How Doctors Know If Your Back Pain Is a Fracture | Dr. Kamal Woods | Vertrae® Dayton

Описание: Visit Vertrae® : https://vertrae.com/

How do spine specialists tell the difference between a muscle strain and a spinal compression fracture? In this video, we break down how back pain is diagnosed—and why some vertebral fractures are often missed.

If your back pain feels heavier, sharper, or different from a typical muscle strain, it may point to a structural issue. We explain the key warning signs doctors look for, including sudden onset pain from minor movements like bending or sneezing, pain that worsens when standing but improves when lying down, and the “band-like” sensation around the torso that can indicate a vertebral compression fracture.

You’ll also learn why these fractures are frequently misdiagnosed as muscle strain, with up to two-thirds going undetected, and why X-rays alone may not be enough for an accurate diagnosis. We walk through the step-by-step process spine specialists use—from clinical history and physical exam to advanced imaging.

Most importantly, we explain why MRI is critical in diagnosing spinal compression fractures. Unlike X-rays, MRI can detect bone marrow edema, helping determine whether a fracture is acute or old—something that directly impacts treatment decisions.

If you’re dealing with persistent back pain that isn’t improving with standard treatment, this video will help you understand when it might be time to look deeper and consider a structural cause.

Read the blog: https://vertrae.com/blog/how-we-know-...