A spinal fracture is a serious injury that can cause severe pain and disability. This condition is also referred to as a vertebral fracture, which occurs when one or more spinal bones break due to injury or disease. Other synonyms for spinal fracture include spinal compression fracture, broken back, fractured vertebra, and spinal injury. These terms generally describe the same condition that can occur at any level of the spine, from the neck to the lower back. Spinal fractures can be caused by trauma, such as a car accident or fall from a height, or by medical conditions like osteoporosis or bone cancer. Treatment typically involves immobilization of the spine with braces or surgery in severe cases.