EFFECT OF AEROBIC AND STRENGTHENING EXERCISES ON BALANCE, MUSCLE STRENGTH AND BONE DENSITY IN POST MENOPAUSAL WOMEN WITH PRIMARY OSTEOPENIA AND OSTEOPOROSIS.

Osteoporosis is the most common metabolic bone disease. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of exercise therapy on balance, muscle strength, bone density and quality of life in women with primary osteopenia and osteoporosis and to compare two types of aerobic and strengthening exercises on mentioned indexes.

Materials & Methods : In this clinical trial, 90 postmenopausal women with osteoporosis referring to physical medicine clinic during 15 months were randomized into three groups of 30 people. Drug therapy began in all three groups. Quadriceps, hip abductor and extensors of trunk muscles strength were determined. Bone density of lumbar and femoral areas was measured by DEXA method. SF36 questionnaire of quality of life was completed by patients. In the second and third groups, aerobic and strengthening exercises were conducted for 6 months.

Results : Although average BMD in an intra-group comparison had significantly increased in all three groups, there was no significant difference in the mean of BMD increase in lumbar and femoral areas (0.29 ± 0.19, 0.26 ± 0.25, 0.26±0.23, P=0.834).Reduction of fall risk, improvement of postural stability and increased muscles strength were observed in two exercise groups compared to the group without exercise (P<0.001). There was a significant increase in improving quality of life of patients based on SF36 questionnaire.

Conclusion : Performing a 6-month exercise program in post menopause women increases muscle strength, maintains balance and improves quality of life in this group of patients compared to postmenopausal women under drug therapy only. A subtle increase in bone density was observed among studied groups without any distinct difference however, its effects seem to be stronger by continuous exercise program.