Spinal Alignment and Osteoporosis

A recent study of 610 elderly white women who have had one or more vertebral fractures in the past found that those with kyphosis (aka hunchback) faced a greater risk of death from any cause. Interestingly, this increased risk did not have much to do with any osteoporosis they may have had. The researchers found that women who had either kyphosis or vertebral fractures, but not both, were more likely to live longer. This long term study was published in the May 19, 2009 issue of Annals of Internal Medicine. It excluded black women because there tends to be less hip fractures in this group of people. Women who were unable to walk without assistance and those with hip replacements on both sides were also excluded. The study did not include men, and unfortunately, the authors say that the results can not be applied to men.

For the most part, doctors tend to see kyphosis in terms of underlying osteoporosis. This study is significant because it shows that posture has its own unique value in predicting death, apart from osteoporosis. The study authors suggest that not only is kyphosis easily pinpointed during an exam, but its presence shows a certain acceleration of age. They say it also affects how well your lungs work for you. And in my opinion, your posture, be it kyphotic, lordotic, scoliotic, or in ideal alignment, has a determining effect on well-being and quality of life.

Kado et al. Hyperkyphosis Predicts Mortality Independent of Vertebral Osteoporosis in Older Women. 150 (10): 681 -- Annals of Internal Medicine. http://www.annals.org/cgi/content/abstract/150/10/681.

Other Osteoporosis Blog Posts
| Predicting Osteoporosis | Fablyn - Osteoporosis Drug or Just Big Bone Business? | More About Osteoporosis and Spinal Fracture |

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