Effect of ultraviolet on vitamin D and quality of life in postmenopausal women: a randomized controlled study

Introduction To determine the influence of ultraviolet radiation on vitamin D plasma levels and quality of life in postmenopausal women with vitamin D deficiency. Methods In a single-blinded randomized controlled trial design, 30 postmenopausal women were chosen suffering from a progressive, generalized muscle weakness, associated with decrease in physical function and poor quality of life. The subjects were aged 45–65 years and were randomly assigned into group A, treated by ultraviolet radiation in addition to regular aerobic exercises; and group B, receiving solely aerobic exercises. All participants had 3 sessions per week for 3 months. Outcome measures determined before and after the 3 months of intervention were vitamin D level and the results of the short form (SF-36) of a specific quality of life questionnaire. Results A significant increase in vitamin D was observed along with an improvement in quality of life in group A compared with group B after the treatment period. Conclusions The 12-week program of ultraviolet radiation in addition to regular aerobic exercises yielded more improvement in vitamin D and quality of life than aerobic exercises alone in the management of postmenopausal chronic musculoskeletal disorders.