Do Paralympic athletes suffer from brittle bones?: Prevalence and risk factors of low bone mineral density in Paralympic athletes

Abstract

Background: Bone health may be a concern in Paralympic athletes, given the presence of multiple risk factors predisposing these athletes to low bone mineral density (BMD).

Objective: We aimed to assess the prevalence of low BMD among Paralympic athletes participating in various sport disciplines, and to identify potential risk factors for low BMD.

Conclusions: In this cohort of Paralympic athletes, low BMD is mainly present at the hip, and to a lesser extent at the whole-body and lumbar spine. The most prominent risk factors for low BMD in Paralympic athletes are related to mechanical loading patterns, including wheelchair use, the type of sport, and body mass.