Compression fracture of the spine in children: treatment and rehabilitation

The bones of young children are in the stage of constant growth. It is fraught with their frequent injury. The most difficult and dangerous fracture – compression fracture of the spine in children. Children rarely suffer from such injuries, however, it can carry adverse consequences.

Adults have to know how to protect the child from such injuries, how to diagnose fractures of the spine and what to do for first aid. Children's bones heal much faster than adults. Despite this, and the consequences of such injury, given time for the rehabilitation takes approximately two years.

The essence of pathology

In the first place is a very severe injury, which can be obtained even when weak, but a sharp blow. For example, while jumping, diving or falling on the buttocks. Another reason this disease is considered a calcium deficiency, which is the companion of osteoporosis.

• See also: the Consequences of fracture of the cervical vertebrae.

Note that the variation of the compression fracture, which is not accompanied by complications, it is often not diagnosed. This is because the symptoms are virtually absent. Parents whose children received injuries of the spine, it is sometimes said that the pain will soon subside and things will get better. But unfortunately, it is not always so and the consequences could be very severe.

Compression is compression. Thus, this type of fracture is the result of compression of the spine. The vertebrae in this change form and they formed cracks. In most cases, damaged the lower and Central part of the thoracic, the lumbar region.

A compression fracture is of three types and are classified according to complexity:

• Injury first degree is diagnosed when the change in the length of vertebrae no more than one third of the total size. Second degree is characterized by changing forms half of the vertebral body. The third severity is accompanied by an injury more than half of the size of the vertebral body.
• Damage the first stage is considered to be stable. Others are unstable, their peculiarity is that the vertebra becomes movable. The nature of the injury may be single or multiple.

• See also: the Treatment of compression fractures of the lumbar spine.

The distinctive features of the disease

If there is mild injury to the vertebrae, the diagnosis may not give any results, because there will be no distinctive symptoms. An experienced professional should perform the palpation and tapping that will help to identify the most painful area. Signs of injury can also be identified by clicking on the head and forearm. Children who broke the spine, are cautious of the movements.

Symptoms of compression fracture:

• At the time of injury occur with breathing problems;
• The unpleasant sensation of pain and muscle tension at the site of injury;
• The sensation of pain when the load on the spine.

A spinal fracture is often accompanied by pain in the abdominal area. Paralysis of the limbs and problems with the functioning of the organs of the pelvis are observed rarely, only in cases when it affects the thoracic spine, and the vertebrae in place.

The most common complaint in compression fracture – the problem with the breathing, and in rare cases it is delayed. If the injured cervical vertebrae, it is possible to pay attention to the special situation of the head and problems with the movements of it. In every fourth case of compression fractures symptoms of irritation of the nerve roots of the spinal cord.

Treatment

In most cases parents bring their children to the hospital. But in some situations doctors have to provide emergency assistance on the spot. No matter what the nature of the damage is diagnosed, it is important to be extremely careful and cautious. Should ask the child how he feels, and to determine the approximate degree of injury. In addition, you need to understand what type of fracture is present, whether there are complications.

• See also: Fracture of the thoracic spine.

Companions of fractures with complications are paralysis and paresis. From this it follows that it is necessary to gather the most comprehensive picture of the disease. If there is the slightest suspicion of the presence of the fracture with the complication, the transportation of a child should occur only in the specially equipped ambulance carhelp.

When injury to the cervical spine superimposed special bus.

When injury of other departments during the transportation of the child the use of a rigid stretcher. If the hard stretcher was not, then you can take soft, but the child should lie on his stomach. Under his head and shoulders puts the pillow.

• See also: What are spinal injuries?

In the hospital the baby is placed on an inclined shield. If the doctor diagnoses a fracture without complications, specific treatment is not prescribed. It all comes down to the use of the corset for some time. If the fracture is accompanied by complications, can be done surgical operation. In any situation it is important to consult a doctor. Treatment of compression fractures of the spine in children supplemented with massage and physical therapy:

• The first seven days of treatment. Assigned to the therapy sessionsthat are directed at improving the functioning of the heart, lungs and the stomach. Exercises are performed which warn from a decrease in muscle strength.
• Following two months of treatment. Appointed by physiotherapy exercises aimed at strengthening muscles. Increases the load on the spine.
• The duration of the third period depends on the individual characteristics of the child. At this time are assigned to the physical therapy sessions, which consist of exercises, load and resistance.

In addition, the designated massage. It is important that it was done by a qualified technician. Self-medication in this situation is fraught with serious problems.

• See also: the Consequences of fracture of the spine.

The consequences of fracture

In order to fully recover after a fracture need a sufficient amount of time. It all depends on the individual characteristics of the organism and the nature of the injury. The most prosperous forecast have compression fractures of the 1st severity. In such situations quickly and effectively achieved a full recovery. Sometimes the trauma has such consequences as:

• Kyphosis;
• Osteoporosis;
• Spondylitis.

If we do not seek medical help, the result of injury can be a disability. There is a risk of such severe consequences as kyphoscoliosis, necrosis of the spine, and many others.

• See also: How is the transport in the fracture of the spine?

Prevention

General rules of prevention of injury to children and are used to prevent fractures of the spine. Preventive effect should provide parents and teachers. These people are responsible for the fact that the children were in a safe environment during their leisure time. In addition, it's important to explain to the kids how to behave in order to avoid injuries.

• See also: What is a compression fracture of the spine?

Upon receiving such a serious injury, a compression fracture of the spine, it is crucial to seek help from doctors. During treatment of the disease must carefully follow all doctors ' orders and attend all the necessary training.

• See also: First aid for fracture of the spine.

Attentive to the child's health will fully recover in the shortest possible time.