Getting shorter with age: Doctor reveals when height loss may signal weakened bones

A small reduction in height can occur with age, but noticeable loss may indicate osteoporosis or spinal compression fractures.

You may notice your grandparents slouching or appearing significantly shorter than they once were. Height loss can occur as one ages, but a noticeable reduction in height may be a sign of an underlying bone health problem and should not be dismissed as a normal part of ageing.

Dr G V Reddy, consultant in orthopaedics at Manipal Hospital, Vijayawada, walked us through what kind of height reduction is normal and what is not.

He said a small reduction in height over the years can be normal, but a noticeable loss may signal osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and makes them more likely to fracture.

How can weakened bones affect your height?

Dr Reddy noted that height loss needs attention even when it occurs without a fall or an obvious injury. In some people, the first sign of weakened bones is a spinal fracture that causes little or no pain.

Describing what causes the height decrease, he said, "The spine is made up of small bones called vertebrae, which support your body and protect the spinal cord. Osteoporosis reduces bone strength and makes these vertebrae more vulnerable to compression fractures. When a vertebra weakens and collapses partially, your height can decrease."

Signs that your height may be reducing include your trousers seeming longer, your back appearing more rounded, or finding yourself leaning forward while standing. These changes happen over time, making them easy to overlook.

Aside from osteoporosis, height loss can also be caused by changes in the discs between your vertebrae, poor posture and other spinal conditions.

When should you be worried about height loss?

The specialist revealed when height loss should be treated as a serious issue: "Losing a small amount of height as you age can be common. A reduction of around 2 cm over time may warrant discussion with your doctor, particularly if you have other risk factors for osteoporosis. A loss of 4 cm or more compared with your height in early adulthood is a recognised reason to investigate possible vertebral fractures.”

For diagnosis, the doctor could recommend:

• A bone mineral density test, commonly called a DEXA scan, to assess bone strength.
• If a spinal fracture is suspected, a spine X-ray or another imaging test may be necessary.

Add milk to your diet. (Picture credit: Freepik)

Finally, the expert advised making lifestyle changes to support bone health, including getting adequate calcium through foods such as milk, curd, paneer, ragi and calcium-rich leafy greens. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium.

Include weight-bearing activities such as walking and appropriate resistance exercises in your routine. Strength training helps maintain muscle, and balancing exercises can reduce the risk of falls. If you already have osteoporosis or a spinal fracture, seek professional guidance before starting strenuous exercise or movements involving repeated bending.

Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption. If you take long-term corticosteroids or have conditions that affect bone health, ask your doctor whether you need an osteoporosis assessment.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.