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As we age, a natural process of physiological change occurs throughout the body, including the respiratory system. This leads many to ask: Do older adults have increased chest wall rigidity? For most, a stiffer chest wall is a natural part of this aging process due to several anatomical changes.
According to research, the chest wall does become stiffer with age, a normal part of the aging process that affects the respiratory system. Understanding this natural change is the first step toward proactive health management and maintaining a good quality of life. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the science behind why the chest wall becomes more rigid with age and explore actionable strategies to mitigate its effects.
According to the American Lung Association, lung function normally begins to decline after the age of 35. Contrary to what some might assume, the answer to the question, "Does chest wall rigidity decrease with age?" is no, it actually increases. This increased stiffness is a normal part of the aging process and can impact breathing and overall respiratory function.
While it may seem that the rib cage is a fixed structure, research shows significant morphological changes occur throughout life, especially into older age. The question of whether **do rib cages expand with age** involves understanding these musculoskeletal and respiratory function changes over time.
