Symptoms of vertebral collapse due to osteoporosis

Vertebral collapse has many causes, but the most common is degeneration. It can occur in anyone, but is most common in older adults. Vertebral collapse needs to be treated as soon as possible to avoid pain, dangerous complications, and impaired mobility.

Osteoporosis, also known as porous bone, is characterized by a decrease in bone structure due to a reduction in bone mass and degradation of bone structure. Bone strength is the result of a delicate balance between two types of bone cells: osteoblasts – which harden bone – and osteoclasts – which destroy bone (responsible for bone resorption). When osteoclasts are more active than osteoblasts, it weakens the bone.

Causes of osteoporosis

Age is the leading cause of bone density loss. In addition, several other factors can also contribute to the condition: Women entering menopause or experiencing irregular menstrual cycles, which cause a decrease in estrogen levels, are at a higher risk of developing osteoporosis. In men, low testosterone levels are also a cause of osteoporosis.

An unhealthy diet lacking in nutrients, especially those beneficial for bones and joints such as calcium, vitamin D, and omega-3s, and failing to provide sufficient calcium during the formation and development of the musculoskeletal system, is also a cause of premature bone and joint weakening.

Side effects of medication due to long-term use of corticosteroids and heparin, without following a doctor's instructions.

A sedentary lifestyle, lack of exercise , low activity levels, and prolonged sitting can all lead to weakened bones and joints.

Stimulants such as alcohol, beer, and tobacco are harmful agents that promote and weaken the musculoskeletal system.

People who do heavy labor and frequently lift heavy objects are at a higher risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders than the average person.

Osteoporosis often has no symptoms until a complication such as a fracture occurs.

Symptoms of osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is often asymptomatic until a fracture occurs. Patients with acute vertebral collapse may experience sudden onset of back pain when sneezing, coughing, lifting heavy objects, or changing position. Other clinical manifestations include: Decreased height due to vertebral collapse. This may be diagnosed incidentally (most vertebral collapses related to osteoporosis are diagnosed in patients undergoing X-rays for other causes).

Manifestations of vertebral collapse due to osteoporosis.

Osteoporosis often develops silently over many years, and fractures are usually the first warning sign. Elderly individuals or those with osteoporosis should be vigilant for symptoms of vertebral collapse to avoid overlooking the condition and causing serious consequences. Vertebral collapse due to osteoporosis can cause the following symptoms and sequelae:

• Severe back pain corresponds to the location of vertebral collapse following minor injuries (falls, twisting, etc.) or may even occur spontaneously.
• Restricted mobility: Some patients are unable to sit up, walk, or have great difficulty moving due to back pain.
• If left untreated or improperly treated for more than two months, the condition can progress to a chronic, persistent pain stage, severely affecting motor function.
• Functional bowel and bladder dysfunction: This is often caused by the patient experiencing excessive pain, prolonged immobility, or feelings of embarrassment and reluctance to urinate while lying down.
• In cases where vertebral collapse causes kyphosis and spinal nerve compression, many patients may experience paralysis of both legs and functional bowel and bladder dysfunction.
• Later in life, patients may experience serious spinal deformities (e.g., height loss, scoliosis, kyphosis, hunchback...).
• Chronic rib pain is caused by the ribs pressing against the pelvis in cases of severe kyphosis (spinal curvature).
• Loss of the ability to care for oneself or perform normal daytime activities.
• Reduced lung capacity leads to chronic shortness of breath.
• Loss of appetite, anxiety, depression, insomnia…

Doctor's advice

Depending on the extent of vertebral collapse and any accompanying nerve damage (if present), appropriate treatment methods will be applied. Typically, patients will receive medical treatment.

Treatment methods: Percutaneous vertebral body cement injection is used for cases of vertebral collapse due to osteoporosis without nerve damage, depending on the degree of vertebral body collapse.

In summary : Vertebral collapse, or vertebral compression fracture, is a condition where the vertebral body fails to maintain its original height, causing damage to the spine and severe pain for the patient. Vertebral collapse is related to age and seriously affects health. The condition can increase the risk of vertebral fractures, affect mobility, and even shorten the patient's lifespan. Therefore, for the elderly, especially menopausal women, it is necessary to establish a suitable diet and exercise regularly. Simultaneously, supplement with minerals rich in vitamin D, calcium, and other vitamins. A balanced and nutritious diet is essential. Regular health checkups, as directed by a doctor, are necessary to detect osteoporosis or other spinal diseases and receive timely treatment.

Dr. Nguyen Minh Duong

Source: https://giadinh.suckhoedoisong.vn/trieu-chung-cua-xep-dot-song-do-loang-xuong-172241121113623506.htm