Article

The aims of this study were to: (i) Determine if there were significant bone
mineral density and muscle strength differences between intact and amputated
limbs, and (ii) investigate the possible relationship between local bone loss and
muscle strength in transtibial amputees. Fifteen male veterans with traumatic
unilateral transtibial amputations who ranged in age from 18-45 years were
included in this prospective study. Lower limb muscle strength was measured with
an isokinetic dynamometer. Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry was used to determine
bone mineral density of the femur and tibia. The bone mineral density values of
the femur and tibia were found significantly decreased on the amputated side.
Significant decreases (p < 0.001) in strength of the quadriceps and hamstrings
were observed in the amputated limb. There was a weak correlation between
quadriceps strength and total femur bone mineral density (p = 0.048, r = 0.518)
on the amputated limb. Transtibial amputees are prone to bone mineral loss and
muscle strength decrease on the amputated side. Our results also indicate that
muscle strength itself might not be of decisive importance for bone mass in transtibial amputees.

Langue : ANGLAIS