Why Do We Get Smaller As We Get Older?

Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Specialist Prof. Dr. Turan Uslu gave information on the subject.

Poor posture - poor posture reduces the average height of mature adults by 1 inch (2.5 cm), sometimes more

Osteoporosis (osteoporosis)

• Cartilage damage - especially in our ankle, knee and hip joints.

• The compression of the spinal discs - the vertebrae on our back form a large part of our height due to the compression of the spine due to gravity that descends for many years.

What can you do to minimize shrinkage?

Our spine consists of 24 movable vertebrae and 23 intervertebral discs. The main purpose of these discs is to allow flexibility in our spine, otherwise our bodies would be rigid. Discs also absorb shocks from our body, for example when walking. For these reasons, discs are soft and spongy. Unfortunately, as we age, our height decreases, our flexibility decreases and the thickness of the discs decreases.

Studies have shown that 25% of us suffer from some form of degenerative disc disease before the age of 40. This condition is the primary cause of height loss in humans. This can be alarming, but there are things you can do to prevent or minimize its impact on your height.

Low-intensity exercises, including stretching exercises, can stimulate blood flow to the cartilage and discs between the vertebrae. Yoga is the best example.

Long-term intake of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate in terms of diet and supplementation has been found to prevent disc degeneration, especially if the supplement is taken at an early stage in life. Another important factor is to stay hydrated at all times. Men and women should drink at least 1,6-2 liters of water a day and exercise more. Water will not only help the proper functioning of the body, but also partially preserve the elasticity of the discs located between the vertebrae.

In our clinic, we provide personalized spine support apparatus to patients with degenerative spine diseases and posture disorders, we prevent height loss in these patients, at least slow down.