Discharged from the ER with an Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fracture? What's Next?

What do you do after being discharged from the emergency department with a diagnosis of a vertebral compression fracture?

Follow-Up with Spine Surgeon

Most patient's who have vertebral compression fractures, or vertebral "wedge" fracture, do not need surgery. More often than not, time heals these wounds. Patients may benefit from one or more of the following offerings from their orthopedic/spine surgeon:

- Evaluation for neurologic injury

- Pain control recommendations (rarely involves surgery)

- Bracing to protect the fracture while it heals and to try to prevent progression of vertebra collapse

- Evaluation for WHY you fell

- There is a difference between having a one time trip and fall, and having recurrent falls

- We want to avoid future falls if possible

Sometimes surgery is necessary if pain limits walking and self-care, or if severe pain persists beyond 6-12 weeks.

After Fracture Care: Primary Care/GYN/Endocrinology/

Vertebral compression fractures after low energy falls are considered osteoporotic fractures. In other words, a low energy force was able to cause a fracture because the bone has become brittle and weak. Primary Care Providers, Gynecologist, Rheumatologists and Endocrinologists commonly guide patients with osteoporosis on how they can strengthen their bones. Additionally, your PCP, orthopedics, and neurology help to evaluate patients who have frequent falls. For example, falls could have been related to an underlying balance issue.

Helpful Resources

https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/osteoporosis-and-spinal-fractures/

Disclaimer:

No content on this site should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.