A vertebral fracture is a break or collapse of one of the bones that make up the spine, most often in older adults whose bones have been weakened by osteoporosis, and sometimes after a fall, collision, or sports injury. It can cause sudden or gradually worsening back pain, stiffness, and loss of height. Board-certified pain specialists at California Pain Consultants in San Diego diagnose vertebral fractures and build treatment plans that range from bracing and physical therapy to minimally invasive procedures.
- You may remember the exact moment it started
- Or you may simply notice that your back doesn’t feel the same anymore
- Standing becomes uncomfortable. Sitting feels strained. Moving, bending, even breathing deeply may trigger discomfort
A vertebral fracture is a break in one of the bones of the spine. Some occur after trauma; others develop when osteoporosis or another condition weakens bone so much that an ordinary movement, such as lifting a grocery bag or coughing, is enough to cause a crack.
What Is a Vertebral Fracture?
A vertebral fracture occurs when one of the bones in your spine (vertebrae) breaks or collapses.
Your spine is made up of a series of vertebrae stacked on top of each other. These bones:
- Support your body
- Protect your spinal cord
- Allow movement and flexibility
When one of these bones is damaged, it can affect both structure and function. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons notes that the spine has 24 vertebrae and that vertebral compression fractures occur about 1.5 million times each year in the United States, making them almost twice as common as other fractures linked to osteoporosis.
There are several types of vertebral fractures, and the pattern of injury helps guide treatment. Your care team will look at which part of the bone is broken, how much height the vertebra has lost, and whether the fracture is stable.
Compression Fractures
- The most common type
- The front part of the vertebra collapses
- Often related to weakened bones
Burst Fractures
- The vertebra breaks in multiple directions
- Can affect spinal stability
Fracture-Dislocations
- Involves both fracture and misalignment
- Usually caused by trauma
How Vertebral Fractures Feel
Symptoms can vary depending on the type and severity of the fracture. Some fractures announce themselves with sharp pain, while others are quiet. According to MedlinePlus, compression fractures caused by osteoporosis may cause no symptoms at first and are often discovered on spine x-rays taken for another reason.
Sudden Back Pain
- Sharp, intense pain
- Often localized to one area
Pain with Movement
- Bending
- Twisting
- Standing
Limited Mobility
You may feel:
- Stiffness
- Difficulty moving
- Reduced flexibility
Changes in Posture
Over time, multiple fractures may lead to:
- Height loss
- Forward curvature of the spine
MedlinePlus describes height loss of as much as 6 inches over time in people with osteoporosis-related fractures. A rounded upper back can also crowd the chest and abdomen, which may make deep breathing or eating a full meal feel uncomfortable.
Nerve-Related Symptoms (Less Common)
If nerves are affected:
- Tingling
- Numbness
- Weakness
Why Vertebral Fractures Happen
Osteoporosis: The Most Common Cause
Weakened bones are more prone to fractures—even with minimal stress.
Trauma or Injury
- Falls
- Car accidents
- Sports injuries
Cancer or Bone Disease
Certain conditions can weaken the spine.
Long-Term Steroid Use
Can reduce bone strength.
Who Is at Risk?
- Older adults
- Individuals with osteoporosis
- People with previous fractures
- Those with low bone density
A previous spinal fracture deserves particular attention. The AAOS reports that studies have found more than 30% of people with a spinal fracture will have another fracture within 1 year, which is why treating the pain and protecting bone health belong in the same plan. MedlinePlus advises that women have their bone density checked at age 65, or earlier if they are at increased risk for osteoporosis.
The Emotional Impact: More Than Physical Pain
A vertebral fracture can change how you feel about your body and your independence.
You may feel:
- Fear of movement
- Concern about falling again
- Frustration with limitations
These feelings are valid—and addressing them is part of healing.
Diagnosing Vertebral Fractures
Medical History
- Onset of pain
- Recent injuries
- Bone health history
Physical Examination
- Spine tenderness
- Movement limitations
Imaging Studies
- X-rays
- MRI
- CT scans
An x-ray can show a vertebra that is shorter than its neighbors. An MRI helps show whether a fracture is recent, because a fresh fracture often shows swelling inside the bone, and a CT scan gives a detailed view of the bone edges when stability is in question. A bone density test may be added to look for osteoporosis.
Ruling Out Other Causes
Back pain after a minor strain is common, so part of the evaluation is separating a fracture from muscle strain, disc problems, arthritis, or, less often, a tumor or infection weakening the bone. That distinction shapes every treatment decision that follows.
Treatment: A Step-By-Step Approach to Healing
Treatment depends on the severity and cause of the fracture. Many compression fractures heal without surgery: MedlinePlus states that most injury-related compression fractures heal in 8 to 10 weeks with rest, a brace, and pain medicines, and the AAOS notes that most people with a spinal compression fracture feel better within 3 months without surgery. Results vary, and older adults with fragile bone may need a longer recovery.
Conservative Treatment
Rest and Activity Modification
Avoid movements that worsen pain.
Bracing
Supports the spine during healing.
Medications
- Pain relievers
- Anti-inflammatory drugs
Physical Therapy
Helps:
- Restore strength
- Improve mobility
- Prevent future injury
Interventional Treatments
When pain stays severe despite conservative care, a procedure may be considered. MedlinePlus lists severe, disabling pain lasting more than 2 months that does not improve with other treatments as a reason surgery may be considered.
Vertebroplasty
Cement is injected into the fractured vertebra for stability.
Kyphoplasty
A balloon is used to restore height before cement placement. Both procedures are done through a needle under imaging guidance; you can read more about candidacy and recovery on our vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty page.
Nerve Blocks
Reduce pain signals.
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
Provides longer-lasting pain relief for some patients whose pain comes from irritated joints or nerves around the healed fracture. Learn more about radiofrequency ablation.
Preventing Future Fractures
Bone Health Management
- Calcium and vitamin D
- Medications for osteoporosis
Fall Prevention
- Improve balance
- Safe home environment
Strength Training
Supports bone and muscle health.
Living with a Vertebral Fracture
Move Carefully but Stay Active
Gentle movement supports recovery.
Use Proper Body Mechanics
Avoid strain.
Follow Your Treatment Plan
Consistency is key.
When a Vertebral Fracture Needs Urgent Care
Seek prompt medical evaluation for the following symptoms:
- Severe back pain after a fall, collision, or other trauma
- New leg weakness, numbness, or trouble walking
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Back pain with fever, cancer history, or unexplained weight loss
Call 911 for a life-threatening emergency. This list is not exhaustive; when symptoms feel severe or rapidly worsen, seek urgent care.
Healing Takes Time—But Progress Is Possible
A vertebral fracture can feel overwhelming—but it is something you can move through.
With the right care, support, and treatment plan, healing is possible.
Getting Care in San Diego
If a vertebral fracture is limiting how you stand, sleep, or move, your care team at California Pain Consultants can help you sort out what is causing the pain and which steps make sense now. We see patients at four San Diego County clinics, in Kearny Mesa, Rancho Bernardo, La Mesa, and Chula Vista, and image-guided procedures such as kyphoplasty are performed at the Comprehensive Pain ASC in Rancho Bernardo and the EPC Surgery Center in La Mesa.
At your visit, you can expect:
- A review of when the pain started, any falls or injuries, and your bone health history
- A focused exam and a review of existing imaging, or orders for new imaging if needed
- A plan that may combine bracing, medication, physical therapy, and procedures when appropriate
- Coordination with your primary care doctor on bone density testing and osteoporosis treatment
We accept most insurances. You can request your appointment online or call (858) 571-3630 to book your appointment.
Book Your AppointmentSupport Healing and Protect Bone Health
California Pain Consultants can help evaluate fracture-related pain, coordinate bone-health care, and determine whether conservative or procedural treatment is appropriate.
Trusted Information and Related Care
Medical reference: MedlinePlus: Compression Fractures of the Back. Related California Pain resources: Compression fractures · Conditions and treatments · Thoracic back pain. This article is for general education and does not replace an individualized medical evaluation. Treatment recommendations depend on diagnosis, health history, current medications, and personal goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a vertebral fracture take to heal?
Many vertebral compression fractures heal in about 8 to 10 weeks with rest, a brace, and pain medicine, according to MedlinePlus. The AAOS notes most people feel better within 3 months without surgery. Healing may take longer in people with significant osteoporosis, multiple fractures, or other health conditions, so your timeline should be set by your own care team.
Can you have a spinal fracture and not know it?
Yes. Compression fractures caused by osteoporosis may cause no symptoms at first and are often found on an x-ray taken for another reason. Some people notice only gradual height loss, a rounder upper back, or a vague ache. If you have osteoporosis risk factors and new back pain, an evaluation can help clarify the cause.
Do I need surgery for a vertebral fracture?
Most people do not. Many fractures are managed with activity changes, bracing, medication, and physical therapy. Procedures such as vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty may be considered when pain stays severe and disabling despite conservative care, or when a fracture is causing deformity. Unstable fractures from major trauma are a different situation and may need a spine surgeon.
What does a fracture in the spine feel like?
A vertebral fracture often feels like sudden, sharp pain in one area of the back that worsens with standing, bending, or twisting and eases somewhat when lying down. Some people describe pain that wraps around the ribs. Tingling, numbness, or leg weakness is less common and should be evaluated promptly because it can signal nerve involvement.
Can I prevent another vertebral fracture?
You can lower your risk, though no plan removes it entirely. The AAOS reports that more than 30% of people with a spinal fracture have another within 1 year. Bone density testing, osteoporosis treatment when prescribed, adequate calcium and vitamin D, strength and balance training, and fall-proofing your home may all help.
When should I see a pain specialist for a vertebral fracture?
Consider seeing a pain specialist if back pain is not improving after a few weeks of conservative care, if pain is keeping you from walking or sleeping, or if you have osteoporosis and new back pain. Seek urgent care right away for new weakness, numbness, or bladder or bowel changes, which need immediate attention.