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Deterring bone loss by exercise intervention in premenopausal and postmenopausal women
E L Smith1, C Gilligan, M McAdam
1Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison 53705.
Calcified Tissue International
|May 1, 1989
Summary
Regular exercise significantly deters bone loss in middle-aged women. A 4-year study showed exercise reduced bone mineral decline in the arms, regardless of menopausal status.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Bone Health
- Gerontology
Background:
- Bone loss is a significant concern for middle-aged women.
- Previous data on exercise interventions requires correction and extension.
- Understanding the impact of exercise on bone mineral content (BMC) is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of a 4-year exercise intervention in preventing bone loss in middle-aged women.
- To compare bone loss rates between an exercise group and a control group.
- To analyze the influence of menopausal status on exercise's effect on bone density.
Main Methods:
- A 4-year study involving 62 control and 80 exercise subjects (mean age ~50).
- Exercise group performed 45-minute sessions, three times weekly.
- Bone mineral content (BMC) and width (W) of radius, ulna, and humerus were measured 11 times.
Main Results:
- Control group showed significant BMC and BMC/W decline in all arm bones.
- Exercise group exhibited significantly lower rates of decline for 12 of 18 bone variables.
- Greatest benefits were observed in the ulna and radius, with reduced bone loss regardless of menopausal status.
Conclusions:
- Physical activity significantly reduces bone loss in the arms of middle-aged women.
- Exercise intervention is effective in preserving bone mineral content and width.
- The benefits of exercise on bone health are evident in both premenopausal and postmenopausal women.