But significant height loss can signify a medical condition, oftenosteoporosis.
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What Is Height Loss?
For example, a man might be half an inch shorter at age 80 than at 35.
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Height loss happens gradually, so you may not notice it.
Is Height Loss a Symptom of Osteoporosis?
Compression Fractures
Osteoporosis very commonly leads to minor vertebrae fractures calledcompression fractures.
These sometimes cause sudden back pain but often go unnoticed.
Compression fractures make your vertebrae a little more compact, decreasing your height.
Kyphosis
Osteoporosis is also connected tokyphosis, an exaggerated rounding of the upper back.
However, you could take steps to prevent further height loss.
You might have a fracture that needs treatment.
Summary
Weakened bones from osteoporosis may worsen the typical height loss that occurs in older individuals.
Because the bone is so fragile, vertebral fractures may occur.
Osteoporosis can also contribute to compression fractures and kyphosis, shortening height.
Height loss may be the only symptom of osteoporosis that you have.
Treating osteoporosis is unlikely to give you back your lost height.
However, you might dramatically reduce your risk of future fractures through lifestyle choices and potential medication.
But substantial height loss could indicate osteoporosis or other underlying conditions.
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