Spinal fractures usually occur because of severe spinal trauma, but the risk of fractures can be exacerbated by aging, osteoporosis, and other factors. Some patients can go months or years before realizing they have small fractures, whereas others experience immediate pain and discomfort. Dr. Behnam Salari discusses your symptoms, reviews your goals, and curates the ideal treatment plan for your spinal fractures in Morristown.
What are Spinal Fractures?
The spine consists of 33 vertebrae, which, when combined, make up the spinal column. The spinal column protects the spinal cord, which runs through the spinal canal. The vertebrae are separated by cushion-like intervertebral discs, components that absorb the shock of mobility. The spinal nerves extend out from the spinal cord and travel to other parts of the body.
As such, the entire spine consists of numerous components, such as the spinal cord, nerve roots, vertebrae, intervertebral discs, joints, and ligaments. A spinal fracture occurs when one or more of the vertebrae break or develop cracks. This can lead to further damage to other components of the spine, including the spinal cord. Spinal fractures usually occur because of sudden trauma or injury.
Causes of Spinal Fractures
Spinal fractures are usually caused by sudden spinal traumas or injuries, such as falls or car accidents. However, the risk of spinal fractures increases as you grow older because your vertebrae weaken with age. Osteoporosis, a condition marked by decreased bone density, also increases the risk of spinal fractures. If you have a spinal fracture in Morristown, you need immediate medical care to prevent further complications.
Symptoms of Spinal Fractures:
- Severe pain across the spine
- Numbness on different parts of the body
- Weakness on different parts of the body
- Tingling sensations on different parts of the body
- Paralysis of the arms and legs
- Inability to move the body below the point of damage
Diagnosing Spinal Fractures
If you visit Dr. Behnam Salari for a spinal fracture emergency, he may administer pain relief medication to prevent further damage to the spine. He reviews your medical history and test results, performs a physical examination, and conducts imaging tests, such as x-rays and MRI scans, to diagnose the extent of the damage. This allows him to curate a personalized treatment plan for you.
Spinal Fracture Treatment Options
Dr. Behnam Salari generally favors non-surgical treatments, such as physical therapy, activity changes, and spinal brace for all spine-related conditions. However, if you have severe spinal fractures, he may recommend minimally invasive surgeries, such as spinal fusion or minimally invasive spinal surgery. He will discuss all of your treatment options to help you make an educated decision.
Contact Dr. Salari for Spinal Fracture Treatment
Dr. Behnam Salari is a board-certified spine surgeon specializing in minimally invasive spine surgery. He carefully examines your spine, reviews your medical history, and performs numerous tests to curate a personalized treatment plan. His considered approach to spine surgery ensures optimal results with minimal downtime.
If you have spinal injuries or the signs and symptoms of spinal fractures in Morristown, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Salari at our offices in Morristown, Hackettstown, Sparta, or Randolph in New Jersey.
