The bones in the spine weaken to the point where they crumble and collapse.

A compression fracture is most often caused by a loss of bone mass, called osteoporosis, that happens as part of aging or a medical condition. A fall, cough or lifting a heavy object can cause weak back bones to break.

Symptoms include sudden back pain or an increase in pain while standing or walking. In time, height loss and a hunched-forward posture can happen.

Treatments include limiting movement and taking pain medicines available without a prescription for a short time. Physical therapy and back bracing also may help. For severe pain that doesn't get better with these treatments, shots or surgery might be advised.