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Chiropractic Care for Seniors
The incidence of musculoskeletal problems increases as people age. In Canada, 30% of seniors over age 75 reported being in pain, and 47% of people over age 65 have been diagnosed with arthritis or rheumatism. Osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, and joint diseases are also very common in seniors, and are the primary cause of severe long-term pain and physical disability.
Seniors are especially limited by musculoskeletal conditions. Mobility and independence are affected, and pain can interfere with sleeping, daily living, and recreational activities. Long-term pain can also be a precursor to depression. Chiropractors can provide safe and effective therapy to diminish and prevent the symptoms of musculoskeletal disorders, such as acute and chronic back pain, pain from age-related joint conditions such as osteoarthritis, and early conservative treatment of conditions such as lumbar stenosis. Treatment includes manual therapies such as joint mobilization, joint manipulation, soft tissue therapies, traction, electrical therapies, and rehabilitation strategies such as exercises and behavioural modifications.
Seniors generally consult chiropractors for treatment of pain, and many patients report positive outcomes such as pain relief and decreased use of pain medication. Chiropractors are taught to recognize conditions that may be affected by manipulative therapy, and can offer gentle alternatives that will be equally effective. Special consideration is given to physical disabilities and altered bone density.
Personalized exercise programs that encourage rehabilitation are essential in improving outcomes in seniors. Exercise improves gait, balance, coordination, reaction time, and muscle strength. This in turn can help prevent damaging falls or other accidents that can cause more pain. It is very important to get and keep seniors moving! Chiropractic care can help people age successfully by minimizing and preventing pain to allow seniors to maintain a healthy level of activity.