Evaluation of Bone Mineral Density in Patients With Spinal Cord Injury

J Spinal Cord Med, 2006 · DOI: · Published: January 1, 2006

Spinal Cord Injury Musculoskeletal Medicine

Simple Explanation

Spinal cord injury (SCI) can lead to bone loss because bone resorption happens faster than bone formation. This can cause osteoporosis. Osteoporosis after SCI usually affects the paralyzed limbs, especially the ends of the femur and tibia. This can weaken the bones and increase the risk of fractures. The purpose of this study was to evaluate BMD in patients with SCI and to determine the effects of neurological lesion and spasticity on BMD values.

Study Duration

April 2001 through January 2002

Participants

75 patients with traumatic SCI and a healthy control group of 39 people

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Patients with SCI had significantly lower BMD values in all measured regions (lumbar spine and hip) compared to controls.
2
The level and severity of the spinal cord lesion, as well as spasticity, did not significantly affect BMD values.
3
The BMD values of the hip decreased as the duration of SCI increased, showing a correlation between the two.

Research Summary

This study evaluated bone mineral density (BMD) in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) and found that they had lower BMD values than controls in the lumbar spine and hip. The study found that the level and severity of the SCI and spasticity did not significantly affect BMD values. The BMD values of the hip decreased as the duration of SCI increased, suggesting a relationship between the two.

Practical Implications

Early Screening for Osteoporosis

Individuals with SCI should be investigated and followed up for osteoporosis early, regardless of the lesion level and severity.

Monitoring Bone Loss

Regular BMD measurements are important for monitoring bone loss in individuals with SCI.

Biochemical Marker Assessment

Biochemical markers should be assessed in individuals with SCI as early as possible to determine the risk of osteoporosis.

Evaluation of Bone Mineral Density in Patients With Spinal Cord Injury

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Early Screening for Osteoporosis

Monitoring Bone Loss

Biochemical Marker Assessment

Study Limitations

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Was this summary helpful?

Evaluation of Bone Mineral Density in Patients With Spinal Cord Injury

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Early Screening for Osteoporosis

Monitoring Bone Loss

Biochemical Marker Assessment

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?