A lumbar fracture is a break in one of the five vertebrae in the lower back (L1-L5). These bones support much of your body’s weight, making them vulnerable to injury from trauma or conditions that weaken the bones. One common type of lumbar fracture is a compression fracture, where a vertebra collapses partially or completely, often due to osteoporosis.

Types of Lumbar Fractures

  1. Compression Fractures:
    • Most common, particularly in older adults.
    • The front of the vertebra collapses, forming a wedge shape.
    • Often caused by weakened bones from osteoporosis or a mild trauma, like a fall.

 

  1. Burst Fractures:
    • A more severe type where the vertebra breaks in multiple places, potentially compressing the spinal cord.
    • Often caused by high-impact trauma like a car accident or fall from height.

 

  1. Fracture-Dislocations:
    • A fracture combined with a dislocation of the vertebra.
    • Extremely unstable and usually associated with spinal cord damage.

 

  1. Chance Fractures:
    • A type of fracture often caused by sudden forward flexion, such as in a car accident when wearing only a lap seatbelt.

 

Symptoms of Lumbar Fractures

Symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on the type of fracture:

  • Sudden Back Pain: Often sharp and intense, especially with movement.
  • Height Loss: Common in compression fractures from osteoporosis.
  • Kyphosis (Hunchback): A rounded back from multiple compression fractures.
  • Nerve Symptoms: If the spinal cord or nerve roots are affected, you may experience tingling, numbness, or weakness in the legs.

 

Causes

  • Osteoporosis: Weak bones that fracture easily, even with minimal trauma.
  • Trauma: High-impact injuries from car accidents, falls, or sports.
  • Cancer or Disease: Metastatic tumors can weaken vertebrae, making them more prone to fractures.

 

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture:

  1. Stable Compression Fractures:
    • Rest and activity modification.
    • Pain management with medications.
    • Back bracing to support the spine while healing.
    • Physical therapy to rebuild strength and improve posture.

 

  1. Severe or Unstable Fractures:
    • Surgical Options:
      • Vertebroplasty/Kyphoplasty: Minimally invasive procedures to stabilize compression fractures and restore height.
      • Spinal Fusion or Decompression Surgery: For unstable fractures or nerve compression.

 

  1. Osteoporosis Management:
    • Calcium, vitamin D, and medications like bisphosphonates to strengthen bones and prevent future fractures.

 

Why It Matters

Lumbar fractures, particularly compression fractures, can cause long-term pain and posture changes if untreated. Early diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan are key to recovery and preventing future fractures.

If your lower back pain feels more serious than a muscle strain, don’t ignore it—we’re here to help you stand tall and stay strong!