How long does it take to recover from a broken back?
Healing can take 6–12 weeks. Usually, the person will also need to follow an individualized exercise program designed to help them build up their activity and motion slowly. The person may need surgery if the break is severe or if it has damaged the nerves.
Can a broken back heal on its own?
As with any type of injury, a spinal fracture’s treatment depends on its severity and location. A minor fracture may heal on its own, without surgery. You may need to wear an external back brace to help stabilize the spine if the injury is in the upper (thoracic) or lower (lumbar) regions of the back.
How serious is a back fracture?
Spinal fractures or a dislocation of one or more vertebrae in a spine caused by trauma is considered a serious orthopedic injury. The majority of these fractures occur as a result from a high velocity accident and can occur in the neck (cervical spine), mid back (thoracic spine) or low back (lumbar spine).
Can you walk with a spinal compression fracture?
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.
How do you sleep with a broken back?
Invest in a specialized pillow, like a body pillow, for elevation—keeping the broken bone above your heart prevents blood from pooling and causing swelling. Try sleeping on your back first while propped up on a few pillows. If that doesn’t work, slowly adjust yourself to a side position if possible.
Can a broken back cause paralysis?
A broken back involving the spinal cord can paralyze you for life, cutting off communication between the brain and the body below the level of injury. This can limit or stop the body’s ability to transmit sensory information and motor function information from the brain past the point of the injury.
How should you sleep with a fractured spine?
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 happens if a back fracture is left untreated?
If left untreated, spinal fractures can lead to permanent spinal cord injury, nerve damage and paralysis.
Is bed rest good for compression fracture?
Bed rest may help with acute pain, but it can also lead to further bone loss and worsening osteoporosis, which raises your risk for future compression fractures. Doctors may recommend a short period of bed rest for no more than a few days. However, prolonged inactivity should be avoided.
Can you lay on your side with a broken back?
What helps broken bones heal faster?
In particular, calcium, vitamin D and protein will be important during the bone healing process, so be sure you’re focusing on food sources rich in these nutrients, including dark, leafy greens, broccoli, fish, meat, yogurt, nuts and seeds.
What is the best treatment for a broken bone?
The second viable option is to have surgery, whereby titanium rods are inserted around the broken bone to stabilise and strengthen the area. The rods are strong enough to support physical movement and the broken bone can mend without affecting your mobility.
How is a broken back treated on the NHS?
Broken back NHS treatment for a minor fracture usually consists of rest and self-care, whereas a serious broken back injury may require multiple operations to heal. In extreme cases, the patient may never make a full recovery from their injury.
What are the treatment options for a spinal fracture?
As with any type of injury, a spinal fracture’s treatment depends on its severity and location. A minor fracture may heal on its own, without surgery. You may need to wear an external back brace to help stabilize the spine if the injury is in the upper (thoracic) or lower (lumbar) regions of the back.
How long does it take for a fractured back to heal?
Surgery aims to put the bones back into their original position and relieve pressure on the nerves or spinal cord. A surgeon will use metal screws, rods, or cages to stabilize the spine. Spinal fractures that do not require surgery can take 6–12 weeks to heal. Recovery after back surgery can take longer.
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