Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures

What it is

An osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture occurs when a weakened vertebra, most often due to osteoporosis, collapses under normal loading forces, sometimes after only a minor movement or fall.

Symptoms

• Sudden onset of localised back pain
• Pain worsened by standing or walking and relieved by lying down
• Height loss or increasing spinal curvature over time with repeated fractures
• Pain that may radiate around the trunk

Causes

• Osteoporosis
• Steroid-induced bone weakening
• Underlying bone metastasis (which must be ruled out)

Diagnosis

X-ray identifies vertebral height loss; MRI distinguishes a recent fracture from an old one and helps rule out an underlying tumour as the cause of collapse.

MRI findings

MRI in a recent fracture typically shows bone marrow oedema within the collapsed vertebra, which resolves as the fracture heals.

Non-surgical treatment

• Bracing
• Pain management
• Osteoporosis treatment to reduce future fracture risk
• Graduated physiotherapy

When surgery may be considered

A minimally invasive procedure may be considered when pain is severe and persistent despite a reasonable trial of non-surgical care, particularly in the early weeks after fracture.

Surgical options

• Vertebroplasty
• Kyphoplasty

Recovery

Pain relief after vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty is often rapid; underlying osteoporosis treatment continues long-term to reduce the risk of further fractures.

Risks

• Cement leakage
• New fractures in adjacent vertebrae
• Infection

Questions to ask your surgeon

• Is surgery necessary now, or can it reasonably wait?
• What non-surgical options are appropriate for my case?
• What are the realistic risks and recovery timeline for me specifically?

Indicative treatment cost

Costs vary by procedure and case complexity. See the spine surgery cost page for indicative planning ranges.

Frequently asked questions