Recent Trauma: When to Call Emergency Services?
After a serious accident, if you have severe back pain, weakness or numbness in your limbs, call 15 or the 112. If a spinal injury is suspected, avoid moving the person, except in cases of immediate danger, and follow the instructions of emergency services. Do not wait for an appointment at the doctor's office.
Fracture stability and neurological status guide treatment. Not all spinal fractures require surgery.
After an injury
A fall, a traffic accident, or a sports accident can cause a vertebral fracture. In a weakened bone, a less severe trauma may be sufficient. Pain after an accident should be assessed.
The Assessment
The examination looks for neurological involvement and other lesions. X-rays, CT scans, and sometimes MRIs clarify the fracture, its stability, and the condition of the nerve and ligament structures.
Non-surgical treatment
Some stable fractures require pain management, sometimes a brace, and supervised mobilization. The restrictions and duration of treatment depend on the injury.
When to discuss surgery?
An unstable fracture, significant deformity, or neurological compression may require surgical stabilization, with release of nerve structures as appropriate.
Fracture follow-up
Checkups assess pain, alignment, and consolidation. Rehabilitation and return to activities are gradual. Bone fragility may require specific evaluation. Follow-up remains necessary after surgery as well as after non-surgical treatment.
Preparing for the follow-up.
What should I bring after a visit to the emergency room?+
The emergency room or hospitalization report, images and their reports, prescriptions, and instructions received. Bring your brace if you wear one.
Can I remove my brace before the appointment?+
Follow the instructions of the team that treated you. If you have any doubts or difficulties, contact them before changing your treatment.
When to return to work or sports?+
The return-to-activity date will be determined during your follow-up appointments based on your injury, its progress, and the demands of your activity.