Article

OBJECTIVE: To assess the
relationship between spasticity and bone mineral density in the lower extremities
in individuals with a motor complete spinal cord injury. METHODS: Eighteen
individuals, matched for time since injury, gender, and age, were included in the
study. Nine men had severe spasticity, and 9 men had spasticity that was either
mild or not present. Comparisons regarding bone mineral density were made using
dual energy X-ray absorptiometry. Regions of interest measured were total leg,
pelvis, femoral neck and total hip. Between-group differences regarding fat and
lean tissue were analysed. RESULTS: Background data, such as weight, height,
standing and exercising habits, smoking and alcohol use, were similar in both
groups. There was no difference between the groups regarding bone mineral
density. All of the participants presented with osteoporosis or osteopaenia
values at the hips. Participants with severe spasticity had larger muscle volume
than those with none or mild spasticity. No correlations between bone mineral
density and body composition with age or time since injury were seen. CONCLUSION:
No difference in bone mineral density dependent on spasticity was detected in
this study, but all included participants showed osteopaenia or osteoporosis at
the hip, but not in full body values. Individuals with severe spasticity had
greater muscle mass compared with those with no or mild spasticity.

Langue : ANGLAIS