An osteoporotic compression fracture is a nontraumatic fracture, usually of the vertebrae, caused primarily by loss of bone density. Compression fractures present with acute, localized spine pain that infrequently radiates to the ribs. Pain worsens with movement and palpation. However, many compression fractures are asymptomatic or may present with height loss.

Risk factors for compression fractures include advanced age, female sex, low body weight, chronic corticosteroid use, previous fractures, malabsorptive disorders, and abnormalities of testosterone or estrogen. Osteoporotic compression fractures are less commonly secondary to diseases such as hyperparathyroidism, connective tissue disorders, or malignancy.

Although generally not life threatening, compression fractures of the spine may cause functional impairment. Patients may have difficulty with bending over, walking, lifting objects, or activities of daily living.

Treatment of stable, symptomatic fractures is usually conservative, with bracing and pain control emphasized. Pain often resolves within 6 weeks of conservative management. Surgical interventions such as vertebroplasty or spinal fusion are sometimes used, particularly for treatment-refractory pain or symptoms of spinal cord / root compression. Osteoporosis should also be medically addressed.