Activity, motor function and post-stroke bone loss
Hip fractures are 2-4 times more likely to occur 12 months post stroke compared to age and sex-matched controls. They are associated with higher mortality and reduced mobility.
Bone changes occur early post-stroke with a reduction in bone mineral density (BMD) due to increased resorption and reduced formation.
This observational study investigated skeletal changes following stroke and their relationship to physical activity, stroke severity, motor control and lean mass.
Lean mass and BMD were assessed at 2 weeks, 1, 3 and 6 months post-stroke using DXA. Physical activity levels were monitored using an accelerometer with positional changes and lying, sitting, standing and walking times recorded.
The greatest bone loss was observed in cortical bone of the paretic leg. Higher motor control and walking ability was associated with less bone loss. Less change in bone turnover was associated with number of times subjects stood up but not the total time standing at baseline.
Results suggest regular standing early post stroke, targeted motor control and return to walking may protect bone and should be implemented in post stroke rehab interventions.
> From: Borschmann et al., Arch Osteoporos 13 (2018-03-08 06:47:36) 5. All rights reserved to The Author(s). Click here for the online summary.
