ABSTRACT

Vertebral fragility fractures are common, and the majority are managed nonoperatively. The most common cause for these fractures is low bone mineral density. The goals of management are to control pain, encourage early mobilization, limit disability, restore function, and prevent further fractures. There are several treatment options to address symptoms arising from the fracture. This includes conventional analgesia, osteoporosis medication for pain relief, minimally invasive procedures, electrotherapy modalities, external support devices, and exercise. In addition to addressing the symptoms from the vertebral fragility fracture, the focus is on preventing further fractures. This is done through reducing further falls, optimizing comorbid conditions, and improving bone mineral density. In this chapter, each treatment option is described in further detail alongside the evidence behind it.