A 60-year-old postmenopausal woman presents with a history of sudden severe back pain. She also reports loss of height and a recent humpback deformity. No known injury. What could be the possible causes and the next steps?
This patient's presentation is suggestive of a vertebral compression fracture. This condition is more common in postmenopausal women due to osteoporosis. The next steps would be to confirm the diagnosis with imaging, starting with an X-ray and potentially followed by MRI if necessary. Management usually involves pain control, physical therapy, and addressing the underlying osteoporosis to prevent future fractures.