If you have a spinal compression fracture, chances are you are pretty uncomfortable. These fractures are extremely painful, and if left untreated, can severely affect your quality of life. Dr. Budler treats patients with spinal compression fractures who have lived with the pain in hopes that the fracture would heal on its own.
Can Spinal Compression Fractures Heal on Their Own?
Yes, but there are important factors to consider when deciding if you want to get treatment or go it alone. Healing a spinal compression fracture naturally takes a lot of time. On average, spinal compression fractures require three to six months of rest and limited activity to heal completely. Many individuals need a back brace to hold their back in place during the healing process and to protect the site of the fracture.
Many patients report that back braces are bulky and uncomfortable.
The Problem With Waiting
Waiting for a spinal compression fracture to heal is also very painful, which probably means you’ll need over-the-counter and prescription pain relievers while you heal. Pain is typically in the lower back but can also occur in other areas of the back and even in the neck, hips, thighs and abdomen.
Spinal compression fractures also cause a painful curvature of the spine, causing you to stoop. This forward pitch puts pressure on the nerves that control your legs, which can result in numbness and tingling. Spinal compression fractures also exert pressure on the nerves that control autonomic functions, like bladder and bowel control. This pressure causes urinary and fecal incontinence.
Speed Up Healing With Kyphoplasty
Fortunately, people with spinal compression fractures don’t have to wait for them to heal on their own. Kyphoplasty helps to repair the damaged vertebrae and strengthens the area of fracture by using a special bone cement and polymers that facilitate bone growth. The kyphoplasty procedure takes under an hour, and the result is stronger vertebrae and less pain in just a few days.
There’s no need to wait for months in pain. Call Dr. Budler at 855-201-1519 to discuss your options for treatment.