Vertebral body fractures

Vertebral body fractures are injuries to the spinal bones that can be caused by osteoporosis, spinal tumors, or trauma and can result in either the gradual or sudden onset of back pain and/or neurological symptoms.

Osteoporosis of the spine

The spinal bones (vertebrae) are particularly vulnerable to osteoporosis – a common condition in which the density and quality of the bones decrease. When bones are compromised by osteoporosis, it may not take much trauma to fracture brittle and weak vertebrae. Even the simple activities of daily living, like bending, coughing, or lifting may put osteoporotic bones at risk.

Spinal tumors

A tumor is a mass of abnormal tissue that can be found anywhere in the body.¹ The spinal bones (vertebrae) are a site where tumors can occur in some people.² Spinal tumors are most commonly secondary, or metastatic, meaning that they originate from a primary tumor elsewhere in the body and spread to the spine through the lymph nodes or bloodstream.³ In addition, spinal tumors can also form in either the vertebrae themselves or from the tissues that form the spinal cord and nervous system; these are known as primary spinal tumors. Occasionally, spinal tumors can become large enough that they put pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. If this happens, a variety of neurological symptoms, such as numbness or weakness in the arms or legs, can develop. Spinal tumors may also cause damage to or even lead to the collapse of one or more vertebral bodies.⁴ As a result, the tumor may put pressure on the spinal cord or nerves and/or cause pain either at the site or radiating down the arms or legs.²

Trauma

Spinal trauma is another way doctors refer to any injury to the bones, ligaments, or muscles of the spine. It may occur due to low-impact injuries like falling from standing, or from high-impact injuries like motor vehicle accidents or falling from heights. Symptoms may include pain, numbness or tingling in the arms, legs, groin or pelvis, weakness or paralysis in the arms or legs, or in extreme cases, loss of bowel or bladder control.

While some spinal trauma may only cause minor injuries such as a muscle strain or ligament sprain, other spinal trauma may cause significant injuries like fractures or dislocations of the spinal bones (vertebrae). Vertebrae already weakened by osteoporosis can lead to vertebral fractures after even minor injuries or a low level of trauma.