In conclusion , we observed no improvement in muscle strength after the administration of vitamin D with or without calcium supplements .
We did find a small but significant deterioration of mobility .
BACKGROUND It has been suggested that vitamin D status or supplementation is important for maintaining or improving muscle strength and mobility in older adults .
The study results , however , do not provide consistent results .
We therefore aim ed to summarise the available evidence systematic ally , including only studies conducted in community-dwelling older persons .
1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3 and muscle strength in the elderly: a randomized controlled trial.
An unexplained loss of muscle strength occurs with aging . Vitamin D deficiency can cause myopathy and administration of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 [ 1,25-(OH2)D3 ] to persons with low serum concentrations can improve strength . To test the hypothesis that the weakness associated with aging is in part due to inadequate serum concentrations of [ 1,25-(OH2)D3 ] , we conducted a r and omized , controlled , double blinded trial in 98 men and women volunteers over 69 yr old . Treatment consisted of 0.25 micrograms 1,25-(OH)2D3 , orally , twice per day or identical placebo for 6 months .  Leg muscle strength of the quadriceps was measured with an isokinetic dynamometer . There was no difference between the two groups at 1 week , 1 month , or 6 months of treatment in any of the measures of muscle strength . We conclude that oral administration of 0.5 micrograms 1,25-(OH)2D3/day does not improve muscle strength in older persons . Further research is needed to determine the etiology of the decline in muscle strength associated with aging
In conclusion , we observed no improvement in muscle strength after the administration of vitamin D with or without calcium supplements .
We did find a small but significant deterioration of mobility .
BACKGROUND It has been suggested that vitamin D status or supplementation is important for maintaining or improving muscle strength and mobility in older adults .
The study results , however , do not provide consistent results .
We therefore aim ed to summarise the available evidence systematic ally , including only studies conducted in community-dwelling older persons .