Compression Fracture
Compression Fracture Treatment in Brooklyn, NY
A compression fracture occurs when a vertebral body in the spine collapses or loses height, often leading to back pain, reduced mobility, and postural changes. Because symptoms can vary depending on the location and severity of the fracture, accurate diagnosis is essential before selecting treatment. At Motionis Medicine, compression fractures are evaluated through a physician-led, diagnosis-first approach focused on identifying pain sources and guiding appropriate non-surgical care.
Care is led by Dr. Tanuj Palvia, MD, a board-certified interventional pain medicine physician with over 15 years of experience in spine and musculoskeletal pain care.
What Is a Compression Fracture?
A spinal compression fracture occurs when a vertebra weakens and collapses, typically affecting the thoracic or lumbar spine. These fractures can range from mild height loss to more significant structural collapse.
Compression fractures are commonly associated with:
Osteoporosis
reduced bone density
Trauma
falls or direct injury
Steroid Use
long-term corticosteroid therapy
Metabolic
certain metabolic or bone conditions
Not all compression fractures cause immediate symptoms, which is why clinical evaluation is important.
Common Compression Fracture Symptoms
Symptoms may vary depending on fracture severity and may include:
Neurological symptoms are uncommon unless the fracture affects nearby nerves.
Sudden or gradual onset of back pain
Pain worsened by standing, walking, or movement
Tenderness over the affected spinal area
Reduced spinal mobility
Height loss or postural changes over time
Pain that improves with rest
Common Causes of Compression Fractures We Evaluate
Compression fractures can develop due to weakened bone or acute injury. Common causes include:
Osteoporosis or age-related bone loss
Minor trauma or falls, especially in weakened bone
High-impact injury or accident
Long-term use of corticosteroid medications
Certain metabolic or systemic conditions affecting bone strength
Identifying the underlying cause is important for both treatment and prevention planning.
How Compression Fractures Are Evaluated
Evaluation focuses on confirming the fracture, assessing stability, and determining whether it is responsible for symptoms. A physician-led assessment may include:
Detailed medical history and physical examination
Review of imaging such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans
Assessment of fracture age and spinal alignment
Evaluation for contributing factors such as bone density loss
This structured approach helps guide safe and appropriate treatment decisions.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Compression Fractures
Treatment recommendations depend on fracture stability, pain severity, and overall health. Non-surgical options may include:
Image-guided pain management injections, when appropriate
Medications to manage pain and inflammation
Activity modification and bracing when indicated
Targeted rehabilitation and recovery planning
Management of underlying bone health issues
Regenerative and non-surgical orthopedic options, when appropriate
Care is individualised, with a focus on pain control, functional recovery, and preventing future fractures.
When a Specialist Evaluation May Help
You may benefit from a specialist evaluation if:
Back pain develops after a fall or minor injury
Pain persists or worsens over time
Imaging confirms a compression fracture
Daily activities are limited due to pain
There is concern for osteoporosis or recurrent fractures
A comprehensive evaluation can help determine appropriate next steps and long-term management.
Schedule a Compression Fracture Evaluation
If a compression fracture is affecting your comfort, posture, or mobility, a comprehensive evaluation can help clarify your options and guide appropriate non-surgical care.