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Compression Fractures
A spinal compression fracture happens when a vertebra in the spine partially collapses. This can cause sudden back pain, difficulty standing upright, and reduced mobility. Compression fractures are often linked to osteoporosis, but they can also occur after a fall or trauma. While healing depends on medical guidance and time, physical therapy plays an important role in safe recovery—helping you regain strength, improve posture, and reduce the risk of future fractures.
At iMotion Physical Therapy in Fremont, San Jose & Los Gatos, our therapists create personalized rehabilitation plans after compression fractures. We focus on safe movement strategies, progressive strengthening, balance training, and posture work so you can return to daily activities with confidence.
How Does Physical Therapy Help After A Compression Fracture?
Physical therapy after a compression fracture focuses on restoring function while protecting the healing spine. Your therapist will assess pain, posture, mobility, walking, and fall risk to build a plan that may include gentle mobility work, core and back strengthening (with an emphasis on safe spinal extension and stability), posture training to reduce rounded posture and improve alignment, breathing and bracing strategies for safe movement, and balance and gait training to reduce fall risk.
We also educate you on safe ways to bend, lift, and get in and out of bed or a chair. This helps reduce strain on the spine and supports long-term recovery.
Common Symptoms Of Compression Fractures
- Sudden mid-back or low-back pain
- Pain with standing or walking and relief with rest
- Difficulty standing upright or worsening rounded posture
- Limited mobility with daily activities
- Height loss over time (with multiple fractures)
If you suspect a fracture, seek medical evaluation right away.
What To Expect During Treatment
Your first visit includes a careful assessment and review of your medical guidance and restrictions. We start with safe, gentle exercises and progress gradually as healing allows. Your home program is designed to be simple and safe, and we adjust it based on your symptoms and goals. If osteoporosis is a contributing factor, we may also incorporate bone-health strategies such as weight-bearing exercise (when appropriate) and fall prevention training.
Compression Fracture Rehab In Fremont, San Jose & Los Gatos
If you've had a compression fracture and want help recovering safely, contact iMotion Physical Therapy to request an appointment at our Fremont (Lake or Mowry), San Jose, or Los Gatos clinics. We'll help you reduce pain, improve posture, and rebuild strength so you can return to daily life with confidence.
