My 83-year old mother is in declining health. She has had three vertebral bone fractures and lost six inches in height. Now she is complaining that it’s difficult to breathe and she can’t swallow easily. Could a brace or other treatment help her?

Bracing is one treatment option for patients with spine fractures. Some doctors advise open surgery to repair the bone and fuse the spine. This helps restore posture and height, but can have serious complications in the aging adult.

A less invasive treatment option is called balloon kyphoplasty. The surgeon places a balloon-type device inside the bone and slowly inflates it. This helps the bone regain its former shape and size. The balloon is removed and the space is filled with bone material.

Patients remain in the hospital one or two days if no problems occur. They usually have much less pain and improved function. Many patients who were confined to a wheelchair can even start walking again. Problems with breathing and difficulty eating improve as the pressure from being stooped forward is taken off the trunk and abdomen.