Managing the patient with osteogenesis imperfecta: a multidisciplinary approach

Caroline Marr,1,* Alison Seasman,1,* Nick Bishop2 1Metabolic Bone Disease Team, 2Academic Unit of Child Health, Department of Human Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK *These authors contributed equally to this work Abstract: Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a heterogeneous heritable connective tissue disorder characterized by low bone density. The type and severity of OI are variable. The primary manifestations are fractures, bone deformity, and bone pain, resulting in reduced mobility and function to complete everyday tasks. OI affects not only the physical but also the social and emotional well-being of children, young people, and their families. As such, medical, surgical, and allied health professionals’ assessments all play a role in the management of these children. The multidisciplinary approach to the treatment of children and young people living with OI seeks to provide well-coordinated, comprehensive assessments, and interventions that place the child and family at the very center of their care. The coordinated efforts of a multidisciplinary team can support children with OI to fulfill their potential, maximizing function, independence, and well-being. Keywords: physical therapy, occupational therapy, bisphosphonates, nursing, psychology, pediatric