How long does it take to recover from a compression fracture of the thoracic spine?

How long it takes to recover from a compression fracture of the thoracic spine depends on the severity of the fracture and whether it is accompanied by nerve damage. Mild compression fractures of the thoracic spine can gradually recover in about 2-4 weeks of treatment if they are not accompanied by spinal nerve damage, no displacement, and no spinal stenosis. If the fracture is accompanied by nerve damage and spinal stenosis, surgical decompression therapy may be required to avoid complications, and recovery will take approximately 6-8 weeks. In the case of osteoporotic compression fractures, the recovery time is relatively long due to the presence of osteoporosis itself. In the case of thoracic compression fractures in elderly people older than 65 years of age, conservative treatment is available, requiring absolute bed rest for 10-12 weeks. In addition, patients with thoracic compression fractures also need to pay attention to warmth to prevent inflammation in the lungs and regular daily turning and back patting to help expel respiratory phlegm.