Why do spinal fractures occur in the elderly? Due to osteoporosis of the vertebral body, degeneration of the intervertebral disc and nucleus pulposus, and degenerative changes in the muscles and ligaments around the lumbar area, which reduces the stability of the spine. These factors can determine the susceptibility of the elderly to spinal fractures. Due to osteoporosis, spinal fractures may occur in the elderly due to minor violence or trauma, especially at the junction of the thoracic and lumbar spine. For example, when an elderly person rides in a car, a bump in the car may lead to a spinal fracture. Even a sneeze can cause a fracture. When is a spinal fracture suspected? A fall, or even a minor fall or pain in the lower back after carrying a heavy load, with difficulty turning over and moving around, should alert you to an osteoporotic spinal compression fracture. Then you should go to the hospital for examination. What tests are needed to suspect a spinal fracture? For general spinal fractures, an X-ray is all that is needed; for patients with more severe compression and neurological symptoms, a CT or MR examination is also required. What about spinal fractures in the elderly? 1, conservative treatment: adapted to those who have relatively mild compression and do not need surgery; or those who need surgery, but the patient’s physical condition cannot tolerate it. Methods: Bed rest for 4-6 weeks; oral calcium supplements; symptomatic pain relief. 2.Minimally invasive percutaneous puncture balloon expansion vertebroplasty surgery. 3.Surgical treatment with incisional internal fixation: adapted to those with heavy compression, neurological symptoms, spinal stenosis or spinal instability.