These modifications of the normal body dynamics result in changes that are summarised in Table 1. Typical changes with ageing include loss of bone. This is particularly marked in the spine where there is a decrease in its length resulting in a shortened trunk. Loss of bone and muscle in postmenopausal females together with other anatomical changes produce the characteristic 'widows hump'. It could well be that the introduction of HRT may reduce the incidence of this condition in the future.
Bone resorption becomes more significant than bone formation.
This affects about 25 per cent of females and 6 per cent of males. Fat is lost from the periphery, often being redistributed on the lower trunk. This is marked in males from the mid-40s. Fat is also lost from the skin. Both the epidermis and the dermis become thinner.