Bone Health in Adolescent Cyclists
Author Information
Author(s): Olmedillas Hugo, González-Agüero Alejandro, Moreno Luís A., Casajús José A., Vicente-Rodríguez Germán
Primary Institution: Universidad de Zaragoza
Hypothesis
Cycling during adolescence is associated with lower bone mass acquisition compared to a healthy adolescent population.
Conclusion
Cycling performed throughout adolescence may negatively affect bone health, compromising the acquisition of peak bone mass.
Supporting Evidence
- Adolescent cyclists had lower bone mineral content and density compared to healthy age-matched controls.
- Lower bone mass was observed in regions critical for bone health, such as the hip and pelvis.
- Years of cycling practice negatively correlated with bone mass in older adolescent cyclists.
Takeaway
Cycling might not be good for your bones when you're a kid because it doesn't put enough pressure on them to grow strong.
Methodology
The study compared 22 adolescent male cyclists with 22 age-matched controls, measuring bone mineral content and density using DXA.
Potential Biases
Potential biases include the lack of hormone and calcium intake data, which may affect bone acquisition.
Limitations
The study design cannot conclude that observed effects are solely due to cycling practice rather than other factors.
Participant Demographics
Participants were healthy male adolescents under 21 years of age, with 22 cyclists and 22 controls involved in recreational sports.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p≤0.05
Statistical Significance
p≤0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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