REVIEW: OSTEOPOROSIS AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Abstract

The use of physical activity is widely accepted in preventive medicine practice. Therapeutic exercises are especially beneficial in supporting the treatment of some chronic diseases. The choice of appropriate and effective exercises in the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis is crucial. The duration, intensity, frequency, and the involved muscle mass are to be taken into account in exercise prescription, which are basically a combination of movement patterns. The musculo-skeletal system is in continuous interaction with the environment. It is a very dynamic system with a high adaptive capacity. The response to stimuli depends on the biological age, health, and sports activity experience of the individual. Weight bearing activities with different movement patterns like ball games are accepted to be more effective in the prevention of osteoporosis, especially when performed till the end of puberty. This type of activity seems to be also effective in the middle-aged. Proprioceptive and strength exercises are important in supporting postmenopausal women. In elderly people, though progressive resistance exercises are very effective, even walking and simple gymnastics can be beneficial in more sedentary cases. Less intensive exercise of shorter duration has to be performed by people with advanced stage osteoporosis with or without previous fracture complication. Strength exercises can be fulfilled isometrically in critical cases. Particularly in older people, enhanced mobility is not only a very effective means in the therapy of osteoporosis, but also a factor in decreasing pain sensation. The increased independence of the subject provides better life quality.