AVOID THE RISKS

People with spinal fractures are at increased risk of complications and death compared with people who don’t have spinal fractures.

TALK WITH  YOUR DOCTOR

If you have tried treatments like rest and oral medication for more than a few days and still have sharp back pain, you may have a spinal fracture, also known as a vertebral compression fracture (VCF). A VCF occurs when one of the bones of the spinal column weakens and collapses.

Early diagnosis and treatment are important steps to avoid the downward spiral of complications associated with VCFs.1-5 Over time, this condition may squeeze your internal organs and cause:

  • Reduced activity and mobility
  • Sleep disorders and reduced appetite
  • Feelings of isolation and sadness
  • Greater risk of future fracture
  • Risk of death

IMPROVE YOUR QUALITY OF LIFE

UNTREATED SPINAL FRACTURES CAN STOOP YOUR BACK —  AND MORE When left untreated, spinal fractures can cause your spine to shorten and curve forward. This stooped or hunched back, called “kyphosis,” makes it difficult to walk, reach for things, and do other daily activities. A spinal fracture can also lead to complications such as spine deformity, neurological complications, breathing problems, and death.1-5

COMMON TREATMENT OPTIONS MAY NOT BE EFFECTIVE Treatments for back pain often include: § Bed rest § Special exercises § Back bracing § Pain medication But if your back pain is from a vertebral compression fracture, these non-surgical treatments will not correct the fracture or restore the height of your vertebra (the bones that make up the spine). Non-surgical management has been shown in clinical studies to have limited effectiveness in reducing pain and improving function long term compared to interventional treatment, thus treatment options like balloon kyphoplasty should be considered.8-12

People with spinal fractures treated with Kyphon Balloon Kyphoplasty experienced important benefits, compared to non-surgical treatments8-11: § Less back pain § Improved mobility § Improved quality of life § Satisfaction with the procedure

Ask your doctor about if your pain could be a spinal fracture and if balloon kyphoplasty may be right for you.