Fragile Bones

Fragile bones are bones that are at an increased risk for breaking (fracturing). These fractures can happen with little or no trauma. Low bone density and osteoporosis are terms that are used to describe fragile bones.

The following risk factors can increase your child’s risk for bone fractures:

• Cerebral palsy, spina bifida, spinal cord injury, muscle diseases
• Bone diseases such as osteogenesis imperfecta
• Chronic kidney or gastrointestinal diseases
• Not eating by mouth (total parenteral nutrition or TPN) for a long time
• Poor nutrition, being underweight or excessively overweight
• Some seizure medicines or chronic steroid treatments
• Children who do not walk, as appropriate for age
• Lack of adequate physical activity or having a very sedentary lifestyle
• Lack of sunlight, eating a diet without adequate vitamin D and calcium

• Avoid moving your child suddenly or bumping your child’s arms or legs (limbs) against objects
• Maintain your child’s natural limb position and avoid using force to change positions
• Avoid pulling or twisting your child’s limbs
• Always make sure that the side-rails of the bed or crib are up and secure
• Ask for help if your child is not able to move on their own
• Talk to your child’s doctor about dietary supplements and medicine options