Vertebral compression fractures can limit your movement, independence, and comfort. They are common in older adults who have osteoporosis. Fortunately, there are ways to find relief. Minimally invasive treatments like kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty can reduce pain, improve stability, and help you move more freely. These procedures can also support faster recovery and better long-term spine health. However, you may wonder which one is best for your condition.
At Covenant Spine and Neurology in Winston-Salem, our team helps patients understand their options and choose the most effective treatment. In the sections below, we’ll walk through how these fractures develop, how each procedure works, and what to expect next.
Understanding Vertebral Compression Fractures
A vertebral compression fracture happens when a bone in your spine collapses. This often occurs because osteoporosis weakens the bone over time. As a result, you might experience sudden or ongoing back pain, a curved posture, or a noticeable loss of height. In many cases, early treatment prevents the fracture from worsening and protects your overall spine health.
What Is Vertebroplasty?
During vertebroplasty, your doctor injects a medical-grade bone cement into the damaged bone. Once the cement hardens, it stabilizes the area and relieves pain. Because this treatment is quick and precise, many patients feel improvement soon after the procedure. Typically, doctors recommend vertebroplasty when the bone has not lost significant height or shape. In addition, this approach works well for people seeking fast relief with minimal downtime.
What Is Kyphoplasty?
Kyphoplasty is similar to vertebroplasty, but it adds an extra step. Before the cement is applied, your doctor places a small balloon inside the bone and inflates it gently. This process creates space and restores part of the bone’s height. After removing the balloon, the doctor fills the space with bone cement to strengthen the area. Consequently, kyphoplasty not only relieves pain but also helps improve spinal alignment. Because of these benefits, many patients enjoy long-term results and improved mobility.
Which Treatment Is Right for You?
Your provider will help you decide between kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty. The choice depends on your overall health, the severity of your fracture, and how much height loss has occurred. At Covenant Spine and Neurology, our Winston-Salem specialists use detailed imaging and careful evaluation to recommend the safest and most effective plan. In some cases, we may suggest conservative care first to reduce pain and inflammation before performing a procedure.
Get Expert Help in Winston-Salem
If you’re looking for kyphoplasty in Winston-Salem or need professional care for vertebral compression fractures in North Carolina, Covenant Spine and Neurology is ready to help. Our experienced team combines advanced technology with compassionate care to relieve pain, restore strength, and help you return to the activities you love. In addition, we focus on long-term spine health, so you can move confidently and live without constant discomfort.
Schedule Your Consultation
To book an appointment, contact our Winston-Salem office today. To learn more about Kyphoplasty for Compression Fractures, click here.
