How A Kyphoplasty Helps With Compression Fractures Caused By Osteoporosis Compression fractures are a common problem associated with osteoporosis. When your bones get thin and weak, the stress placed on your spine when you bend, twist, or even just sneeze, can cause a tiny fracture. If you have a larger fracture, or several tiny ones in one vertebra, it can cause the vertebra to compress, or collapse. This can be very painful and the pain makes it difficult to continue with normal activities. One solution to this problem is to have a kyphoplasty procedure. Here 's how this medical treatment may be able to help you. Why A Kyphoplasty Is Helpful A kyphoplasty can be done on a single vertebra or several. It works by lifting the vertebrae back …show more content…
During a kyphoplasty, the doctor inserts a needle into your spine near the fractured area. There is no incision necessary since the doctor performs the procedure by watching it on an x-ray monitor. A balloon is passed through the needle once it is in the right spot. The balloon is then slowly inflated, and as it inflates, it moves the vertebra back into it 's normal position. Next, the doctor injects bone cement into the gap to hold the vertebra in place. What To Expect During Recovery Since there is no incision, recovery from this procedure is quick. If you have an outpatient procedure, you will be able to walk out the same day, although you won 't be allowed to drive yourself home. You should rest for the first day, and apply ice to the injection site if you have pain there. Your doctor will probably advise you to refrain from heavy lifting for a few weeks, but you 'll be able to resume most of your usual activities right away. You should notice immediate relief from your chronic back since your spine will be stabilized. Although you shouldn 't need physical therapy to help you recover from the procedure, your doctor may recommend it to help you manage your osteoporosis. A therapist can teach you bone-building exercises that will make your bones stronger and hopefully reduce or prevent further fractures in