Abstract
The thoracolumbar spine refers to the region encompassing the thoracic (T1–T12) and lumbar (L1–L5) spinal segments. The most commonly injured region of the spine is the thoracolumbar junction (T10-L2). About 16% of thoracolumbar injuries occur between T1 and T10, 52% between T11 and L1, and 32% be tween L1 and L5 (Burgos et al. 1988; Carpenter 1991; Kraus et al. 1975). Typically, the injuries are sustained by middle-aged and younger individuals and are caused by high energy trauma such as motor vehicle accidents. Less often, the injuries are due to a fall from a height or industrial accidents (Burgos et al. 1988; Carpenter 1991). Males have a four-fold higher risk than females. Injuries due to sports and recreational activities are more common in children and adolescents (Hubbard 1974; Keene 1987). Low energy injuries resulting in osteoporotic compression fractures are more common in elderly individuals.