Dr. Ratish Kumar Mishra is a highly skilled and dedicated Consultant Orthopaedic and Spine surgeon currently associated with Sanjivini Hospital in Gomti Nagar, Lucknow. His areas of expertise include Neck Pain, Back Pain, Sciatica Pain, Slipped Disc, Lumbar Canal Stenosis, Spondylolisthesis, Fractures in the Spine, Spinal Cord Injury, Spine Tumors, and infections in the spine. He is also skilled in Scoliotic spine surgery and Deformity correction surgeries. He is well-versed in open, Minimally Invasive, and Endoscopic spine surgeries. He can perform anterior and posterior Cervical, Thoracic, and Lumbar spine surgery.”

 

Osteoporotic Vertebral Fractures

Osteoporotic Vertebral Fractures

Osteoporotic vertebral fractures can significantly impact an individual’s spine and overall health, particularly in those with weakened bones due to osteoporosis. It is vital for the public to recognize the symptoms, understand the causes, and be aware of preventive measures and treatment options associated with osteoporotic vertebral fractures.

Symptoms:

  1. Gradual Onset of Back Pain:
    • Osteoporotic vertebral fractures often present with a gradual onset of back pain that may become chronic and more pronounced over time.
  2. Loss of Height:
    • Multiple fractures can lead to a noticeable reduction in height, as the vertebrae lose their normal height due to compression.
  3. Change in Posture:
    • Individuals may develop a stooped or hunched posture, known as kyphosis, as a result of multiple vertebral fractures.
  4. Limited Range of Motion:
    • Reduced flexibility and limited range of motion in the spine may be experienced due to the compromised integrity of the vertebrae.
  5. Numbness or Tingling:
    • If the fractures affect nearby nerves, numbness or tingling sensations may be felt in the surrounding areas.

Causes:

  1. Osteoporosis:
    • The primary cause of osteoporotic vertebral fractures is osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weakened and porous bones.
  2. Aging:
    • The risk of osteoporotic fractures increases with age, as bone density naturally decreases over time.
  3. Hormonal Changes:
    • Postmenopausal women are particularly susceptible to osteoporotic fractures due to hormonal changes that affect bone density.

Prevention:

  1. Bone Health Maintenance:
    • Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, obtained through a balanced diet or supplements, supports bone health and helps prevent osteoporosis.
  2. Regular Weight-Bearing Exercise:
    • Engaging in weight-bearing exercises, such as walking, jogging, or resistance training, helps maintain bone density and strength.
  3. Fall Prevention:
    • Implementing measures to prevent falls, such as removing tripping hazards at home, using handrails, and wearing appropriate footwear, reduces the risk of fractures.
  4. Avoiding Smoking and Excessive Alcohol:
    • Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption contribute to bone loss, so avoiding these habits can help preserve bone density.

Treatment:

  1. Pain Management:
    • Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications may be used to manage pain associated with osteoporotic vertebral fractures.
  2. Rest and Activity Modification:
    • Rest and avoiding activities that exacerbate pain can facilitate the healing process, while modifications in daily activities may be recommended.
  3. Physical Therapy:
    • Rehabilitation exercises, guided by a physical therapist, can help improve strength, flexibility, and overall spine function.
  4. Medication:
    • Medications, such as bisphosphonates, may be prescribed to slow down bone loss and reduce the risk of further fractures.
  5. Vertebroplasty or Kyphoplasty:
    • In some cases, minimally invasive procedures like vertebroplasty or kyphoplasty may be considered to stabilize fractured vertebrae and relieve pain.

Conclusion:

Osteoporotic vertebral fractures are a serious concern, especially for individuals with osteoporosis. Recognizing symptoms, understanding causes, and adopting preventive measures are crucial steps in reducing the risk of these fractures. If faced with symptoms of an osteoporotic vertebral fracture, seeking prompt medical attention is essential for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. A comprehensive approach to bone health, including lifestyle modifications and medical interventions, is key to preventing and managing osteoporotic vertebral fractures and promoting a healthier, more resilient spine.

    Patient’s Reviews

    Dr. Ratish is an exceptional Orthopedic Surgeon whose expertise and dedication truly stand out. His meticulous attention to detail, coupled with his compassionate patient care, make him a remarkable choice for anyone seeking orthopedic treatment. With a deep commitment to improving his patients' quality of life, Dr. Ratish’s skill and professionalism are truly admirable.

    Shefali Chimnani

    Patient

    Dr Ratish is an exceptional specialist in spine care. His expertise is evident in his precise diagnoses and effective treatments. His dedication to patient well-being and extensive experience makes him a top choice for anyone seeking spine-related medical assistance.

    Aman Ahuja

    Patient