Which age-related change contributes to decreased range of motion due to ligament changes in the spine?

Which age-related change contributes to decreased range of motion due to ligament changes in the spine?

• A. Ligaments calcify completely
• B. Decreased ligament elasticity (ROM decreases)
• C. Ligaments shorten with no ROM change
• D. Increased ligament elasticity

Answer: (B)

With aging, ligaments in the spine lose elasticity and become stiffer due to changes in the collagen matrix and reduced water content. This decreased elasticity means the ligaments resist stretch more during movement, limiting flexion, extension, and rotation and thus reducing overall range of motion. While some calcification can occur in spinal ligaments, it isn’t universal and isn’t the main driver of ROM loss. Ligaments don’t typically shorten with aging in a way that preserves ROM, and making them more elastic would not explain the decrease in motion. So, the reduced ligament elasticity best accounts for the diminished spinal range of motion seen with age.

With aging, ligaments in the spine lose elasticity and become stiffer due to changes in the collagen matrix and reduced water content. This decreased elasticity means the ligaments resist stretch more during movement, limiting flexion, extension, and rotation and thus reducing overall range of motion. While some calcification can occur in spinal ligaments, it isn’t universal and isn’t the main driver of ROM loss. Ligaments don’t typically shorten with aging in a way that preserves ROM, and making them more elastic would not explain the decrease in motion. So, the reduced ligament elasticity best accounts for the diminished spinal range of motion seen with age.