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What Are The Mechanisms And Effects Of Age-Related Shortening Of The Spine?, Joseph Weingarten
What Are The Mechanisms And Effects Of Age-Related Shortening Of The Spine?, Joseph Weingarten
The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences
Osteoporosis and Degenerative Disc Disease can cause a loss of height in the spine. This paper focuses on the mechanisms that cause age-related loss of height and its effects. Possible relationships between receptor activator nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL) and estrogen with osteoporosis are discussed, as well as possible genetic causes. Exercise may prevent osteoporosis. Osteoporosis may cause a loss of height, vertebral fracture, a decrease in maximum lung capacity, and hip fracture. Degenerative disc disease may cause shortening of the spine. Disc height loss can result in a reduction in the range of motion and stiffness at the affected …