Effect Of Biomechanical Stimulation On Skeletal Health In Adolescent And Young Women With Anorexia Nervosa

EFFECT OF BIOMECHANICAL STIMULATION ON SKELETAL HEALTH IN ADOLESCENT AND YOUNG WOMEN WITH ANOREXIA NERVOSA

This study will evaluate the effects of a novel, non-pharmacologic intervention for the prevention of deleterious changes in bone density and strength in adolescents with anorexia nervosa (AN), a disease commonly treated with extended periods of bed rest and immobilization. The primary focus of the trial is to conduct a prospective short-term intervention to prevent an uncoupling of bone turnover in inpatients hospitalized for AN, and to determine the long-term effects of a biomechanical intervention on skeletal health in ambulatory adolescents with AN.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 11-25 years
• Diagnosis of anorexia nervosa based on DSM-IV criteria
• Female gender
• English-speaking

Exclusion Criteria:

• • Concomitant chronic diseases which affect bone health, such as cystic fibrosis, inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, renal disease, or diabetes mellitus

  • Use of medications known to affect bone metabolism in the last 3 months, such as:

    • Glucocorticoid therapy (including inhaled steroids)
    • Anticonvulsants
    • Combined estrogen/progestin contraceptive agents (oral contraceptive pills)

  • Depot medroxyprogesterone (Depo-Provera) use in the last 12 months

  • Current pregnancy