OSTEOPOROSIS

Physical activity may play a major role in maintaining bone mineral density, preventing osteoporosis, and reducing fractures. It is shown that Bone density is reduced by bed rest and can be increased by weight-bearing activity. Regular physical activity has been demonstrated to increase bone mass in young women and reduce the decline in bone mass seen in postmenopausal women and may increase bone density in patients with osteoporosis. Postmenopausal women who walk approximately 1 mile per day have higher bone mineral density and slower rates of bone loss than do sedentary women. Regular physical activity also increases muscle mass and strength, which will perhaps reduce the risk of falls and protect being fractured when falls do occur.