Spinal Fractures: Common Signs to Take Seriously

When you think of a fracture, a broken wrist, arm, or leg might come to mind. And while these injuries are serious, there's another type of fracture that can be far more insidious: a spinal fracture.

Spinal fractures affect your vertebrae — and unlike a broken limb, they can often go unnoticed and undiagnosed until it's too late. David A. Wiles, MD, specializes in diagnosing and treating spinal fractures, and it’s important to recognize the common signs so you can get the treatment you need.

Here’s what you should know about the common symptoms of spinal fractures and why it's crucial to recognize them.

Understanding spinal fractures

Your spine has 33 vertebrae extending from your neck to your tailbone, and any one of them can sustain a fracture. Spinal fractures can result from a traumatic injury, but they can also develop over time with degenerative conditions like osteoporosis.

Spinal fractures range in severity from minor cracks to full-blown breaks. One of the most challenging aspects of diagnosing spinal fractures is that they are not always immediately apparent.

Unlike a broken limb, where pain and deformity are often readily noticeable, spinal fractures can start with only subtle symptoms easily mistaken for other issues. Unfortunately, an undiagnosed spinal fracture can have some serious consequences.

An untreated spinal fracture can worsen over time, leading to chronic back pain, spinal instability, or even deformity. Sometimes, the spinal fracture can damage your spinal cord and cause neurological complications like tingling, numbness, or paralysis. The longer you delay treatment, the higher the risk of these life-altering consequences.

Recognizing the common signs of spinal fractures

Spinal fractures aren’t always obvious. That’s why it’s important to recognize the signs and take them seriously. Make an appointment with Dr. Wiles if you experience symptoms like:

Persistent back pain

Pain is never normal. And while it’s true that back pain can have many causes, persistent pain in your back — especially after a fall or injury — should be taken seriously. If your pain is caused by a spinal fracture, it may worsen with movement, sneezing, or coughing.

Limited range of motion

If you find it increasingly difficult to twist, bend, or turn your torso, it could be a sign of a spinal fracture. When you’re injured, your body often attempts to protect the damaged area with inflammation and restricted mobility.

Numbness or tingling

A spinal fracture that affects your spinal cord can cause nerve symptoms like numbness, tingling, or weakness in your limbs. Nerve damage can also cause painful muscle spasms and in severe cases, loss of bowel or urinary control. 

Loss of height

Over time, untreated spinal fractures can reduce your height. Fractured vertebra can get compressed, contributing to a shorter, stooped posture. If you notice a decrease in your height or a change in your body's alignment, it's essential to investigate the cause, especially if you have a chronic condition like osteoporosis.

Spinal fractures are not to be taken lightly. They can be sneaky and wreak havoc on your health and quality of life if left untreated. Fortunately, recognizing the common signs can help you get the necessary care.

Dr. Wiles and our team can help if you think you might have a spinal fracture. We see patients from Chattanooga, Bristol, Kingsport, and Johnson City, Tennessee, and our prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment can make all the difference.

To get started, request an appointment online or call our office at 423-459-9800 today.