Osteopenia: Its Relation to Menstrual Disorders in Female Athletes

Abstract

Loss of bone density (osteopenia) is a problem which is usually associated with postmenopausal women; however, it is a problem which has recently been identified in some female athletes. It is well documented that changes in the hormonal cycle are responsible for the changes in bone density, although the exact etiology remains to be identified. Amenorrhea occurs with some female distance runners and is linked to abnormal hormonal cycles, notably, decreased estrogen levels, similar to those experienced by postmenopausal women. Recent research has identified significant bone density losses in these amenorrheic female runners, and some have identified an associated increase in stress fractures and other injuries. Knowledge regarding the potential problems of amenorrhea and appropriate physical therapy are essential for those working with young female distance runners. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 1990;11(8):351-354.