This fracture is a break in one or more of the bones (vertebrae) comprising the spinal column of the middle (thoracic) or lower (lumbar) back. The spinal cord may be injured depending on the severity of the fracture. Never attempt to move a person with a spinal injury, because movement can cause more damage. Call 911 immediately.

Causes
Fractures in this area are usually a result of a serious injury caused by high-energy trauma like a car crash, fall, sports accident or act of violence (i.e., gunshot wound). Males experience the injury four times more often than females do. People with osteoporosis, tumors or other underlying conditions that weaken bone can get a spinal fracture with minimal trauma or normal activities of daily living.

Symptoms
Symptoms include moderate to severe back pain made worse by movement. In some cases when the spinal cord is also involved, numbness, tingling, weakness or bowel/bladder dysfunction may also result.

Treatment
Treatment will focus on protecting nerve function and restoring alignment and stability of the spine. The doctor determines the best treatment method based upon fracture type and other factors. Doctors usually treat compression and some burst fractures without surgery. If you have a simple compression fracture, you may need to wear a hyperextension brace for sitting and standing activities for 6-12 weeks. Treatment is available at The Complete Spine Center.

You may need surgery if you have an unstable burst fracture, flexion-distraction injury or fracture-dislocation. Surgery realigns the spinal column and holds it together using metal plates and screws (internal fixation) and/or spinal fusion.