A recent study conducted by Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and Soroka University Medical Center, published in the journal Sleep and Breathing, has established a connection between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and decreased muscle quality and strength, as well as an increased risk of fractures. Approximately 936 million people worldwide are affected by sleep apnea, which primarily manifests through impaired nighttime breathing and significant daytime fatigue.

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The study, released in January 2026, investigated how OSA impacts muscle and bone health among participants. Using polysomnography, 209 individuals were screened to determine the severity of their conditions. Those diagnosed with OSA had experienced at least 10 breathing disruptions per hour, while those with fewer incidents served as a comparison group. The research revealed that individuals suffering from OSA exhibited lower skeletal muscle density, with greater breathing disruptions correlating to poorer muscle quality.

Peak growth hormone secretion occurs during deep sleep, specifically during the N3 stage, which OSA can disrupt. This fragmentation hinders muscle repair processes. Chronic intermittent hypoxia, characterized by low oxygen levels during sleep, can lead to systemic inflammation, further exacerbating muscle degradation. Individuals over 65 and those with a high Body Mass Index (BMI) were found to be at greater risk for muscle depletion and related bone health issues.

To mitigate the impact of sleep apnea on muscle and bone health, experts recommend several strategies:

1. **Get Diagnosed and Treated**: Proper diagnosis and treatment of OSA is crucial. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy remains the standard treatment, and research indicates that effective management of OSA may improve bone health over time.

2. **Regular Exercise**: Incorporating both aerobic and resistance training can enhance muscle strength and may help alleviate the severity of OSA. Even moderate activity, such as daily walking, has been shown to decrease sleep apnea risk by 10%.

3. **Nutritional Improvements**: Diet plays a significant role in managing OSA. Adequate protein intake and sufficient calcium and vitamin D are essential for maintaining bone and muscle health. Weight management is particularly important, as obesity is a major contributing factor to airway obstructions during sleep.

This study reinforces the importance of addressing sleep apnea not only to improve sleep quality but also to preserve muscle and bone health.