How Does Aging Affect Your Spine?

Understanding how aging affects your spine can help you take steps to maintain your spinal health and prevent discomfort as you get older. 

Serving Northwest Indiana, Dr. Mohammad S. Shukairy is here to help if you’re experiencing pain, a loss of function, or other spinal problems. Dr. Shukairy and his team specialize in minimally invasive and endoscopic procedures to help relieve pain without the need for traditional open surgery. 

Here, we share five ways that aging can affect your spine as well as how to maintain spinal health.

1. Disc degeneration

One of the most common changes in the spine due to aging is degeneration of the intervertebral discs. These discs act as shock absorbers between the vertebrae. When they’re healthy, they allow the spine to move smoothly and flexibly. With age, the discs lose water content and become thinner and less elastic. 

By age 60, 90% of people show signs of degenerative disc disease, where the discs become less effective at cushioning the spine, resulting in pain and stiffness.

2. Spinal stenosis

As your spine ages, the spaces within the spinal canal can narrow, creating a condition known as spinal stenosis. This narrowing puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, which can cause pain, numbness, and weakness, particularly in your lower back and legs. 

Spinal stenosis often develops gradually and may worsen over time as the effects of aging progress.

3. Osteoarthritis and the spine

Osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease, commonly affects the spine as you age. This condition occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joints wears down, leading to pain, swelling, and reduced flexibility. 

In the spine, osteoarthritis can affect the facet joints, which are responsible for stabilizing the vertebrae. Over time, you may experience stiffness, discomfort, and limited mobility.

4. Loss of bone density

Aging can also lead to a loss of bone density, a condition known as osteoporosis. When the bones in the spine weaken, they become more susceptible to compression fractures. 

Vertebral fractures are particularly common in older adults and can cause significant pain, deformity, and even a reduction in height. These fractures can occur suddenly, often with little to no trauma, due to the fragility of the bones. For example, you might experience a vertebral fracture due to twisting, sneezing, or coughing. 

5. Changes in posture

With age, many people notice changes in their posture. Muscle weakening, joint stiffness, and spinal degeneration can make you look hunched or stooped. 

Poor posture increases strain on the spine and further contributes to back pain or discomfort. Maintaining proper posture and strengthening your core muscles are important for supporting your spine as it ages.

Maintain a healthy spine as you age

While aging naturally affects the spine, you can take action to maintain its health and function. 

Regular exercise, particularly activities that strengthen your core and improve flexibility, help support the spine and reduce the risk of injury. Maintaining a healthy weight also minimizes pressure on the spine, and proper posture helps alleviate strain. 

If you experience back pain or discomfort, please contact one of our offices for a thorough evaluation. Dr. Shukairy and his team specialize in minimally invasive and endoscopic spine surgery techniques that treat common age-related spinal conditions with less pain, smaller incisions, and faster recovery. Early intervention helps us catch and address spinal issues early on, before they cause significant pain and complications.

For expert care and support, contact Dr. Mohammad S. Shukairy today to make an appointment at the office nearest you in Highland or Merrillville, IN.