Spinal Fracture Treatment on Long Island
Personalized Treatment for Spinal Fracture
A spinal fracture is a serious medical condition that can negatively impact a person’s mobility and quality of life. While some fractures may be minor, others can result in complications like nerve damage or loss of function. Understanding spinal fractures, their causes, symptoms, and treatment is essential for effective recovery and early intervention. Dr. Salvatore Palumbo, MD, PC diagnoses and treats spinal fractures on Long Island, New York.
What Is a Spinal Fracture?
A spinal fracture occurs when the bones in the spine, called vertebrae, break or collapse. These injuries often result from trauma, such as car accidents or falls, but they can also occur due to underlying conditions like osteoporosis. Spinal fractures range from minor stress fractures to severe cases that compromise the stability of the spine.
Causes of Spinal Fractures
Spinal cord fractures can happen quickly or over time. Some of the most common causes of spinal fractures include:
- Trauma: Falls, sports injuries, and car accidents are leading causes of spinal fractures.
- Osteoporosis: Weak and brittle bones in older individuals increase the risk of compression fractures.
- Tumors: Tumors can weaken the vertebrae, leading to a fracture.
- High-Impact Activity: Over time, activity can strain the spine.
Types of Spinal Fractures
Spinal fractures can be classified into several types, depending on the severity and location of the injury. The spinal fracture types we diagnose and treat include:
- Compression Fractures: Occur when the front part of a vertebra collapses, often linked to osteoporosis.
- Burst Fractures: Caused by severe trauma, the vertebra shatters in multiple directions, posing a risk to spinal cord integrity.
- Flexion-Distraction Fractures: Typically result from extreme forward flexion, such as in car accidents.
- Fracture-Dislocations: A combination of fracture and misalignment of the spine, usually severe and requiring surgical intervention.
- Stress Fractures: Small cracks in the vertebrae, often caused by repetitive strain or overuse.
Spinal Fracture Symptoms
If you experience severe spinal pain, reach out to us immediately. The most common symptoms of a spinal fracture include:
- Mild to severe back pain
- Pain that worsens with movement
- Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
- Loss of bladder or bowel control in severe cases
- Reduced mobility or an inability to stand or walk
Diagnosing a Spinal Fracture
Diagnosing a spinal fracture begins with a comprehensive assessment and physical evaluation. Dr. Salvatore Palumbo reviews your existing conditions, medical history, and symptoms. To diagnose your spinal problem, we may perform the following:
- X-rays
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Bone density testing
- Computed tomography scans (CT scans)
Spinal Fracture Treatment Options
We treat spinal fractures depending on the severity, type, and underlying cause of the fracture. Some of the non-surgical spinal fracture treatment options include:
- Bracing: Support to stabilize the spine as it heals.
- Pain Management: Medications or injections to control discomfort.
- Physical Therapy: Helps strengthen supporting muscles and restore mobility.
Surgical treatments for spinal fractures include:
- Vertebroplasty/Kyphoplasty: Minimally invasive procedures that inject cement to stabilize fractured vertebrae.
- Spinal Fusion: Permanently fuses two or more vertebrae to restore stability.
- Decompression Surgery: Helps relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots caused by the fracture.
Recovery and Prognosis of Spinal Fracture
Recovery depends on the nature of the injury, the chosen treatment method, and the individual’s overall health. Most patients with minor fractures can return to regular activities within a few weeks to months, while recovery for surgical cases may take longer. Ongoing physical therapy and follow-up care are vital for full rehabilitation and preventing future fractures.
Why It’s Important to Seek Treatment
Untreated spinal fractures can lead to severe complications, including chronic pain, spinal deformities, nerve damage, and loss of function. Early treatment mitigates these risks, aids recovery, and restores mobility. Our experienced medical team will help you feel comfortable as we determine the cause of your spinal problem.
Choose Dr. Salvatore Palumbo
Dr. Salvatore Palumbo is a highly regarded neurosurgeon with extensive expertise in treating spinal fractures, including complex trauma cases. Recognized as one of the best doctors in America, Dr. Salvatore Palumbo has helped thousands of patients regain mobility and improve their quality of life. Whether you need expert diagnosis or advanced spinal reconstruction surgery, Dr. Salvatore Palumbo provides personalized care tailored to your needs.
Get Spinal Fracture Treatment Today
At Dr. Salvatore Palumbo’s Long Island practice, we use state-of-the-art techniques to deliver exceptional results. We are dedicated to helping you achieve a full recovery, using compassionate care and an individualized approach to your treatment. When it comes to your spine, choose a specialist who has been trusted by countless patients. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Salvatore Palumbo, contact us today.