Vertebral Compression Fractures — A Painful Condition That Often Goes Undertreated
A vertebral compression fracture occurs when one of the bones of the spine — a vertebra — partially collapses under load. This is the most common type of spinal fracture and is frequently associated with osteoporosis, where the bone has lost density and structural integrity. Compression fractures can also result from falls, trauma, or cancer that has spread to the spine.
The pain can be sudden and severe, or it can develop gradually. Many patients attribute it to a muscle strain or general back pain and delay seeking an accurate diagnosis. In the meantime, the fracture may worsen, the vertebra may lose additional height, and spinal alignment can become progressively affected.
When Conservative Treatment Is Not Enough
Initial management of vertebral compression fractures typically includes rest, pain medication, and bracing. For many patients, this provides adequate relief as the fracture heals naturally. But for patients whose pain is severe and limiting despite weeks of conservative care — or whose fracture is not healing as expected — a procedural intervention may be warranted.
Kyphoplasty — The Standard Minimally Invasive Treatment
Kyphoplasty is the established minimally invasive procedure for painful vertebral compression fractures. At MinVasive Medical in Paramus, our interventional radiology team performs kyphoplasty through a small skin puncture under imaging guidance — no open spine surgery, no general anesthesia in most cases, and same-day discharge.
- A small balloon is inflated inside the vertebra to restore height before the fracture is stabilized
- Bone cement is injected to fill the cavity and harden the fractured bone
- Most patients report meaningful pain reduction within days of the procedure
- The treated vertebra remains stabilized permanently
Diagnosis and Imaging
MRI is the preferred imaging study to confirm a compression fracture and assess whether it is recent enough to benefit from kyphoplasty. Our team reviews your imaging at the consultation and gives you a clear answer about whether the procedure is appropriate and what outcomes are realistic in your case.
Serving NJ Patients from Paramus
MinVasive Medical's interventional radiology team sees patients from across New Jersey and Bergen County for compression fracture evaluation and treatment. If you have been diagnosed with a compression fracture or are experiencing significant spine pain after a fall or impact, contact our Paramus office to schedule a consultation.
