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Articles related to focusing on healthy aging, prevention, mobility, cognition, nutrition, independence, and caregiving support.

4 min

What percentage of 70 year olds have degenerative disc disease?

Studies consistently show that over 90% of adults aged 65 or older have some degree of degenerative disc and facet pathology visible on imaging. This high prevalence answers the question, **what percentage of 70 year olds have degenerative disc disease?**, but also highlights that degeneration is a normal part of aging and doesn't always cause pain.

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4 min

What is Considered Early Disc Degeneration?

While often associated with old age, some studies show disc degeneration visible on imaging in nearly 40% of people over 30, raising the question: **What is considered early disc degeneration?** This guide explores the signs and factors involved, differentiating between normal aging and symptomatic disease.

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4 min

Does Everyone Get Scoliosis as They Age? Separating Fact from Fiction

While many people associate scoliosis with children and adolescents, a study cited in a recent systematic review of medical literature found that up to 68% of healthy individuals over age 65 have some degree of spinal curvature. This statistic raises an important question for many adults: **Does everyone get scoliosis as they age**?

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4 min

What is the average age for spinal stenosis?

The majority of individuals diagnosed with spinal stenosis are in their 50s and 60s, with a noticeable increase in prevalence after the age of 50. As an expert guide to healthy aging, we understand that understanding the timeline of this condition, including what is the average age for spinal stenosis, is key to proactive management.

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4 min

How serious are fractured vertebrae in the elderly? Understanding the Risks and Recovery

According to a study of Medicare patients, those with a vertebral compression fracture had an overall mortality rate approximately double that of matched controls. Understanding **how serious are fractured vertebrae in the elderly** is critical, as these injuries can cause chronic pain, disability, and significantly impact overall health and quality of life.

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4 min

Does lumbar lordosis increase with age?

A 2014 study found that the total lumbar lordosis was significantly reduced by approximately 20% in the oldest age cohort compared to the youngest. While a few studies have suggested an increase, the dominant evidence points toward a decrease or flattening of the lumbar lordosis with advancing age.

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5 min

How do older adults compensate for kyphosis of the spine?

Affecting up to 40% of older adults, hyperkyphosis, or rounded upper back, can impact daily life. Understanding **how do older adults compensate for kyphosis of the spine** is crucial for maintaining independence, managing pain, and improving overall quality of life.

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4 min

What is the most common type of spinal injury seen in the elderly population?

Vertebral compression fractures are a highly prevalent spinal injury in older adults, with up to 40% of women over 80 experiencing one. The most common type of spinal injury seen in the elderly population is these osteoporotic compression fractures, often resulting from weakened bones rather than significant trauma.

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5 min

Is kyphosis reversible in older adults? A comprehensive guide to treatment

According to research published in *Osteoporosis International*, a targeted physical therapy intervention helped older adults manage hyperkyphosis, preventing further worsening of the spinal curvature. When asking, **is kyphosis reversible in older adults?**, the answer is nuanced, depending heavily on the underlying cause and severity. For older individuals, a combination of medical intervention, physical therapy, and lifestyle adjustments can significantly improve posture, reduce pain, and enhance overall function.

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