AGE-RELATED INTERRELATIONSHIP BETWEEN LUMBAR SPINE JOINT MORPHOMETRY AND SKELETAL MUSCLE DEVELOPMENT IN WOMEN

Abstract

This thesis investigates the relationship between lumbar spine joint morphometry and skeletal muscle development in women across different age groups. The study demonstrates that skeletal muscle mass significantly influences facet joint width, intervertebral disc height, vertebral body dimensions, and joint surface area. Younger women with higher muscle mass exhibited narrower facet joints, taller intervertebral discs, and smaller joint surfaces, reflecting optimal spinal load distribution and stability. In contrast, age-related decreases in muscle mass were associated with widening of facet joints, reduction in disc height, and enlargement of joint surfaces, indicating compensatory changes and increased susceptibility to degenerative processes. The findings underscore the importance of maintaining skeletal muscle mass through physical activity and targeted interventions to prevent lumbar spine degeneration and preserve musculoskeletal function. These results provide valuable insights for clinical decision-making, rehabilitation strategies, and preventive measures in women’s spinal health management.