2011 Decrease of physical activity level in adolescents with limb fractures

Description: Conclusions Physical activity (PA) measured by accelerometer is a useful and valid tool to assess the decrease of PA level of adolescents with limb fractures. As cast immobilization and reduced PA are known to induce bone mineral loss, this study provides important information to quantify the decrease of skeletal loading in adolescents with limb fracture. Thus, the noted reduction of high intensity skeletal loading due to the decrease in vigorous PA may explain osteopenia due to disuse. These data are important and should be kept in mind of trauma practitioners in order not to prolong unnecessarily the cast immobilization period.
Decrease of physical activity level in adolescents with limb fractures: an accelerometry-based activity monitor study Ceroni D, Martin X, Delhumeau C, Farpour-Lambert N BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders 2011, 12:87 (full text)