Lumbar Spine Fractures

A lumbar spine fracture is a break that occurs in one of the bones of the lumbar spine (back). There are five bones in the low back called lumbar vertebrae, which allow us to move our back in multiple directions.

Causes:

– Any high impact injury to the back

– Motor vehicle accident

– Falls

– Sports related injuries

Symptoms:

– Back pain

– Leg pain

– Numbness and tingling

Diagnosis:

Diagnosis of a lumbar spine fracture may include several imaging studies including x-rays, MRI, and CT scans.

Treatment:

Treatment of lumbar spine fractures is based on the location and severity of the fracture. Treatment options include conservative management with a back brace or surgical management. Surgical intervention for a lumbar spine fracture would likely involve a posterior lumbar fusion.