Physical activity programs for promoting bone mineralization and growth in preterm infants

Abstract

BackgroundLack of physical stimulation may contribute to metabolic bone disease of preterm infants resulting in poor bone mineralization and growth. Physical activity programs combined with adequate nutrition might help to promote bone mineralization and growth. ObjectivesTo determine the effect of physical activity programs on bone mineralization, the risk of fractures and growth in preterm infants. Search methodsThe standard search strategy of the Cochrane Neonatal Review Group (CNRG) was used. The search included the CENTRAL (The

Assisted Physical Exercise for Improving Bone Strength in Preterm Infants Less than 35 Weeks Gestation: A Randomized Controlled Trial

“…PE did not result in any significant difference in growth parameters such as weight, length and head circumference in our study. Previous studies have found mixed results with some showing gain in weight and length but not head circumference [7,9,15,[19][20][21] while others did not find any improvement in any of these parameters [13,22]. The possible reason would be increasing spontaneous activity of the infants as they approach term age.…”

“…Limited in utero accretion is further compounded by inactivity because of inherent weakness, poor tone and confinement (nesting) leading to increase in bone resorption, and decrease in bone mineral density [6]. Previous studies that employed physical exercise while in hospital for short period (4 to 8 weeks) had demonstrated increased bone mineralization and growth in preterm infants [7].…”

Application of tactile/kinesthetic stimulation in preterm infants: a systematic review

“…49 Further evaluation of this intervention (KS) was suggested to indicate for this purpose. 50 A more recent study demonstrated a significant improvement in bone formation and decrease of bone resorption, using a more rigorous methodological design. 48 A few studies have described the adverse situations that could occur during the procedure and the parameters that should encourage the therapist to interrupt the session.…”

Metabolic Bone Disease in Premature Neonates: An Unmet Challenge

“…It was noted to enhance the body weight, bone mineralization and osteogenesis. Some studies have shown that the exercise could attenuate the postnatal reduction in bone speed of sound (47)(48)(49)(50)(51). It is interesting that nutrition plays a dual role in MBD, both therapeutic and preventive.…”