The process of ageing affects every part of our body, and the musculo-skeletal system is no exception. With time, our bones, muscles, and joints undergo subtle but significant changes that impact our strength, mobility, and overall quality of life. Understanding these changes can help us adopt preventive measures and maintain a healthy lifestyle as we age.
Ageing and Musculo-Skeletal System - Bones: Dynamic Yet Vulnerable
Bone tissue, often thought of as static, is actually dynamic, constantly being replaced and remodeled throughout life. However, as we age, the balance between bone formation and resorption tilts towards the latter.
- Osteophytosis and Osteosclerosis: In some cases, growth can reactivate in both cartilage and bone, leading to conditions like osteophytosis (bony projections) or osteosclerosis (bone hardening).
- Osteoporosis: A common condition in ageing, osteoporosis results in the loss of bony trabeculae within the spongy bone. This leads to a significant reduction in bone density and strength.
- Women experience greater bone loss, with 50% of bone mass lost by the age of 75.
- Men, on the other hand, lose about 25% of bone mass by the age of 90.
This loss of bone density increases the risk of fractures, particularly in the hips, spine, and wrists.
Muscles: Strength in Decline
Ageing also brings about noticeable changes in muscle strength and function.
- Muscle Mass: By the age of 50, there is a 30% decline in muscle mass, which becomes even more pronounced after 80 years.
- Strength vs. Bulk: Interestingly, muscle strength decreases disproportionately compared to muscle bulk, meaning even visibly large muscles may not function as effectively in older adults.
- Fatigue and Speed: Ageing muscles contract more slowly and tire more easily. This reduced efficiency can limit physical endurance and everyday activities.
Movement and Gait: Slowing Down
As muscles and bones weaken, mobility is also affected. Walking, one of the most basic forms of movement, undergoes noticeable changes:
- Slower Pace: Walking speed decreases as individuals age.
- Broader-based Gait: Steps become shorter and the gait broader, possibly as a natural adaptation to maintain balance.
- Increased “Double Support” Time: More time is spent with both feet in contact with the ground, reflecting a cautious approach to movement.
Practical Implications
These changes in the musculo-skeletal system underline the importance of proactive measures to preserve mobility and independence in old age. Regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, and preventive care can significantly slow down the progression of these age-related changes.
A Message of Hope
While the changes in the musculo-skeletal system are inevitable, they don’t have to mean a loss of vitality or quality of life. With awareness and effort, it’s possible to age gracefully and remain active well into later years.
With aging, the musculo-skeletal system undergoes various changes, including a decline in bone density (osteoporosis), loss of muscle mass (sarcopenia), slower muscle contraction, and changes in gait, such as shorter steps and increased time in "double support." These changes can affect strength, mobility, and balance, increasing the risk of fractures and falls.
As we age, skeletal muscle mass decreases by approximately 30% by age 50, with further declines after 80. Muscle strength diminishes disproportionately to muscle size, and ageing muscles contract more slowly, fatigue faster, and recover more slowly from exertion. These changes contribute to reduced physical performance and endurance.
Osteoporosis is the most common skeletal disorder resulting from aging. It involves the loss of bone density and structural deterioration, increasing the risk of fractures, particularly in the hips, spine, and wrists. Osteoarthritis, characterized by joint cartilage breakdown, is another common age-related condition affecting mobility and joint health.
Ageing affects multiple body systems:
- Musculo-skeletal: Bone density decreases, muscles weaken, and joints lose flexibility.
- Cardiovascular: Arteries stiffen, and heart efficiency reduces.
- Respiratory: Lung capacity declines.
- Nervous: Slower reaction times and potential cognitive decline occur.
- Digestive: Metabolism slows, and nutrient absorption efficiency decreases.
These changes can impact overall health, mobility, and quality of life.
