Conditions Treated
Conditions Treated
Trauma and Fractures
Trauma and Fractures
Trauma and Fractures
Spine Fractures
What is a Spine Fractures?
A spine fracture occurs when one or more of the bones in your spine (vertebrae) break or collapse. These injuries can range from mild compression fractures to severe, unstable fractures that require urgent medical attention. Spine fractures may result from high-energy trauma, such as a car accident, or from weakened bones due to conditions like osteoporosis.
Types of Spine Fracture
- Compression fracture – The vertebra collapses in height, often due to osteoporosis.
- Burst fracture – The vertebra is severely compressed and fragments can spread into surrounding tissues.
- Flexion-distraction fracture – Caused by the spine being pulled apart, often in car accidents with seatbelt injuries.
- Compression fracture – The vertebra collapses in height, often due to osteoporosis.
Common Causes & Risk Factors
- High-impact trauma – Motor vehicle collisions, falls from height, sports injuries.
- Osteoporosis – Weakening of the bones that makes them more likely to fracture.
- Cancer – Tumors can weaken the spinal bones.
- Direct blows – To the back or neck.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary based on the location and severity of the fracture:
- Sudden, severe back pain
- Pain that worsens with movement
- Decreased mobility
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in arms or legs (if nerves are affected)
- Loss of bladder or bowel control (in severe cases)
Diagnosis
A healthcare provider may use:
- Physical examination – Assessing tenderness, range of motion, and neurological function.
- X-rays – To detect fracture location and type.
- CT scan – To get detailed images of bone damage.
- MRI – To assess spinal cord or nerve involvement.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture:
- Conservative management – Rest, pain medications, bracing, and gradual rehabilitation for stable fractures.
- Minimally invasive procedures – Vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty for certain compression fractures.
- Surgery – Spinal fusion, decompression, or instrumentation for unstable fractures or those with nerve/spinal cord compression.
Rehabilitation – Physical therapy to restore mobility, strength, and posture.
Self-Care & Prevention
- Maintain strong bones with adequate calcium and vitamin D intake.
- Engage in weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises.
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol, which weaken bones.
- Take steps to prevent falls, especially if you have osteoporosis.
- Use seatbelts and protective gear during sports and activities.
- Maintain strong bones with adequate calcium and vitamin D intake.
When to See a Healthcare Professional
Seek immediate medical attention if:
- You have sudden back pain after a fall, accident, or impact.
- You experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in your limbs.
- You lose bladder or bowel control.
Spine fractures can be medical emergencies—early diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent long-term damage.
Trauma and Fractures
Spine Fractures
What is a Spine Fracture?
A spine fracture occurs when one or more of the bones in your spine (vertebrae) break or collapse. These injuries can range from mild compression fractures to severe, unstable fractures that require urgent medical attention. Spine fractures may result from high-energy trauma, such as a car accident, or from weakened bones due to conditions like osteoporosis.
Types of Spine Fractures
- Compression fracture – The vertebra collapses in height, often due to osteoporosis.
- Burst fracture – The vertebra is severely compressed and fragments can spread into surrounding tissues.
- Flexion-distraction fracture – Caused by the spine being pulled apart, often in car accidents with seatbelt injuries.
- Fracture-dislocation – The vertebra is both fractured and moved out of place, usually requiring surgery.
Common Causes & Risk Factors
- High-impact trauma – Motor vehicle collisions, falls from height, sports injuries.
- Osteoporosis – Weakening of the bones that makes them more likely to fracture.
- Cancer – Tumors can weaken the spinal bones.
- Direct blows – To the back or neck.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary based on the location and severity of the fracture:
- Sudden, severe back pain
- Pain that worsens with movement
- Decreased mobility
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in arms or legs (if nerves are affected)
- Loss of bladder or bowel control (in severe cases)
Diagnosis
A healthcare provider may use:
- Physical examination – Assessing tenderness, range of motion, and neurological function.
- X-rays – To detect fracture location and type.
- CT scan – To get detailed images of bone damage.
- MRI – To assess spinal cord or nerve involvement.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture:
- Conservative management – Rest, pain medications, bracing, and gradual rehabilitation for stable fractures.
- Minimally invasive procedures – Vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty for certain compression fractures.
- Surgery – Spinal fusion, decompression, or instrumentation for unstable fractures or those with nerve/spinal cord compression.
- Rehabilitation – Physical therapy to restore mobility, strength, and posture.
Self-Care & Prevention
- Maintain strong bones with adequate calcium and vitamin D intake.
- Engage in weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises.
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol, which weaken bones.
- Take steps to prevent falls, especially if you have osteoporosis.
- Use seatbelts and protective gear during sports and activities.
When to See a Healthcare Professional
Seek immediate medical attention if:
- You have sudden back pain after a fall, accident, or impact.
- You experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in your limbs.
- You lose bladder or bowel control.
Spine fractures can be medical emergencies—early diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent long-term damage.
What is a Soft Tissue Injury of the Spine?
A soft tissue injury of the spine involves damage to the muscles, ligaments, or tendons that support your neck and back. Unlike fractures or dislocations, these injuries do not affect the bones directly—but they can still cause significant pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. They often occur after sudden movements, repetitive strain, or direct trauma.
Types of Soft Tissue Injuries
- Muscle strain – Overstretching or tearing of muscle fibers.
- Ligament sprain – Stretching or tearing of ligaments that stabilize the spine.
- Tendon injury – Damage to the connective tissue that attaches muscle to bone.
Common Causes
- Sudden trauma – Falls, car accidents, or sports injuries.
- Whiplash – Rapid forward-and-backward movement of the neck, common in rear-end collisions.
- Overuse or repetitive strain – Lifting, twisting, or bending repeatedly.
- Poor posture – Prolonged slouching or awkward positions.
- Heavy lifting – Especially without proper technique.
Symptoms
Symptoms can vary depending on the severity and location of the injury:
- Localized pain in the neck or back
- Muscle spasms or tightness
- Swelling or tenderness in the affected area
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion
- Pain that worsens with certain movements or positions
Diagnosis
A healthcare provider may:
- Perform a physical examination – Checking muscle strength, flexibility, and tenderness.
Order imaging – X-rays to rule out fractures, or MRI to assess soft tissue damage.
Treatment Options
Most soft tissue spine injuries improve with conservative care:
- Rest and activity modification – Avoid activities that aggravate symptoms.
- Ice or heat therapy – Ice for the first 48 hours to reduce swelling; heat to relax muscles afterward.
- Medications – Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription anti-inflammatories.
- Physical therapy – Targeted exercises to restore strength and flexibility.
- Manual therapy – Gentle mobilization or massage by a trained provider.
- Gradual return to activity – To prevent re-injury.
Self-Care & Prevention
- Practice good posture when sitting, standing, and lifting.
- Strengthen your core and back muscles through regular exercise.
- Use proper lifting techniques: bend at the knees, not the waist.
- Avoid prolonged sitting without movement breaks.
When to See a Healthcare Professional
Seek immediate attention if you experience:
- Severe pain after trauma
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Pain that does not improve after several days of self-care
Trauma and Fractures
Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries
Trauma and Fractures
Coccydynia
What is Coccydynia?
Coccydynia is pain in the tailbone (coccyx), located at the very bottom of the spine. This pain often worsens when sitting, leaning back, or rising from a seated position. While usually not serious, coccydynia can be uncomfortable and sometimes long-lasting.
Common Causes
- Trauma or injury – A fall directly onto the tailbone or impact during sports.
- Prolonged sitting – Especially on hard surfaces or in poor posture.
- Childbirth – Pressure on the coccyx during delivery.
- Repetitive strain – From cycling, rowing, or similar activities.
- Joint degeneration – Wear and tear in the joints around the coccyx.
- Trauma or injury – A fall directly onto the tailbone or impact during sports.
Symptoms
Coccydynia symptoms may include:
- Localized pain at the base of the spine
- Pain that worsens when sitting or leaning back
- Discomfort when standing up from sitting
- Pain during bowel movements or sexual intercourse (in some cases)
- Tenderness when touching the tailbone area
Diagnosis
A provider may recommend:
- Physical examination – Checking tenderness and mobility of the coccyx.
- X-rays – To look for fractures or dislocations.
- MRI or CT scans – To assess soft tissue and rule out other causes of pain.
Treatment Options
Most cases improve with non-surgical care:
- Activity modification – Avoid prolonged sitting; use cushioned or cut-out pillows.
- Medications – Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories or prescription pain relief.
- Physical therapy – Stretching and strengthening exercises for the pelvic and lower back area.
- Manual manipulation – Gentle adjustment of the coccyx by a trained provider.
- Injections – Corticosteroid or anesthetic injections to reduce inflammation.
- Surgery (coccygectomy) – Rarely needed; considered only for severe, persistent cases.
Self-Care & Prevention
- Use a well-padded or U-shaped cushion when sitting.
- Maintain good posture to reduce pressure on the tailbone.
- Avoid prolonged sitting and take standing breaks.
- Strengthen core and pelvic muscles to support spinal alignment.
When to See a Healthcare Professional
You should see a healthcare provider if:
- Pain lasts more than a few weeks
- Pain is severe or getting worse
- You have unexplained weight loss, fever, or swelling near the coccyx
You experience numbness, weakness, or changes in bowel/bladder control
Trauma and Fractures
Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries
What is a Soft Tissue Injury of the Spine?
A soft tissue injury of the spine involves damage to the muscles, ligaments, or tendons that support your neck and back. Unlike fractures or dislocations, these injuries do not affect the bones directly—but they can still cause significant pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. They often occur after sudden movements, repetitive strain, or direct trauma.
Types of Soft Tissue Injuries
- Muscle strain – Overstretching or tearing of muscle fibers.
- Ligament sprain – Stretching or tearing of ligaments that stabilize the spine.
- Tendon injury – Damage to the connective tissue that attaches muscle to bone.
Common Causes
- Sudden trauma – Falls, car accidents, or sports injuries.
- Whiplash – Rapid forward-and-backward movement of the neck, common in rear-end collisions.
- Overuse or repetitive strain – Lifting, twisting, or bending repeatedly.
- Poor posture – Prolonged slouching or awkward positions.
- Heavy lifting – Especially without proper technique.
Symptoms
Symptoms can vary depending on the severity and location of the injury:
- Localized pain in the neck or back
- Muscle spasms or tightness
- Swelling or tenderness in the affected area
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion
- Pain that worsens with certain movements or positions
Diagnosis
A healthcare provider may:
- Perform a physical examination – Checking muscle strength, flexibility, and tenderness.
- Order imaging – X-rays to rule out fractures, or MRI to assess soft tissue damage.
Treatment Options
Most soft tissue spine injuries improve with conservative care:
- Rest and activity modification – Avoid activities that aggravate symptoms.
- Ice or heat therapy – Ice for the first 48 hours to reduce swelling; heat to relax muscles afterward.
- Medications – Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription anti-inflammatories.
- Physical therapy – Targeted exercises to restore strength and flexibility.
- Manual therapy – Gentle mobilization or massage by a trained provider.
- Gradual return to activity – To prevent re-injury.
Self-Care & Prevention
- Practice good posture when sitting, standing, and lifting.
- Strengthen your core and back muscles through regular exercise.
- Use proper lifting techniques: bend at the knees, not the waist.
- Avoid prolonged sitting without movement breaks.
When to See a Healthcare Professional
Seek immediate attention if you experience:
- Severe pain after trauma
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Pain that does not improve after several days of self-care
Trauma and Fractures
Coccydynia
What is Coccydynia?
Coccydynia is pain in the tailbone (coccyx), located at the very bottom of the spine. This pain often worsens when sitting, leaning back, or rising from a seated position. While usually not serious, coccydynia can be uncomfortable and sometimes long-lasting.
Common Causes
- Trauma or injury – A fall directly onto the tailbone or impact during sports.
- Prolonged sitting – Especially on hard surfaces or in poor posture.
- Childbirth – Pressure on the coccyx during delivery.
- Repetitive strain – From cycling, rowing, or similar activities.
- Joint degeneration – Wear and tear in the joints around the coccyx.
- Bone spurs or abnormal mobility – Unusual movement of the coccyx causing irritation.
Symptoms
Coccydynia symptoms may include:
- Localized pain at the base of the spine
- Pain that worsens when sitting or leaning back
- Discomfort when standing up from sitting
- Pain during bowel movements or sexual intercourse (in some cases)
- Tenderness when touching the tailbone area
Diagnosis
A provider may recommend:
- Physical examination – Checking tenderness and mobility of the coccyx.
- X-rays – To look for fractures or dislocations.
- MRI or CT scans – To assess soft tissue and rule out other causes of pain.
Treatment Options
Most cases improve with non-surgical care:
- Activity modification – Avoid prolonged sitting; use cushioned or cut-out pillows.
- Medications – Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories or prescription pain relief.
- Physical therapy – Stretching and strengthening exercises for the pelvic and lower back area.
- Manual manipulation – Gentle adjustment of the coccyx by a trained provider.
- Injections – Corticosteroid or anesthetic injections to reduce inflammation.
- Surgery (coccygectomy) – Rarely needed; considered only for severe, persistent cases.
Self-Care & Prevention
- Use a well-padded or U-shaped cushion when sitting.
- Maintain good posture to reduce pressure on the tailbone.
- Avoid prolonged sitting and take standing breaks.
- Strengthen core and pelvic muscles to support spinal alignment.
When to See a Healthcare Professional
You should see a healthcare provider if:
- Pain lasts more than a few weeks
- Pain is severe or getting worse
- You have unexplained weight loss, fever, or swelling near the coccyx
You experience numbness, weakness, or changes in bowel/bladder control