Pregnancy and Lactation-Associated Osteoporosis: Combined Pharmacological and Rehabilitative Management

Background: Pregnancy and lactation-associated osteoporosis is a rare cause of severe skeletal fragility in young women typically presenting with vertebral compression fractures during late pregnancy or postpartum. Its rarity and lack of risk factors often delay diagnosis. Case presentation: The patient was a 34-year-old pregnant Italian woman, presenting with severe osteoporosis related to pregnancy and lactation. The patient presented for the first time at the Outpatient clinic of the Rehabilitation Unit in the Department of Public Health at the University of Federico II, Naples in March 2024, exhibiting severe symptoms indicative of osteoporosis, along with acute lower back pain. During the anamnesis, it was revealed that the patient was unable to bend forward, with reduced flexion and extension movements. The symptoms began during the third trimester. Management and diagnosis: In terms of diagnosis, clinical exams were conducted to confirm the disease. The MRI exam showed fractures and vertebral variations, with significant findings including calcification. Additionally, DXA indicated lower values compared to normal Treatment included: breastfeeding cessation, correction of calcium and vitamin D deficiencies, and bisphosphonate injection therapy. It is noteworthy that the rehabilitative approach has been recommended throughout pharmacological treatment and especially upon its suspension. Ultimately, the primary cause of this condition was pregnancy as bone resorption increases during pregnancy. Outcome: Following clodronate treatment completion, the patient showed full clinical recovery and significant radiological improvement. Follow-up DXA one year after diagnosis revealed normalized bone density and the patient had gained autonomy in activities of daily living with no further symptoms.