The German General Federation of Orthopedic Societies said that curvature of the spine is a common health problem among the elderly, explaining that it is due to several reasons, most notably bone and muscle atrophy associated with aging. Starting from the age of forty, the body loses about 1% of its bone and muscle mass annually.
The Union added that the reasons also include the loss of flexibility of the intervertebral discs, and fractures of the vertebral body as a result of osteoporosis.
He pointed out that the curvature of the spine leads to a curvature of the back, which increases the difficulty of walking upright. Where the body is tilted forward. As a result of the curvature of the skeleton, the abdomen usually curves outward.
In general, these deformities lead to changes in the body’s position and the gait becomes slower and unstable, which increases the risk of falling, and then exposure to fractures, which may lead to movement restrictions that negatively affect the quality of life due to the inability to rely on oneself in walking. the movement.
Methods of Treatment
Regarding methods of treating spinal curvature, the Union explained that the spine can be returned to its erect position through an orthopedic device in the form of a support corset. In the case of severe and painful fractures, surgery can be used to straighten the vertebrae again.
In addition to these measures, physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles in the back and abdominal area, which reduces the burden on the spine and prevents further fractures.
In the case of spinal fractures caused by osteoporosis, medications to treat osteoporosis can also be taken. Not only does it slow down the disease, but it can also help build bones.
Ways of prevention
Regarding ways to prevent curvature of the spine, the Federation stressed the importance of strengthening the abdominal and back muscles in particular, in addition to supplying the body with calcium, which works to strengthen bones, as well as proteins, which help build muscles.
It is also important to replenish the body’s stock of vitamin D, which is important for bone health, through regular exposure to sunlight, in addition to the possibility of taking nutritional supplements containing it in case of severe deficiency, under the supervision of a doctor.
2023-10-28 17:30:48
#spinal #curvature #health
