Abstract - Adapted Taekwondo Affects Variables Associated with Low Bone Density in Postmenopausal Women in Pharmalogical Treatment
Aim. This study aimed to determine the effect of Taekwondo training programs using an adapted method (ATKD) and walking (WALK) on bone mineral density (BMD), functional autonomy and quality of life (QoL) of elderly postmenopausal women in pharmacological treatment.
Method. For this clinical study, 34 volunteers were randomly allocated to two groups: ATKD (n=17) and Walking (n=17). The following were applied: dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) for BMD, GDLAM functional autonomy protocol and the WHOQOL-OLD questionnaire for QoL. Exercise interventions lasted four months, with intensity progressing along with pharmacological treatment.
Results. The results showed that after the intervention period, ATKD was effective in improving the BMD of L1-L3 (Δ%= 0.16%; p<0.001), the femoral neck (Δ%= 0.10%; p=0.015) and total femur (Δ%= 0.15%; p<0.001) as well as functional autonomy (GI: Δ%= 8.8%; p<0.001) and QoL (OQoL – OLD: Δ%=3.2%; p<0.001) when compared to the Walking group (p<0.05).
Conclusion. ATKD may be an alternative physical exercise to improve BMD, functional capacity and QoL in older postmenopausal women along with pharmacological treatment.