Miyakoshi N, et al. – In this present study, the experts compared the spinal alignment, muscular strength, and quality of life (QOL) between women with postmenopausal osteoporosis and healthy volunteers. Their investigations suggested that lower QOL in osteoporosis patients was probably associated with increased thoracic kyphosis, reduced lean muscle mass, and generalized muscle weakness.

Methods

• This study included 236 female patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis (mean age, 68.7 years) and 93 healthy volunteer women (mean age, 71.0 years).
• Between groups, body mass index (BMI), angles of spinal kyphosis, back extensor strength, grip strength, and QOL were compared.

Results

• In the volunteer group, BMI, back extensor strength, and grip strength were significantly higher than in the osteoporosis group (p < 0.01).
• In the osteoporosis group, both thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis were significantly greater than in the volunteer group (p < 0.01). 
• With regard to QOL, the 36–Item Short–Form Health Survey (SF–36) subscale scores of role physical, bodily pain, general health, and role emotional were all significantly lower in the osteoporosis group than in the volunteer group (p < 0.05 each).
• SF–36 physical component summary (PCS) score was significantly lower in the osteoporosis group than in the volunteer group (p < 0.001).
• In the osteoporosis group, SF–36 PCS score correlated positively with thoracic kyphosis and negatively with BMI (p < 0.05 each).