[Purpose] This study evaluated differences between healthy elderly individuals and stroke
patients by comparing their dominant and nondominant sides. [Subjects and Methods]
Thirty-five elderly individuals participated in this study and divided into a stroke group
and a control group. The outcome measures were general characteristics and bone mineral
density. Bone mineral density was evaluated by using the osteoporosis index. OsteoPro,
T score, and Z score were used for the calcaneus
region of the dominant side, and OsteoPro was used for that of the nondominant side. Data
were analyzed by using the SPSS 12.0 software, paired-samples t-test, and
independent-samples t-test. [Results] The T and Z scores
showed no significant differences between the dominant and recessive sides in the control
group. However, the stroke group showed significant differences in osteoporosis index,
T score, and Z score between the paretic and
nonparetic sides. Changes in the scores between the recessive and dominant sides showed
significant differences between the two groups. [Conclusion] A positive relationship was
found between physical activity and bone mineral density in the stroke patients.
Therefore, improved physical activity can be beneficial by reducing osteoporosis in stroke
patients.