Treatment of Lumbar and Thoracic Spine Fracture

Lumbar and thoracic spine fractures can be a severe and potentially life-changing injury, causing significant pain and limiting mobility. These fractures can lead to further complications, including nerve damage, spinal cord injury, and chronic pain if left untreated. Fortunately, with prompt medical attention and appropriate treatment, many individuals with spine fractures can fully recover and regain their quality of life. 

Some treatment plans include:

1. Immobilisation: One of the first steps in treating a spine fracture is immobilising the affected area to prevent further damage. This may involve wearing a brace or cast for several weeks or months to allow the bone to heal. The type of brace or cast used will depend on the location and severity of the fracture.
2. Pain Management: Spine fractures can be very painful, and pain management is essential to treatment. Over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, may be effective for mild to moderate pain. Sometimes, prescription pain medications may be necessary to manage severe pain.
3. Physical Therapy: Once the fracture has healed, your doctor may recommend physical therapy to help restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the affected area. A physical therapist can develop a customised exercise program that is tailored to your specific needs and goals.
4. Surgery: In severe cases of spine fractures, surgery may be necessary to stabilise the spine and prevent further damage. This may involve using screws, rods, or plates to hold the spine in place while the bone heals. In some cases, spinal fusion surgery may be necessary to fuse the affected vertebrae permanently.
5. Vertebroplasty or Kyphoplasty are minimally invasive procedures used to treat certain types of spine fractures, particularly those caused by osteoporosis. Vertebroplasty involves injecting a special cement-like material into the fractured vertebra to stabilise it. In contrast, Kyphoplasty inserts a balloon-like device into the vertebra to create space before filling it with cement-like material.
6. Electrical Stimulation: Electrical stimulation is a non-invasive treatment option that can help improve bone healing and reduce pain. This involves applying electrical currents to the affected area, stimulating bone growth and promoting healing.
7. Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT): ESWT is a non-invasive treatment that uses shock waves to stimulate bone healing and reduce pain. This treatment is often used for fractures that are slow to heal or have not responded to other treatments.
8. Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): RFA is a minimally invasive procedure that uses radio waves to generate heat and destroy damaged nerve tissue. This can be an effective treatment option for individuals with chronic pain related to a spine fracture.

It’s important to note that only some treatment options may suit some individuals with a spine fracture. Your orthopaedic specialist will work with you to determine the best course of treatment based on the location and severity of your fracture and your overall health and medical history.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of a lumbar or thoracic spine fracture, seeking prompt medical attention is vital to prevent further damage and ensure the best possible outcome. Contact Singapore Sports and Orthopaedic Clinic at 66532981 to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced orthopaedic specialists.