Objective: To evaluate the effects of facet joint injection in the conservative management of osteoporotic spinal compression fractures

Method: Among 27 patients with osteoporotic spinal compression fractures which were confirmed by plain radiography and bone densitometry (dual energy x-ray absorptiometry), 9 patients were control group and 18 patients received facet joint injection treatment. Facet joint injection of thoracolumbar spine was done under fluoroscopic guide with 1% lidocaine 1 ml and triamcinolone 10 mg at each joint above and below the level of compression fracture at both side. Main outcome measures were visual analog scale (VAS), spinal movement (modified Schober's and lateral bending test), and physical activity from bed-ridden state (grade I) to outdoor activity without pain (grade V). The treatment outcomes were assessed before injection, 2 weeks and 4 weeks after injection.

Results: There were significant decrease in VAS at 2 weeks and 4 weeks after injection in the study group (p＜0.05). Physical activity was significantly improved at post injection 2 weeks and 4 weeks (p＜0.05). There were no significant differences between the two groups in spinal movement.

Conclusion: These results suggest that facet joint injection of thoracolumbar spine is useful method in the conservative management of painful osteoporotic compression fractures.

Keywords :Osteoporotic spinal compression fracture, Facet joint injection, VAS, Spinal movement, Physical activity