Symptoms

Osteoporotic vertebral compressions usually cause gradual worsening of symptoms rather than occuring suddenly. Whether gradual or accute in onset, some patients report an intense intractable back pain, sometimes after a relatively simple activity such as a sneeze or a cough. The pain tends to be debilitating - it is difficult to find a comfortable position. Many patients must sleep in a seated or semi-reclining position. Some people report also having hip, abdominal, or thigh pain.

Other complications of vertebral compression fractures include the following:

• Deep venous thrombosis
• Acceleration of osteoporosis
• Loss of height or deformity (e.g. humpback)
• Immobility
• Respiratory or gastrointestinal disturbances
• Emotional and social problems secondary to unremitting pain and loss of independence.
• Recent studies indicate that vertebral fractures may adversely affect survival rates in the elderly.

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