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Sagittal profile of the elderly
E Mark Hammerberg1, Kirkham B Wood
1University of Minnesota, Minneapolis 55455, USA.
Journal of Spinal Disorders & Techniques
|February 7, 2003
Summary
Spinal alignment changes with aging, with older adults showing increased kyphosis and anterior C7 plumb line positioning. This study details natural spinal changes in the 70-85 age group.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric medicine
- Orthopedics
- Radiology
Background:
- The natural history of spinal alignment in advanced age is not well understood.
- Aging significantly impacts spinal biomechanics and posture.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate spinal alignment and sagittal balance in asymptomatic individuals aged 70-85.
- To provide data on the natural history of spinal changes in the elderly.
Main Methods:
- Radiographic assessment of 50 asymptomatic volunteers (70-85 years old).
- Measurements included spinal curves (kyphosis, lordosis), C7 plumb line, and pelvic parameters (pelvic incidence, tilt, sacral slope).
Main Results:
- Average kyphosis was 52 degrees, and average lordosis was -57 degrees.
- The C7 plumb line averaged 40 mm anterior to S1.
- Anterior C7 positioning correlated with increased age and reduced lordosis.
Conclusions:
- The aging spine exhibits characteristic changes in alignment, including increased kyphosis and forward C7 shift.
- These findings contribute to understanding the natural progression of spinal changes in the elderly.