It’s no secret that sitting all day is bad for your health. But what if you have fractured vertebrae? Can you still sit comfortably and safely? In this article, we will discuss how to sit with fractured vertebrae. We will cover the best ways to sit and the worst ways to sit, as well as some helpful tips for keeping yourself comfortable and safe.
What Is A Fractured Vertebrae?
A vertebral fracture is a break in one of the bones that make up the spine. While they can occur anywhere along the spine, they most commonly occur in the upper or middle back. Vertebral fractures can be caused by a variety of things, including traumatic injuries, osteoporosis, and tumors.
Symptoms of a vertebral fracture include pain, muscle weakness, and loss of sensation. Depending on the severity of the fracture, treatment may involve rest, pain medication, physical therapy, or surgery. In some cases, vertebral fractures can lead to complications such as paralysis or nerve damage. As a result, it is important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have fractured a vertebra.
What Causes A Fractured Vertebrae
There are many possible causes of a fractured vertebra. One common cause is a motor vehicle accident. When two cars collide, the force of the impact can be enough to break the bones in the spine. Another cause of fractured vertebrae is a fall from a height.
This could happen when someone slips on ice or falls downstairs. osteoporosis can also lead to fractures, as the bones become weaker and more susceptible to breaks. In severe cases, even coughing or sneezing can cause a rib to fracture and put pressure on the spine. Fortunately, most fractures can be treated with rest, ice, and pain medication. However, some fractures may require surgery to repair the damage.
How Are A Fractured Vertebrae Treated
A broken vertebra must be treated quickly and correctly to avoid any complications. Treatment will vary depending on the severity of the break and whether it is a complete or incomplete fracture. In general, however, a combination of immobilization, pain relief, and physical therapy is often used.
Surgery may also be necessary in some cases. Immobilization is usually accomplished with a brace or cast. This helps to keep the broken bone in place so that it can heal properly. Pain relief is typically achieved through the use of pain medication. Physical therapy may be recommended to help improve range of motion and strength.
Surgery is only necessary in severe cases where the broken bone has penetrated the spinal cord or has caused other serious damage. In these cases, surgery is often used to stabilize the spine and remove any fragments of bone that could cause further damage. With proper treatment, most people with a broken vertebra make a full recovery.
How To Sit With A Fractured Vertebrae
If you have fractured vertebrae, it is important to take precautions when sitting. The following tips will help you stay comfortable and safe while sitting with a broken back:
Sit In A Chair That Has Good Back Support
It is very important to sit in a chair that has good back support when you have fractured vertebrae. This is because the back is what supports the weight of your head and keeps your spine in alignment.
When you sit in a chair that does not have good back support, it can put pressure on the spine and cause additional pain. Additionally, it is important to maintain good posture while sitting in order to keep the spine in alignment. This means sitting up straight with your shoulders back and your feet flat on the floor.
You may also want to use a pillow or other support to keep your back straight. By taking these precautions, you can help to prevent further damage to your spine and ensure a quicker recovery.
Lumbar Support Is Ideal
Lumbar support is ideal with fractured vertebrae because it applies pressure to the lower back and spine, relieving pain and discomfort. The support also helps to realign the spine, decreasing the chances of further injury.
Additionally, lumbar support can help to improve healing by minimizing movement in the affected area. This is especially important immediately after the injury occurs when the vertebrae are most fragile. Wearing lumbar support during recovery can help to ensure that the vertebrae heal properly and prevent further complications.
While there are many different types of lumbar supports available, it is important to consult a doctor or physiotherapist before purchasing one to ensure that it is the right fit.
Avoid Sitting In One Position For Too Long
When you sit in one position for too long, the muscles in your back and buttocks can become tight and painful. In addition, sitting in the same position can compress the vertebrae in your spine, which can lead to a fracture.
To avoid this, it’s important to take breaks often and move around. Every 20 minutes or so, stand up and stretch your arms and legs. If possible, walk around for a few minutes. This will help to relieve tension in your muscles and prevent compression of the vertebrae in your spine. In addition, be sure to maintain good posture when sitting.
This means keeping your back straight and your shoulders relaxed. By taking these precautions, you can help to avoid sitting in one position for too long and reduce your risk of fractures.
Avoid Activities That Require You To Bend Forward
When you have fractured vertebrae, it is important to avoid activities that require you to bend forward. This includes activities such as reaching for something on the ground or bending over to pick something up.
Additionally, you should avoid lifting heavy objects, as this can put additional strain on your back and cause further injury. Instead, try to maintain good posture and focus on using your legs to move your body, rather than your back.
Additionally, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible so that your injury can be properly diagnosed and treated. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure a full and speedy recovery.
Final Thoughts
Sitting with a broken back can be challenging, but it is important to take precautions to prevent further injury. By sitting in a chair with good back support, using lumbar support, and avoiding activities that require you to bend forward, you can help your back heal properly and avoid further complications.
