Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess bone mineral density (BMD) and degenerative changes
in the lumbar spine in male former elite athletes participating in different track
and field disciplines and to determine the influence of body composition and degenerative
changes on BMD. One hundred and fifty-nine former male elite athletes (40 throwers,
97 jumpers, 22 endurance athletes) were studied. Anthropometric (age, body mass index
[BMI]) and sport-specific data (personal best, intensity, duration, and time since
termination of competitive sports career as well as current sporting activity) were
collected. Degenerative changes of the lumbar spine in lateral view were evaluated
by using the Kellgren and Lawrence Score. Bone mineral density of the lumbar spine
was measured in an anterior-posterior view with dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA,
T-score). Throwers had a higher body mass index than jumpers and endurance athletes.
Throwers and jumpers had higher BMD (T-LWS) than endurance athletes. Bivariate analysis
revealed a negative correlation of BMD (T-score) with age and a positive correlation
with BMD and Kellgren score (p < 0.05). Even after multiple adjustment for confounders
lumbar spine BMD is significantly higher in throwers, pole vaulters, and long- and
triple jumpers than in marathon athletes. Different types of mechanical loading caused
by sporting activities seem to influence the BMD of the lumbar spine, even if different
body constitutions (i.e. BMI) and age, training history, and degenerative changes
in the lumbar spine of former throwers, jumpers, and endurance athletes are taken
into consideration.
Key words
Body composition - track and field - athletes - physical activity - degenerative changes
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H. Schmitt
Department of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Heidelberg
Schlierbacher Landstraße 200 a
69118 Heidelberg
Germany
Telefon: + 496221966378
Fax: + 49 62 21 96 64 33
eMail: holger.schmitt@ok.uni-heidelberg.de
