Home care for a vertebral compression fracture includes:
- Apply a cold compress:
- Wrap ice in a moist hand towel. Do not apply ice directly to the skin.
- Apply for 20-30 minutes, every 1-2 hours, for the first few days.
- Rest in bed, as directed by your doctor.
- Exercise your legs while you are in bed:
- For 20-30 minutes, every 1-2 hours
- Return to walking as soon as possible, as directed by your doctor.
- Avoid activities that cause back pain.
- Use a back splint as directed:
- Perform back strengthening exercises.
- Take prescribed medications as directed.
- Acetaminophen for pain
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications for pain:
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