For those interested in the effects of different types of exercise on bone density should look up an article titled A Systematic Review of Bone Health in Cyclists that came out in the journal of Sports Health that looked at cycling and bone mass. Major Points for Review:
- Studies suggest Low Bone Density in Cyclists is lower as compared to runners and walkers and close to bone density of sedentary individuals.
- If you are a cyclist and have other risk factors for low bone density you should seek physician consultation
- Risk Factors for Osteoporosis (ie over age 50, long term steriod use,smoking and alcohol use, low calcium uptake in life, sex hormones associated with menopause and amenorrhea, etc)
- Highest risk area appears to be a lumbar spine for cyclists.
- Studies are suggesting decreased bone density but some inconsistencies are found in studies.
In my physical therapy clinic I recommend bone density testing especially for those in high risk groups. Lastly, patients should engage in more weight bearing exercises to counter balance the possible negative effects of cycling on the femur and lumbar spine bone density. Just here in my practice in Paramus I have seen numerous hip fractures among my cyclists.
Tom Willemann
Tom Willemann is a premier physical therapist based out of Bergen County, New Jersey. He holds an MS in physical therapy from the University of Miami, is credentialed in the world-renowned McKenzie Method of Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT), and holds an OCS (Orthopedic Clinical Specialist) certification. As of 2018, there are approximately 14,000 ABPTS certified specialists in the nation and less than 400 of them are located in the state of New Jersey.
Tom is the owner and director of Apex Orthopedic Rehabilitation in Paramus. He opened the clinic, which specializes in spine and sports injury prevention, in 2004 after many years of experience in the field. Tom’s caring interest in others and his strong belief in continuity of care, combined with his clinic’s ability to find solutions for the most difficult orthopedic problems, have earned Apex Orthopedic Rehabilitation its excellent reputation with patients and medical professionals in northeastern New Jersey and beyond. A true “family man,” Tom takes pride in his clinic’s warm and welcoming environment.
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