~Common spine fractures in the elderly and their causes, treatment, and prevention.
My back hurts when I lift something heavy," or "My back aches even though there is no trauma that I can think of."
If you have these symptoms, you may have a compression fracture (opacification).
Compression fractures, especiallyFractures of the spine, which are more common in the elderly and those with osteoporosisIt is. Early detection and treatment can reduce pain and prevent bone deformities and bedridden patients.
In this issue, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, testing, and treatment of compression fractures and their relationship to osteoporosis.
What is a compression fracture?
Compression fractures are,Fractures that deform the vertebrae of the spine (vertebrae) so that they are crushedIt is.
The most common causes areosteoporosisIn,Even a minor fall or lifting a heavy object can cause fractures.There are times when
In Japan,Estimated about 1 million compression fractures occur annuallyand for those over 80 years of age, theApproximately 431 TP3T experienced compression fracturesIt is said to be doing so.
In some cases, bone metastasis of cancer may also be the cause, and caution is required.
[Main symptoms
- Severe pain in the back or hips
- Exacerbation of pain during movement or standing up
- Unable to get up or walk due to pain
- Numbness or weakness in the legs due to spinal cord or nerve compression (rare)
- Many fractures are unnoticed, and the back bends and stature shrinks without notice.
When hunchback (circular back) progresses,Risk of shallow breathing, reflux esophagitis and anemia due to pressure on the stomachTherefore, it is important to evaluate and respond as early as possible.
[Inspection
The following tests are performed at our clinic to evaluate for compression fractures
X-ray examination
- Check for crushing of the spine (wedge-shaped deformity of the vertebrae)
- However,Fractures are often not clearly visible on x-ray immediately after injury (initial detection rate of about 10%)If symptoms are typical, treatment may be initiated on the assumption of a fracture
CT scan/MRI scan (refer to other hospitals if necessary)
- CT: more detailed bone geometry confirmation
- MRI: to determine if the fracture is new or old, and to check for nerve compression.
Treatment
The treatment of compression fractures isConservative therapy (non-surgical treatment) is basicIt is.
Conservative therapy
- Internal and external use of analgesicsControlling pain with
- Corset CreationStabilizes the spine and aids in bone fusion with
- Rest is maintained during the acute phase (several days to several weeks), and the patient gradually returns to daily activities.
- Normal,Natural bone fusion is achieved in 3-6 months
However, in the following casesSurgery will be considered.：
- Painful and not improving for a long period of time
- Obvious neurological symptoms (numbness, weakness, paralysis of the legs, etc.)
- When you lose control of your urine and stools
[Osteoporosis management is important.
Background of compression fractures,Osteoporosis is almost always present.。
Osteoporosis is a disease that causes brittle bones and bone fractures.Approximately 13 million peopleIt is said.
Treatment of Osteoporosis
- medical diet: Eating a calcium-, vitamin D-, and vitamin K-conscious diet.
→ e.g., milk, fish, mushrooms, natto, green and yellow vegetables, etc. - therapeutic exercise: moderate stimulation of the bones with walking and light muscle training.
- pharmacotherapy：
→ If bone loss is evident or if there is already a fracture,Improve bone density with oral and injectable medicationsI'm going to do it.
At our clinicBone metabolism is also evaluated through bone density measurement (DEXA method) and blood testsWe will then propose the most appropriate treatment plan.
*For more information on osteoporosisthis way (direction close to the speaker or towards the speaker)
[Don't forget to prevent falls.
Most compression fractures areTriggered by a fallIt is. In addition to maintaining bone density,Creating a living environment that prevents falls is part of the treatment.It is.
Key Points for Fall Prevention
- Walks and exercises.Maintain muscle strength and balance in the lower limbs
- Indoor.Keep objects off the floor, avoid slippers, and keep lighting bright.
- Ophthalmology visit recommended if cataracts or other vision loss is present
- If you feel dizzy or lightheaded,Consult with your family physician to evaluate and treat the cause
Examinations and treatments available at Ikejiri-Ohashi Sera Clinic
The clinic offers the following services
Inspection
- Evaluation of the presence or absence of vertebral compression by x-ray examination
- as necessaryExamination for osteoporosis (DEXA method and blood test)
Treatment
- Prescribing painkillers and making corsets
- Evaluation and treatment of osteoporosis (including oral and injectable medications)
- as necessaryReferral to a hospital with surgical capabilities
- Advice on fall prevention, lifestyle guidance, and exercise therapy
Tailored to each patient's individual conditionIndividualized treatment plans and careful follow-upThe company is conducting the following activities.
Summary
Compression fractures, if left untreated, can causeDiseases that lead to chronic pain, deformity of the spine, and loss of life functionIt is.
However,If detected early and treated appropriately, recovery and prevention of recurrence are well within the realm of possibility.
If you are concerned about back or hip pain, height loss, or hunchback,Once you have been evaluated for compression fractures and osteoporosis.
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