Clinical Practice Guideline for the Evaluation of Bone Health in People with Cerebral Palsy

Abstract

Osteopenia and osteoporosis, typically age related, are common and underrecognized among people with cerebral palsy. We sought to develop a clinical practice guideline for health care providers to address a gap in their awareness of key evidence-based recommendations for bone health to prompt early referral for evaluation and treatment. The Johns Hopkins evidence-based practice framework served as a guide. A 4-member expert panel rated the clinical practice guideline usability and quality high using AGREE II, with recommendations for implementation across health care settings. Early bone health evaluation is imperative to improving health and quality of life among people with cerebral palsy across the lifespan.