What fractures constitute a broken back?

A "broken back" typically refers to fractures in the vertebrae of the spine, which can occur in various regions: cervical (neck), thoracic (upper back), or lumbar (lower back). Common types of fractures include compression fractures, where the vertebra collapses; burst fractures, where the vertebra breaks into multiple pieces; and transverse process fractures, affecting the bony projections on the sides of the vertebrae. These injuries can lead to significant pain, instability, and potential nerve damage, depending on their severity and location.