Effects of a physical activity program on the quality of life of women with osteoporosis

Abstract

This study´s goal was to check the effects of a physical activity program intended to improve the quality of life of a group of women with osteoporosis. Fifteen volunteer women were evaluated (59,1+-7,6 years old), with densitometric diagnosis of osteoporosis on the column and/or femur. All the women were submitted to a physical evaluation and responded to the OPA (Osteoporosis Assessment Questionnaire). The group was re-evaluated on a month and a half basis, summing up five evaluation a the end of six months. The physical activity program was conducted twice a week, each session had one duration and lasted for six consecutive months. Each session of the physical activity programa was made up of: 10-15 minutos of muscle elongation, 30-40 minutes walk, 5-10 minutes of ball playing and 5-10 minutes of relaxation and/of massage. The data was statistically analyzed by means of Friedman´s and Wilcoxon´s ANOVA non-parametric tests and showed significant improvemente (p<0,05) between evaluation 1 and 5 on the variables analyzed in the physical evaluation (height, anterior trunk flexion, muscular strength of the quadriceps and the use of painkiller) and in the OPAQ (flexibility, pain, stress level, daily life activity and familiar support). The results achieved allow to conclude that there was a significant improvement in the daily life activity, muscular strength, flexibility, pain and stress level. The OPAC proved itself effective for the desired evaluation. Evidence employed contributed for the improvement of the life quality of the women participatin in the research.