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Shrinking due to osteoporosis

Posted by wagsofbevis @wagsofbevis, Mar 5 9:18pm

This may seem minor, but despite eating healthy and exercising 3-4x/ week my whole adult life, (daily in retirement) I have lost 2 inches in height over the last 12-13 years. I am 64, taking Fosamax for osteoporosis. My concern is that it seems the extra flesh that covered my former frame now now rests in my midsection. I can’t find any information on if skin eventually tightens up when one shrinks.
I’m also curious in general to know how skin and organs adjust when a person loses height.

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wagsofbevis | @wagsofbevis | Mar 10 4:23pm
In reply to @babs10 "When we have osteoporosis, the midsection can appear to expand because the spine gradually compresses and..." + (show)
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When we have osteoporosis, the midsection can appear to expand because the spine gradually compresses and curves forward, which shortens the torso and pushes the abdominal area outward - the rib cage moves closer to the pelvis and posture changes make the belly protrude even if body fat has not increased.

The most helpful exercises are those that strengthen the back extensors and support upright posture, such as prone back extensions (lying face down and gently lifting chest), resistance-band rows, wall angels, bird dog, and deadlifts and hip hinges with good form, along with core stabilizing work like planks - these help counter that spinal rounding, maintain height, and keep the abdomen from being pushed forward.

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@babs10 Thank you much! That's the most info I have seen on this topic. I have already added wall angels to my routine and will work on the others.

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marimindy | @marimindy | Mar 10 4:39pm

I totally understand @wagsofbevis

Me? I’ve always been short all my life, most height I had was 5 ft. Now due to bone loss in my 60’s am down to 4’8”. I ask myself when this shrinking will stop?

I started on Tymlos shots years ago, then recently placed on Fosimax (sp?) and sent to ER with a bad reaction, now on Jubbanti (Prolia) and no side effects.

I know we all shrink with age, just wish my shrinking wouldn’t go so fast.

Anyway, sharing in case can help someone.

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