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Back Fracture
What is a Back Fracture?
A back fracture is a broad term used to describe a medical condition in which there is a break in the continuity of the thoracic and/or lumbar vertebrae. The thoracic portion of the back has 12 vertebrae and is between the cervical (neck) and the lumbar portions of the spine. The lumbar vertebrae are between the thoracic and sacral portions of the spine.
Causes of a Back Fracture
A back fracture can occur from a high force impact or collision. Motor vehicle accidents and contact sports are two examples that might result in a high impact collision. X-rays, MRIs, bone scans, or CT scans may be required to verify whether or not a patient has a fractured spine.
Back Fracture Symptoms
Of the Thoracic and Lumbar Spine
- Spine Tenderness
- Back Stiffness
- Deformed Spine
- Increased Pain with Movement
Back Fracture Consequences
Depending on the severity of the injury, a back fracture may affect daily life. In general, spinal injuries are somewhat debilitating due to pain. Any lifting, bending, and stooping will cause tremendous pain and is absolutely not recommended. At times, the patient will most likely need to miss work for an undisclosed period of time until the vertebrae start to heal.
Back Fracture Treatment
The RICE method is usually helpful in treating a fracture.
- R - Rest
- I - Ice
- C - Compression
- E - Elevation
For a patient that experiences a back fracture, a back brace or support may be used until the fracture has healed. Using a back brace or support helps prevent the injury from worsening. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin or acetaminophen, can also help with the pain and swelling. Once the pain starts to subside, the patient will work on strengthening back muscles and using range of motion exercises for the back. Surgery is usually not required in a large amount of thoracic and lumbar spine injuries. If a patient experiences severe pain, a stronger pain medication may be used.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one has suffered a back fracture, please contact our Back Injury Attorneys for a free, personal, and confidential consultation. You can contact the Law Offices of Michael Cordova at 602-265-6700.
Our attorneys not only work on back fracture cases but in other personal injury areas, as well as criminal defense and DUI, wrongful death, dog bites, motorcycle accidents, and product and premises liability, so please contact your local Phoenix attorneys for a free consultation.
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*Contingent fees are charged on total recovery. **No Fee Guarantee applies in the event there is no recovery.
