Treatments to restore function and relieve pain

A common and often overlooked cause of back pain

Vertebral compression fractures (VCFs) are among the most common spinal injuries, yet they are frequently underdiagnosed. Matthew Darlow, MD specializes in diagnosing and treating these fractures with advanced, minimally invasive techniques designed to relieve pain and restore mobility.

VCFs occur when a vertebral body in the spine collapses, often due to weakened bone structure. While they can happen suddenly, many develop gradually and worsen over time if left untreated.

How common are vertebral compression fractures?

Vertebral compression fractures are far more prevalent than many patients realize:

  • Hundreds of thousands of VCFs occur each year in the United States
  • Most are related to osteoporosis, especially in adults over age 50
  • Many fractures go undiagnosed or are mistaken for routine back pain
  • Women, particularly postmenopausal, are at higher risk—but men are also affected

Because symptoms can be subtle at first, patients often delay seeking care, allowing the condition to progress.

How disabling can vertebral compression fractures be?

VCFs are not just minor injuries—they can significantly impact quality of life:

  • Severe, persistent back pain that worsens with standing or walking
  • Loss of height and progressive spinal deformity (kyphosis or “hunchback”)
  • Reduced mobility and independence
  • Difficulty performing daily activities such as bending, lifting, or even sitting comfortably
  • Increased risk of additional fractures due to altered spinal mechanics

Untreated compression fractures can lead to chronic pain, decreased lung capacity, and overall decline in health and function.

What causes vertebral compression fractures?

The most common causes of VCFs include:

  • Osteoporosis (weak, brittle bones)
  • Trauma or injury (falls, accidents)
  • Cancer affecting the spine (pathologic fractures)
  • Long-term steroid use or other conditions weakening bone

Identifying the underlying cause is critical to effective treatment and prevention of future fractures.

Symptoms of vertebral compression fractures

Patients often report:

  • Sudden onset of back pain
  • Pain that worsens with movement or standing
  • Relief when lying down
  • Limited spinal mobility
  • Gradual loss of height

Any new or worsening back pain—especially in older adults—should be evaluated promptly.

Treatment options for vertebral compression fractures

Non-surgical treatment

Some fractures can be managed conservatively with:

  • Pain medications
  • Bracing
  • Activity modification
  • Osteoporosis management

However, these approaches may not provide adequate relief for many patients.

Minimally invasive procedures

Matthew Darlow, MD offers advanced procedures such as:

  • Vertebroplasty – Stabilizes the fracture using bone cement
  • Kyphoplasty – Restores vertebral height and stabilizes the bone

These procedures are performed through small incisions and can provide rapid pain relief.

Benefits of minimally invasive treatment

Patients treated often experience:

  • Rapid and significant pain relief
  • Improved mobility and function
  • Short outpatient procedures
  • Minimal recovery time
  • Reduced need for long-term pain medications

Are you a candidate for treatment?

You may be a candidate for minimally invasive treatment if you:

  • Have persistent back pain from a compression fracture
  • Have imaging confirming a VCF
  • Have not improved with conservative care
  • Experience limited mobility or reduced quality of life

A thorough evaluation by Matthew Darlow, MD will determine the best treatment plan.

What to expect during the procedure

Minimally invasive treatment typically involves:

  1. Image-guided placement of a small needle into the fractured vertebra
  2. Stabilization using medical-grade cement (and balloon expansion in kyphoplasty)
  3. Rapid completion, often within an hour

Most patients go home the same day and experience pain relief quickly.

Recovery and rehabilitation

Recovery is typically straightforward:

  • Walking within hours after the procedure
  • Return to light activities within days
  • Continued management of bone health to prevent future fractures

Why choose Matthew Darlow, MD?

At Orthopedic Specialists of Texas, patients benefit from:

  • Expertise in minimally invasive spine procedures
  • Early and accurate diagnosis of compression fractures
  • Personalized treatment plans
  • Focus on restoring independence and quality of life

Schedule a consultation

If you or a loved one is experiencing persistent back pain, especially after a minor injury or with osteoporosis, a vertebral compression fracture may be the cause. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent long-term complications.

Schedule a consultation with Matthew Darlow, MD today.