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Spinal fractures advice and exercises

A common reason to have a spinal fracture or broken bone (it is the same thing) is osteoporosis. This is when your bones are weaker and can fracture after a minor trip or fall. The bones tend to ‘squash down’ rather than fracture and this can mean you lose height, your back can become more curved and can be very painful initially. The bone does not return to its original shape when healed and it can take some time for the muscles and ligaments to settle to this new shape. You would not usually need an operation and it is recommended you remain active.

An X-ray would show a fracture and your GP can consider if further investigations for your bone density are required and if any medication to improve your bone strength is required. This is to help with prevention of any future fractures.

In most cases the fractures are stable, which means they don’t move and do not usually affect the nerves, you will be able to functional normally, but they can initially be very painful!

Having osteoporosis does not stop the bone from healing. This usually happens between 6 and 12 weeks. You may initially need strong pain medication and then gradually reduce as the pain improves.

There are many risk factors that can lead to osteoporosis. Some of these include age, menopause, long term steroid use, excess alcohol, smoking, low weight or poor gut absorption (and there are many more). Making simple lifestyle improvements can help.

There are some excellent YouTube videos to watch on the Royal Osteoporosis Society website:

Exercising after a spinal fracture

You might feel worried about exercising after a fracture, but start gently and build up as you increase in confidence.

Exercising after a spinal fracture can sometimes be painless but can also be very painful, begin exercising as soon as pain allows. Pain usually improves over 6 to 12 weeks.

The Royal Osteoporosis Society have published an information sheet of exercises to do after a spinal fracture.

Try to do these at least once a day. Move gently between the exercises and rest in between if needed. Hold for 3 to 5 secs and remember to breath and relax.