Your spine provides the primary support for the head, neck, and trunk. Consequently, it serves a crucial function in preserving body structure, transmitting neurological signals to and your brain, and securing important musculature. Considering the spine plays numerous vital functions in physiological function, it could be difficult to recognize and treat spinal issues. One of the most uncomfortable and debilitating disorders affecting the spine are spinal compression fractures. Spinal compression fractures are breaks in the vertebrae of the spine, often resulting from injury or conditions like osteoporosis. In numerous instances, surgery is unnecessary to cure a spinal fracture since the bones can mend by themselves. Rather, the patient could take a conservative approach and several proactive measures to facilitate healing and alleviate pain. In this post, West Islip spine fracture specialist Dr. George Kakoulides outlines some helpful tips to incorporate during treatment and recovery.
1. Medication Should Only Be Employed When Necessary
Spinal fractures could be excruciatingly painful, and numerous patients require pain relief immediately following the fracture. Consult with your physician to identify the most suitable pain treatment method for you; this depends on the severity of your pain and other medications you are already using. As the discomfort lessens, you could reduce the dosage, transition to over-the-counter pain treatment, or discontinue the medicine entirely. If the cause of your spinal fracture is a health condition like osteoporosis, your doctor may also prescribe medicine to increase bone density.
2. Rest Is Essential Throughout The Healing Process
The body requires a great deal of energy; thus, adequate rest is essential to recover. Restricting activity soon after trauma is essential, as this is when the body’s inflammatory reaction causes the most discomfort and edema. Motion restriction helps the body repair itself and reduces the chance of further damage. Additionally, you must avoid lifting, bending, and twisting for many weeks.
As you relax, sustaining a balanced diet is essential as it supplies your body with the necessary nutrients for healing. Ensure you remain hydrated and consume healthy foods with veggies and fruits. Vitamin D- and calcium-rich foods, including fortified cereals, milk, and certain lean meats, could help your body repair and avoid bone density loss.
3. Physical Therapy Boosts Stamina
Physical therapy can help you rebuild mobility and strength in your back as you recuperate. Abdominal, hip, and back muscles weaken throughout rest, while movement is restricted. To resume normal activity and avoid reinjury, it is vital to carefully repair these muscles. Your physical therapy care plan may contain the following:
§ Exercises to assist you in preventing falls
§ Stretching activities to enhance mobility
§ Approaches for keeping appropriate posture
§ Weight-bearing workouts that strengthen bones and muscles
§ Nutritional counseling to promote bone density
4. Bracing Offers Assistance
Your physical therapist or physician may also advise you to wear a back brace for assistance throughout the rehabilitation process. The brace momentarily immobilizes the back; thus, reducing the chance of reinjury and bolstering the muscles and bones. Observe your physician’s recommendations when using this brace. The recuperation involves ultimate activation of the back muscles; hence, extended usage of the brace may hinder healing.
5. Cold Therapy Could Be Useful
Utilizing a cold treatment system throughout the healing from a spinal fracture can reduce pain and edema in the injured region. Ice lowers swelling, rendering it a particularly beneficial treatment for injuries.
Standard ice packs could provide uneven cold and rapid warm-up. Several cold treatment systems combine medicinal cold with compression. This compression assists in conforming to the body and enables colds to enter wounded tissues more deeply. Furthermore, cold therapy solutions, at home or during your doctor’s visits, are straightforward.
Sudden, intense back pain may signify a fractured spine; thus, you should not disregard it. Certified neurosurgeon Dr. George Kakoulides and his staff examine your spine using advanced diagnostic technologies, including X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans. Once your doctor determines that a spine fracture is a reason for your concern, they will work with you to develop a bespoke care plan. Arrange an appointment through mobile or book online to explore your care options.
