Patient Story: Pain Reduction After Vertebroplasty

Vertebroplasty is a minimally invasive treatment in which cement is injected into a fractured vertebra to help reduce pain, stabilize the fracture and restore mobility. Vertebral fractures can occur due to trauma, osteoporosis, and other conditions that weaken the bone.

Recently a 72-year-old male came into the office after sustaining a ground-level fall. He reported much of his pain as being noted to the lower beltline region on his right side. The patient described his pain as a constant aching, sharp, stabbing pain that limited his activities. He noted increase pain with sitting, standing, or walking long distances.

The patient went to the ER where he had imaging studies revealing an L1 vertebral fracture. The patient was seen in an Advanced Spine and Pain clinic where the vertebroplasty was performed. He stated that his pain was significantly reduced.  Upon follow-up visit to ASAP’s clinic, the patient expressed gratitude for the procedure as he was able to sleep at night more comfortably, was able to sit in his car, and walk in the grocery store with his wife. The patient indicated he no longer struggles with his pain and is off all of his pain medication!