Spinal curvature: causes and treatment

 Spinal curvature: causes and treatment

The General Federation of Orthopedic Societies said that curvature of the spine is one of the common health problems among the elderly, explaining that it is due to several reasons, the most important of which is bone and muscle atrophy associated with aging, as the body loses, starting from the age of forty, about 1% of its bone and muscle mass. annually.

Danger of spinal curvature

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.

The Union added that the curvature of the spine leads to a curvature of the back, which increases the difficulty of walking upright, as 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 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 orthodontic 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 vertebral fractures caused by osteoporosis, osteoporosis medications can also be taken, as they not only slow down the disease, but can also help build bones.