It may be normal but there are surgeries for spinal stenosis that can relieve the compressed vertebrae. Check with a neurosurgeon for the best options for you.

I have lost 5" in height and find it difficult to breathe also, digestive problems and fractured 3 ribs in a bad fall in December, I have a lot of falls

I have lost 8" due to spinal stenosis and 18 compression fractures of my spine starting January 2015. I too have the osteo-belly, find it hard to eat and at times even breathe, shortness of breath getting worse. I am not in a wheel chair but have to use my rollator walker most times.