Possible influence of physical activity on musculoskeletal symptoms of menopausal and postmenopausal women

• Published in: JOGN nursing Vol. 11; no. 2; p. 103
• Main Author: Gregory, C A
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01-03-1982
• Subjects: Adult; Aged; Climacteric; Female; Hormones - physiology; Humans; Joint Diseases - prevention & control; Menopause; Middle Aged; Muscular Diseases - prevention & control; Osteoporosis - prevention & control; Physical Exertion
• ISSN: 0090-0311
• DOI: 10.1111/j.1552-6909.1982.tb01009.x

The significance of this information is especially meaningful in determining nursing interventions that present minimal health risks and would be effective in reducing bone loss and diminish joint, bone, and muscle aches and pains experience by menopausal women. Nurses as role models, health professionals, and individuals can encourage, support, and teach these women to engage in regular physical exercise. Nurses can also become more knowledgeable regarding factors which influence the musculoskeletal symptoms, e.g., exercise program, smoking, heavy chores surrounding homemaking; and occupation by becoming involved in research in these areas and developing specific nursing interventions from the results. As stated above, the development of regular physical exercise habits in young girls and women of all ages could be an alternative solution in preventing and reducing musculoskeletal symptoms experienced during the climacteric period of life. The introduction of exercise regimens and the support of women engaged in regular physical activities could reduce the high cost of prolonged health care and human suffering on managing the consequences of postmenopausal osteoporosis, namely, fractures, immobility, deformities, and even death.