RESUMO
Background. Compression fractures of the thoraco-lumbar spine are the most common form of damage to the skeletal system caused by osteoporosis. These fractures are stable and do not produce neurological deficits. The intensity of the clinical symptoms depends on the degree of kyphotic distortion of the spine and the number of fractured vertebrae. Among the most serious consequences of such injuries are chronic pain, habituated poor body posture (deeper thoracic kyphosis with compensatory hyperlordosis in the lumbar spine), motor and functional limitations, reduced quality of life, and heightened risk of subsequent spinal fractures.
Material and methods. We analyzed a group of 26 patients treated for spinal fractures associated with osteoporosis, in order to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment methods applied.
Conclusions. Our results indicate that the best outcomes are obtained when the period of immobility is reduced to a minimum and rehabilitation is commenced as early as possible.
