Jump rope helps prevent osteoarthritis
Jumping rope may be more than a fun recess activity for kids; it could stave off osteoarthritis later in life. Children with diabetes who regularly did jump rope or other weight-bearing activities had improved bone mineral density in a new study. Having a high bone mineral density is believed to be protective against osteoarthritis. The study points to important preventative measures for diabetic and healthy children alike.
Researchers measured the bone mineral density of 27 children with type 1 diabetes and 3 healthy children. After 9 months, children who participated in two 90 sessions a week of weight-bearing physical activities significantly improved their bone mineral density. These changes weren't observed in children who did not engage in weight-bearing activities.
The study echoes the results of another recent study involving young men participating in loading sports. Young men who performed at least 4 hours a week of basketball, volleyball, soccer or other loading activities had increased volumetric bone density. Participants not involved in loading sports did not experience the same benefits.
You don't have to be young to benefit from weight-bearing activities. Older adults can could also reduce their risk of osteoarthritis with resistance training and loading sports.
Taking vitamin D supplements is another way for older adults to improve bone health.
References
Maggio AB, Rizzoli RR, Marchand LM, et al. Physical activity increases bone mineral density in children with type 1 diabetes. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2012;44:1206-1211.
Nilsson M, Ohlsson C, Odén A, Mellström D, Lorentzon M. Increased physical activity is associated with enhanced development of peak bone mass in men: a five-year longitudinal study. J Bone Miner Res. 2012 May;27(5):1206-14. doi:10.1002/jbmr.1549. PubMed PMID: 22247082; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC3415622.
