Effects of loading on spinal shrinkage in males of different age groups

Abstract

A reduction in stature (shrinkage) has been used as a measure of the load on the spine. Musculoskeletal effects of ageing may influence individual responses to compressive loading on the spine and the resultant loss in stature. The aim was to apply the technique of precision stadiometry for assessment of spinal shrinkage in a comparison of responses of two different age groups performing a regimen of circuit weight training. In all, 20 subjects (10 aged 18–25 and 10 aged 47–60 years) participated in the study. Each performed two sets of a 12-station circuit of exercises, the loading being established relative to individual capabilities. Recovery procedures using a semi-supine posture intervened between the two sets and again post-exercise; altogether seven measures of change in stature were obtained using precision stadiometry. The two groups showed a similar pattern of spinal shrinkage, losses in stature being greater for the first set compared to the later set of exercises. Subjects gained height whilst in the formal recovery posture, but responses were inconsistent during warm-up, cool-down and active recovery. Irrespective of age, the spine was less responsive to loading as the duration of activity was increased. It was concluded that provided loading is related to individual capability, healthy older operators are not necessarily compromised by their age in activities that include handling and lifting weights.