Health Tips from a Mother of Three

Who Is At Risk For Spinal Compression Fractures?

Spinal compression fractures are not uncommon, but they do tend to affect some people more than others. In fact, a lot of people do not even realize that they are at risk for spinal compression fractures or other bone issues. If you fit into any of these categories, it is important that you consider how each of these factors may play a role in your overall health.

Anybody with Osteoporosis

People with osteoporosis are at highest risk for spinal compression fractures. Many of the risk factors associated with osteoporosis are also risk factors associated with spinal compression factors. You may notice some overlap on this list for this reason.

Anybody with Bone Cancer

Bone cancer is another common risk factor for spinal compression fractures. Additionally, other cancers may be linked to the injury. These include lymphoma and multiple myeloma. If you have experienced any of these types of cancer, it is important to alert your doctor. They may choose to watch your condition to ensure that you do not experience fractures without knowing.

White or Asian Women Over the Age of 50

Women who are white or Asian are at highest risk for problems with their bones, spinal compression fractures included. This is also true for people over the age of 50.

Thin People

People who are considered underweight or thin are more likely to experience these fractures. Even if you are at a healthy weight, the risk of bone issues is present.

Women Who Experience Early Menopause

Women who have gone through menopause before they reach the age of 50 are considered to have gone through early menopause. This indicates a higher chance of osteoporosis and thus spinal compression injuries.

Smokers

There are many consequences of smoking, but one of the relevant factors is that those who smoke tend to lose density in their bones quickly. Your doctor is likely to recommend that you stop smoking immediately so that you do not worsen the thinning of your bones.

It is important to get yourself checked out by a doctor as soon as you believe that you have a spinal compression fracture. Many people do not realize that they have osteoporosis, so it is essential that you consider you may not realize you have an injury. If you experience any back pain, see a doctor at a medical center like Southwest Florida Neurosurgical & Rehab Associates soon. Without treatment, these types of fractures can become much worse before they get better.


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