patients recover from spinal fractures and other lumbar issues. If you’ve recently suffered an injury, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for care.
To schedule a free consultation with one of our spine surgeons, call (952) 225-5266 today.