Compression Fracture Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

3. Risk Factors

Osteoporosis is the [citation href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteoporosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351968" title=Mayo Clinic" desc="Osteoporosis"]most significant risk factor for developing a compression fracture. Because of this, females are more likely to get them, especially after menopause. People with a family history of osteoporosis are also at risk. Individuals with smaller body frames and bone size are more prone to developing both conditions.  Smoking, excessive alcohol, and taking certain medications — particularly corticosteroids — reduces bone density and increases the risk of compression fractures.