Journal of Osteoporosis and Physical Activity
Open Access

Biomechanical Analysis of Physical Activity Interventions in Osteoporotic Patients

Leila Khosravi^{* *}Correspondence: Leila Khosravi, Department of Physiotherapy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, Email:

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Description

Osteoporosis is a systemic skeletal condition characterized by decreased bone mass and microarchitectural deterioration of bone tissue, leading to enhanced bone fragility and an increased risk of fractures. Physical activity is widely recognized as a nonpharmacological intervention to mitigate bone loss, improve musculoskeletal strength, and reduce fall risk. However, to ensure efficacy and safety, biomechanical analysis of physical activity interventions is crucial, especially for patients with compromised bone integrity. Biomechanics, the study of mechanical laws relating to the movement or structure of living organisms, plays a vital role in understanding the stresses and loads exerted on bones during various forms of exercise, particularly in individuals with osteoporosis.

Physical activities that apply mechanical loading to the skeleton can stimulate osteogenesis through the mechanotransduction process. This process involves the conversion of mechanical stimuli into biochemical signals, which in turn promote bone formation and remodeling. Weight-bearing and resistance exercises are commonly recommended to osteoporotic patients as they induce axial loading that enhances bone strength. However, not all exercises are beneficial; some may impose excessive or unsafe forces on already fragile bones, especially in the vertebrae, hips, and wrists, which are common sites of osteoporotic fractures.

Biomechanical analysis allows clinicians and rehabilitation specialists to evaluate the type, magnitude, direction, and frequency of forces applied to the bones during different exercises. It aids in selecting activities that optimize mechanical loading while minimizing the risk of injury. For example, lowimpact activities such as walking and stair climbing generate ground reaction forces that are beneficial for bone maintenance, whereas high-impact exercises like jumping or running may pose a fracture risk in advanced cases. Resistance training with controlled motion and proper alignment can generate beneficial strain on bone tissue, particularly in the lower limbs and spine, provided that joint angles and muscle force vectors are accurately assessed and applied.

Postural stability and gait biomechanics are also key considerations in this population. Osteoporotic patients often present with altered gait patterns, decreased stride length, and compromised balance, which can increase fall risk. Biomechanical tools such as motion capture systems, force platforms, and electromyography provide valuable data on joint kinetics, muscle activation patterns, and loading dynamics during movement. These measurements inform the design of personalized exercise protocols that address musculoskeletal imbalances and enhance neuromuscular coordination.

Additionally, the biomechanics of the spine are of particular importance due to the high incidence of vertebral fractures in osteoporotic patients. Flexion-based activities, especially those involving forward bending or spinal rotation, can concentrate compressive forces on the anterior vertebral bodies, increasing the risk of fractures. Biomechanical assessments help identify harmful movement patterns and guide the modification of exercise regimens to include spinal extension exercises, which are generally safer and may improve vertebral strength and posture.

Furthermore, biomechanical principles are applied in the assessment of assistive devices and footwear used by osteoporotic patients during physical activity. Proper equipment can modify load distribution, reduce peak pressures, and improve stability. For example, cushioned insoles may help reduce the impact force on lower extremity joints, while walking aids can redistribute body weight and enhance balance.

Conclusion

Biomechanical analysis is an essential component in the evaluation and optimization of physical activity interventions for osteoporotic patients. It enables clinicians to understand the mechanical loads applied to the skeletal system during different exercises and to develop individualized regimens that promote bone health while minimizing the risk of injury. The application of biomechanical data supports the safe prescription of weight- bearing and resistance exercises, identifies risky movements, and assists in the correction of abnormal gait and posture.

The insights gained from biomechanical studies contribute to more effective and safer exercise interventions, thereby improving musculoskeletal function, reducing fall risk, and enhancing the overall quality of life for osteoporotic individuals. Continued research and technological advancements in biomechanical assessment tools will further refine physical activity recommendations and ensure that therapeutic strategies are grounded in objective, quantitative analysis. Integrating biomechanical evaluation into clinical practice is not only a scientific necessity but also a practical approach to addressing the complexities of osteoporosis management through physical activity.