Thoracic

The image to the right is a MRI image of a thoracic vertebrae compression fracture. Compression fracture of the vertebral body is common, especially in older adults. These fractures are most commonly caused by osteoporosis. More severe compression fractures can cause significant pain, which can lead to the inablity to perform daily activities. Vertebral compression fractures affect approximately 25 percent of all postmenopausal women in the United States. General physicians can help patients prevent compression fractures by diagnosing and treating predisposing factors, identifying high-risk patients, and educating patients about measures to prevent falls.