Physical activity and bone mineral density

Abstract

This article reviews the studies evaluating physical activity as a method to increase bone mineral density (BMD). Individuals of all ages can benefit from participation in physical activity. Activities which provide high loading on bones at the point where muscles insert provide the most benefit to increase BMD. Both younger and older individuals experience the same changes from resistance activities. Older women experience greater loss of BMD than men and have less strength than men. While women show the same type of improvements, the gains for older women were not as rapid as the ones seen in men. Once gains in BMD are achieved, continued participation in physical activity is necessary to prevent BMD loss. Therapists can identify possible BMD problems in patients as higher bone density is related to lean muscle mass.