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Does Carrying Heavy Load Affect Height?

Posted on Thu, 4 Sep 2014

Question: Hi Doctor, I am a male 57 years old. My height is 1.62 m and weight is 64 kg. Will my height be affected if I carry heavy load eg 20 kg or more. Will my height decrease or become shorter at this age (57 years old). Do I need to avoid carrying heavy load? I always have the thinking that my vertebrae or spinal column will be compressed if I carry heavy load. Thanks

Answered by Dr. Dr. Alokkalyani (23 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
height is not affected

Detailed Answer:
Hi
I m dr Alok, pleased to answer your query today

Height is not affected by lifting weight
You can lift or carry weight as much as you can. This will not affect size of vertebra.
With age, some time, height decrease, but it is due to osteopenia. To prevent this, you need to take calcium and vitamin D and do a regular exercise.

Hope this will help
Take care

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Alokkalyani (16 hours later)

Hi Dr XXXXXXX

What is the maximum height decrease** for an elderly person who does not have osteopenia? Assuming that he takes calcium and vitamin D regularly and also exercise
**about how many inches

Answered by Dr. Dr. Alokkalyani (10 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Not specific

Detailed Answer:
Hi
It is not predictable, every person is different, but on an average it is 0.5 to 1.5 inch, depends on genetic conditions, dietary factors, life style and other environmental factor

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Nalaparaju