Objective: To investigate the relationship of osteoporosis with trunk muscle strength and balance ability in women aged 65 years and over.

Metarials and Methods: Women aged 65 years and over, who had no cognitive dysfunction and who could answer the questions independently, were recruited for this study. Balance ability was assessed by the Berg Balance Scale. Trunk muscle strength was measured using a isokinetic dynamometer. Five measurements for 60°/sec and 20 measurements for 90°/sec angular velocity were performed.

Results: The mean age of 29 women was 69.8±4.3 years (65-78 years). There were no significant differences regarding age, other demographic features, fall history and comorbidities between patients with and without osteoporosis. The total number of drugs was significantly higher in the osteoporotic patients (p=0.043). The frequency of low back pain was higher in the osteoporotic patients, but it was not statistically significant (p=0.122). Peak torque values for trunk flexor and extensors at 60°/sec and 90°/sec angular velocities were lower in the osteoporotic group but only the results for extensor moments at high velocity were significant. Peak torque values for extensor at 90°/sec in patients with and without osteoporosis were 42.3±20.2 Newton metre (Nm) and 22.0±11.3 Nm, respectively (p=0.001) and total work for extensor at 90°/sec were 47.3±30.6 Nm and 20.2±11.9 Nm, respectively (p=0.001).

Conclusion: In osteoporotic women aged 65 years and over, isokinetic concentric trunk extensor strength measured at 90°/sec angular velocity was found to be lower. Strengthening exercises for trunk muscles may also be added to the exercise training program in osteoporosis.