The Assessment and Management of Vertebral Fractures in Osteoporosis course for Nurses

This session explores the diagnosis and management of vertebral fractures secondary to osteoporosis.

Objectives

By the end of this session, you will be able to:

• Explain the importance of diagnosing and treating vertebral fractures
• Identify patients with features suggestive of vertebral fracture in order to make a diagnosis
• State the reasons for delay in the diagnosis of vertebral fractures
• Describe the pharmacological and non-pharmacological management options for pain secondary to vertebral fractures
• Identify patients for whom referral for consideration of invasive interventions may be appropriate

Osteoporosis is a condition that is characterised by a loss of bone tissue and disruption in bone formation. This results in spongy (porous) bone which is weaker and thus at risk of breaking (fracture). Osteoporosis itself does not cause any symptoms and often the first time a patient learns they have the condition is following a fracture which can cause both acute and chronic pain.