Methods for facilitating joint immobilization or fusion using selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) such as raloxifene are disclosed. The SERM may be administered systemically or locally. In conjunction with SERM, other therapeutic agents such as calcium, vitamin D, bone morphogenetic protein may be administered simultaneously. The method can similarly be applied to facilitate bone repair, bone healing, and connective tissue healing processes in a patient.

Methods for facilitating joint immobilization or fusion using selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) such as raloxifene are disclosed. The SERM may be administered systemically or locally. In conjunction with SERM, other therapeutic agents such as calcium, vitamin D, bone morphogenetic protein may be administered simultaneously. The method can similarly be applied to facilitate bone repair, bone healing, and connective tissue healing processes in a patient.