Traditionally, people with severe pain from VCFs have been treated with reduction in activities other than those which involve caring for yourself, medications, bracing or invasive spinal surgery, often with limited effectiveness. However, the pain usually decreases significantly in a matter of days or weeks. VCF-related pain that is allowed to heal naturally can last as long as three months. Pain secondary to acute vertebral fracture appears to be caused in part by vertebral instability (nonunion or slow-forming union) at the fracture site. A scan of the spine, hip or the entire body requires less than four minutes. A DEXA scan can detect small changes in bone mass and is also more flexible since it can be used to examine both the spine and the extremities. The scanner painlessly and rapidly directs x-ray energy from two different sources towards the bone being examined in an alternating fashion at a set frequency. Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA or DEXA) or bone densitometry: This test is the established standard for measuring bone mineral density and can determine if osteoporosis exists.MRI: A diagnostic test that produces 3-D images of body structures using powerful magnets and computer technology can show the spinal cord, nerve roots and surrounding areas, as well as enlargement, degeneration and tumors.This diagnostic study is ideal for showing bone detail including narrowing. A myelogram involves a spinal tap where dye is administered near the spinal cord. This test may be performed in conjunction with a myelogram of the spine to provide additional information. CT or CAT scan: A diagnostic image created after a computer reads x-rays can show the shape and size of the spinal canal, its contents and the structures around it.It will also show bone alignment, disc degeneration and bony spurs which may irritate nerve roots. X-ray: An x-ray produces a picture of a part of the body and can show the structure of the vertebrae and the outline of the joints.While a diagnosis can usually be made through history and a physical examination, plain x-rays, computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can help in confirming diagnosis, predicting prognosis and determining the best treatment option for the patient. The cancer may cause destruction of part of the vertebra, weakening the bone until it collapses. The bones of the spine are a common place for many types of cancers to spread. Metastatic tumors should be considered as the cause in patients younger than 55 with no history of trauma or only minimal trauma. People with healthy spines most commonly suffer a VCF through severe trauma, such as a car accident, sports injury or a hard fall. Occasionally, a VCF can be present with either minor symptoms or no symptoms, but the risk still exists for additional VCFs to occur. People who have had one osteoporotic VCF are at five times the risk of sustaining a second VCF. Although far more common in women, VCFs are also a major health concern for older men. The occurrence of this condition steadily increases as people age, with an estimated 40% of women age 80 and older affected. VCFs affect an estimated 25% of all postmenopausal women in the U.S. VCFs are the most common fracture in patients with osteoporosis, affecting about 750,000 people annually. In people with moderate osteoporosis, it usually takes increased force or trauma, such as falling down or attempting to lift a heavy object to cause a VCF. In people with severe osteoporosis (weak, brittle bones), a VCF may be caused by simple daily activities, such as stepping out of the shower, sneezing forcefully or lifting a light object.
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