The spinous process is a small part of your vertebrae that plays a significant role in your spinal health. This bony projection protects your neural spine, maintains body posture, and is an attachment point for muscles and ligaments.
According to a study conducted by NCMI, nearly 11% of spinal fractures are due to the spinous process. This is why educating yourself about the spinous process and fracture treatment is important.
Let’s dive deeper into the structure, function, and clinical significance of the spinous process along with the comprehensive explanation of issues and treatment, such as spinous process fracture, treatment plan and traits like bifid spinous processes.
Location and Anatomy of the Spinous Process
The spinous process is located in the posterior (back) aspect of each vertebra, however, its spinal region differs, such as in the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar regions.
The most common spinal region of spinous process location is the cervical region, where further its tip is split into two different sections referred to as bifid spinous processes. It is mostly situated in the vertebrae C2 through C6.
The spinous process is also situated in the shoulder blade, known as the spinous process of the scapula. It is spotted on the bony bridge of the shoulder rather than the vertebral column.
Did you know the spinous process is the only bone that you can feel externally through your skin?
What is Spinous Process Fracture?
A spinous process Fracture is a critical condition for spine health. It occurs when the stress of trauma affects the neural spine and anchoring muscles and ligaments.
Vital Points You Should Know
- The spinous process fracture most commonly occurs in the thoracic spine.
- This fracture usually occurs due to stress, strain or degenerative changes.
- Injuries in the spinous processes are common in individuals with bifid spinous processes (a naturally split spine structure).
- Although the spinous process is present from the spinous process of the scapula to the lumbar area, most fractures are reported in the lower cervical vertebrae.
Emergency Spinous Process Fracture Treatment available at Plano ER–Get immediate and compassionate care your back deserves.
Spinous Process Fracture Treatment Options
There are different treatment types for spinous process fracture, however majority of them are non-surgical and can be managed with complete care.
Below is a detailed table about different types of fracture treatments and their purposes:
| Spinous Process Fracture Treatment Type | Purpose | Common Use |
| Medication | Improves healing and stops the pain. | For minor and moderate fractures. |
| Physical Therapy | Strengthens back muscles and improves mobility. | For long-term support. |
| Supplements | Best for born strength and regeneration | For quick bone recovery and better health. |
| Bracing Cervical/Thoracic | Improves spine health. | For upper spine and neck injuries. |
| Minor Surgery | Treats extreme non-healing fractures. | For complex cases, mostly rare. |
Confused about which treatment best suits your back? Visit Plano ER to get a quick diagnosis at our laboratories and an instant recovery plan.
Causes, Symptoms and Treatment for Degenerative Changes in the Spinous Process
Degenerative changes occur due to gradual tears in the spinal structures, such as the spinous process, facet joints and discs.
Causes of Degenerative Changes
In the neural spine and spinous process, it is generally caused due to:
- Bad posture
- Ageing
- Spinal stress
- Previous impact of spinous process fracture
Signs You Should Not Ignore
- Constant pain near the spinous process location
- Reduced mobility
- Constant back and neck pain
- Numbness in the limbs is caused due to compression of the roots of nerves
How To Treat Degenerative Changes
Common treatment options for degenerative changes are:
- Medications and injections
- Physical therapy
- Cold/heat therapy
- Surgical treatment
- Posture training
Early Care For Spinous Process Health
Complications in the spinous process, such as degenerative changes and spinous process fracture, can be avoided with proactive care.
Here are a few tips:
- Maintain good posture
- Workout by doing strength training
- Invest in ergonomic support
- Monitor your back pain and get it checked
- Healthy routine and diet
Want to learn more about spinous process treatment options? Explore Mesquite ER, our affiliated, reliable emergency care center.
Final Thoughts
The spinous process plays a crucial role in maintaining body posture, and mobility and serves as an anchor for muscles and ligaments. It is important to take care of the spinous process and seek the best medical help for the spinous process fracture and degenerative changes. Although the majority of the spinous process treatment plans are non-surgical and less painful it is important to follow a healthy routine for a stable back.
If you’re experiencing problems with a spinous process, such as a spinous process fracture, degenerative changes, pain in the spinous process of the scapula, or constant back pain, then visit Plano ER, where our board-certified professionals are 24/7 ready to offer you the most effective cure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the spinous process?
The spinous process is the bony projection part of the back at each vertebra of the spine. It is a section of the neural spine and supports spine protection, movement, muscle attachment and structural support.
What is the spinous process of the scapula, and where is it located?
The spinous process of the scapula, also known as the scapular spine is situated in the posterior of the scapula, also known as the shoulder blade.
What are the most common causes of spinous process pain?
The most common causes of the spinous process are due to an injury or accident that results in a spinous process fracture, moreover, it is also caused due to muscle strain, degenerative changes, bad posture, spinal surgery, and people who have undergone bifid spinous processes.
What is a spinous process fracture?
Spinous process fracture is a spine injury that is caused due to a crack or break of the bony projection of the back of the vertebra. It is generally observed in the neck or upper back due to sudden trauma, injury, constant stress or a constant bad routine.
What are degenerative changes?
Degenerative changes occur over time due to the deterioration or gradual breakdown of the spine parts. It affects the facet joints, vertebrae, and neural spine areas such as the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar regions.
Is the treatment of a spinous process fracture painful?
No, most treatments of spinous process fracture are non-surgical and less painful. At Plano ER, we try our best to treat it with medications, cold/heat therapy, physical therapy, bracing and activity modification.
Does pain in the spinous process affect the leg?
Pain in the spinous process does not directly affect the leg, but an underlying long-term and untreated pain in the spinous process might affect the leg.
