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Imaging-Based Methods for Non-invasive Assessment of Bone Properties Influenced by Mechanical Loading
Norma J Macintyre1, Amanda L Lorbergs
1School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ont.
Physiotherapy Canada. Physiotherapie Canada
|March 2, 2013
Summary
Computed tomography (CT) methods are best for assessing how mechanical loading affects bone properties, especially in the peripheral skeleton. Physiotherapists must consider imaging assumptions and clinical context when evaluating bone changes.
Area of Science:
- Bone biology and biomechanics
- Skeletal adaptations to mechanical loading
Background:
- Bone is a metabolically active tissue that remodels in response to mechanical forces.
- Understanding bone's response to mechanical loading is crucial for conditions like osteoporosis and during physical activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review common in vivo imaging tools for assessing bone properties influenced by mechanical loading.
- To highlight the importance of bone size, porosity, and mineralization in interpreting imaging data.
Main Methods:
- Narrative review of bone biology and biomechanics.
- Overview of quantitative ultrasound (QUS), DXA, CT, MRI, and FEA.
- Description of imaging principles, outcome measures, and relevance for physiotherapists.
Main Results:
- Computed tomography (CT) methods are currently optimal for evaluating mechanical loading's effects on bone properties.
- CT is particularly effective for assessing changes in the peripheral skeleton.
Conclusions:
- Each imaging modality has unique strengths and limitations.
- Physiotherapists must critically evaluate imaging method assumptions, clinical context, loading type, and expected bone response timelines.
