What are spinal fractures?
Spinal fractures are injuries to the vertebrae caused by trauma, osteoporosis, or tumors. They can range from stable fractures, which do not affect the spinal cord, to more serious fractures that compromise the nerves and require urgent intervention.
Symptoms
Symptoms depend on the severity of the fracture and include severe back pain, loss of mobility, muscle weakness, or, in severe cases, loss of sensation or paralysis.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is made through imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to determine the location and type of fracture, as well as its impact on the nerves and spinal cord.
Treatment
Treatment can be conservative, using bracing or physical therapy, or surgical if the fracture is unstable or involves the spinal cord. Spinal stabilization helps restore the spinal structure and protect the nerves.
Frequently asked questions about spinal fractures
No. Treatment depends on the type of fracture, its stability, the presence of neurological damage, and the patient's overall health. Some fractures can be treated with rest, a brace, and medical monitoring, while others require surgery to stabilize the spine and protect the spinal cord or nerve roots.
Following an injury, symptoms such as severe back pain, difficulty moving, weakness, tingling, or altered sensation may indicate a possible vertebral fracture. If these signs appear, it is crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible to undergo the necessary imaging tests and confirm the diagnosis.
Vertebral fractures that affect spinal stability or may compromise the nervous system should be evaluated by a neurosurgeon experienced in spinal surgery. Dr. Tomasz Gliniewicz, a neurosurgeon in Málaga, performs an individualized assessment to determine the most appropriate treatment based on the type of fracture and each patient's needs.
Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the fracture, the treatment received, the patient's age, and their overall health. While some fractures heal well in a few weeks, others may require several months of recovery and rehabilitation to regain mobility and function.
In many cases, yes. Rehabilitation allows you to regain muscle strength, improve mobility, correct posture, and reduce the risk of further injury. The recovery program will be personalized and will begin when the specialist determines that the fracture has healed adequately.
Prevention depends on the cause of the fracture. Maintaining good bone health, treating osteoporosis when present, performing appropriate exercise, strengthening back muscles, and avoiding risky situations that increase the likelihood of falls are some of the measures that help reduce the probability of suffering new vertebral fractures.
Your path to an accurate diagnosis in Malaga
Each patient is unique. neurosurgeon in MalagaThe first step is to listen to you and assess your case individually.
