REHABILITATION OF VERTEBRAL FRACTURE BY COMPRESSION OF THE LUMBAR SPINE: A DESCRIPTIVE REVIEW

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.1594282419038

• Palavras-chave: Lumbar spine; Physiotherapy; Compressive fracture; Vertebral fracture; Rehabilitation.

• Keywords: Lumbar spine; Physiotherapy; Compressive fracture; Vertebral fracture; Rehabilitation.

• Abstract:

  The spine is a structure responsible for stabilizing the entire body segment, carrying out movements and protecting the spinal cord, extending from the cervical to the coccyx region. Its fracture is constantly associated with histological issues and abrupt movements, which compromise its bone constitution. With increasing life expectancy, more and more patients are affected by compressive fractures, mainly caused by bone fragility. In this context, it is essential to conduct studies related to the rehabilitation process of compressive fractures of the lumbar spine, understanding the approaches that can be used in different types of treatment, in addition to the protocols used in this process, aiming to reinsert the patient into their usual activities., prior to the injury. To this end, a descriptive review was carried out, through the analysis of original articles, collected in the main databases, such as SciELO, PubMed and Google Scholar, in Portuguese, English and Spanish, over the last 43 years, with the purpose of checking greater veracity to the information presented during the study. Thus, it is understood that the majority of patients affected by vertebral fractures receive conservative intervention, through the use of orthopedic braces, which eliminates, in most cases, surgical invasion. Non-conservative practice proved to be necessary only in cases where there is neurological involvement, defined by a series of clinical and anatomical criteria of the injury, in addition to nerve compression or other systemic pathological effects. Therefore, after the primary intervention process, the rehabilitation period is essential to reestablish regional mechanics, through the recovery of flexion, extension and rotation movements, strengthening local muscles, maximizing body support, in addition to improving the quality of life expectancy of patients affected by the fracture, with potential disabling and morbidity and mortality, which predicts lower life expectancy.