Effect of Vitamin D on Falls and Physical Performance

Abstract

Recent understanding has highlighted the importance of extraskeletal role of vitamin D. Despite numerous observational and interventional studies over the last two decades, the apparent divergent clinical findings have intensified the controversy regarding this role of vitamin D in older adults. This article reviews the existing literature and summarizes the current knowledge of vitamin D status and vitamin D supplementation on falls and physical performance, describes the putative mechanisms underlying this association, and reflects on the controversy surrounding vitamin D recommendations in older adults.

Keywords: Falls; Fracture; Frailty; Muscle strength; Physical performance; Vitamin D.