I'm having the spinal fusion to deal with herniated discs and overall disc degeneration, along with correcting a scoliosis curve (a result of the degeneration). Several surgeons have told me to strengthen my bones prior to the fusion due to the rods and screws going into bone, which they want to be strong enough to hold. It works better than Fosimax, and frankly I'm happy to have my bones built up better in general. If you already have fractures, I believe that should put you in the category of being eligible for the Forteo to be (at least partially) covered by most insurances.