Related Experiment Videos
[Effect of physical exercise on bone mass in the elderly]
Henriette K Lillelund1, Henrik L Jørgensen, Carsten Hendriksen
1H:S Hvidovre Hospital, gastroenheden, klinisk biokemisk afdeling, geriatrisk klinik og ortopaedkirurgisk afdeling. hlj@dadlnet.dk
Ugeskrift for Laeger
|October 17, 2002
Summary
Regular exercise benefits bone mass in older adults, potentially reducing fracture risk. This review highlights exercise
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Orthopedics
- Bone Physiology
Context:
- Reduced physical activity and immobilization negatively impact skeletal health.
- Bone mass loss is observed in conditions like prolonged bed rest, spinal cord injury, hemiplegia, and extremity immobilization post-fracture.
- Elderly populations are particularly susceptible to bone density decline and fractures.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the effect of exercise on bone mass in the elderly.
- To determine the appropriateness of exercise programs for fracture prevention in this demographic.
Summary:
- A literature review analyzed six studies (four randomized, two non-randomized prospective) on exercise and bone mass in the elderly.
- Four studies showed a statistically significant positive effect of exercise on bone mass.
- Two studies did not find significant differences, indicating varied responses or study limitations.
Impact:
- Exercise demonstrates a beneficial and measurable effect on bone mass in elderly individuals.
- This positive impact suggests that exercise interventions may contribute to a reduced fracture rate in older adults.
- Supports the integration of exercise into geriatric care for skeletal health maintenance.