A compression fracture in the spine does not always need surgery, so doctors may choose some other form of treatment. Treatments that may be used include low-impact activities, so in certain cases, yes, you can walk with a broken vertebra! Here's how to do it correctly.
A vertebral fracture may be the result of a significant injury, or in other cases, if the bone density is poor because of osteoporosis, for example, a vertebra can fracture when making even a small gesture. The doctor will decide if conservative treatment measures are appropriate.
Should you walk with a fractured vertebra?
If the patient’s vertebral fracture is considered to be stable, the doctors may recommend a combination of low-impact exercises and some changes to daily activities that will allow the patient to stay active, while reducing the pain at the same time. Physical activity helps strengthen bones and maintain the stability of the spine.
There will be certain exercises and sports that you will not be able to perform, but if the specialist approves, yes, you can walk with a broken vertebra, because remaining entirely inactive until the fracture has healed can be counterproductive. Getting some activity is better than just staying in bed because it helps minimize the chances of developing blood clots or deep vein thrombosis in the legs.
Low-impact activities, such as walking at a gentle pace, or tai chi, are good for the heart. A healthy circulatory system can increase blood flow to the fracture and help that fractured bone heal more quickly. Many spinal compression fractures heal in two to three months.
When walking, keep in mind that doing it with correct posture is the way to be sure your weight is distributed correctly, and this is how you can prevent overloading certain areas of the spine:
- Contract your abdomen slightly to protect the lower back.
- Hold your shoulders back, so that your back is naturally straight.
- Walk for at least an hour.
- Walk at a steady pace.
- Wear comfortable, lightweight clothing.
Walking is the best remedy to prevent back pain
How should you sleep with a fractured vertebra?
If the fracture occurred due to a fall, the patient may suffer pain in either the upper or lower back, and be unable to carry out their normal daily activities. In addition, the patient may find it hard to sleep comfortably. So here is our advice on the ideal posture to use for sleeping without complications for patients suffering from a vertebral fracture.
In general, the best posture for the spine is to sleep on your back with a pillow under your knees, or on your side, with one or both knees bent and a pillow between them. No matter which of these two positions you choose, we recommend that you try to keep your spine and knees relaxed in those positions. Avoiding a curved position will help reduce tension in the spine.
Back pain while sleeping: causes and advice
How should you sit with a broken vertebra?
Most fractures of the spine occur in the thoracic spine (middle part of the back) and lumbar spine (lower back) or the point where they meet (thoracolumbar junction). In any case, it is important to use the right position when sitting:
- Make sure that the chair where you are going to sit is stable and does not move.
- When you sit, place your feet about 15 cm apart from each other.
- Make sure both soles of your feet are flat on the ground.
- Keep your back straight at a 90-degree angle.
- Avoid crossing your legs.
Contact our spine specialists for medical advice!
Categories: Spine treatments, Spine pathologies, Wellness