Physical activity and health: Musculoskeletal issues

Abstract

Sarcopenia and osteoporosis, the complications of the age-related deterioration of the musculoskeletal system, result in increased risk of fracture, disability and death in old age. Consequently, the structure and function of skeletal muscle and bone and their adaptability are essential aspects of overall health, functional capacity and mobility during the whole lifespan. There is convincing clinical evidence that progressive resistance exercise training improves the properties of skeletal muscle in men and women across the age spectrum, thus providing a high reserve capacity for coping with the functional demands of physical tasks. Regarding bones, exercise is most effective during growth, the average gain in bone mineral content (BMC) and density (BMD) in controlled trials being of the order of 2–5% per year. The net gain of BMD after exercise interventions among older people is modest at a level of 1–3% per year. The functional structure of bone may also change as a result of training and other treatment, thereby further improving bone strength. Resistance training is applicable to the basic principles of bone adaptation and site-specific effects of exercise, and it is safe and feasible for older people. Appropriate training regimens may reduce the risk of falls and the severity of fall-related injuries, and also constitute potential therapy to improve functional ability and the quality of life in osteoporotic patients. However, further research is needed on the neuro-musculoskeletal interactions and the benefits and risks of exercise with respect to musculoskeletal and metabolic diseases in elderly individuals.

• Ageing
• bone
• exercise
• fracture
• growth
• osteoporosis
• resistance training
• sarcopenia
• skeletal muscle
• strength