Signs You Might Have a Spinal Fracture

A sudden fall, a car accident, or even a simple twist while lifting groceries – these everyday events can lead to spinal fractures that drastically alter your quality of life. Spinal fractures occur when one or more vertebrae in your spine break, causing pain, instability, and in severe cases, nerve damage or paralysis. Early detection is critical – when diagnosed promptly, treatment can prevent further damage to your delicate spinal cord, reduce inflammation, and significantly improve your chances of recovery. Whether caused by trauma, osteoporosis, or other underlying conditions, recognizing the warning signs of a spinal fracture could be the difference between a successful recovery and long-term disability.

The symptoms of a spinal fracture can vary widely – from sudden, sharp back pain to a gradual loss of height or a curved, stooped posture. For some people, the pain worsens when standing or walking but eases when lying down, while others may experience tingling, numbness, or even loss of bladder control. At Lanman Spinal Neurosurgery, our specialists understand the complex nature of spinal injuries and employ comprehensive diagnostic approaches including physical examinations and advanced imaging techniques to accurately identify fractures. Our multidisciplinary team of experts offers both surgical and non-surgical treatment options tailored to your specific condition, ensuring you receive the most effective care to stabilize your spine, relieve pain, and restore your mobility.

What Is a Spinal Fracture?

A spinal fracture happens when one or more bones (vertebrae) in your spine break. These fractures can range from minor cracks to severe breaks that cause the vertebrae to collapse or shatter. Your spine is made up of 33 stacked bones that protect your spinal cord, and when these bones break, it can lead to pain, instability, and in some cases, damage to the spinal cord itself.

Types of Spinal Fractures

Compression Fractures

Wedge fracture: Compression fractures typically occur when the front part of a vertebra collapses under pressure while the back part remains relatively intact. These fractures are most common in people with weakened bones due to osteoporosis, especially women over 50 who have gone through menopause. The vertebra compresses down on itself without affecting the spinal canal. When the front portion collapses more than the back, it creates a wedge-shaped vertebra.
Burst Fracture: Burst fractures are more severe and happen when a vertebra shatters in multiple directions due to extreme force. Unlike wedge fractures, burst fractures can cause bone fragments to scatter, potentially damaging the spinal cord. These fractures typically result from high-impact trauma such as car accidents or falls from significant heights where you land in an upright position. Because of their severity, burst fractures often require surgical intervention.

Flexion–Distraction Fractures
Also known as Chance fractures, these injuries occur when the spine is forcibly bent forward (flexed) while simultaneously being pulled apart. They commonly happen during car accidents when a seatbelt catches your lower body while your upper body jerks forward. These fractures typically affect both the vertebral body and the posterior elements of the spine. Despite their serious nature, patients with flexion-distraction injuries who receive proper treatment often have good outcomes.

Fracture-Dislocations
This is the most unstable type of spinal fracture, involving fractures in multiple parts of the vertebra combined with displacement of the vertebra from its normal position. The entire vertebra can move back and forth or side to side, creating a highly unstable situation that often requires immediate surgical stabilization. These severe injuries typically result from high-energy trauma and have the highest risk of causing spinal cord damage.

Common Causes of Spinal Fractures

Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is the leading cause of spinal compression fractures. This bone-thinning condition makes vertebrae soft and weak, unable to support your spine during everyday activities. Even minor actions like bending to lift an object, coughing, or sneezing can fracture vertebrae in someone with severe osteoporosis. Risk factors for osteoporosis include being female, over age 50, having a slim build, experiencing early menopause, and smoking.

Traumatic Injuries

High-impact accidents frequently cause spinal fractures, particularly burst fractures and fracture-dislocations. Common traumatic causes include:

Car accidents
Falls from heights
Sports injuries
Violence (including gunshot wounds)
Severe blows to the spine

Other Medical Conditions

Several other conditions can weaken vertebrae and increase fracture risk:

Spinal tumors (both cancerous and non-cancerous)
Cancer that has spread to the bones (especially myeloma and lymphoma)
Spinal infections like osteomyelitis
Metabolic disorders such as Paget’s disease
Prolonged use of corticosteroid medications
Degenerative disc disease

Common Signs and Symptoms of a Spinal Fracture

Sudden or Severe Back Pain

Spinal fractures typically cause sudden, severe pain in the back that feels different from ordinary muscle strain. This pain is usually localized to the area of the fracture and may radiate to the front or sides of your body. Unlike muscle strains or disc-related issues that develop gradually with a dull ache, compression fracture pain often comes on suddenly and severely.

The pain from a spinal fracture is typically concentrated at the site of the break, while general back pain may be more diffuse or spread across a larger area. Fracture pain is also more consistent and less likely to completely resolve with rest, though it may temporarily improve when lying down.

Many people experience fracture pain after minimal strain during everyday activities such as:

Lifting groceries
Bending to pick something up
Slipping
Lifting items from a car trunk
Changing bed linens

Pain That Worsens with Movement

A common symptom of spinal fractures is pain that significantly worsens with movement. Standing, walking, bending, or twisting can cause extreme discomfort as these actions put pressure on the fractured vertebrae. Even simple activities like coughing or sneezing may intensify the pain.

When you rest you might experience some temporary relief from the pain. This pattern of pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest is an important clue that distinguishes fracture pain from other types of back problems.

Height Loss or Hunched Posture (Kyphosis)

Spinal compression fractures, especially in people with osteoporosis, can lead to noticeable changes in posture and height. As vertebrae collapse and form wedge shapes, the spine begins to curve forward, creating what’s known as kyphosis or a “dowager’s hump.”

With multiple compression fractures, you may experience:

Measurable height loss (greater than 1.5 inches in a year is concerning)
Forward curvature of the spine creating a stooped appearance
Changes in how clothing fits
Abdominal protrusion as internal organs get compressed

This forward curvature creates a cycle where stooped posture adds more pressure along the spine, potentially causing additional compression fractures. Multiple fractures can significantly reduce a person’s height and worsen the curvature over time

Numbness, Tingling, or Weakness

When fractured parts of the spine press against spinal nerves, you may experience symptoms beyond just pain. These neurological symptoms can include:

Numbness and tingling in your arms and/or legs
Burning sensations
Weakness in limbs
Radiating pain to other areas of the body

In severe cases where fractures lead to compression of the spinal cord, more serious neurological symptoms can develop, including paralysis. A rare but emergency condition called cauda equina syndrome can occur with severe compression of the nerve bundle at the base of the spine, causing symptoms like difficulty urinating, bowel movement problems, and numbness in the inner thighs and groin.

Difficulty Walking or Loss of Mobility

Spinal fractures can significantly impact your ability to move normally. You might experience:

Limited mobility and flexibility
Difficulty standing, walking, bending, or twisting
Muscle spasms
Unstable feeling when trying to move

If you notice these mobility issues, especially if they come on suddenly or are accompanied by severe pain, you should seek medical attention promptly. You should contact emergency services or visit the emergency room if you have sudden, severe back pain along with difficulty walking or loss of mobility.

Medical attention is particularly urgent if your pain is combined with numbness, tingling, or the inability to move your arms or legs, as these symptoms suggest more serious nerve or spinal cord involvement.

What Causes Spinal Fractures?

Spinal fractures can happen to anyone, though certain factors increase your risk. Understanding the causes can help you take steps to protect your spine health.

Trauma

Traumatic events are the leading cause of spinal fractures, particularly in younger individuals. These high-energy injuries can severely damage the vertebrae (the bones that make up your spine).

Motor Vehicle Accidents

Car and motorcycle accidents account for almost half of all new spinal cord injuries each year in the United States. These accidents create powerful forces that can fracture vertebrae when:

Your body is suddenly stopped while moving at high speed
Your spine is compressed, twisted, or bent beyond its normal range
Your body is struck directly by objects during the collision

Falls

Falls are another major cause of spinal fractures, particularly in older adults. In fact, falls are the most common cause of spinal cord injuries in people over age 65. These can include:

Falls from heights (such as ladders or roofs)
Slip and fall accidents
Falls down stairs

High-energy falls account for about 36% of spinal fractures according to some studies.

Sports and Recreational Activities

About 10% of spinal cord injuries result from sports and recreational activities. Sports-related spinal fractures differ from those caused by frailty or vehicle accidents. Activities with higher risk include:

Horse riding
Cycling
Water sports and boating
Impact sports
Diving in shallow water
Extreme sports

A study at one trauma center found horse riding, cycling, and boating were the sports most commonly associated with spinal fractures.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is the most common cause of compression fractures in the spine. This disease makes bones fragile and weak by reducing their density and mineral content.

In people with osteoporosis, spinal fractures can occur during normal daily activities, such as:

Bending forward
Lifting light objects
Coughing or sneezing
Getting in or out of bed

These compression fractures are particularly common in older women. In fact, about 40% of all women will have at least one vertebral fracture by age 80. The fractures typically cause the front part of the vertebra to collapse while the back remains intact, creating a wedge-shaped vertebra that contributes to the stooped posture often seen in people with multiple compression fractures.

Tumors and Bone Disease

Cancer and other bone diseases can significantly increase the risk of spinal fractures by weakening the vertebrae.

Cancer and Metastases

When cancer spreads to the bones (bone metastases), it disrupts the normal balance between bone formation and breakdown. This weakens the bones and makes them more likely to fracture. The spine is the most common site for bone metastases.

Cancers that frequently spread to bone include:

Breast cancer
Prostate cancer
Lung cancer
Kidney cancer
Thyroid cancer
Melanoma

Even without bone metastases, cancer treatments can increase fracture risk. For example, women treated for breast cancer have a significantly higher risk of vertebral fractures—about five times higher than women without breast cancer.

Multiple Myeloma

Multiple myeloma is a cancer that starts in the bone marrow and can cause numerous bone lesions throughout the body, including the spine. These lesions weaken the bone structure and can lead to fractures.

Other Conditions

Several other conditions can weaken bones and increase fracture risk:

Osteogenesis imperfecta (brittle bone disease)
Paget’s disease
Hyperparathyroidism
Long-term steroid use
Certain genetic disorders

Understanding these causes can help you and Dr. Lanman assess your risk factors and take appropriate preventive measures to protect your spine health.

When to See a Doctor for a Possible Spinal Fracture

Warning Signs That Require Immediate Medical Attention

Severe or Persistent Back Pain

One of the most common symptoms of a spinal fracture is sudden, severe, or persistent back pain. This pain may:

Come on suddenly after minimal strain during everyday activities like lifting groceries or bending to pick something up
Get worse when you stand, walk, bend, or twist
Temporarily improve when lying down
Radiate to other parts of your body

If you experience intense back pain that doesn’t improve or worsens over time, especially after an accident or fall, you should see a doctor right away.

Neurological Symptoms

Seek emergency medical care if you experience any of these symptoms, which may indicate nerve or spinal cord involvement:

Numbness, tingling, or “pins and needles” sensations in your arms, hands, legs, or feet
Weakness in your limbs
Difficulty gripping objects
Trouble lifting your arms or legs
Feeling unstable while walking

Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control

This is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Loss of control over urination or bowel movements could indicate serious spinal cord damage or a condition called cauda equina syndrome.

Difficulty Walking or Loss of Mobility

If you’re experiencing:

Limited mobility and flexibility
Difficulty standing, walking, bending, or twisting
Muscle spasms
An unstable feeling when trying to move

These symptoms could indicate a serious spinal injury that needs prompt medical evaluation.

Breathing Problems

If you’re having trouble breathing after a spinal injury, seek emergency care immediately. This could indicate an injury to the upper spine that’s affecting your respiratory function.

Postural Changes

Watch for these signs that may develop gradually:

Noticeable loss of height (more than 1.5 inches in a year)
Development of a curved, stooped posture (kyphosis)
Changes in how your clothing fits

Importance of Early Diagnosis

Preventing Complications

Getting an early diagnosis for a spinal fracture is crucial because untreated fractures can lead to:

Vertebral deformity and spinal misalignment
Nerve damage
Soft tissue damage
Chronic, severe pain
Spinal deformities like kyphosis (excessive rounding of the upper back) or scoliosis (sideways curvature)

Improving Treatment Outcomes

Early diagnosis allows for:

Timely intervention that can prevent further damage
More treatment options
Better pain management
Reduced risk of permanent disability
Prevention of additional fractures

Reducing Long-term Health Impacts

Untreated spinal fractures can cause:

Chronic pain requiring long-term medication
Dependency on pain medications
Permanent limited mobility
Increased risk of additional fractures
Reduced quality of life
In severe cases, increased mortality risk

Remember that some spinal fractures, especially those related to osteoporosis, may not cause immediate symptoms. Regular check-ups are important, particularly if you have risk factors like osteoporosis, previous fractures, or are over 50 years old.

Don’t hesitate to seek medical attention if you experience any warning signs of a spinal fracture. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing serious complications and ensuring the best possible recovery.

Diagnosis of a Spinal Fracture

Getting an accurate diagnosis for a spinal fracture is crucial for proper treatment and recovery. Doctors use a combination of physical examination and advanced imaging tests to confirm if you have a spinal fracture and determine its severity.

Physical Examination and Symptom Assessment

When you visit a doctor with suspected spinal fracture, they will first perform a thorough physical examination to assess your condition.

Medical History Review

Dr. Lanman will ask about:

How your injury occurred (if there was trauma)
The location and intensity of your pain
Activities that make your pain worse or better
Any changes in posture or height you’ve noticed
Previous fractures or conditions like osteoporosis

Physical Assessment

During the physical exam, Dr. Lanman will:

Check for tenderness when gently pressing or tapping over your spine
Look for visible bulging or protrusion at the site of a possible fracture
Assess your posture for signs of kyphosis (forward curvature) or height loss
Examine your range of motion and how movement affects your pain
Test your muscle strength and reflexes if there are concerns about nerve involvement

A positive finding during percussion (tapping) of the spine that produces sharp, sudden pain has a sensitivity of 87.5% and specificity of 90% for detecting a spinal fracture.

Another telling sign is if you’re unable to lie flat on your back with only one pillow due to severe pain—this has a sensitivity of 81.25% and specificity of 93.3%.

Imaging Tests

While physical examination provides important clues, imaging tests are essential for confirming the diagnosis and determining the exact nature of a spinal fracture.

X-rays

X-rays are typically the first imaging test ordered when a spinal fracture is suspected:

They use low doses of radiation to create pictures of your spine
They can show fractures with dislocation clearly and larger fracture fragments
They can reveal changes in vertebral height or shape
Both anteroposterior (front-to-back) and lateral (side) views are important

Radiographic criteria for vertebral compression fractures include a decrease in vertebral body height of at least 20% or a 4-mm reduction from baseline height.

CT Scans (Computed Tomography)

CT scans provide more detailed information about bony structures:

They show the location, shape, and orientation of fractures in greater detail
They’re especially good at detecting fracture fragments in the spinal canal
They can reveal fractures of vertebral accessories (like spinous processes)
They can show narrowing of the spinal canal
They’re better at detecting complex fractures and fractures in patients with osteoporosis

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

MRI is particularly valuable for assessing soft tissue damage and determining the age of fractures:

It can show injuries to the spinal cord and surrounding soft tissues
It can help differentiate between new (acute) and old (chronic) fractures
It’s excellent for detecting bone bruises and ligament injuries
It can reveal spinal cord compression or nerve involvement
It’s the best test for determining if a fracture is caused by cancer or infection

MRI is especially important if you have neurological symptoms or if Dr. Lanman suspects that your fracture might be due to something other than trauma or osteoporosis.

Specialized Tests

In some cases, additional tests may be recommended:

Vertebral Fracture Assessment (VFA) using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is a low-radiation technique that can assess both bone density and vertebral fractures at the same time
Bone density testing (densitometry) may be ordered to check for osteoporosis, a common cause of compression fractures

Comprehensive Approach

Each imaging method has its strengths and limitations. Often, a combination of tests provides the most complete picture:

X-rays offer a good initial assessment
CT scans provide detailed information about bone damage
MRI gives information about soft tissue and spinal cord involvement

The combination of X-ray, CT, and MRI is important for a comprehensive diagnosis of spinal injury, as each can show different aspects of the fracture.

Dr. Lanman will choose the appropriate tests based on your specific symptoms, the suspected type of fracture, and other factors such as your age and medical history.

Treatment Options for Spinal Fractures

Conservative Treatments

Pain Management, Bracing, and Physical Therapy

Most spinal fractures, especially compression fractures related to osteoporosis, can be treated without surgery. Conservative treatment typically includes:

Bed rest: The recommended duration depends on your age, general health, and the results of diagnostic tests. Bed rest may help reduce the progression of vertebral collapse and prevent worsening of kyphosis (rounding of the upper back).
Pain medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have shown effectiveness in managing acute pain from vertebral compression fractures. Your doctor may also prescribe other pain relievers depending on your pain level.
Back braces or corsets: These devices help prevent the vertebrae from slipping further and can reduce pain by limiting spine movement. They’re particularly helpful during the healing phase, though their effectiveness for long-term pain relief is still being studied.
Physical therapy: Once the acute pain subsides, physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles supporting your spine, improve flexibility, and teach you proper body mechanics to prevent future injuries.

Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Further Fractures

If you’ve had one spinal fracture, you’re at higher risk for additional fractures. These preventive measures are crucial:

Osteoporosis treatment: Bone-strengthening medications such as bisphosphonates (Actonel, Boniva, Fosamax) help stabilize or restore bone loss, which is critical for preventing further compression fractures.
Calcium and vitamin D supplementation: These nutrients are essential for bone health.
Regular weight-bearing exercise: Activities that put gentle stress on bones help maintain bone density.
Fall prevention: Removing tripping hazards at home, improving lighting, and using assistive devices if needed can reduce fall risk.
Smoking cessation and limiting alcohol: Both smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can weaken bones.

Minimally Invasive Procedures

Vertebroplasty and Kyphoplasty for Compression Fractures

These procedures have become common surgical techniques for treating vertebral compression fractures:

Vertebroplasty involves:

Inserting a needle into the damaged vertebra under X-ray guidance
Injecting bone cement (polymethylmethacrylate) directly into the fractured vertebra
The cement hardens in about 10 minutes, stabilizing the fracture

Kyphoplasty is a modification of vertebroplasty that includes:

Creating a cavity in the vertebra using a balloon tamp that is inflated inside the fractured bone
Removing the balloon and filling the cavity with bone cement
This approach may help restore vertebral height and reduce kyphosis

Both procedures are typically performed as outpatient surgeries and take about an hour per treated vertebra.

Benefits of Minimally Invasive Approaches

These procedures offer several advantages:

Immediate pain relief: Many patients experience pain reduction right after the procedure, though some may take a few weeks to feel the full benefit.
Short recovery time: Most people can walk on their own and return home hours after surgery.
Minimal scarring: The incisions are so small that stitches are often not required.
Quick return to activities: Most patients are fully recovered in about five days and can return to everyday activities within two weeks.
No bracing required: Unlike conservative treatment, these procedures typically don’t require post-procedure bracing.
Prevention of deformity: By stabilizing the fractured vertebra, these procedures can prevent the onset or worsening of spinal deformity.

Surgical Treatment for Severe Fractures

When Spinal Fusion or Other Surgical Options May Be Necessary

More extensive surgery may be recommended in cases where:

The fracture has caused significant spinal instability
There is compression of the spinal cord or nerves
The patient has severe, intractable pain despite other treatments
There is progressive deformity or height loss

Spinal fusion surgery connects two or more vertebrae together, eliminating motion between them and allowing them to heal into a single, solid bone. This procedure may involve:

Placing metal screws through bone tubes into the vertebrae
Attaching the screws to metal plates or rods
Using bone grafts to stimulate fusion between the vertebrae

How to Prevent Spinal Fractures

Bone Health and Osteoporosis Prevention

Understand Your Risk Factors

Several factors can increase your risk of developing osteoporosis, which makes your bones more fragile and prone to fractures:

Age (especially women over 50 and men over 70)
Early menopause (before age 45)
Family history of osteoporosis
Low body weight (BMI under 19)
Certain medical conditions like celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, and rheumatoid arthritis
Cancer treatments including chemotherapy and radiation therapy

Consider talking with your doctor about your personal risk factors and when you should have a bone density test to assess your bone health.

Get Regular Check-ups

Regular medical check-ups are important for monitoring your bone health. Ask your doctor to:

Evaluate your risk for falling
Review your medications, as some can affect bone density
Assess your need for calcium or vitamin D supplements
Address any issues causing confusion or memory problems that might increase fall risk

Safe Movement Techniques to Reduce Fall Risk

Fall-Proof Your Home

Making your living environment safer can significantly reduce your risk of falls:

Remove tripping hazards like loose rugs and clutter
Add grab bars inside and outside your tub or shower and next to the toilet
Install railings on both sides of stairs
Ensure good lighting throughout your home, including night lights
Use non-slip mats in the bathroom and kitchen

Improve Your Balance and Coordination

Working on balance and coordination can help prevent falls:

Consider activities like tai chi, which involves slow, graceful movements that improve balance
Practice standing on one foot while holding onto a sturdy chair for support
Try heel-to-toe walking as if you’re on a tightrope
Work with a physical therapist to develop specific exercises for your needs

Choose Proper Footwear

Your choice of shoes matters for fall prevention:

Wear properly fitting, sturdy shoes with non-skid soles
Avoid high heels, floppy slippers, and shoes with slick soles
Don’t walk around in socks without grip

The Role of Diet, Exercise, and Supplements

Calcium-Rich Diet

Calcium is essential for bone health. Include these calcium-rich foods in your diet:

Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt
Dark leafy greens including kale, collard greens, and spinach
Canned fish with bones, such as sardines and salmon
Almonds, chia seeds, and other nuts and seeds
Calcium-fortified foods like certain cereals, juices, and plant milks

Vitamin D for Calcium Absorption

Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium effectively:

Spend some time in the sun (following skin cancer prevention guidelines)
Eat fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and tuna
Include egg yolks and mushrooms in your diet
Consider a supplement if you live in an area with limited sunlight

Other Important Nutrients

Several other nutrients play key roles in bone health:

Magnesium: Found in whole grains, nuts, seeds, and dark chocolate
Vitamin K: Present in leafy greens, Brussels sprouts, and broccoli
Phosphorous: Available in whole grains, dairy, nuts, and beans

Bone-Strengthening Exercise

Regular exercise is crucial for maintaining bone density:

Engage in weight-bearing exercises like walking, jogging, tennis, or dancing at least 4-6 times per week for 30-40 minutes
Include high-impact activities such as jumping or rope skipping if appropriate for your fitness level
Perform strength training exercises 2-3 times per week to build muscle that supports your bones
Mix up your routine to work different muscle groups

Lifestyle Modifications

Making these lifestyle changes can significantly improve bone health:

Quit smoking, as it reduces bone mass
Limit alcohol consumption to no more than two standard drinks per day
Reduce caffeine intake to no more than 2-3 cups of coffee, tea, or cola daily
Maintain a healthy weight

Supplements When Necessary

While getting nutrients from food is ideal, supplements may be beneficial in some cases:

Calcium supplements may be recommended if you can’t get enough from your diet
Vitamin D supplements are often needed, especially in northern climates
Magnesium supplements (250-400mg daily) may support bone health
Vitamin K2 (45-180 mcg daily) works with vitamin D for bone health

Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, as they can interact with medications and may not be appropriate for everyone.

Why Choose Dr. Todd Lanman for Spinal Fracture Treatment?

When you’re facing a spinal fracture, choosing the right medical team is crucial for your recovery and long-term spine health. Dr. Todd Lanman offers comprehensive care with a patient-centered approach that prioritizes your specific needs.

Expertise in Diagnosing and Treating Spinal Fractures

Dr. Todd Lanman brings together a team of highly skilled specialists who focus exclusively on spinal disorders. Our physicians limit their practice to spinal disorders, ensuring they maintain specialized expertise in all regions of the spine including cervical, thoracic, and lumbosacral areas.

Our spine specialists use a comprehensive diagnostic approach that includes:

Detailed physical examinations to assess pain, mobility limitations, and neurological symptoms
Advanced imaging techniques including X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs to visualize fractures with precision
Personalized evaluation of each case to determine the most appropriate treatment plan

With faculty members who are part of academic medical centers, our doctors stay at the forefront of spine treatment advances and bring this knowledge directly to your care.

Advanced Treatment Options Tailored to You

Dr. Lanman’s practice focuses on personalized care, offering both minimally invasive procedures and advanced surgical techniques to address spinal fractures effectively:

Minimally Invasive Techniques: For compression fractures, Dr. Lanman uses state-of-the-art versions of procedures like vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty to stabilize the spine with minimal recovery time.
Motion-Preserving Solutions: As an innovator in artificial disc replacement, Dr. Lanman provides alternatives to traditional fusion surgery, helping patients maintain flexibility and avoid long-term complications.
Comprehensive Care: Dr. Lanman’s proprietary “4D Health Process” evaluates not just the spine but also factors like lifestyle, nutrition, and exercise to create a holistic treatment plan.

Dr. Lanman brings over 30 years of experience in spinal neurosurgery, specializing in diagnosing and treating complex spinal conditions, including fractures. He is a board-certified neurosurgeon and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, with affiliations at prestigious institutions such as Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and UCLA Medical Center.

Dr. Lanman is recognized as a pioneer in motion-preserving spine surgery, including artificial disc replacement, which has revolutionized spinal care by restoring mobility and reducing the need for traditional spinal fusion procedures. His extensive experience includes serving as a principal investigator for clinical trials on cutting-edge technologies, ensuring his patients benefit from the latest advancements in spinal health

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Todd Lanman

If you’re experiencing persistent back pain, discomfort, or suspect a spinal fracture, it’s essential to seek expert medical advice. At Lanman Spinal Neurosurgery, led by world-renowned spinal neurosurgeon Dr. Todd H. Lanman, we specialize in diagnosing and treating spinal disorders with advanced, patient-focused care.

Why Consult Dr. Todd Lanman?

Dr. Lanman and his team are pioneers in spinal health, offering cutting-edge treatments such as motion-preserving artificial disc replacement and minimally invasive procedures. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Lanman has transformed the lives of countless patients suffering from spinal conditions.

Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or seeking a second opinion, Spine MD provides personalized care designed to restore your mobility and quality of life.

Take the First Step Toward Recovery

Don’t let back pain or spinal issues hold you back. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and help you return to the activities you love.

Schedule Your Consultation Today:

Call us at (310) 385-7766 to speak with our team and book an appointment.
Visit our website at spine.md to learn more about our services and submit a consultation request.

Your journey to a healthier spine starts here. Contact Dr. Todd Lanman today and let us help you reclaim your life!