As people age, it is natural for their bones change. Bones tend to lose minerals and become a bit thinner as you grow older, and bone density also decreases. You may lose a few inches in height as well since the spine tends to shorten due to spinal degeneration. These effects of aging are normal, and below is some information on why it happens and how you can help prevent it. 

Your Guide to Spinal Degeneration

What Happens to Your Posture?

Due to calcium and mineral loss, as people age, the spine shortens and curves. The torso also shortens since the disks between each vertebrae become less soft and supportive, resulting in a shorter overall height. The spine curves because discs lose the supportive fluid inside them, and this often creates a stooped posture. 

What Gait Change Occurs? 

These changes in bones and cartilage affect other parts of the body such as the hips and knees. Knee and hip cartilage may start to wear down, and spinal degeneration causes the neck to tilt or bend more than it did before. This all causes a person’s walk to change. Walking grows slower and sometime mores belabored, and steps become shorter. Arms may not swing while walking as they did before.

How Can Changes Be Prevented? 

There are ways to help slow the aging process and the progression of spinal degeneration. A balanced, nutrient-dense diet and regular exercise can help keep your body in good shape, which makes you less susceptible to spinal trauma. Calcium supplementation, which is especially important for women, is also beneficial for bone density.

If you’re looking for a physician to help with chronic pain, you need someone who understands the body and cares about their patients. George D J Griffin III, M.D. in Cincinnati, OH, offers services including spinal degeneration, spinal trauma, hip replacements, bone care, hand and foot problems, and much more with outstanding patient care standards. For more information, visit their website, and call (513) 481-6100 to schedule an appointment.