Two randomised placebo-controlled trials show the importance of establishing the efficacy of procedures before adopting them into clinical practice
Vertebral fractures are a common manifestation of osteoporosis, and up to half such fractures result in severe pain and disability. Although most heal within weeks or a few months, some people experience persisting discomfort. Best supportive care includes bed rest, analgesia and physical therapy, and some patients require hospitalisation.
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- 1 Monash Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Cabrini Hospital, Melbourne, VIC.
- 2 Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC.
- 3 Public Health Innovation, Faculty of Health, Medicine, Nursing and Behavioural Sciences, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC.
- 4 Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn, USA.
Correspondence: rachelle.buchbinder@med.monash.edu.au
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