Adapted Judo training on bone-variables in postmenopausal women in pharmacological treatment

Background: The osteoporosis is a bone disease that causes bone fragility with increased risks of fractures and negative consequences on human mobility. Objective: The study sought to examine the effects of adapted Judo training (AJT) on bone mineral density (BMD), balance and quality of life (QoL) in postmenopausal women taking alendronate. Methods: Eighteen female volunteers participated in this study. The volunteers were separated into two groups: AJT (n = 11; 52.2 ± 5.3 years) and control group (CG) (n = 7; 53.8 ± 4.4 years). The following evaluation instruments were used: dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (which measured the lumbar L2-L4, femoral neck and trochanter), the Osteoporosis Assessment Questionnaire (OPAQ) and a static balance test with visual control. The study period was 12 months. The fitness training involved traditional Judo class methodology. Repeated measures ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used along with normality tests of the data. Results: The data show significant differences in the AJT group for the BMD of the lumbar L2-L4 (Δ% = +0.052 %, p = 0.013), balance (Δ% = +3.9 %, p = 0.004) and the OPAQ functions (p < 0.05) including to the total score range (Δ% = +16.8 %, p = 0.001). Conclusion: The results suggest the AJT as an alternative physical activity is effective for the lumbar BMD, balance and QoL. However, the AJT needs more studies to be recommended for postmenopausal women with low BMD. © 2012 Springer-Verlag Italia.