Research Review:
Strong, steady and straight: UK consensus statement on physical activity and exercise for
osteoporosis
https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/early/2022/04/24/bjsports-2021-104634
This paper aimed to set up guidelines for exercises, clarify the safety of exercise in the osteoporotic population
and promote consistent advice for health professionals and amongst those clients with osteoporosis. Focus
areas were collected from a stakeholder group of individuals with osteoporosis. These were then passed on to
an expert panel to guide the content for a consensus statement. The current literature was then reviewed by
this expert panel and an updated guideline was published.
From the stakeholder discussion it was found that osteoporosis sufferers believed that exercise was beneficial
for their bone health and general well-being, they reported frustration regarding mixed messaging from health
professionals and were unsure about which exercises were safe. There was also desire for more specific
exercise regimes across all functional levels.
The following diagram was made as part of the consensus statement. The diagram lists specific exercises and
dosages as well as sports and activities that are applicable for the following categories.
– The strong exercises are aimed at promoting bone strength and preventing fractures.
– The steady exercises are aimed at reducing falls risk.
– The straight exercises aim to reduce risk of vertebral fracture, improve posture and manage
symptoms after vertebral fracture
**It is important to note that those with vertebral fractures will only be appropriate for lower impact
activities, the impact equivalent of a brisk walk. There should still be elements from each area of the
program as exercise for these individuals will improve quality of life, mobility and reduce pain.
