Which mechanism is NOT associated with a wedge fracture?

• A. Spinal Flexion
• B. Axial Loading
• C. Hyperextension
• D. Combination Of Flexion And Axial Loading

Answer: (C)

Wedge fractures occur when the anterior portion of the vertebral body is compressed while the posterior wall remains intact, creating the triangular wedge seen on imaging. This pattern is most commonly produced by axial loading of the spine with the spine in forward flexion, or by a combination of flexion and axial loading. In other words, loading along the axis of the spine while the person is flexed drives anterior compression and height loss.

Hyperextension, on the other hand, tends to place tensile and shear forces on the posterior elements and is more associated with posterior element injuries or other extension-type fracture patterns, not the classic anterior wedge compression. Therefore hyperextension is not associated with a wedge fracture.