Compression Fracture: Definition

compression fracture

Compression fractures occur when a vertebral body of the spine collapses down. They are often seen in people with bone loss (osteoporosis), and can occur even without any significant trauma.

Also known as: vertebral body height loss, burst fracture

Compression fracture

Compression Fracture Incidence

Approximately 25% of all postmenopausal women in the US get a compression fracture during their lifetime. The prevalence of this condition increases with age, reaching 40% by age 80. Population studies have shown that the annual incidence of VCFs is 10.7 per 1000 women and 5.7 per 1000 men. Men older than age 65 years are also at increased risk of compression fractures. However, their risk is markedly less than that of women of the same age

Source: Alexandru D, So W. Evaluation and management of vertebral compression fractures. Perm J. 2012;16(4):46-51. doi:10.7812/tpp/12-037