Over the last decades of the twentieth century survival after
stroke has increased considerably, with the greatest effect being in patients
over 75 years. As a result, stroke is now affecting tissues and organs
previously regarded as being of little relevance. The skeleton is one body
system that in the longer term is affected by stroke, with fracture now
becoming a significant complication. Bone loss can now readily be measured, and
therapies that may be able to prevent bone loss and fracture are available for
clinical trial. This review examines the direct and indirect factors that
influence the relationship between fracture and stroke.