The Effects of Vitamin D on the Neuromuscular System: Potential Mechanisms in the Reduction of the Rate of Falls – A Critical Narrative Literature Review.

Item

Title
The Effects of Vitamin D on the Neuromuscular System: Potential Mechanisms in the Reduction of the Rate of Falls – A Critical Narrative Literature Review.
Title
The Effects of Vitamin D on the Neuromuscular System: Potential Mechanisms in the Reduction of the Rate of Falls – A Critical Narrative Literature Review.
Author(s)
Schimke Peter
Abstract
Objective: The critical narrative review aimed to compare and contrast recent research evidence to clarify the role of Vitamin D (VTD) in both curative and preventive healthcare practices, with specific focus on the effects of VTD deficiency and supplementation on neuromuscular (NM) performance and the possible NM mechanisms involved in decreasing the rate and frequency of falls. Design and Method: A narrative literature review. Several databases were searched; 23 papers met the inclusion criteria and were selected for review. The papers were graded according to a hierarchy of evidence and then assessed using appropriate criteria. Conclusion: Osteopaths should consider the role of VTD in preventive and rehabilitative care in patients with an increased risk of falls, or those with muscular damage. Those identified as VTD deficient need a minimum of 800IU/d supplementation of cholecalciferol or 2,400IU/d of ergocalciferol before any measurable effect on muscle performance and strength can be seen. Serum 25(OH)D3 has an effect on muscle performance once it rises above 25 nmol/L and on strength once it rises above 50 nmol/L. For optimal muscle performance and strength to be maintained within an individual, consistent levels of serum 25(OH)D3 above 75 nmol/L are recommended.
Abstract
Objective: The critical narrative review aimed to compare and contrast recent research evidence to clarify the role of Vitamin D (VTD) in both curative and preventive healthcare practices, with specific focus on the effects of VTD deficiency and supplementation on neuromuscular (NM) performance and the possible NM mechanisms involved in decreasing the rate and frequency of falls. Design and Method: A narrative literature review. Several databases were searched; 23 papers met the inclusion criteria and were selected for review. The papers were graded according to a hierarchy of evidence and then assessed using appropriate criteria. Conclusion: Osteopaths should consider the role of VTD in preventive and rehabilitative care in patients with an increased risk of falls, or those with muscular damage. Those identified as VTD deficient need a minimum of 800IU/d supplementation of cholecalciferol or 2,400IU/d of ergocalciferol before any measurable effect on muscle performance and strength can be seen. Serum 25(OH)D3 has an effect on muscle performance once it rises above 25 nmol/L and on strength once it rises above 50 nmol/L. For optimal muscle performance and strength to be maintained within an individual, consistent levels of serum 25(OH)D3 above 75 nmol/L are recommended.
Date Accepted
2011
Date Submitted
3.2.2012 00:00:00
Type
osteo_thesis
Language
English
Pub-Identifier
15100
Inst-Identifier
780
Keywords
Vitamin D; muscle strength; falls; cholecalciferol; physical performance; skeletal muscle; neuromuscular; Vitamin D deficiency
Recommended
0
Item sets
Thesis

Schimke Peter, “The Effects of Vitamin D on the Neuromuscular System: Potential Mechanisms in the Reduction of the Rate of Falls – A Critical Narrative Literature Review.”, Osteopathic Research Web, accessed May 2, 2025, https://www.osteopathic-research.com/s/orw/item/1740