The Impact of Exercise on Bone Health in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus-a Systematic Review

Purpose of Review Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with an increased fracture risk. Weight loss in T2DM management may result in lowering of bone mass. In this systematic literature review, we aimed to investigate how exercise affects bone health in people with T2DM. Furthermore, we examined the types of exercise with the potential to prevent and treat bone fragility in people with T2DM. Recent Findings Exercise differs in type, mechanical load, and intensity, as does the osteogenic response to exercise. Aerobic exercise improves metabolic health in people with T2DM. However, the weight-bearing component of exercise is essential to bone health. Weight loss interventions in T2DM induce a loss of bone mass that may be attenuated if accompanied by resistance or weight-bearing exercise. Combination of weight-bearing aerobic and resistance exercise seems to be preventive against excessive bone loss in people with T2DM. However, evidence is sparse and clinical trials investigating the effects of exercise on bone health in people with T2DM are warranted.