To analyze the efficacy of early ambulation in a selected group of patients with compression and stable burst fractures in the thoracolumbar junction.

We reviewed retrospectively 65 cases of compression and stable burst fractures in the thoracolumbar junction. Group I was composed of 36 cases treated with bed-rest for 2 weeks or less followed by ambulation with bracing, Group II 29 cases treated with bed-rest for 4 weeks or more followed by ambulation with bracing. Radiologic results were compared for the two groups using lateral radiographs, and functional results were analyzed using Denis pain and work scores.

Change in wedge angle at last follow up was 6.39±3.67° in group I and 5.28±2.72° in group II. Change in anterior body height was 14.46±8.25% in group I and 12.25±4.58% in group II (p>0.05). Satisfactory pain scores of less than or equal to P3 were noted in 11 cases (69%) of group I and in 12 cases (80%) of group II. Satisfactory work scores of less than or equal to W3 were noted in 12 cases (75%) of group I and in 12 cases (80%) of group II (p>0.05).

Conservative management of compression and stable burst fractures in the thoracolumbar junction with 2 weeks or less of bed-rest followed by ambulation with bracing can predictably lead to satisfactory functional results.