[Osteoporosis in the disabled].

Osteoporosis is a well-known complication of paralytic diseases. We investigated 11 patients with chronic spinal cord injury who have been paralyzed for 20 years or more. History of fracture was searched in these 11 patients. Mineral density in the lower limbs was measured, and the bone metabolism was examined. Of the total of 8 fractures, 87.5% occurred in the relatively low muscle tonus group. Patients showed decreased bone mineral density of the femoral neck, and this was negatively correlated with period of paralysis. One female patient showed an abnormal rise in bone absorption markers. In this case, bisphosphonates can be effective to increase the bone mineral density. To prevent fracture in patients with paralysis, particular care should be taken in wheelchair operation and handling of the lower limbs.