[Systematic strength training in the postmenopause: accompanying densitometric control with DXA]

Area of Science:

• Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine
• Bone Biology and Osteoporosis Research

Context:

• Postmenopausal osteoporosis represents a significant public health concern due to elevated fracture risk in aging populations.
• Previous research indicates physical activity positively influences bone density.

Purpose:

• To investigate the effects of systematic strength building on bone mineral density (BMD) and physical strength in postmenopausal women.
• To compare BMD changes in a training group versus a control group over a 6-month period.

Summary:

• Thirty-one postmenopausal women (age ≥50, ≥2 years postmenopause) were studied; 16 participated in strength training, 15 served as controls.
• BMD was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry before and after the 6-month intervention.
• The control group experienced significant BMD decrease (6.7–22.3%), particularly in the proximal femur. The training group showed minimal loss in the proximal femur (0.8–3.8%) and a slight increase in the lumbar spine (+0.3%).

Impact:

• Systematic strength training can mitigate bone density loss in postmenopausal women, potentially reducing osteoporosis-related fracture risk.
• Findings support the integration of targeted exercise programs into strategies for managing age-related bone density decline.