“Can a fractured spine heal on its own?”
I am a 54 year old female. I want to know if a fractured spine can heal on its own?
9 Answers
Usually does, however, a Zoom consultation with your X-rays would give a definitive answer.
Most spine fractures heal very well. Surgery is indicated when the fracture is unstable (and could hurt your nerves or spinal cord) or deformed. Bracing often is all that is needed. The vast majority of spine fracture I treat are with bracing.
A fractured spine can heal on its own. It entirely depends on the nature of the fracture and where it is located. Some spine fractures may only need pain medication. For instance, fractures of the transverse processes. Some fractures may only require bracing. Sadly for our patients, some also require surgical stabilization.
Usually they do and they don’t cause chronic back pain but for females around or after menopause osteoporosis work up and possible treatment should be done. In case of that if not treated multiple fracture can happen in the future
Some fractures can.
Fracture of the spine is a complex entity and should be treated and monitored by a spine specialist. Please see a spine specialist for guidance.
It depends on the fracture. Certain fractures do have the capacity to heal on their own. An example of a fracture that can heal on its own is a compression fracture that occurs as a result if osteoporosis. These fractures can heal over the course of 6-8 weeks. There are certain traumatic fractures that can heal uneventfully as well provided that the surrounding supporting ligaments and soft tissues can provide sufficient stability. When there is instability or significant malalignment or deformity, surgery may be required.
Many types can, but if the fracture causes instability, it should be stabilized with bracing or surgery
Yes, a spine fracture will heal like any other broken bone. As long as the fracture does not involve compression of the spinal cord or some type of instability most of them are really no different than a broken foot, painful, but will heal. But what really matters is which part is fractured as some patterns are very serious which should be discussed with whomever is treating you.
Dr. DeHoll
Dr. DeHoll
