Skeletal consequences in patients after stroke.

Loss of bone mineral density and fractures in patients after stroke are among the most serious health complications. Regarding serious post-stroke impediments, significantly contributing to elevated fracture incidence are falls. An increasing number of subjects after stroke have been observed and better understanding of the nature of skeletal changes might improve the efficacy of their management. The most important issues in post-stroke patients include an evaluation of bone loss magnitude, the occurrence of falls, fracture incidence and prevention procedures. An early start of pharmacological treatment plus exercise are recommended procedures in the early post-stroke stages, in order to diminish as much as possible subsequent bone loss, the direct consequences of which may include hemiosteoporosis, prolonged immobilisation, further falls and fractures.