EFFECTS OF SPORT ON SKELETAL DEVELOPMENT IN ADOLESCENTS

ABSTRACT Introduction Incomplete skeletal development in adolescents and children depends on several factors such as genetic load, diet, and environment. Appropriate physical exercise can improve youth’s physical fitness, but its effect on bone density is still questioned. Objective Verify the influence of appropriate physical activity on adolescents’ bone development. Methods Among 3240 students aged 12 to 16 years from 4 schools, 96 students (52 males) were selected for observation. They were divided into a control and an experimental group, with a sports activity protocol inserted into the latter. Family and student questionnaires, physical examinations, and X-rays were used for data collection. Statistical analysis of factors including sports and development of adolescents’ height quality was extensively documented. Results The skeletal development in adolescents on regular participation in sports is better than that in adolescents not involved in sports. Conclusion Physical exercise can promote skeletal development in adolescents. Evidence Level II; Therapeutic Studies - Investigating the result.