Episode Summary
Discover which types of exercise may help prevent falls and fractures, improve bone density, and support daily function in adults at higher risk of osteoporosis-related injury. You’ll also learn how to match exercise choices to specific goals while keeping safety and real-world practice in mind.
Exercise for older adults at increased fracture risk is examined through the lens of specificity: programs should match the outcomes being targeted, such as falls, fractures, bone mineral density, function, pain, or quality of life. The summary draws on several systematic reviews used to inform Osteoporosis Canada guidelines, including walking, impact exercise, balance and functional training, strength training, yoga, Pilates, and exercise for hyperkyphosis or vertebral fracture.
The strongest evidence supports balance and functional training, alone or combined with resistance exercise, for reducing falls, and it may also help prevent fractures. Tai Chi also appears effective for fall prevention, while evidence for walking, yoga, dance, and resistance training alone is less certain. Resistance exercise combined with impact exercise may improve bone mineral density, though the evidence is low certainty. Many exercise types show small benefits for physical functioning, and several, especially resistance training, yoga, and back extensor or core exercises, may improve quality of life.
For hyperkyphosis and vertebral fracture, posture-focused and back extensor exercises may improve strength, mobility, pain, posture, and daily function. Adverse events are uncommon but can occur, particularly during unsafe transitions, highlighting the value of proper supervision and coaching.
