A lumbar fracture refers to a break in one or more vertebrae of the lower spine (L1-L5). These fractures can result from trauma (e.g., falls, car accidents), osteoporosis, or tumors. Severe cases may require surgical stabilization with implants.
Symptoms of a Lumbar Fracture
- Severe back pain (worsens with movement).
- Swelling & bruising around the spine.
- Numbness/weakness in legs (if nerves are compressed).
- Loss of bowel/bladder control (emergency—indicates cauda equina syndrome).
- Difficulty standing or walking.
Types of Lumbar Fractures
- Compression Fracture – Vertebra collapses (common in osteoporosis).
- Burst Fracture – Vertebra breaks from high-impact trauma (risk of spinal cord injury).
- Flexion-Distraction (Chance Fracture) – Spine stretches apart (common in seatbelt injuries).
- Fracture-Dislocation – Bone breaks and shifts (unstable, often requires surgery).
