Straighten Up With Kyphoplasty
Dealing with back pain? Unfortunately, back pain is very common. So common that the National Institutes of Health estimates that nearly 80 percent of adults experience back pain at some point in their life. Sometimes, back pain is caused by muscle strain or overuse, and sometimes it’s caused by more serious conditions like a fractured vertebra.
Treatment for back pain depends on the source of the pain. In the case of a broken vertebra (or vertebrae), one of our providers at the International Spine Pain & Performance Center may suggest kyphoplasty.
If you’re ready to straighten up — and say goodbye to back pain — continue reading to learn more about kyphoplasty.
What is kyphoplasty?
Kyphoplasty is a minimally invasive procedure designed to help address fractured vertebrae in your back. It addresses compression fractures in just a few steps:
- An anesthesiologist delivers medications via an IV to keep you comfortable
- Using x-ray guidance (or sometimes MRI imaging), a thin tube (called a catheter) is inserted near the damaged vertebra
- A special balloon is inflated, which helps lift the vertebra back to its proper height
- Bone cement is administered
- The bone cement hardens in a few minutes
When the vertebrate’s height is restored, most patients notice a decrease in pain. That’s because compressed vertebrae can put pressure on the nerves, causing pain.
Benefits of kyphoplasty
Although the most notable benefit is pain relief, there are several other benefits to receiving this minimally-invasive procedure. Benefits include:
- No need for stitches
- Easy recovery period
- Quick procedure (usually lasting about an hour)
- No need for lengthy hospital stays
Can I have kyphoplasty if I have…
If you have osteoporosis, you’re more at risk for compression fractures, and this can lead to pain, hunching, and poor posture. Thankfully, kyphoplasty can be used for compression fractures caused by osteoporosis.
If you have fractures due to an injury, it’s possible that one of our providers may also suggest kyphoplasty, especially if other conservative treatments aren’t giving you the relief you need.
Is kyphoplasty right for you?
If you have back pain that interferes with your quality of life, don’t accept back pain as the status quo. Our providers at the International Spine Pain & Performance Center are experts when it comes to diagnosing and treating back pain. Whether you need physical therapy, radiofrequency ablation, or kyphoplasty, we are here to guide you with your next steps.
To learn more about kyphoplasty, visit us online to request an appointment at one of our locations.