BMC Pediatr. 2026 Jul 13. doi: 10.1186/s12887-026-07229-z. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Bone mineral density (BMD) is crucial for evaluating bone health, particularly in the pediatric population. Physical parameters such as lower body strength (assessed by jump tests) and handgrip strength (a marker of musculoskeletal health) have been linked to BMD. This study aims to investigate the association between upper and lower limb strength and BMD of the forearm and femur in children and adolescents stratified by sex.
METHODS: This cross-sectional study involved 57 participants (aged 9 ± 2 years) from a philanthropic institution in Brazil. Participants were assessed for anthropometric measurements, somatic maturation, and BMD and lean soft tissue using Dual X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA). Handgrip strength was measured using a dynamometer, and horizontal and vertical jump performances were also assessed. Statistical analyses included Quantile Regression to examine the relationships between strength measures and BMD, adjusted for somatic maturation and lean soft tissue.
RESULTS: Significant positive associations were found between handgrip strength and femoral BMD, especially in boys (Femoral neck: β = 12.65; 95%CI = 2.39; 22.92,; Trochanter: β = 17.37; 95%CI = 5.04; 29.70; Total femur: β = 11.13 95%CI = 0.98; 21.27).
CONCLUSION: Upper and lower limb muscle strength, particularly handgrip and vertical jump performance, were positively associated with BMD of the forearm and femur in children and adolescents with low socioeconomic status, with associations observed in boys.
PMID:42443834 | DOI:10.1186/s12887-026-07229-z
