Bone Abstracts

Exercise is one of the few interventions that can both increase bone strength and reduce the risk of falls, helping to explain the lower fracture rates observed in people who exercise regularly. While the overall volume of physical activity is important for many health outcomes, other parameters are important for osteoporotic fracture prevention. To improve bone strength, exercise must apply sufficient mechanical load to relevant skeletal sites, for example through resistance training or weight-bearing activities. The magnitude of loading appears to be more important than duration, and programmes should ideally be progressive, beginning at a level close to habitual activity and increasing in intensity over time. Reducing falls risk requires specific balance and muscle-strengthening exercises. Several interventions have strong evidence of effectiveness, although access to these programmes varies considerably. In contrast, some activities promoted for bone health do not align with these principles and are supported by little evidence of benefit. This presentation will review a range of interventions, separating evidence-based strategies from those that are largely unsubstantiated. Although the risk of injury is low with most forms of physical activity, certain activities, such as cycling, may be associated with an increased risk of fracture. However, avoiding inactivity remains the priority, as sedentary behaviour can accelerate bone loss. It is therefore essential to identify forms of exercise and physical activity that are both acceptable and sustainable for the individual over the long term.