In contrast to a stress fracture, a compression fracture is a complete bone break that disrupts the bone tissue and collapses the affected bone. The spinal vertebrae body is the most common site of compression fractures. Vertebral compression fractures typically occur in the elderly osteoporotic spine; however, they can also occur as a result of severe trauma in the non-osteoporotic individual.

Compression fractures of the spine result as a bone in the spine collapses. The fracture causes the vertebrae body to lose height and form a wedge shape. Some compression fractures are painful, while others go unnoticed. Accumulated compression fractures lead to a noticeable loss of height. These fractures usually heal on their own within eight to twelve weeks.