Balance training may significantly reduce the frequency of falls in patients with osteoporosis
BACKGROUND Balance training may be beneficial for patients with osteoporosis , although current results are inconclusive .
The aim of this systematic review and meta- analysis was to explore the effect of balance training on falls in patients with osteoporosis .
Physical activity, muscle function, falls and fractures
Study design A thematic review . Objectives To evaluate if physical activity enhances muscle strength , improves balance , and reduces the fall frequency and the fracture incidence .  Background One of the major medical problems of today is the increasing incidence of fragility fractures .  Muscle strength and fall is one of the major determinants of a fracture . If physical activity could increase muscle strength , improve balance and reduce the fall frequency , then training could be recommended as prevention for fractures . Methods The review used Medline ( Pub Med ) and the search words exercise , physical activity , muscle strength , balance , falls , fractures . R and omized controlled trials ( RCT ) were predominantly included , although this not is a systematic review . Results The evidence that physical activity modifies the risk factors for fall is compelling , although RCT with fractures as end point are lacking . Physical activity is associated with improved muscle strength , co-ordination and balance .  Physical training increases muscle strength also in octogenarians by up to 200 % , i.e. a much more pronounced effect than the corresponding increase in muscle volume or bone mass . There is also evidence that physical activity decreases the actual number of falls . Observational cohort and case-control studies imply that physical activity is associated with reduced hip fracture risk . If exercise reduces the number of vertebral fractures and other fragility fractures are less evaluated . Conclusions Physical activity in older ages can be recommended to improve muscle strength and balance , to reduce the risk to fall and fractures , although the highest level of evidence – RCT with fracture as endpoint – is lacking
Balance training may significantly reduce the frequency of falls in patients with osteoporosis
BACKGROUND Balance training may be beneficial for patients with osteoporosis , although current results are inconclusive .
The aim of this systematic review and meta- analysis was to explore the effect of balance training on falls in patients with osteoporosis .