17
August
2018
|
07:00 AM
America/New_York

Older Adults: Here's What Causes Hunchback - and How to Prevent It

U.S. News & World Report featured HSS spine surgeon Andrew A. Sama, MD, who addressed how to prevent and treat kyphosis, an excessive outward curvature of the spine.

"The best way to avoid compression fractures and kyphosis is to prevent or slow the development of osteoporosis," said Dr. Sama.

He explained that measuring your bone density, reviewing your current prescriptions and assessing your vitamin D levels could be helpful.

"Medications, including steroids, proton pump inhibitors to treat gastroesophageal reflux, and some anti-depressive medications can increase the risk of osteoporosis," Dr. Sama noted.

If a person is diagnosed with osteoporosis, Dr. Sama recommended avoiding activities that include spinal flexion such as crunches or slouching at your desk.

Read the full article at health.usnews.com.