A spinal fracture occurs when one or more vertebrae—the small bones that form the spinal column—break or collapse due to trauma, osteoporosis, or disease. These fractures can range from mild compression fractures to severe, unstable breaks that may threaten the spinal cord and cause permanent neurological deficits.
At Midwest Spine & Brain Institute (MSBI), our board-certified neurosurgeons and spine specialists evaluate and treat all types of spinal fractures using advanced imaging, minimally invasive stabilization, and personalized recovery plans. Our goal is to restore spinal stability, relieve pain, and protect neurological function. Explore all our Conditions & Treatment Hub.
Types of Spinal Fractures
Spinal fractures vary in severity and mechanism of injury. Common types include:
- Compression Fractures: Often caused by osteoporosis or minor trauma, resulting in the collapse of the front part of the vertebra.
- Burst Fractures: Caused by high-energy trauma (e.g., car accidents or falls), where the vertebra shatters in multiple directions and may impinge on the spinal cord. Severe spinal injuries may also involve spinal trauma affecting stability and neurological function.
- Flexion-Distraction Fractures (Chance Fractures): Typically occur in motor vehicle accidents when the upper body moves forward while the pelvis remains fixed.
- Fracture-Dislocation: A severe injury involving both a break and displacement of the vertebrae, often leading to spinal instability and nerve injury.
Symptoms of a Spinal Fracture
Symptoms depend on the type and location of the injury. Patients may experience:
- Sudden, severe back or neck pain after trauma or strain
- Pain that worsens with movement or standing
- Deformity or misalignment of the spine
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs
- Loss of height (in compression fractures)
- Difficulty walking or maintaining balance
- In severe cases: bladder or bowel dysfunction due to spinal cord involvement
Diagnosis
Accurate diagnosis is critical for proper treatment planning. Our Minnesota spine specialists use:
- X-rays and MRI scans to evaluate bone damage and soft tissue injury
- CT scans to assess fracture stability and spinal alignment
- Neurological exams to determine spinal cord or nerve root involvement
Treatment Options
The right treatment depends on the type of fracture, spinal stability, and neurological function.
Non-Surgical Treatment
- Bracing or Orthotics: To stabilize the spine and allow healing.
- Medication Management: Pain control and bone-strengthening medications.
- Physical Therapy: Gradual strengthening and posture correction once stability is restored.
Patients with stable fractures related to degenerative changes may also have underlying spinal arthritis or disc degeneration.
Surgical Treatment
For unstable or neurologically compromising fractures, our surgeons may perform:
- Minimally Invasive Spinal Fusion: To stabilize the vertebrae using rods, screws, or bone grafts.
- Vertebroplasty or Kyphoplasty: To restore height and relieve pain in compression fractures using bone cement.
- Decompression Procedures: To remove bone fragments or relieve spinal cord pressure.
Why Choose Midwest Spine & Brain Institute
Patients across Minnesota and Western Wisconsin choose MSBI for spinal fracture care because we provide:
- Board-Certified Neurosurgeons & Orthopedic Spine Experts
- Minimally Invasive Stabilization Techniques with faster recovery
- Integrated Rehabilitation & Pain Management Programs
- Personalized Care Plans designed for long-term spinal health
- 13 Convenient Clinic Locations including Edina, Maple Grove, Blaine, and St. Paul
Frequently Asked Questions About Spinal Fractures
- What causes spinal fractures?
Spinal fractures commonly result from traumatic injuries (car accidents, falls, sports), osteoporosis, or metastatic cancer that weakens bone integrity. - How serious is a spinal fracture?
Severity depends on whether the fracture affects spinal alignment or the spinal cord. Some minor fractures heal with rest and bracing, while unstable fractures may require surgery. - Can spinal fractures heal without surgery?
Yes, stable fractures—especially compression types—often heal non-surgically with bracing, rest, and physical therapy under a doctor’s supervision. - How long does recovery take?
Recovery may take 8–12 weeks for minor fractures. Surgical patients may need 3–6 months depending on the complexity of the injury and overall health. - When should I see a spine specialist?
Seek medical attention immediately after any back or neck trauma causing pain, numbness, or mobility issues. Early diagnosis improves long-term outcomes.
Schedule a Consultation
If you’ve experienced a spinal injury or suspect a vertebral fracture, contact the experts at Midwest Spine & Brain Institute. Our Minnesota spine specialists offer comprehensive evaluation and advanced treatment to help you recover safely and confidently.
Find a location near you: Edina, Maple Grove, St. Paul, Stillwater, and more.
Call (651) 430-3800 or request an appointment online today.