OBJECTIVE: To assess the efficacy of an exercise program aiming to improve balance and muscular strength, for postural control and muscular strength of women with osteoporosis. DESIGN: Sample consisted of 33 women with osteoporosis, randomized into one of two groups: intervention group, in which exercises for balance and improvement of muscular strength of the inferior members were performed for 8 wks (n = 17, age 72.8 +/- 3.6 yrs); control group, which was women not practicing exercises (n = 16, age 74.4 +/- 3.7 yrs). At baseline and after 8 wks of treatment, postural control was assessed using a force plate (Balance Master, Neurocom), and muscular strength during ankle dorsiflexion, knee extension, and flexion was assessed by dynamometry. RESULTS: Adherence to the program was 82%. When compared with the control group, individuals in the intervention group significantly improved the center of pressure velocity (p = 0.02) in the modified clinical test of sensory interaction for balance test, center of pressure velocity (p < 0.01), and directional control (p < 0.01) in limits of stability test, isometric force during ankle dorsiflexion (p = 0.01), knee extension (p < 0.01), and knee flexion (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Balance and strength exercises are effective in improving postural control and lower-limb strength in elderly women with osteoporosis.

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