Bone Mineral Density Variation in Children with Cerebral Palsy Based on the Differences in Weight Bearing

[Purpose] Many children with cerebral palsy have diminished bone mineral density and a propensity to fracture with minimal trauma. The aim of this study was to provide a detailed evaluation of bone mineral density(BMD) and to assess the relationship of BMD with mobility. [Subjects and Methods] The subjects were 16 children with cerebral palsy and 16 healthy children we measured the bone mineral density of the lumbar spine, and three femur parts, the femoral neck, the greater trochanter, and Ward's triangle of the two groups. In addition, we categorized the 16 children with cerebral palsy into three sub-groups - wheelchair group, walker group, and independent gait group - in order to measure the bone mineral density variation based on the degree of mobility. [Results] It was found that healthy children's bone mineral density of the femoral neck was significantly higher than that of children with cerebral palsy. [Conclusion] The results suggest it is necessary to stimulate muscle bone with proper weight bearing, a physical exercise program and the intake of calcium and vitamin D so as to prevent bone mineral density decrease in children with cerebral palsy.