Kyphoplasty can stabilize fractured vertebrae and alleviate pain caused by spinal compression fractures, often due to osteoporosis. About 92% of people report significant symptom relief following this minimally invasive procedure.
However, one potential complication of kyphoplasty is the risk of fractures in neighboring vertebrae. These adjacent vertebral fractures (AVF) can lead to further discomfort, mobility challenges, and the need for additional treatment.
Fortunately, you can minimize this risk and protect your spine.
Our team of board-certified physicians at Interventional Pain and Regenerative Medicine Specialists (IPRMS) in Arlington, Virginia, provides innovative services designed to relieve pain and improve mobility without surgery. Kyphoplasty is one of our specialties.
Our skilled specialists have the necessary training and experience to reduce your risks of AVF after kyphoplasty.
We also encourage you to take charge of your recovery by following these tips to improve your bone health and reduce the odds of post-kyphoplasty AVF.
Most vertebral compression fractures are related to osteoporosis, which causes declines in bone density. Kyphoplasty addresses the immediate fracture, but underlying bone fragility remains a concern.
Decreased bone density increases your risk of AVF; strengthening bone health is critical to prevent further fractures.
These factors help maintain bone health:
Ensure adequate calcium intake (1,000–1,200 mg daily) and vitamin D (600–800 IU daily) to support bone strength. Dairy, leafy greens, and fortified cereals are excellent sources.
You may benefit from bone-preserving medications, such as bisphosphonates, or anabolic agents like teriparatide, especially if you have severe osteoporosis.
Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake, as both negatively impact bone density.
Low-impact, weight-bearing exercises help strengthen bones and the supporting muscles of the spine. Always check with your IPRMS provider before exercising since activity restrictions may apply.
Examples include:
Walking promotes spinal stability without excessive strain. Check your footwear to ensure it offers support and helps keep your ankles, knees, hips, and spine aligned.
These exercise routines help improve core strength, balance, and posture. Be sure your instructor knows you have back problems since they can help you adapt various positions to meet your needs.
Using light weights or resistance bands can enhance bone density. Always consult a physical therapist or trainer experienced with osteoporosis-safe exercises.
Poor posture increases pressure on your vertebrae, potentially leading to further injuries. You can support good posture by practicing neutral spine alignment during daily activities.
We also recommend using ergonomic supports, such as lumbar cushions or adjustable chairs, to minimize spinal stress while sitting.
Always avoid heavy lifting or twisting motions that could strain your back.
Using braces or walkers temporarily can reduce the load on your spine as you heal following kyphoplasty. Always ask before you proceed to ensure you’re selecting the right device for your needs.
You can also rely on your IPRMS physician to recommend assistive devices if necessary during the early weeks.
Falls are a common cause of adjacent vertebral fractures. Reduce your fall risk by:
Our team may also recommend a home evaluation to assess your environment for its fall risk and recommend changes to decrease the dangers.
A bone-friendly diet of lean protein, vitamins, and minerals helps repair tissues and maintain bone strength. We also recommend maintaining a healthy weight since a low body mass index (BMI) or being underweight increases your risk of AVF due to its effects on overall bone health.
Follow-up care is crucial after kyphoplasty. Regular check-ins with your IPRMS team allow us to:
While kyphoplasty provides significant relief, protecting your spine from future fractures requires a multifaceted approach.
Call (571)732-0044 today to schedule a visit at Interventional Pain and Regenerative Medicine Specialists.
