• Changes in volumetric trabecular BMD of the spine and hip by quantitative computed tomography
  
• (CT scan)
  

• Changes in biochemical markers of bone formation (Procollagen type 1 N-terminal peptide and Bone Specific Alkaline Phosphatase) and resorption (C-terminal Telopeptide of type I collagen)
  

The treatment options for osteoporosis, a major health complication in the aged population, are limited to pharmacologic interventions, the majority of which are antiresorptive. Preliminary data demonstrate that high frequency, low magnitude mechanical stimulation (LMMS) can preserve bone mineral density (BMD) against systemic pressures to resorb (e.g., disuse, aging), and can stimulate new bone formation.

To confirm and extend these observations, this study is a two-year, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial of LMMS in 200 elderly women and men (65 years of age and older). A clinical center located in Boston, MA will recruit participants from six independent living facilities in close geographic proximity serving a population of 2,082 residents. Following a two-week trial run-in period with an inactive vibrating platform, participants meeting the inclusion/exclusion criteria will be randomized to either brief daily exposure to LMMS on a vibrating platform or a placebo platform over a two year period. All participants will receive 500 mg of elemental calcium and 400 IU of vitamin D per day.

This study will provide new and important information about the role of low magnitude high frequency mechanical stimulation on the skeleton.