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The effect of age on intervertebral disc compression during running
1Carolina Health Physical Therapy, Charlotte, NC 28236-6935.
Summary
Running caused significant vertebral column height loss in both younger and older men. Age did not significantly affect the amount of height lost after a 6-mile run, indicating similar disc compression across adult age groups.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Gerontology
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Intervertebral discs compress under axial loading.
- Limited research exists on age-related differences in disc compressibility.
- Understanding disc response to loading is crucial for spinal health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if vertebral column height (VCH) loss after running differs between young and older adult males.
- To assess the impact of a 6-mile run on VCH in healthy males across different age groups.
Main Methods:
- Measured VCH in 20-27 year olds and 50-57 year olds before and after a 6-mile run.
- Subjects were healthy males with no history of back pathologies.
- Paired and independent t tests were used for statistical analysis.
Main Results:
- Both younger and older male groups showed significant VCH decreases post-run.
- No significant difference in the magnitude of VCH decrease was found between the two age groups.
- Running induces disc compression regardless of age in healthy males.
Conclusions:
- Running leads to significant, yet comparable, vertebral column height loss in young and older adult males.
- Findings suggest age is not a primary factor in short-term disc compression response to running.
- Implications for physical therapy and exercise recommendations for patients with potential back pathologies.