Are Individuals With Cerebral Palsy At Higher Risk Of Osteopenia?

 Cerebral Palsy is a neurological disease that comes with a lot of complications that need their own diagnosis and treatment. One such complication, Osteopenia, is quite common among individuals with Cerebral Palsy. Before we elaborate on the treatment plans available, let us learn more about the disease.

Understanding Cerebral Palsy and Osteopenia

Cerebral Palsy refers to a group of neurological disorders that affect movement, muscle tone, coordination, and motor skills, caused by damage or abnormalities in the developing brain. As a result of this condition, individuals have trouble walking or moving and may have speech/swallowing difficulties as well. 

Osteopenia is a condition in which bones become weaker than normal, owing to a reduction in the protein and mineral content of bone tissues. Essentially, it occurs when the body is unable to create as much bone as it is getting rid of. Individuals with osteopenia have lower than normal bone mineral density, which may lead to a broken bone even while performing a normal activity. 

Osteopenia, if left untreated, can often lead to Osteoporosis. While in most people it manifests after the age of 50, those with a genetic history of Osteopenia or an existing medical condition — like Cerebral Palsy — may experience it much sooner.

The link between Cerebral Palsy and Osteopenia

People with Cerebral Palsy often experience musculoskeletal disorders such as spasticity and bone deformities. In particular, decreased movement in children with Cerebral Palsy may lead to decreased weight-bearing capacity and a lower bone mineral density. 

Moreover, reduced exposure to sunlight owing to limited mobility, nutritional deficiencies, and even certain anticonvulsant medications can contribute to reduced bone mineral density, leading to Osteopenia. Individuals with Osteopenia are at a higher risk of fractures from even minor falls, which can make it even harder for them to move around.

Treatment for Osteopenia in Individuals with Cerebral Palsy

The best Cerebral Palsy treatment usually consists of a combination of Stem Cell Therapy, Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Speech and Language Therapy. For those with limited mobility and hence, a lower weight-bearing capacity, taking a physiotherapist’s help to design a specific program can be useful. For instance, children can learn to move with a standing frame or crutches. 

Consulting a dietitian for a meal plan that includes sufficient calcium and Vitamin D is also advisable. Food items that are rich in these nutrients include dairy products (ideally the low-fat or non-fat versions), broccoli, salmon, and dried beans. Certain types of cereals or breads are also fortified with Vitamin D and can be consumed. 

Older individuals can start a strength-training program under the guidance of their physician to improve their weight-bearing abilities and slow the progression of Osteopenia. They can also engage in cardio activities like running, walking, swimming, or biking. All of these help improve the patient’s balance, reduce the risk of falling, and improve bone mineral density. Even small improvements in this regard can considerably slow the progression of Osteopenia and minimize the risk of developing Osteoporosis later on. 

While Cerebral Palsy is a lifelong condition, secondary complications like Osteopenia need not be. Through timely intervention and the best Cerebral Palsy treatment, individuals can work on their bodily strength and protect their bones from damage, thus allowing for as mobile and active a life as possible.