VERTEBRAL BODY FRACTURES

Vertebral Body Fractures are a fracture of the vertebrae (bones of the spine) that eventually cause a collapse of the vertebral body. These fractures are most commonly located in the thoracic spine (the middle portion of the spine). The major risk factor for vertebral body fractures are increasing age and occur when the upper body weight exceeds the ability of vertebrae to support the load. Although more frequently seen in women, men can be affected as well (Old, 2004).