Does 'chronic vertebral compression' mean a compression fracture?

Yes, chronic vertebral compression can mean a compression fracture. Compression fractures are common in the elderly population and occur when vertebrae (the bones that make up your spine) collapse due to bone weakening from osteoporosis or direct trauma. This type of fracture is most commonly seen in the thoracic or lumbar spine. Symptoms of a compression fracture include sudden onset lower back pain, decreased range of motion, and muscle spasms or tightness in the lower back area. In some cases, there may be no symptoms at all but can cause deformities such as a "hunched" posture due to an exaggerated forward curvature of the upper portion of the spine. Diagnosis usually takes place through imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans which will show evidence of one or more collapsed vertebrae causing instability within your spine structure. Treatment typically involves wearing a brace for several months while engaging in physical therapy exercises that focus on maintaining spinal strength and flexibility as well as activity modification/resting to allow healing time for optimal recovery outcomes.