Combination Therapy of Conventional and Korean Medicine for Multiple Vertebral Compression Fractures Associated with Postpartum Osteoporosis: A Case Report

Abstract

Multiple vertebral compression fractures are a rare condition and are a serious consequence of postpartum osteoporosis. This report describes the case of a 35-year-old woman who had given birth to her first child 2 months before the onset of pain. Magnetic resonance imaging showed compression fractures of 7 vertebrae. The patient was treated with both conventional, and Korean medicine methods including acupuncture and herbal prescriptions. The patient's progress was assessed using self-reported symptoms, scale scores and laboratory test results. Her pain was gradually alleviated and biochemical inflammation marker levels improved, but her functional status remained severely impaired. Clinical practitioners who treat women in the postpartum period must be aware of osteoporosis and potential vertebral fractures and need to consider Korean medicine as an alternative therapy to help such patients.

Clinical Research Trends on Compression Fracture Treatment Using Traditional Korean Medicine: A Case Study Review

“…Thus, studies involving long-term follow-up based on imaging tests for compression rate, kyphotic angle, and pain intensity are recommended. The study by Lee et al [22] is noteworthy because although improvements in cold sensation were observed, according to the EQ-5D assessment, the quality of life obviously deteriorated. Compression fractures can have a psychological impact; therefore, future research should address the improvement in physical issues and the long-term quality of life through traditional Korean medicine treatments.…”

“…The 16 included studies (Tables 1, 2) [11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18][19][20][21][22][23][24][25][26] were classified according to the journal and year of publication, patient information, intervention, evaluation methods, and treatment results.…”