Researchers from Keio University School of Medicine, in Tokyo, Japan make concise conclusions.

Here are the highlights.

Lumbar spinal stenosis

• There’s insufficient evidence to support the effectiveness of exercise.
• Spinal stenosis is a condition where the spinal canal narrows, compressing the spinal cord and nerves.

Mild to moderate osteoarthritis of the knee

• Muscle strengthening and aerobic exercises reduce pain and improve physical function.

Postmenopausal women

• Aerobics, weight bearing and resistance exercises increase bone mineral density of the spine.
• Walking is beneficial to the hips.

The elderly

• Muscle strengthening, balance training, and traditional Chinese tai chi reduce the risk of falling.

The bottom line?
The authors recommend to select appropriate exercises for elderly patients — especially those with mild to moderate osteoarthritis of the knee or osteoporosis.

11/29/09 20:28 JR