Osteoporosis among young adults with complex physical disabilities
Michelle Grainger1, Carol Dilley, Neil Wood
1Kings College London.
British Journal of Nursing (Mark Allen Publishing)
|March 8, 2011
Summary
This study investigated osteoporosis in young adults with complex physical disabilities in long-term care. Immobility and percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) feeding were linked to lower bone mineral density (BMD), impacting care pathways.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Physical Medicine
- Bone Metabolism
Background:
- Osteoporosis is a growing concern in younger populations, particularly those with complex physical disabilities residing in long-term care settings.
- Understanding risk factors for low bone mineral density (BMD) in this demographic is crucial for preventative strategies.
- Existing literature lacks specific focus on osteoporosis in individuals under 40 with complex physical disabilities in long-term care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between osteoporosis and complex physical disabilities in individuals under 40 years of age.
- To identify specific risk factors, such as immobility and feeding methods, contributing to low bone mineral density (BMD) in this population.
- To inform evidence-based care pathways for physiotherapy and manual handling in long-term care facilities.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of patient data from long-term care facilities.
- Collection of bone mineral density (BMD) measurements.
- Assessment of factors including immobility status and method of nutritional support (e.g., percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy [PEG] tube feeding).
Main Results:
- A significant association was found between immobility and lower bone mineral density (BMD).
- Individuals receiving nutrition via a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube demonstrated a particularly higher risk of low BMD.
- Findings highlight specific vulnerabilities within this patient group.
Conclusions:
- Immobility is a key risk factor for low bone mineral density (BMD) in young adults with complex physical disabilities.
- Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) feeding is associated with increased osteoporosis risk in this population.
- The study's results have informed updated evidence-based care guidelines for physiotherapy and manual handling, improving patient management.
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