Diagnosis

How is PAO diagnosed?

• Diagnosis is usually confirmed by the identification of vertebral fractures on a spinal x-ray or MRI scan.

  • Important! Fractures do not always show up on an x-ray alone.

• Women suspected of having PAO will usually be referred for a bone mineral density (DEXA) scan. This may show reduced bone density, particularly in the lumbar spine. Research studies have consistently shown a greater reduction in lumbar spine bone density compared with hip bone density in PAO.

  • Important! Sometimes a bone density measurement of the lumbar spine may not be informative, as it is difficult to accurately measure bone density at this site in people with multiple vertebral fractures.

What are the signs & symptoms of PAO fractures?

• For most women, the first sign of PAO is back pain, as spinal fractures are the most common type of PAO fracture.

  • Important! The type of pain experienced can vary greatly between individuals.

• Typically, women with PAO experience severe pain that makes it difficult or impossible for them to continue with their usual activities.

• Pain may start suddenly, sometimes after movements such as lifting or reaching.

• Many women with PAO experience more than one spinal fracture before the condition is diagnosed. This can result in a change in the shape of the spine (forward bend or kyphosis) and/or loss of height (sometimes several inches).

• Significant back pain starting during late pregnancy or shortly after delivery and/or loss of height should be considered red flags for possible PAO and would be reasons to seek prompt medical attention.