Vertebral compression fractures are usually the fractures of thoraco-lumbar region in which the vertebrae collapse into it and
becomes squashed into a wedge shape. The most common cause of this is the presence of osteoporosis or high velocity trauma.
These fractures occur as a result of flexion type of injuries. These fractures cause substantial pain and impairment, limiting
everyday activities and lowering quality of life. When evaluated, these patients have no aberrant findings, but they do have
kyphosis and discomfort in the spinal region. Movements involving flexion of the spine exacerbate the pain. Management includes
conservative management and surgical management. Surgically, fractures are managed by vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty.
Physiotherapy is suggested to help with the symptoms occurring due to the condition as well as due to the surgery. Rehabilitation
starts post operatively and includes pain management, strengthening exercise program, flexibility exercises and return to daily
activities. The therapist also incorporates the use of brace to prevent flexion of the spinal column which exacerbates the condition.
This has proven to have successful results; however, early initiation of the process can help the patient overall in terms of pain,
strength, disability, kinesiophobia and reduced length of hospital stay after a spinal surgery. In case of vertebral fracture with cord
compression, physiotherapy intervention pre-op and post-op has been proven to be quite useful in early recovery of the patient
along with reduced hospital stay
Keywords: Vertebral fracture, cord compression, physiotherapy,
rehabilitation