Preventing The Dowager Hump

Based on the questions of my patients and e-mails I’ve received, the dowagers hump is a very feared condition. I don’t blame them, the dowagers hump is painful and not the most flattering.

Worse, it can be prevented. However, by the time most people decide they may likely develop the dowagers hump, it may be late or close to it.

Osteoporosis is the primary culprit, weakening the spine and causing the vertebrae to collapse and change shape. It’s the changing shape that makes it nearly impossible for the person to stand up straight again.

Exercises to prevent dowager hump are absolutely necessary if you have a family history of this problem. You may already be developing osteoporosis, but it’s the increase strain on the spine that ultimately leads to the vertebrae collapsing.

By improving the strength of your back and postural muscles, you’ll reduce the strain on the spinal joints and significantly decrease the likelihood that you’ll develop this damaging condition.

In addition to posture exercises, it has been shown that performing weightlifting will increase the bone strength. Osteoporosis is an ongoing battle and will require diligent efforts to keep it at bay.

You can do it!