Vertebral compression fractures are quite common in older women with osteoporosis, but they often go undiagnosed. They commonly happen when you lift up a heavy object — the excessive force causes tiny fractures to form in one of your vertebrae. While vertebral compression fractures often heal on their own, surgical treatment is often a better option — natural healing often relieves pain, but sometimes doesn't fully restore its shape. If you think that you may have fractured one of your vertebrae, read on to learn more about the symptoms and how it can be treated.