Spinal Fractures

Spinal fractures can occur after trauma such as falls or accidents, or develop in weakened bone due to osteoporosis or tumors. These injuries range from stable compression fractures to more complex patterns that may affect spinal alignment or nerve function.

Aqib Zehri, MD, is a fellowship-trained neurosurgeon in Portland, Oregon, specializing in complex spine care. He evaluates and treats spinal fractures using a comprehensive approach, from nonoperative management to advanced surgical stabilization when needed.

What are the types of spinal fractures?

Spinal fractures vary in severity and stability. The most common types include:

• Compression fractures – collapse of the vertebral body, often related to osteoporosis
• Burst fractures – more severe injuries where the vertebra breaks in multiple directions and may affect the spinal canal
• Flexion-distraction injuries – caused by high-energy trauma, leading to instability of the spine
• Fracture-dislocations – complex injuries involving both bone and ligament disruption, often requiring surgical stabilization

Understanding the type of fracture is critical in determining whether the injury is stable or requires intervention.

What are the symptoms of a spinal fracture?

Symptoms depend on the severity of the injury and whether nerves are involved. Common symptoms include:

• Sudden or severe back pain
• Pain that worsens with movement
• Difficulty standing or walking
• Loss of height or spinal deformity in compression fractures
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs

In more severe cases, spinal fractures can lead to neurologic deficits that require urgent evaluation.

How are spinal fractures diagnosed?

Evaluation begins with a physical and neurologic exam, followed by imaging to assess stability and nerve involvement.

This may include:

• X-rays to identify fractures and alignment
• CT scans for detailed evaluation of bony injury
• MRI to assess soft tissues, ligaments, and nerve compression

These studies help determine whether the fracture is stable or requires surgical treatment.

What are the treatment options?

Treatment depends on fracture type, stability, symptoms, and overall patient health.

Non-surgical treatment may include:

• Bracing to support the spine during healing
• Pain management
• Activity modification

Surgical treatment is considered when there is spinal instability, progressive deformity, or nerve compression causing neurologic symptoms.

Surgical options may include minimally invasive stabilization or more extensive reconstruction, depending on the complexity of the fracture.

The goal is to restore spinal stability, protect neurologic function, and allow for safe recovery.

Take the next step

If you have experienced a spinal injury or have persistent back pain after trauma, early evaluation is important.

Call the office or request an appointment online to discuss your symptoms and treatment options.