Study Summary

Thirty-nine studies including 2325 patients with osteoporosis were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis comparing mind-body exercises vs. no exercise or other exercises. Pooled outcomes of interest included bone mineral density (BMD), bone mineral content (BMC), body balance (BB), pain, indicators of bone metabolism (BMI), lower extremity function, fearing level, and quality of life (QOL). The pooled results showed that mind-body exercises have encouraging effects, particularly in improving BMD, BMC, QOL, lower extremity function, reducing pain, and fearing level. However, some exercises like dance and eight-section brocade did not improve BMD or QOL. This study suggests that mind-body exercises could be a potential non-pharmacological intervention for managing osteoporosis in the elderly.