Bone geometric response to chronic disuse following stroke: a pQCT study.

OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study were to 1) assess volumetric bone geometry and density at the distal radius of individuals with chronic stroke and 2) assess whether bone strength is associated with measures of muscle strength and impairment. MATERIAL AND METHODS Cross-sectional study of bone and muscle parameters in 15 community-dwelling people living with the residual effects of a stroke (between 1 and 9 years post-incident stroke). RESULTS The 4% site of the distal radius had significantly lower bone mineral content and density on the paretic side (p<0.006). There was a significant difference in pQCT measures of bone cortical density (p<0.03), area (p<0.05) and bone strength [Stress-Strain Index; SSI] (p<0.01) (lower on the paretic side) at the 30%. We found significant correlations between composite muscle strength score of the upper extremities and pQCT-generated bone strength. CONCLUSIONS This cross-sectional study highlights lower bone strength on the paretic limb and an adaptive response to disuse.