The Open Arthritis Journal
2009, 2 : 14-17Published online 2009 June 30. DOI: 10.2174/1876539400902010014
Publisher ID: TOARTHJ-2-14
RESEARCH ARTICLE
Exercise and Its Effect on Bone Health
1
Division of Rheumatology, Beth Israel Medical Center, 10 Union Sq East, Ste 3D, New York, NY 10003, USA
2 Internal Medicine Resident, Beth Israel Medical Center, 353 E 17 St. Apt 18C, New York, NY 10003, USA
3 The Osteoporosis Center, The NYU Hospital for Joint Diseases-Orthopedic Institute, New York, NY. USA
* Address correspondence to this author at the Internal Medicine Resident, Beth Israel Medical Center, 353 E 17th St. Apt 18C, New York, NY 10003, USA; Tel: 212-420-2000; Fax: 212-844-8167; E-mail: jbarnes@chpnet.org
2 Internal Medicine Resident, Beth Israel Medical Center, 353 E 17 St. Apt 18C, New York, NY 10003, USA
3 The Osteoporosis Center, The NYU Hospital for Joint Diseases-Orthopedic Institute, New York, NY. USA
* Address correspondence to this author at the Internal Medicine Resident, Beth Israel Medical Center, 353 E 17th St. Apt 18C, New York, NY 10003, USA; Tel: 212-420-2000; Fax: 212-844-8167; E-mail: jbarnes@chpnet.org
ABSTRACT
Peak bone mass is largely determined by genetic control, however, 30% is determined by environmental factors, most important exercise, nutrition and chronic illness. It is recognized that the maximizing peak bone density is essential in the reduction of fracture risk at all stages of life. For children and adolescents regular exercise particularly ones that include high impact features and a well balanced diet including milk based calcium and vitamin D is critical to maintaining and building strong bones. During the postmenopausal years, a regular schedule of physical activity emphasizing weight bearing exercises can help maintain bone mineral density and may reduce fracture risk.