Definition
Definition
The bones that make up the spine are called vertebrae. Each vertebra has a bony section that points out toward the back. These sections are called the spinal process. Muscles and ligaments of the back attach to them to help provide movement and flexibility. These fractures can occur anywhere along the spinal column. They are more common in the vertebrae of the back and not the neck.
A spinous process fracture is a break in one or more of these sections. Most will heal without long-term damage. More severe spinous process fractures, called unstable fractures can result in spinal cord or nerve injury.
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Causes
Causes
Spinous process fractures are caused by severe trauma to the back such as:
- Falls
- Car, motorcycle, or pedestrian accidents
- Severe and sudden twisting or bending
- Severe blows to the back and spine
- Violence, such as a gunshot
Risk Factors
Risk Factors
Spinous process fractures more common in older adults. Other factors that may increase your chance of a spinous process fracture includes:
- Osteoporosis
- Certain diseases or conditions that weaken bones, such as tumors or cysts
- Decreased muscle mass
Activities or accidents often linked to these fractures include:
- Falls from heights, such as a ladder, bike, or horse
- Playing certain sports that involve sudden twists and turns, or extreme contact especially without proper protective gear
- Car or motorcycle accidents especially without use of seatbelt
- Severe and sudden twisting or bending
- Severe blows to the back and spine
- Violence, such as a gunshot
Symptoms
Symptoms
Spinal process fractures may cause:
- Severe pain that may be worse during movement, coughing, or breathing
- Tenderness, swelling, and possible bruising
- Numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness
- Decreased range of motion around the affected area of the spine
- Loss of bladder or bowel control (injuries to lower spine)
Unstable fractures may cause damage to the spinal cord. Spinal cord damage can result in temporary or permanent paralysis. Extent or location of paralysis depends on where along the spinal column the injury occurred.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history as well as any accident or activity associated with the pain. A physical exam will be done. A complete neurological exam will also be done to look for signs of nerve damage.
Imaging tests to evaluate your spine may be done with:
Treatment
Treatment
Getting care right away is important for any spinal injury. Proper treatment can prevent or decrease long-term complications. Treatment will depend on how serious the fracture is.
Treatment and rehabilitation may take months or years, depending on whether or not there is spinal cord or nerve damage.
Immobilization
When there is a possibility of an unstable spinous fracture, immediate and complete immobilization of the spine is necessary.
Once immobilized, you will be assessed for any other problems, such as secondary injuries, shock, or airway obstruction. Stabilizing your injury may include:
- A breathing tube for a blocked airway
- IV fluids
- Admission to the hospital for monitoring
People with unstable fractures usually need to stay in the hospital. Serious injuries may need to be watched in an intensive care unit. Some people with spinal cord damage closer to the neck may need to have help breathing with mechanical ventilation.
Bone Support
After you are stabilized and assessed, your course of treatment will depend on:
- The severity of the fracture
- Location of the fracture on the spinal column
- Number of fractures
- Which part of the spinous process bone is broken
Treatment options for spinous process fractures may include:
- Back brace—Minor or stable fractures can be treated with a back brace to keep your back in line while it heals.
- Traction—Rigid braces, some with collars, are worn to treat more severe or unstable fractures. Traction allows for minimal movement.
- Surgery—Screws, rods, wires, or cages are used to reconnect bone pieces and hold them in place. Surgery may also be needed to repair vertebrae, relieve pressure on the spinal cord, or remove any damaged vertebral discs.
Rest and Recovery
It may take several weeks to several months for a spinous process fracture to heal. Healing time varies by age and your overall health. Children and people in better overall health heal faster.
Physical therapy may be advised to keep muscles strong and maintain range of motion. Long-term rehabilitation may be needed with more severe injuries.
Long-term Rehabilitation
Spinous process fractures can sometimes result in spinal cord and nerve injury, and paralysis. This may require major life changes, involving work, family, and social life. Extensive rehabilitation may be required, including occupational therapy, psychotherapy, and support groups.
Prevention
Prevention
To help reduce your chance of a spinous process fracture:
- Avoid situations that put you at risk of physical harm
- Always wear a seatbelt when driving or riding in a car
- Do not drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Wear proper padding and safety equipment for sports or activities
- Do weight-bearing exercises to build strong muscles and bones
To help reduce falling hazards at work and home, take these steps:
- Clean spills and slippery areas right away
- Remove tripping hazards such as loose cords, rugs, and clutter
- Use non-slip mats in the bathtub and shower
- Install grab bars next to the toilet and in the shower or tub
- Put rails on both sides of stairways
- Walk only in well-lit rooms, stairs, and halls
- Keep flashlights on hand in case of a power outage
RESOURCES:
Ortho Info—American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons http://orthoinfo.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
References:
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00368
Updated February 2010. Accessed November 12, 2013.
Spinal cord injury—acute management. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:
http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed
Updated December 10, 2013. Accessed November 12, 2013.
Spinal cord injury—chronic management. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:
http://www.ebscohost.com/dynamed
Updated October 22, 2013. Accessed November 12, 2013.
Spinal fractures. Department of Neurology University of Florida website. Available at:
http://neurosurgery.ufl.edu/patient-care/diseases-conditions/spinal-fractures
Accessed November 12, 2013.
Last Updated: 7/17/2014