No one escapes it; aging is inevitable. As we age, the cartilage in the joints deteriorates (osteoarthritis), and muscles and tendons wear down, which can lead to discomfort ranging from stiffness to swelling, even to pain that is sometimes difficult to bear. Unfortunately, these discomforts are often the cause of loss of autonomy in elderly people. To relieve pain, many turn to painkillers, which themselves can cause other illnesses such as digestive problems, kidney disorders, drowsiness, and the risk of stroke. However, there is a solution: chiropractic care for the elderly. Chiropractic is effective in relieving pain, preventing falls, and staying active and energetic. The care acts on the nervous system and brings multiple benefits.
Health problems and pain specific to elderly people
In seniors, chronic pain is one of the health issues that has major impacts on quality of life, sleep, mood, and overall autonomy. The pain that affects elderly individuals can be of various types: musculoskeletal (back pain, neck pain, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis), neuropathic (including central or peripheral nervous system involvement, diabetes, spinal stenosis, neurodegenerative disease), cancer pain, and lower back pain (lumbar pain). It appears that women are more affected by chronic pain issues. Nevertheless, as they age, both men and women may have to cope with disabling pain.
These health and pain issues can have consequences affecting not only physical health but also mental and emotional health, self-perception, and interpersonal relationships. Because they fear pain, seniors may develop kinesiophobia (fear of movement). Chiropractic care for the elderly relieves pain and helps avoid immobility. Chiropractic treatments mainly focus on the spine and joints: using their hands, the chiropractor performs adjustments to support the nervous system and restore joint functions. Thanks to these adjustments, combined with various techniques (mobilization and massage, for instance), pain is relieved quickly in a non-invasive and safe way.
Are there any contraindications for chiropractic care for the elderly?
As a doctor, the chiropractor can determine risk factors and refer the elderly person to another solution if deemed necessary. Even when living with multiple chronic illnesses, seniors in poor health can be cared for by chiropractors. They just need to inform the health professional of their medical history: treatments, care received, surgeries, list of illnesses, and medication list.
The benefits of chiropractic care for the elderly
Chiropractic care for seniors is an effective solution for relieving discomfort such as stiffness, pain, and other ailments. It is not unusual for an elderly person to feel immediate well-being from the first treatment. Thanks to chiropractic care, it is possible to reduce or even eliminate the use of painkillers. Moreover, certain chiropractic care can soothe osteoarthritis symptoms. Indeed, they can reduce inflammation of joints and cartilage, as well as help lubricate them. Regardless of the cause of discomfort, chiropractic treatments play an important role in maintaining physical and mental health.
Elderly people receiving chiropractic care gain valuable assistance in preserving their mobility. Because adjustments enhance joint movement, it becomes easier to stay active. Additionally, chiropractic care for the elderly helps prevent falls: balance is more stable, and reflexes become sharper. Moving without fear of falling greatly improves seniors’ quality of life. Patients followed in chiropractic clinics achieve greater vitality and energy levels, enabling them to enjoy outings and gatherings with family and friends.
Chiropractic treatments dedicated to seniors
Chiropractic care for elderly people targets all those who wish to enjoy their retirement in good health with the best possible quality of life. It is never too late to start treatments that will relieve pain and improve posture, balance, and mobility. In fact, it is even advisable to begin chiropractic care before problems arise and affect health status. These preventive treatments should be considered to maintain a pleasant lifestyle and reduce the risk of falls.
Treatments offered by the chiropractor generally include spinal adjustments to restore better joint function. These manipulations help alleviate stiffness and pain and improve the range and coordination of movements. Adjustments can also be made on other parts of the body, depending on the chiropractor’s diagnosis. To maximize rehabilitation chances and optimize treatment success, the chiropractor may also suggest exercises to do at home as well as complementary treatments such as cold, heat, joint mobilizations, etc. In all cases, chiropractic care for the elderly is personalized according to needs and health condition.
Preparing for chiropractic treatments for the elderly
Before visiting a chiropractic clinic, it can be helpful to make a list of discomforts, sensations, and pains affecting the senior’s health. How did the pain appear? How does it manifest? Which movements exacerbate or relieve it? Likewise, it is necessary to note medical and family history (illnesses, surgeries, treatments, alternative care, accidents, pregnancies, etc.) as well as prescription medications and natural products used daily or occasionally. Each piece of information helps the chiropractor make an accurate diagnosis.
During this first consultation, the chiropractor will take time to observe and assess the movements of the spine and other joints. X-rays, blood tests, and sometimes MRI scans may be requested. Once all steps are completed, the chiropractor can establish a diagnosis. They may recommend a comprehensive treatment plan including chiropractic care for the elderly and other therapies if necessary. They may also refer the senior to another health professional if deemed appropriate. Each treatment is adapted and personalized according to the patient’s needs and condition. The chiropractor’s goal is to restore joint mobility and soothe pain. Additionally, they may suggest exercises and provide tips to improve hygiene and quality of life.
Chiropractic care for everyone
Chiropractic care for the elderly is part of a range of treatments addressed to all. Chiropractors’ holistic approach effectively treats and prevents health problems in people of all ages. Children, adolescents, and adults can therefore benefit from these treatments. Additionally, it is possible to receive more specific treatments, such as chiropractic care for athletes or treatments aimed at relieving restless legs syndrome. Maybe you are wondering if there is a chiropractor near you. To find out, check the list of chiropractic clinics in your area now.