Systematic review article of Berlin Bedrest studies about prolonged bedrest effects on lower limb musculoskeletal system

Many studies have been carried out about bedrest and its effects on different systems including musculoskeletal,neuromuscular,cognition and vascular systems throughout the world.The purpose of this paper is to review systematically all Berlin Bedrest Studies on musculoskeletal system.The focus of this review is mainly Second Berlin Bedrest Study (2nd BBRS) supported by European Space Agency(ESA).Such studies provide a chance to study the specific effects of immobilization without interference of other diseases.

A literature search was carried out using MEDLINE and ESA database to assess existing literature about the effect of bedrest on musculoskeletal system published by Berlin Bedrest Studies.It has been searched for efficacy of interventions as high load resistive exercise and whole body vibration,as well.

Fourty six articles have been found from 2000 to 2011year: 2 articles in 2000 and 2003,the other ones between 2005 to 2011. Seventeen articles were related to muscle and intervention on it,three ones about bone and related intervention on it,four ones related to both bone and muscle and twenty two ones about the other systems such as heart,vesseles,sleep and cognition.

According‏‏‏ to study results,bedrest has widespread effects on musculoskeletal system specially in early bedrest. These effects remain up to 180 days after bedrest course.Thus,high load resistive exercise and vibration should be prescribed in early stage of bedrest to reduce the detrimential effects of prolonged bedrest.