At the Ortho-Next outpatient clinic in Lainate (Viale Rimembranze 43) we often see people with sudden back pain, without a fall or an accident. Standing up hurts; lying down helps. It is not always «just another bout of lumbago»: in many cases the cause is a fragility fracture of a vertebra, typical of osteoporosis.
We do not promise shortcuts here. We assess the spine, go through the DXA bone density scan together when needed, determine whether the fracture is recent (usually with an MRI) and, only in selected cases, discuss vertebroplasty. Alongside this, our physiotherapy programmes support functional recovery — they do not replace treatment of the bone, but they accompany the return to movement.
Why a vertebra can collapse without an injury
With osteoporosis, the internal trabeculae become thinner: the vertebra becomes like a weaker sponge. Bending, lifting a bag or coughing is enough. The typical pain is dull and deep, worse when standing and better in bed. If you recognise this picture, please do not wait weeks: a prompt assessment changes the treatment options.
Vertebroplasty: when we recommend it in Lainate
The procedure is minimally invasive: under X-ray guidance, a thin needle enters from the back through the pedicle and injects bone cement (PMMA), which strengthens the vertebra from the inside. It is not for everyone. The studies are not all in agreement (benefit in VAPOUR; no difference vs sham in VERTOS IV): this is why at Ortho-Next we offer it only after careful clinical selection, and never as a substitute for osteoporosis treatment.
A video on this topic is available on YouTube: Osteoporosis and collapsing vertebrae.
Bone density scan, medication and recovery
Densitometry (DXA scan) measures the T-score: ≤ −2.5 indicates osteoporosis according to WHO criteria. If there has already been a fragility fracture, the risk of new fractures is high — regardless of the number alone. Among bone treatments, denosumab (an injection every 6 months) reduces vertebral fractures in the key studies, but it must not be stopped without a transition plan: there is a risk of rebound.
During recovery, in selected cases, external support can help: in the Ortho-Next store, the thoracolumbar brace with shoulder straps is designed specifically for vertebral fractures (and some scoliosis programmes). Physiotherapy at our clinic completes the picture: guided recovery, not indefinite immobilisation.
Physiotherapy and recovery at Ortho-Next
After a fragility fracture of a vertebra, the risk is not only acute pain: it is losing independence. In Lainate we work to make recovery tangible — walking, standing for longer, getting back to household activities — with a physiotherapy plan that respects the healing time of the bone and the fracture. The brace, when indicated, is a temporary aid; the goal remains controlled movement, not endless immobilisation.
What you will find at Ortho-Next Lainate
- Orthopaedic spine assessment with Dr. Vito Lavanga
- Review of your bone density scan and discussion of drug treatment when indicated
- Vertebroplasty recommended only in selected cases
- Tailored physiotherapy programmes to get back to walking and everyday activities
- Consultations also in Milan and online, as well as in Lainate
Full article with sources
For PubMed studies (VAPOUR, VERTOS IV, FREEDOM, denosumab rebound), FAQs and the full clinical reasoning, read Dr. Lavanga's extended article on vitolavanga.it (in Italian): Osteoporosis and vertebral fracture: when back pain comes without a fall.
Book in Lainate (or online)
Sudden pain without injury, a suspected fracture or a bone density scan to interpret? Write on WhatsApp to 392 39 91 841 for an appointment in Lainate, Milan or online.
For the free guide to back exercises: write GUIDA on WhatsApp.
Educational content: this does not replace a medical consultation, diagnosis or personalised treatment.