True or false: A prior lumbar fracture is only important if it happened recently.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. It varies by case
• D. Only if it is symptomatic

Answer: (B)

A prior lumbar fracture is significant regardless of how recent it occurred because it can indicate a history of osteoporosis or other conditions that affect bone health. Understanding a patient's previous fractures can help assess their risk for future fractures and guide treatment decisions. Even old fractures can reflect diminished bone density and may inform the clinical judgment of the health provider regarding the current state of the patient's bone health.

Additionally, older fractures may suggest cumulative effects of longitudinal bone density loss. They also provide valuable information regarding the overall risk profile of the patient for osteoporosis or fragility fractures in the future. Therefore, historical context regarding any fractured vertebra can play a crucial role in the assessment and management of skeletal health, making the statement false.