There are times when a spinal compression fracture results from things such as old age and weakening bones. However, this is not always the case. There’s a chance you could suffer this type of injury in a number of other ways, such as a slip and fall.
It can be a challenge to diagnose a spinal compression fracture on your own, as it’s often associated with the same symptoms of many other back and neck injuries.
Here are some of the most common symptoms:
- Pain that worsens when you walk or stand, but gets better when you lie down
- Difficulty twisting or bending
- Curved spine
Many people don’t realize it, but a spinal compression fracture can happen as a result of an every day activity such as:
- Lifting a heavy item
- Slipping on a rug
- Bending to pick something up
The tricky thing about a spinal compression fracture is that your pain may begin to go away as your bone heals. However, since this can take several months to happen, you don’t want to ignore the pain and discomfort. Also, some people still have pain after the bone heals, which is why it’s so important to receive medical treatment.
If you suffer a spinal compression fracture on the job, such as the result of lifting a heavy item, don’t wait a single day to receive medical treatment.
If you are diagnosed with this condition, share the necessary information with your employer and let them know the impact on your job. You may need to file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits, which allows you to receive regular payments until you can return to work.