Vertebra fracture: How to treat it? (Healing time)

Share with your concerned loved ones
4.3
(45)

Article reviewed and approved by Dr. Ibtissama Boukas, physician specializing in family medicine 

In this article we are going to talk about the fracture of the vertebrate, its causes, its symptoms as well as solutions to cure it. We will also talk about healing time, and how to optimize it to get back to business as soon as possible.

Spine Definition and Anatomy

In humans, the spine is considered the axis of the body. It is a strong yet elastic system that serves to stabilize the internal organs and perform certain static functions and also allows movement. It consists of 24 vertebrae :

  • Sept vertebrae cervical,
  • Twelve thoracic vertebrae,
  • Five lumbar vertebrae,
  • Sacrum (fusion of 5 cruciform vertebrae),
  • Four to five coccygeal vertebrae.

Each vertebra is made up of a vertebral body inside which is the spinal cord allowing to distribute the nervous flow, and of a bony relief called spinous process. Between each vertebra, a intervertebral disc is present to facilitate sliding against each other.

What is a vertebral fracture?

La vertebra fracture is a fracture that occurs on one or more vertebrae regardless of its location: dorsal, lumbar or cervical. A fracture of the vertebra can affect the transverse process, the spinous process, body or the vertebral arch. It is usually the result of a shock or trauma that deforms the vertebra and reduces its height.

If it touches the first cervical vertebra (C1, or atlas), it is called Jefferson fracture. If it touches the odontoid prcoessus of the axis (second cervical vertebra or C2), we speak of odontoid fracture.

In general, we can distinguish two types of fractures of the vertebra depending on whether the spinal cord is affected or not:

  • Stable fracture: this type of fracture of the vertebra does not affect the spinal cord ;
  • Unstable fracture: in this case, each movement can cause a movement of bone debris that can damage the spinal cord. The risk of neurological damage such as paralysis is then higher.

Causes of vertebral fracture

The causes of a fracture of the vertebra are diverse. We can distinguish :

  • The trauma: traffic accident, fall or gunshot wound;
  • osteoporosis: it is a disease characterized by a decrease in the resistance of the bones thus favoring fractures. It is caused by deficiencies in certain minerals such as calcium and phosphorus. In this case, the vertebra is unable to withstand great pressure on the spine, which causes fractures. It is more common in elderly. This kind of pathological fracture usually occur spontaneously after even minimal effort. In this case, we are talking about vertebral compaction or compression fracture.
  • cancers: sarcomas or metastases full spine can weaken the vertebra and cause fractures. These types of cancer weaken the structure of the vertebra by attacking the vertebral body.

Symptoms of vertebra fracture

The fracture of the vertebra is manifested by various symptoms depending on its position and severity. As a rule, the main symptoms of vertebral fracture are:

  • Sharp pain and continues at the level of the back and in particular at the level of the damaged vertebra as well as at the level of the adjacent vertebrae. Depending on the severity of the fracture, it may prevent any movement of the back. The pain can be accentuated with the effort and minimized with rest.
  • Printing loss of stability;
  • Tingling and numbness which may radiate to the legs and arms;
  • If the spinal cord is affected, motor disorders may occur (going as far as paraplegia or tetraplegia);
  • Personalized digestive disorders may appear in the case of a recent fracture;
  • If the dorsal vertebrae are affected, respiratory disorders can occur,
  • Loss of sphincter control in the event that the spinal cord or the nerve endings of the caudal end are affected;
RECOMMENDED FOR YOU:  Vertebral subluxation: explanations (myth?)

Consolidation and healing time

The healing time for a vertebral fracture usually depends on the affected vertebra and its severity. For example, a stable fracture heals and consolidates faster than an unstable fracture.

Le consolidation time begins after 2 to 3 weeks and takes several months to fully consolidate. This varies according to several parameters such as age, state of health and the extent of the injury.

Favorable prognostic factors are generally the following:

  • absence of nerve damage
  • young patient
  • in good health, with fairly strong trunk musculature
  • absence of systemic disease
  • food and adequate hydration during the healing process
  • favorable psychological state
  • etc.

It is estimated that the healing time of an unstable fracture of the vertebra can take up to 6 months or even longer. Other unfavorable prognostic factors are:

Unfortunately, often, despite a good healing process, the pain and reduced mobility can persist in some cases. This is also the reason why it is essential to follow the recommendations from treating professionals in order to resume their daily activities in an optimal way.

Treatment and rehabilitation

The treatment of the vertebra fracture has a double objective: to treat the pain and to improve the quality of life but also to treat the cause, if this one is not traumatic. Some of the treatment options that exist to cure the fracture of the vertebra include:

  • Analgesic drugs: they aim to relieve pain;
  • Conservative treatment: rest is recommended (bed rest) at the beginning, as well as the wearing of a corset or lumbar belt.
  • Physiotherapy and rehabilitation: teaches the patient how to perform daily movements and strengthen the muscles, once the fracture has healed.
  • surgery: it is generally applied during unstable fractures of the vertebra and consists of the use of screws and rods at the level of the spine in order to stabilize and connect the vertebrae around the fractured one.

Other treatment solutions exist and are used depending on the severity of the fracture: vertebroplasty, kyphoplasty by balloons, etc.

Once the fracture has healed, some people still complain of persistent pain. These can be treated by a practitioner (such as a physiotherapist or osteopath) through manual therapy techniques.

In addition to these physical therapies, some people use anti-back pain products and accessories. Although they are not supported by solid scientific evidence, they offer temporary and effective relief in the majority of cases. Just remember to use them sparingly, and in addition to a proactive approach to physical activity.

Among the recommended products we offer:

  • acupressure mat (especially do not use if the fracture is not fully consolidated)
Acupressure Kit Acupressure Mat Cushion - Massage Ball + Pillow + Bag Relieve Back and Neck Pain Muscle Relaxation Acupuncture Post Sport Recovery Anti Stress
  • 【Multifunctional Physiotherapy】The acupressure kit set includes an acupressure mat and pillow, and 2 massage balls. You can use the acupressure set in different ways and on different parts of the body, such as lower back pain, insomnia, chronic stress, fatigue, tension, circulatory disorders, etc.
  • 【Safe and Premium Material】The acupressure mat massager, cushion cover and storage bag are made of 100% cotton, the inside is 21D high-density eco-friendly sponge. The massage nail is made of non-toxic ABS plastic. 100% natural without side effects, hypoallergenic.
  • 【Natural Ancient Indian Healing】 The acupressure mat has 230 massage nails, 6210 massage points, the pillow has 73 massage nails, 1971 massage points. Your weight is evenly distributed into thousands of small pieces to stimulate countless acupuncture points. Ideal for relaxation and promoting circulation. The size of the acupressure mat is 68*42cm, the size of the massage pillow is 37 x 15 x 10cm.

Last updated on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from the Amazon Partners API

Comfier Heated Lumbar Belt with Massage - Back Heating Pad, Vibration Heated Massager Belt with Auto Shut Off, Gift for Men/Women/Parents…
  • 🔥BODY WARMING – The heating pillow lumbar consists of a built-in heating pad that heats up quickly to provide warmth to treat symptoms, menstrual cramps and stomach ailments, arthritis, leg pain and more.
  • 🔥Vibration Massage - The back massager is integrated with 4 powerful massage motors to deliver a soothing vibrating massage. It helps reduce tension and strain in the neck and shoulders, lower back, lumbar region, thighs and legs.
  • 🔥Customizable massage - This back pain wrap has 3 massage modes, 2 adjustable vibration intensities and 2 heating levels. Allows you to customize a setting for yourself to achieve the ultimate comfort. The heating pad is equipped with overheat protection and automatic shut-off functions to ensure safe use.

Last updated on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from the Amazon Partners API

Anodyne® Posture Shirt – Women | Back & Shoulder Posture Corrector | Posture Corrector Tee Shirt | Reduces pain and tension | Medically Tested and Approved | Medium – White
  • POSTURE CORRECTION & MUSCLE ACTIVATION: Patented Neuroband technology activates back and shoulder muscles, reminding your body to align your back and shoulders while providing comfort and freedom of movement.
  • PAIN AND TENSION REDUCTION: Supports and stabilizes tight muscles in the neck, back and shoulders helping to relieve pain and tension without restricting the muscles.
  • INJURY PREVENTION: Helps prevent shoulder and back problems by providing support and preventing harmful movements. Recommended for everyday situations including sedentary or physical work, sports activities, housework, etc. The product promotes beneficial working positions by stabilizing weak muscles and aiding alignment, neutralizing the gap between joints.

Last updated on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from the Amazon Partners API

Everlasting Comfort Lumbar Support - Lumbar Pillow for Desk, Office Chair or Car Seat - Memory Foam Back Cushion - Black
  • Improve unsupportive chairs: The comfort cushion in memory foam material uses body heat to adapt to the curves of the back and provide the lumbar support that is sorely lacking in office chairs
  • Against back pain: Most chairs do not support the back, which causes tension. The ergonomic cushion supports the upper, middle and lower back, for complete comfort
  • Breathable Cover: The chair cushion features a breathable mesh cover that allows air to circulate, preventing heat build-up. Finally enjoy a perfectly fresh seat all day long

Last updated on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from the Amazon Partners API

  • massage gun (especially do not use if the fracture is not fully consolidated)
ALDOM Muscle Massage Gun Massage Device Deep Muscle Massager with 30 Adjustable Levels 6 Massage Heads and LCD Display Relieve Aches and Stiffness
  • 30 LEVELS Massage Gun:ALDOM massage gun Choose the speed and massage heads that best suit your needs can quickly eliminate lactic acid produced after exercise, and for everyday relieve muscle pain, back and neck aches and stiffness, greatly reducing the time muscle recovery.
  • Long Battery Life: Equipped with high quality battery, the muscle massager can keep working about 6-8 hours after charging, while the cooling system can effectively remove excess heat, if the battery is low, there will be a red prompt.
  • Less than 45 dB Ultra Low Noise: ALDOM muscle massager gun which features high performance and low noise. features advanced technology and high-torque non-brushed electric motor, Featuring the high-precision mold which tightly connects the machine head and the body, The high-torque motor rotates 1800-4800 times per minute and achieves your tissue to loosen the fascia (connective tissue)

Last updated on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from the Amazon Partners API

Core Balance Nipple Massage Roller for Deep Muscle Massage – Gridded Foam Massage Roller – Fitness Foam Roller Ideal for Trigger Point…
  • BACK MASSAGE ROLLER TO RELIEVE YOUR MUSCLE PAIN: relieve your muscle pain and tension with the Core Balance pimpled foam roller. Roll the muscle massage roller placed under your muscles to break up soft tissue adhesions and target painful trigger points (muscle knots).
  • DEEPER MYOFASCIAL RELEASE: Our back massage roller features a hollow plastic body with a nubbed foam exterior for deeper myofascial release. The nubs on this back roller act like the hands and fingers of a massager to target, relax and release tight muscle knots much more effectively.
  • IMPROVE YOUR PERFORMANCE: Rolling the back roller over your muscles releases toxins, and increases the flow of blood and oxygen to the target area. Massage your muscles with our fitness roller before or after a workout to boost your performance, speed up your recovery time and protect you from injury.

Last updated on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from the Amazon Partners API

RECOMMENDED FOR YOU:  Vertebral subluxation: explanations (myth?)

Seek professional advice before using the above accessories.

What about natural remedies?

Although they are not supported by solid scientific evidence, several natural products and home remedies are used to treat various body pains, especially for their anti-inflammatory power.

Here is a non-exhaustive list of plants and essential oils that are effective in controlling pain and inflammation:

  • Turmeric : Thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory powers very powerful, turmeric is one of the most used plants in a culinary and therapeutic context. The composition of turmeric is essentially made of essential oils, vitamins (B1, B2, B6, C, E, K) and trace elements. But it is to its composition rich in curcumin and curcuminoids that we owe them and calm skin of this spice.
Turmeric Capsules 25,000mg with 95% Curcumin Extract, Rich in Antioxidant -180 Vegan Capsules 6 Month Cure, With Black Pepper (600mg) and Ginger – High Absorption, Quality Germany
  • REASON TO CHOOSE OUR TURMERIC CAPSULES WITH GINGER AND BLACK PEPPER – Our complex turmeric…
  • POWERFUL TURMERIC CAPSULES - Turmeric is an excellent source of Vitamin C, antioxidants,…
  • IDEAL AND PRACTICAL FORMULA – The powders we use are delicately harvested,…

Last updated on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from the Amazon Partners API

  • Ginger : In addition to the special flavor it brings to the kitchen and its aphrodisiac properties, ginger is a root well known for its anti-inflammatory powers. THE gingerol gives it its anti-inflammatory action. It is an active component acting on the inflammatory pain related to chronic joint inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, rheumatic diseases, etc. It has been proven that this active element is also effective in acting on the inflammation linked to arthritis and sciatica. Ginger also has other benefits thanks to its high potassium content and its richness in trace elements (calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, sodium) and vitamins (provitamin and vitamin B9).
Ginger Foot Patches, Pack of 30 Ginger Detox Patches, Anti Swelling Ginger Detox Patch, Foot Detox Patch for Deep Cleansing, Improve Sleep
  • 【Natural Ginger Foot Patches】: Natural Foot Detox Patch with Ginger and…
  • 【Ginger Anti Swelling Detox Patch】: Ginger Detox Patches are natural,…
  • 【Removes Body Toxins】: Ginger Foot Patches helps reduce the buildup of…

Last updated on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from the Amazon Partners API

  • Omega-3s : Omega-3 are polyunsaturated fatty acids that play a very important role in the functioning of our body. They are provided by food in three natural forms: docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), alpha linolenic acid (ALA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Beyond their action on the brain and the cardiovascular system, omega-3s prove very effective against inflammation. Indeed, they have the ability to act on the inflammatory mechanisms in osteoarthritis by slowing down cartilage destruction, thus they reduce the intensity of osteoarthritis pain. Sciatica, being most often linked to an inflammation secondary to a herniated disc, it can also respond to omega-3 provided it is consumed regularly. 
RECOMMENDED FOR YOU:  Vertebral subluxation: explanations (myth?)

No product found.

  • Lemon eucalyptus: Eucalyptus is a plant most often used in the form of herbal tea or essential oil. She would have anti-inflammatory effects which give it the ability to act on the bone and joint pain in general and the pain of sciatica in particular.
Promo
Mystic Moments Lemon Eucalyptus Essential Oil – 100ml – 100% Pure
  • Eucalyptus Citriodora Essential Oil.
  • 100% pure.
  • Botanical name: eucalyptus citriodo.

Last updated on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from the Amazon Partners API

  • wintergreen : Wintergreen is a shrub from which a very interesting essential oil is extracted. It is one of the most used essential oils in aromatherapy. This oil extracted from the shrub bearing the same name, is used in massage to relieve sciatica and act like a analgesic. Indeed, it provides a heating effect thanks to its ability toactivate blood circulation locally.
Puressentiel – Wintergreen Essential Oil – Organic – 100% pure and natural – HEBBD – 30 ml
  • PROPERTIES ORGANIC WINTERGOOD ESSENTIAL OIL: Wintergreen essential oil is…
  • DIRECTIONS FOR USE: Refer to the instructions or ask your pharmacist for advice, This…
  • PURESSENTIEL DNA: A range of 55 essential oils essential for well-being in the…

Last updated on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from the Amazon Partners API

Return to sport

In the case of vertebral fracture, it is important not to resume sport once the fracture has healed and the muscles have been strengthened. Otherwise, the risk of new fractures is high. It is estimated that the consolidation time is 3 months, if the fracture is severe and unstable, it is estimated at 6 months. It is therefore advisable to resume sport, after a vertebral fracture, only once the green light from the surgeon has been acquired.

It is also important to gradually take the time to strengthen your muscle mass, especially in the lower limbs. All this must be under the control of a re-educator or a physiotherapist.

Work stopping

A vertebral fracture is a fracture that requires immobilization, the duration of which varies depending on its severity and extent. Thus, all sports and professional activities risk being stopped for a long period, the time of consolidation and healing.

Your doctor or attending professional will prescribe a work stoppage depending on your condition, and will decide on the terms of recovery based on your progress.

Good recovery !

Are you looking for solutions to relieve your pain?

Discover the opinion of our team of health professionals on various products available on the market (posture, sleep, physical pain), as well as our recommendations.

Was this article helpful to you?

Indicate your appreciation of the article

Readers rating 4.3 / 5. Number of votes 45

If you have benefited from this article

Please share it with your loved ones

thank you for your comeback

How can we improve the article?

Back to top