Any broken bone is a serious injury that needs medical attention. Many people assume that a broken back is a spinal cord injury that results in permanent damage and disability. Although spinal cord injuries do occur, a broken back isn't always life-altering. With the proper treatment, it's possible to heal and return to normal activities without any ongoing back pain. If you've been diagnosed with a broken bone in your back, here's what you should know.

What Is a Broken Back?

The term "broken back" is used to describe any type of fractured vertebrae. The spine is made up of 33 vertebrae, divided into the cervical spine that runs from your neck to your shoulders, the thoracic spine (mid-back), and the lumbar spine (lower back). 

Fractures are most common in the mid to lower back and are usually the result of a fall or traumatic accident. In some cases, osteoporosis or illness can weaken the bones of the spine and contribute to fractures. 

Doctors categorize spinal fractures by three types: flexion, extension, and rotation. A flexion fracture might be a compression fracture, where only the front of the vertebrae breaks, or an axial burst fracture, when both the front and back of the vertebrae break. 

Extension fractures occur when there's abnormal pulling on the bones, causing them to pull apart. These fractures can lead to other internal injuries and damage to the ligaments in the back. 

Rotation fractures are the most common and usually the least serious. A transverse fracture means that one or both of the bony extensions on each side of the vertebrae have fractured. Sometimes, these fractures occur with dislocation, which can cause nerve damage and impact spinal stability. 

Symptoms vary depending on the type of injury. All breaks cause back pain, which worsens with activity. 

Serious injuries can cause tingling, numbness, and weakness in the limbs. Sometimes, nerve damage can cause bladder and bowel dysfunction.

How Are Broken Backs Treated?

Treating a broken back depends on the location and severity of the injury, and full healing can take up to a year or longer. Serious injuries may require surgery to remove bone fragments, restore the bone to its original size, or fuse vertebrae together to strengthen them. In the case of a burst fracture, the entire vertebrae may need to be replaced with plates and screws. 

Treating a broken back also requires immobilizing it with a brace, even if surgery isn't necessary. Rest, back pain management, and limited activity will allow the back to heal. Physical therapy is also necessary to regain strength and mobility. 

If you have back pain, turn to Dr. Elizabeth Koch and the caring team at Mountain Spring Chiropractic in Fishersville, VA, to determine the cause and begin a treatment plan. These experts offer comprehensive chiropractic care and can help with neck pain, headaches, sciatica, and stress relief. Visit them online for more information on their services, or call (540) 943-0022 to schedule an appointment.