Correlation between thoracolumbar curvatures and respiratory function in older adults

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Respiratory Medicine
• Biomechanical Engineering

Background:

• Aging commonly leads to changes in spinal curvature and respiratory function.
• Limited research exists on the specific relationship between thoracolumbar curvatures and comprehensive respiratory parameters in older adults.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the correlation between thoracolumbar curvatures (thoracic and lumbar) and various respiratory function parameters in community-dwelling older adults.

Main Methods:

• Thoracolumbar curvatures were measured using a motion tracker.
• Respiratory function was assessed via spirometry, respiratory pressure meter, ultrasound imaging, and a triaxial accelerometer.
• A cross-sectional study included 68 older adults from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Main Results:

• Increased thoracic curvature negatively correlated with lung function (FEV1, FVC) and intercostal muscle thickness.
• Increased lumbar curvature negatively correlated with respiratory muscle strength and diaphragm muscle thickness during deep inspiration.
• Respiratory rate showed no significant correlation with either thoracic or lumbar curvatures.

Conclusions:

• Elevated thoracic and lumbar curvatures are associated with diminished respiratory muscle strength, reduced respiratory muscle thickness, and impaired lung function in older adults.
• Clinical management of respiratory function in the elderly should holistically consider spinal curvatures and respiratory muscle status.