WebMD: Better Information. Better Health.
  • Bookmark This Page
  • Site Map
  • Sign up for WebMD Newsletters

Pain Management Health Center

Font Size
A
A
A

Your Guide to Spinal Compression Fractures: Diagnosing a Compression Fracture

The back pain may seem like arthritis or the aches and pains of aging. People often think it's a disc problem or muscle strain. Many people don't even get examined because either they - or their family members - don't realize what the problem is. But often back pain among older adults is caused by a spinal compression fracture.

Only your doctor can diagnose a spinal compression fracture. To determine what's wrong, your doctor may ask questions such as:

  • How long have you had the back pain?
  • What caused it?
  • What were you doing when it started?
  • Is the pain getting worse or better?

Your doctor may also prescribe tests such as:

  • A spinal X-ray to determine whether a vertebra has collapsed
  • A CT scan to provide detail of the fractured bone and the nerves around it
  • An MRI scan to show greater detail of nerves and nearby discs

Also, a bone biopsy may be done because a small percentage of patients have compression fractures caused by cancer.

WebMD Medical Reference

Reviewed by Ephraim K Brenman, DO on March 01, 2007
webMD Video

click to expand/contract  

Watch Video

click to expand/contract  Stretching Before Workout

click to expand/contract  Choosing a Mattress

click to expand/contract  Trigger Point Therapy for Chronic Pain

click to expand/contract  Gallbladder Basics

Most Popular Stories