Early effects of raloxifene on clinical vertebral fractures at 12 months in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis.

Abstract
ALTHOUGH VERTEBRAL fractures are estimated to occur in approximately 25% of postmenopausal women,1 less than one third of all vertebral fractures come to clinical attention.2 Women who experience back pain due to a new vertebral fracture have functional limitations3 and experience more days of limited activity and bed rest.4 Vertebral fractures are also associated with increased mortality.5 Since women who have a vertebral fracture are at greater risk for future fractures,6 any new fracture should be avoided.