Vertebrae Conditions & Treatments

CHRISTUS Health

Get Help for Vertebral Conditions at CHRISTUS Health

The vertebrae are the bones that make up your spine, providing structure, stability, and protection to the spinal cord.

There are 33 vertebrae in total, categorized into the cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral, and coccygeal regions.

The spine’s unique design allows for flexibility and movement while supporting the body's weight.

Vertebral Compression fractures
Spondylolysis
Spondylolisthesis

Are You at Risk?

Spine Aware

Vertebral Compression Fractures

What is a Vertebral Compression Fracture?

A vertebral compression fracture (VCF) occurs when one or more of the vertebrae collapse or become compressed.

This condition is common in older adults, especially those with osteoporosis, a condition that weakens the bones, making them more susceptible to fractures.

VCFs may also occur as a result of trauma or from cancer that has metastasized to the spine.

Causes of Vertebral Compression Fractures:

Osteoporosis: The most common cause, where bones lose density and strength.
Trauma: High-impact events, such as car accidents or falls, can cause fractures.
Cancer: Tumors that spread to the bones can weaken the vertebrae, leading to fractures.

Symptoms of Vertebral Compression Fractures:

Sudden, severe back pain, particularly in the middle or lower spine
Limited spinal mobility
Height loss over time
A hunched-forward posture (kyphosis)
Numbness, tingling, or weakness if nerves are compressed

Treatments for Vertebral Compression Fractures:

Non-Surgical Options: Pain management with medications, rest, and bracing to support the spine while it heals. Physical therapy helps improve mobility and strength.
Surgical Options: In severe cases, procedures like vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty may be performed, where bone cement is injected into the fractured vertebra to stabilize and restore height.

Spondylolysis

What is Spondylolysis?

Spondylolysis is a stress fracture or crack in the pars interarticularis, a small segment of bone connecting the vertebrae.

This condition is most common in the lower spine (lumbar region) and is often seen in adolescents and athletes who engage in repetitive stress activities like gymnastics, football, or weightlifting.

Causes of Spondylolysis:

Repetitive hyperextension of the spine (arching of the back)
Genetic predisposition to weaker vertebrae
Trauma or injury from sports or physical activities

Symptoms of Spondylolysis:

Lower back pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest
Stiffness or tenderness in the affected area
Muscle spasms
Pain radiating to the legs (if nerve compression occurs)

Treatments for Spondylolysis:

Rest and Activity Modification: Avoid activities that stress the lower back until healing occurs.
Physical Therapy: Strengthening exercises for the core and back muscles, along with flexibility training.
Bracing: Wearing a brace may help stabilize the spine during healing.
Surgical Intervention: In rare cases, surgery may be needed to repair the fracture if non-surgical treatments fail.

Spondylolisthesis?

What is Spondylolisthesis?

Spondylolisthesis occurs when one vertebra slips forward over the vertebra below it.

This condition can range from mild to severe, depending on how far the vertebra slips, and is often associated with spondylolysis.

Spondylolisthesis may affect the alignment of the spine and cause significant pain if nerves are compressed.

Causes of Spondylolisthesis:

Spondylolysis: When the pars interarticularis fracture is present, it can lead to vertebral slippage.
Degenerative Changes: Age-related wear and tear can weaken the spine's joints and discs, causing slippage.
Trauma: Injuries from accidents or falls can lead to spondylolisthesis.
Congenital Defects: Some people are born with vertebral defects that predispose them to this condition.

Symptoms of Spondylolisthesis:

Persistent lower back pain
Pain that radiates to the buttocks or legs
Muscle tightness or stiffness
Weakness or numbness in the legs, particularly with walking or standing
Difficulty with movement or bending

Treatments for Spondylolisthesis:

Conservative Treatments: These include physical therapy to strengthen supporting muscles, rest, activity modification, and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and inflammation.
Bracing: A brace may be recommended to limit movement and support the spine while healing.
Surgical Options: For severe cases where the slippage affects nerve function or causes chronic pain, spinal fusion surgery may be performed to stabilize the vertebrae and prevent further slippage.

Your Health

Care Access

CONDITIONS & TREATMENTS