How long does a compression fracture in the spine take to heal?

Most compression fractures due to injury heal in 8 to 10 weeks with rest, wearing of a brace, and pain medicines. However, recovery can take much longer if surgery was done.

Is walking good for a fractured vertebrae?

Low impact activities, such as walking or tai chi, are good for your heart, and a healthy circulatory system can increase blood flow to the fracture and help your bones heal faster. It’s also essential to avoid bed rest to minimize your chances of developing blood clots or deep vein thrombosis in your legs.

What is the best painkiller for fractured vertebrae?

Medication

• Over the counter medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and NSAIDS (anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen) can help to relieve your pain.
• If the majority of your pain occurs when you move, a back brace can help.
• Bed rest is often prescribed for the first few days following a vertebral fracture.

Can a compression fracture get worse?

The main symptom you’ll notice with a spinal compression fracture is back pain. It may start gradually and get worse over time or come on suddenly and sharply.

How do you sleep with a compression fracture?

Sleep on your back with a pillow under your knees. This will decrease pressure on your back. You may also sleep on your side with 1 or both of your knees bent and a pillow between them. It may also be helpful to sleep on your stomach with a pillow under you at waist level.

What is the best pain relief for a fractured vertebrae?

What aggravates a compression fracture?

When bones are brittle, your vertebrae aren’t strong enough to support your spine in everyday activities. When you bend to lift an object, miss a step, or slip on a carpet, you can put your spinal bones at risk of fracture. Even coughing or sneezing can cause compression fractures if you have severe osteoporosis.

Is heat good for a compression fracture?

Heat and ice: Ice helps prevent tissue damage and decreases swelling and pain. Apply heat on your back for 20 to 30 minutes every 2 hours for as many days as directed. Heat helps decrease pain and muscle spasms.

Will my compression fracture heal on its own?

Most people can get by without it. Compression fractures usually heal on their own in about 3 months. While that happens, your doctor may suggest you try some things at home that can make you feel better, such as pain medicines, rest, physical therapy, or a back brace.

Can a fractured vertebrae heal on its own?

For some, a spinal fracture is not necessarily as serious as it sounds — it’s just painful. A compression fracture only leads to back pain and needs to be stabilized so that it can heal on its own. Only in the event of serious trauma and debilitating symptoms is spine surgery a recommended treatment.

How to treat spinal compression fractures without surgery?

Healing Spinal Fractures Without Surgery. A good physical therapy program started six to eight weeks after the fracture is often enough to treat the injury and prevent further problems. Therapies such as ice, electrical stimulation, rest or gentle stretching can relieve pain and inflammation.