Osteoporosis, or porous bone, is characterized by low bone mass and deterioration in the structure of bone tissue, leading to bone fragility. People with osteoporosis are at high risk of fractures of the spine, wrist, and hip. Their bones become so brittle that even normal activities such as bending over or coughing can cause a fracture.
Some common symptoms of osteoporosis are a stooped posture, brittle & fragile bones (that break too easily), and loss of height over time.
A study estimates that almost 11 percent of middle-aged adults in America have osteoporosis. Though there are several medications for osteoporosis, many of them have side effects. People looking for safer alternatives to medications can use chiropractic to manage their pain and alleviate symptoms.
Osteoporosis and Chiropractic
Old bones break and new bones replace them. This is a normal process; however, when osteoporosis is present, the rate at which new bones replace broken bones slows down.
In addition to helping improve joint motion, chiropractic treatment in Santa Rosa stimulates the cells in charge of replacing damaged bones. A chiropractor is trained to use different chiropractic techniques to ease symptoms and help the body slow down bone loss.
Your chiropractor will also recommend rehabilitative exercises and counsel you about the right dietary supplements for you.
The professional will help you identify key essential nutrients for healthy bones. Chiropractors use chiropractic techniques to help increase their patients’ mobility and range of motion. People with osteoporosis who receive chiropractic care report a higher quality of life and are at lower risk of sustaining falls, one of the most common causes of spinal compression fractures.
The type of chiropractic care you need will depend primarily on two factors: your age and how advanced your osteoporosis is. An elderly, post-menopausal female with osteoporosis, for instance, may benefit from dietary supplements and bone-building exercises. Many people with advanced osteoporosis benefit from a gentle approach, such as soft tissue techniques.
At your initial visit, your chiropractor will perform a physical exam and recommend imaging tests such as X-rays. Based on their findings, the professional will develop a customized treatment plan for you.
Tips to Prevent Osteoporosis
- Rebalance your diet. Replace processed foods with natural foods.
- Boost your Vitamin-D intake.
- Quit smoking.
- Drink alcohol only in moderation.
- Incorporate weight-bearing exercises such as walking, Pilates, or weight training into your routine.
- Steer clear of medications that can cause bone loss.
At Toth Chiropractic, we are committed to helping our patients break the cycle of chronic pain. As one of the best chiropractors in Santa Rosa, Dr. Douglass Toth uses various chiropractic techniques to improve the quality of life of his patients. He has his patients’ best interests at heart and goes the extra mile to help them get on the road to recovery. To schedule an appointment with him, call (707) 526-1390.