Bone density and body composition in sporting athletes
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The effects of weight restricted and non-weight restricted sports on bone density and body composition
IRAS ID
198667
Contact name
Nigel Arden
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Clinical Trials and Research Governance, University of Oxford
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 11 months, 31 days
Research summary
Protecting athletes’ health and preventing injuries and illnesses in sport have become a primary concern, therefore treatment and prevention has become all the more important so that sportsmen and women can perform at their best level with minimal risks to their health. Morel et al., (2001) found that bone mineral density differences amongst 14 different sporting disciplines seem to be related to high and unusual strains created at certain sites during sports training by impact loading, muscle stress and gravitational forces. This study will look at bone mineral density, muscle mass and fat mass across a number of different sports including those with and without weight restriction, due to the concern that weight and nutritional restrictions lead to an increase of osteoporosis (Drenowatz et al., 2015). Results from this study will be used to inform guidelines and help make recommendations to make sport safer with respect to osteoporosis.
Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans will be used to identify bone mineral density and body composition. Researchers and medical professionals have confirmed that the participation in the study does not involve a health risk to the participant. DXA scans use a much lower level of radiation than standard X-ray examinations and equates to less than two days’ worth of exposure to natural background radiation.
This study will be investigating the Oxford University Mens & Ladies Boat Club, Oxford University Rugby Football Club, Oxford University Association Football Club, Oxford University Cricket Club, Oxford University Swimming Club and Oxford University Athletics club. Ultimately, the study will contribute to a database including data from jockeys, gymnasts, ballet dancers, judo and football players.
Servier Laboratories Limited has provided funding to University of Oxford for research within the role of bone quality. The recruitment and analysis of participants will commence in March 2016 and conclude in August 2017.
REC name
South Central - Oxford C Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/SC/0187
Date of REC Opinion
16 May 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion