Motionis

Compression Fracture Treatment in Brooklyn, NY

A compression fracture occurs when a vertebral body in the spine collapses or loses height, often leading to back pain, reduced mobility, and postural changes. Because symptoms can vary depending on the location and severity of the fracture, accurate diagnosis is essential before selecting treatment. At Motionis Medicine, compression fractures are evaluated through a physician-led, diagnosis-first approach focused on identifying pain sources and guiding appropriate non-surgical care.

Care is led by Dr. Tanuj Palvia, MD, a board-certified interventional pain medicine physician with over 15 years of experience in spine and musculoskeletal pain care.

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What Is a Compression Fracture?

A spinal compression fracture occurs when a vertebra weakens and collapses, typically affecting the thoracic or lumbar spine. These fractures can range from mild height loss to more significant structural collapse.

Compression fractures are commonly associated with:

Osteoporosis

reduced bone density

Trauma

falls or direct injury

Steroid Use

long-term corticosteroid therapy

Metabolic

certain metabolic or bone conditions

Not all compression fractures cause immediate symptoms, which is why clinical evaluation is important.

Common Compression Fracture Symptoms

Symptoms may vary depending on fracture severity and may include:

Neurological symptoms are uncommon unless the fracture affects nearby nerves.

Sudden or gradual onset of back pain

Pain worsened by standing, walking, or movement

Tenderness over the affected spinal area

Reduced spinal mobility

Height loss or postural changes over time

Pain that improves with rest

Common Causes of Compression Fractures We Evaluate

Compression fractures can develop due to weakened bone or acute injury. Common causes include:

Osteoporosis or age-related bone loss

Minor trauma or falls, especially in weakened bone

High-impact injury or accident

Long-term use of corticosteroid medications

Certain metabolic or systemic conditions affecting bone strength

Identifying the underlying cause is important for both treatment and prevention planning.

How Compression Fractures Are Evaluated

Evaluation focuses on confirming the fracture, assessing stability, and determining whether it is responsible for symptoms. A physician-led assessment may include:

Detailed medical history and physical examination

Review of imaging such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans

Assessment of fracture age and spinal alignment

Evaluation for contributing factors such as bone density loss

This structured approach helps guide safe and appropriate treatment decisions.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Compression Fractures

Treatment recommendations depend on fracture stability, pain severity, and overall health. Non-surgical options may include:

Image-guided pain management injections, when appropriate

Medications to manage pain and inflammation

Activity modification and bracing when indicated

Targeted rehabilitation and recovery planning

Management of underlying bone health issues

Regenerative and non-surgical orthopedic options, when appropriate

Care is individualised, with a focus on pain control, functional recovery, and preventing future fractures.

When a Specialist Evaluation May Help

You may benefit from a specialist evaluation if:

Back pain develops after a fall or minor injury

Pain persists or worsens over time

Imaging confirms a compression fracture

Daily activities are limited due to pain

There is concern for osteoporosis or recurrent fractures

A comprehensive evaluation can help determine appropriate next steps and long-term management.

Schedule a Compression Fracture Evaluation

If a compression fracture is affecting your comfort, posture, or mobility, a comprehensive evaluation can help clarify your options and guide appropriate non-surgical care.