Yoga and Osteoporosis

Yoga and Osteoporosis refers to research on yoga’s effects on bone mineral density, fall risk, and fracture prevention in osteoporosis.

Summary

Studies assess whether weight-bearing yoga poses improve bone density and reduce fracture risk in osteoporotic and osteopenic populations.

Key Findings

Preliminary evidence suggests yoga may slow bone loss at the hip and spine. Yoga improves balance and reduces fall risk, which is critical for fracture prevention. Twelve minutes of daily targeted yoga shows promise in prospective studies. Effects on bone mineral density are modest compared to pharmacological treatments.

Methodology

Studies include RCTs and prospective cohorts with DEXA scans as primary outcomes. Controls include usual care and walking programs.

Limitations

Bone density changes require years to measure meaningfully. Most studies are short-term. Sample sizes are small. Confounders include calcium/vitamin D intake and other exercise.

Verification Notes

• Lu et al. (2016) prospective study and subsequent reviews inform evidence.
• Literature reviewed through 2020s.