Guidelines

How serious is a compression fracture?

How serious is a compression fracture?

Complications of compression fractures include: Fractured bones that do not heal after treatment, which can lead to damage of the nearby vertebrae. Blood clots in the legs due to decreased mobility.

What is a compression fracture of L1?

A T12 or L1 compression fracture most commonly happens as a wedge fracture, which occurs when the front part of the vertebra collapses and the back doesn’t, making the bone look like a wedge. Osteoporosis, which causes decreased bone density, is a common risk factor for compression fractures.

Do compression fractures require surgery?

Sometimes surgery is required for spinal compression fractures, no matter the cause. The goal of the surgery is to fuse and repair the fracture, eliminate back pain, and restore posture and ease of movement.

How do L1 fractures heal?

The majority of fractures heal with pain medication, reduction in activity, medications to stabilize bone density, and a good back brace to minimize motion during the healing process. Most people return to their everyday activities. Some may need further treatment, such as surgery.

What does the L1 vertebra control?

L1 spinal nerve provides sensation to the groin and genital regions and may contribute to the movement of the hip muscles. L2, L3, and L4 spinal nerves provide sensation to the front part of the thigh and inner side of the lower leg. These nerves also control movements of the hip and knee muscles.

Can you sit with a compression fracture?

In order to give the bone time to heal, your doctor may recommend that you avoid all high impact activities, including sports and exercise. You should also avoid any bending, twisting, or lifting motions. However, this does not mean you should stay sedentary until the fracture heals.

What happens when you break your L1?

What Are the Symptoms of an L1 Injury? The L1 vertebra is the topmost section of the lumbar spinal column. This section of the spine contains a portion of the spinal cord. Injuries to the L1 spine can affect hip flexion, cause paraplegia, loss of bowel/bladder control, and/or numbness in the legs.

Is a back brace good for a compression fracture?

Another common form of treatment for some types of vertebral compression fractures is bracing. Your doctor may prescribe a back support (often officially called an orthosis). The brace supports the back and restricts movement; just as an arm brace would support a fracture of the arm.

Can you put heat on a compression fracture?

Cover it with a towel before you apply it. Ice helps prevent tissue damage and decreases swelling and pain. Apply heat on your back for 20 to 30 minutes every 2 hours for as many days as directed. Heat helps decrease pain and muscle spasms.

What nerves are affected by L1?

A limited description of the specific lumbar spinal nerves includes: L1 innervates the abdominal internal obliques via the ilioinguinal nerve; L2-4 innervates iliopsoas, a hip flexor, and other muscles via the femoral nerve; L2-4 innervates adductor longus, a hip adductor, and other muscles via the obturator nerve; L5 …

How long for compression fracture to heal?

Most compression fractures due to injury heal in 8 to 10 weeks with rest, wearing of a brace, and pain medicines. However, recovery can take much longer if surgery was done.

Are there home remedies for compression fracture?

The most important method of preventing vertebral compression fractures is to prevent osteoporosis. Eat a well-balanced diet. Regular exercise, including weight-bearing and strength-training exercise, has been shown to increase the strength of bone. Stop smoking. Tobacco smoke has been shown to weaken bone.

Can compression fractures heal without surgery?

You want to ease the pain, heal the fracture, and treat the osteoporosis that weakened your bones and caused them to collapse. There’s a good chance you won’t need surgery. Most people can get by without it. Compression fractures usually heal on their own in about 3 months.

What are the complications of a compression fracture?

Complications of vertebral compression fractures include the following: deep venous thrombosis; acceleration of osteoporosis; loss of height; respiratory or gastrointestinal disturbances; and emotional and social problems secondary to unremitting pain and loss of independence.