Adult male professional soccer players have higher lumbar spine and hip bone mineral density than age- and body weight-matched controls

Abstract

Peak bone mass attained at the third decade may be the single most important factor for the prevention of osteoporosis later in life (1). Peak bone mass is influenced by several factors such as heredity, endocrine factors, nutrition, and physical activity (1). Physical activities that include sprints and jumps seem to have a positive effect on bone mineral content and bone mineral density (BMD) (2,3). The aim of this study was to compare BMD of weight-bearing sites such as the lumbar spine and the hip and BMD of a non-weight bearing site (forearm) in young adult male professional soccer players and age- and body weight–matched male controls.