In addition to resources targeted at primary healthcare professionals to aid diagnosis of spinal fracture, this research team developed information for patients to increase their awareness of whether or not they may have a spinal fracture.

There are 2 main resources for patients with a suspected osteoporotic vertebral fracture, and/or their carers:

1. Spinal fracture: Breaks in the bones in your spine: A guide to diagnosis for patients and carers: This information leaflet provides patients and/or carers with a guide to vertebral fractures, including symptoms, risk factors, terms for vertebral fracture (‘compression fracture’ or ‘wedge deformity’). The guide also features information about medications, treatment and how to strengthen bones through diet and exercise.
2. Spinal fracture: Breaks in the bones in your spine: A poster for patients and/or carers, detailing what vertebral fractures are, how they are diagnosed, and links to an extended guide

• In addition to English, the resources have been translated into Punjabi, Urdu and Somali. They are being shared with a range of groups to improve the identification of vertebral fractures in the future.