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A member asked:
Why do people lose height as they age? is it because spinal vertebrae cartilage shrinks?
5 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
It is a combination : Of age related changes including a narrowing of the discs as there is age related degeneration as well as occasional loss of bone density that can also occur. Even a young person can have a difference in height up to a half inch from morning to evening based on disc compression related to standing or walking all day and then sleeping at night allowing discs to restore their heights.
Answered 11/20/2014
3.6k views
Yes, partially: The disc cartilage becomes less elastic and loses vertical volume. Likewise the hips and vertebrae can lose bone and shrink in vertical height. Adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, along with weight bearing exercise like walking can help prevent the loss of bone mass. Thanks for trusting HealthTap!
Answered 9/28/2016
3.6k views
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