Causes of vertebral compression fractures include:

• Osteoporosis: The most common cause of VCFs is osteoporosis, a condition in which bones become weak and brittle with age. This puts them at greater risk of breaking.

• Trauma: VCFs can occur as a result of trauma, such as a fall or motor vehicle accident.

• Tumors: VCFs can also occur as a result of tumors that grow within the vertebral body, putting pressure on the bone and causing it to fracture.

• Other medical conditions: VCFs can also occur as a result of other medical conditions, such as multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer that affects the bones.

Symptoms of vertebral compression fractures include:

• Back pain: The most common symptom of a VCF is back pain, which can be severe and can worsen with activity.

• Loss of height: Over time, multiple VCFs can lead to a loss of height.

• Kyphosis: VCFs can also cause the spine to curve forward, resulting in a condition known as kyphosis.

• Neurological symptoms: In rare cases, VCFs can put pressure on the spinal cord, causing neurological symptoms such as weakness, numbness, or difficulty walking.

Treatment for vertebral compression fractures will depend on the underlying cause of the condition and the severity of the symptoms. Some common treatments include:

• Medications: Pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can be used to reduce pain.

• Bracing: A brace can be used to immobilize the affected area and provide support.

• Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help to improve flexibility and strength in the affected area.

• Vertebroplasty or Kyphoplasty: Vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty are minimally invasive procedures that involve injecting bone cement into the fractured vertebral body to stabilize the fracture and provide pain relief.

• Surgery: In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the underlying cause of the VCF.