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compression fractures

a compression fracture occurs when an injury to a spinal bone (vertebra) causes it to fracture and collapse (compress). a weakened vertebra may collapse because of a minor injury or without an obvious injury, often as the result of osteoporosis.

when several vertebrae have been fractured, a person may lose height. compression fractures may lead to a hump in the upper back (dowager's hump) and may cause back pain.

treatment of compression fractures may include treating the osteoporosis with medicines and calcium and treating the pain with analgesics. surgery may be needed if there is any loss of function because of bone pressing on the spinal cord or spinal nerves.

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this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy. to learn more about healthwise, visit healthwise.org. © 1995-2022 healthwise, incorporated. healthwise, healthwise for every health decision, and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise, incorporated.

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