Exercise and physical activity in individuals at risk of fracture

• Published in: Baillière's best practice & research. Clinical endocrinology & metabolism 2022-03, Vol.36 (2), p.101613, Article 101613
• Main Authors: Giangregorio, L.M., Ponzano, Matteo
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: exercise; falls; fracture; osteoporosis; physical activity; spine fracture
• ISSN: 1521-690X; 1878-1594
• DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2021.101613

This is a review of evidence and practical tips on exercise for individuals with osteoporosis, including individuals with hip and vertebral fractures. Balance and functional training, with or without strength training, can prevent falls. Several types of exercise can improve outcomes that are important to patients, such as physical functioning or quality of life. Individuals with osteoporosis should prioritize balance, functional and resistance training ≥ twice weekly, where exercises, volume, intensity, and progression are aligned with the patient's goals and abilities. Patients who want to participate in other activities (e.g., walking, impact exercise, yoga, Pilates) can do them in addition to, but not instead of, balance and functional or strength training, if they can be done safely or modified. Avoid generic advice like “Don't bend or twist”, which is difficult or impossible to operationalize, and may create fear and activity avoidance. Instead, be specific about the types of activities to avoid or modify, and provide tips on how to make daily activities safer, or signpost to resources from national osteoporosis societies. For example, not all bending or twisting is bad; it is activities that involve rapid, repetitive, sustained, weighted, or end range of motion twisting or flexion of the spine that may need to be modified, especially in individuals at high risk of fracture.