Non-weightbearing exercise may increase lumbar spine bone mineral density in healthy postmenopausal women.
Seven postmenopausal women exercised regularly at moderate intensities (60-80% of maximum heart rate) for eight months on bicycle ergometers. Evaluation of bone mineral density by dual photon absorptiometry revealed a significant (P < 0.01) + 3.55 +/- 1.43% (mean +/- SE) increase in lumbar spine density in the exercisers compared with the 2.44 +/- 0.81% decrease noted in seven sedentary controls. No significant difference in change in femoral neck density was noted between the two groups (+2.51 +/- 2.10% v -0.74 +/- 0.72% for exercisers and controls, respectively; P > 0.10). Dietary intake of calcium and vitamin D was similar in both groups, as was previous exposure to estrogen replacement therapy. These data provide evidence of a prospective nature that non-weightbearing exercise may be effective in reversing bone loss in healthy postmenopausal women.
Bloomfield
S A
SA
School of Health, Physical Education and Recreation, Ohio State University, Columbus 43210.
Williams
N I
NI
Lamb
D R
DR
Jackson
R D
RD
D001642:Bicycling; D015519:Bone Density; D004032:Diet; D015444:Exercise; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae; D008593:Menopause; D008875:Middle Aged; D015663:Osteoporosis, Postmenopausal / Q000517:prevention & control