Spinal Injuries & Trauma
Spinal Fractures from Trauma or Accident
Understanding Broken Vertebrae in the Spine
The spine is built to be strong and flexible, but under extreme force — such as a car accident, fall, sports injury, or workplace trauma — the vertebrae can break. These injuries are called spinal fractures. They may range from mild compression fractures to severe fractures that destabilize the spine or injure the spinal cord. At Desert Spine and Pain, we provide urgent, expert care for traumatic spine fractures. Under the leadership of Dr. David L. Greenwald, M.D., FAANS, FACS, a nationally recognized neurosurgeon, our Phoenix-based team offers advanced diagnostics, surgical expertise, and compassionate support to help patients recover safely.
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Over 30 Years Experience in Orthopedic & Neuro Spine Surgeries.
What Are Spinal Fractures?
Spinal fractures occur when one or more vertebrae break under traumatic force. Types include:
Compression fractures – Vertebra collapses, often from trauma or osteoporosis See Compression Fractures
Burst fractures – Vertebra shatters into multiple pieces, often unstable
Flexion-distraction fractures – Caused by violent forward/backward bending (e.g., seatbelt injuries)
Fracture-dislocations – Vertebrae are both broken and displaced, usually highly unstable
Causes
Motor vehicle accidents – The most common cause of severe spinal fractures
Falls – Particularly in older adults with osteoporosis
Sports injuries – High-impact collisions or falls
Workplace accidents – Heavy machinery or falls from height
Violence – Gunshot wounds or assaults
Symptoms of Spinal Fractures
Sudden, severe back or neck pain
Pain that worsens with movement
Numbness, tingling, or weakness in arms or legs
Difficulty walking or standing
Visible deformity or misalignment of the spine
Loss of bladder or bowel control (serious sign of spinal cord involvement)
Diagnosis
At Desert Spine and Pain, evaluation includes:
Physical and neurological exam – Checking stability, strength, and sensation
Imaging –
X-rays to detect fracture lines and alignment
CT scans for detailed bone evaluation
MRI to assess nerve, ligament, and spinal cord involvement
Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Care
Bracing for stable fractures without nerve involvement
Medications for pain and muscle spasms
Physical Therapy once healing begins to restore strength and mobility
Surgical Care
For unstable fractures, spinal cord compression, or deformity:
Spinal Fusion – Stabilizes the injured area with rods, screws, and bone grafts
Decompression surgery – Relieves pressure on the spinal cord or nerves
Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS) – Smaller incisions, less disruption, faster recovery
Recovery Timeline
Stable fractures with bracing – Typically heal in 6–12 weeks
After surgery – Initial recovery in weeks; full healing may take months
Spinal cord involvement – Recovery depends on injury severity and timeliness of care
Why Choose Desert Spine and Pain?
Nationally recognized neurosurgeon – Dr. Greenwald specializes in treating complex spinal fractures
Comprehensive care – From emergency stabilization to long-term rehab
Advanced surgical options – Including minimally invasive and reconstructive techniques
Compassionate support – Helping patients and families feel reassured during a stressful time
Frequently Asked Questions
Are all spinal fractures emergencies?
Yes. All suspected spinal fractures require urgent evaluation to rule out instability or nerve injury.
Can spinal fractures heal without surgery?
Stable fractures often heal with bracing and rest. Unstable fractures usually require surgery.
How long does recovery take from a spinal fracture?
Stable fractures may heal in 6–12 weeks. Surgical recovery can take months depending on the injury.
Can a fracture cause permanent paralysis?
Yes, if the spinal cord is damaged. Immediate treatment improves the chance of recovery.
How does Desert Spine and Pain treat spinal fractures differently?
We provide expert neurosurgical care with advanced imaging, minimally invasive surgery when possible, and personalized recovery plans.
Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD
Neuro-Spine Surgeon
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If you’ve suffered a spinal fracture due to trauma or an accident, timely evaluation is critical to preventing complications and promoting recovery. Dr. Greenwald and his compassionate team are here to provide expert care, advanced imaging, and individualized treatment tailored to your injury. Every step you take toward proper spine care brings you closer to healing, mobility, and comfort. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward recovery with a trusted spine specialist by your side.
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Over 30 Years Experience in Orthopedic & Neuro Spine Surgeries.
Dr. David L. Greenwald, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Neurosurgeon | Spine Surgeon | Regenerative Medicine
Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD, FACS, is a board-certified spine surgeon with extensive expertise in treating spinal fractures resulting from trauma or accidents. These injuries can range from minor compression fractures to severe spinal instability requiring surgical repair. Dr. Greenwald uses advanced imaging and diagnostic tools to assess the severity of each fracture and determine the safest, most effective treatment plan. Depending on the nature of the injury, care may involve bracing, image-guided pain management, or minimally invasive surgical stabilization to restore alignment and protect the spinal cord. With a focus on precision, safety, and long-term recovery, Dr. Greenwald has helped countless patients throughout South Florida regain strength, stability, and confidence after traumatic spinal injuries.
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