Spine Trauma and Fractures

At Orthopaedic Associates of Wisconsin, we provide prompt, expert care for patients suffering from spine trauma and fractures. Whether caused by a fall, car accident, sports injury, or osteoporosis, spinal injuries require immediate evaluation and coordinated treatment to prevent long-term complications. Our board-certified spine specialists are trained in surgical and non-surgical approaches, delivering advanced care focusing on stability, pain relief, and functional recovery.

Understanding Spine Trauma

Spine trauma refers to any injury that affects the bones, discs, ligaments, or spinal cord. These injuries can range from mild compression fractures to severe spinal instability or nerve damage.

Common Causes of Spine Trauma:

• Motor vehicle accidents

• Falls from height

• Sports injuries

• Acts of violence (e.g., gunshot or stabbing injuries)

• Bone weakening conditions like osteoporosis or metastatic cancer

Types of Spinal Fractures

Compression Fractures

Often seen in patients with osteoporosis, these occur when a vertebra collapses due to weakened bone.

Burst Fractures

Involves shattering of the vertebra, typically from high-energy trauma, and may affect the spinal cord.

Flexion-Distraction Fractures

Common in seatbelt injuries, these fractures involve sudden forward movement of the spine.

Fracture-Dislocations

A serious injury where vertebrae are both fractured and displaced, usually requiring surgical stabilization.

Signs and Symptoms of Spinal Fractures

• Sudden, sharp back or neck pain

• Pain that worsens with movement or standing

• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in arms or legs

• Loss of bladder or bowel control (in severe cases)

• Limited range of motion or visible spinal deformity

If you experience these symptoms after trauma, seek medical attention immediately.

Diagnosing Spine Trauma

Our team uses a combination of physical examination and advanced imaging to accurately assess the injury:

• X-rays to identify fractures or alignment issues

• CT scans for detailed bone visualization

• MRI to evaluate soft tissues, spinal discs, and the spinal cord

Treatment Options for Spinal Fractures

Non-Surgical Treatments

Many stable fractures can be treated without surgery using:

• Bracing or orthotic supports

• Pain management and anti-inflammatory medication

• Physical therapy to restore mobility and strength

Surgical Treatment

Unstable or severe fractures may require surgical intervention. Our spine surgeons specialize in:

• Spinal fusion

• Vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty for compression fractures

• Decompression procedures to relieve spinal cord pressure

• Realignment and fixation using rods, screws, or cages

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Healing from a spinal fracture depends on the severity of the injury and the treatment plan. Our team coordinates:

• Custom rehabilitation programs

• Ongoing pain management

• Imaging follow-ups to monitor healing

• Education on posture, lifting, and injury prevention

Most patients return to daily activities within weeks to months, with continued improvement under supervised care.