Aging-related body changes can cause pain and mobility problems. As we age, we lose bone mass and density, especially in women after menopause. As a result, the connective tissue in tendons and ligaments becomes stiffer, and muscle strength decreases, putting more pressure on joints.
Our bones lose calcium and other minerals over time, causing changes within the bones and spine. The disks between the vertebrae lose fluid and become thinner, making the spinal column more curved and compressed, resulting in the formation of bone spurs.
Aging-related changes can also cause the foot arches to become less pronounced and the long bones of the arms and legs to become more brittle. The joints can become stiffer and less flexible, and the cartilage may begin to wear away. As a result, mineral deposits can form in and around some joints.
The breakdown of joints can lead to inflammation, pain, stiffness, and deformity. Aging-related changes can result in posture problems. With a slower and shorter gait, unsteady walking, and less arm swinging, movement may slow down and become limited. Older adults may feel more tired and have less energy due to losing muscle mass and strength.
Many older adults use pain medications and muscle relaxants to manage pain. Unfortunately, several pain medications that promise instant pain relief may have various side effects ranging from nausea to drowsiness. In addition, long-term use of some pain medications is associated with more severe problems.
Older adults who want to avoid these side effects turn to chiropractic care for help. Toth Chiropractic, your trusted chiropractor in Santa Rosa, aims to restore normal joint function and muscle balance. A chiropractor uses their hands or a handheld device to apply gentle pressure to the affected joints to realign the spine.
Some benefits of chiropractic care include reduced pain and inflammation and increased range of motion. It is drug-free, non-invasive, and devoid of severe side effects. Unlike many other therapeutic procedures that focus on the symptoms of a painful condition, chiropractic care targets its root cause.
Chiropractic care can help seniors live their golden years pain-free and with more energy, allowing them to enjoy their retirement. In addition, it can reduce chronic pain symptoms, allowing them to continue enjoying their favorite activities.
Here are some benefits of chiropractic care for aging adults.
Improves Joint Health and Mobility
As we age, joint pain can become more severe due to the natural wear and tear of muscles and cartilage and the stiffening of ligaments in the joints. Many seniors may experience arthritis, a common form of chronic joint pain. Chiropractic care can alleviate osteoarthritis and acute joint pain symptoms, making walking and exercise more manageable.
Reduces the Risk of Falls
Joint issues can make it difficult for older adults to maintain balance, increasing the risk of falls. Chiropractic care can help improve balance, reduce the risk of falls, and allow seniors to be more confident in their daily activities, such as going downstairs or hiking.
Reduces Pain
Many seniors suffer from daily pain caused by an injury or chronic conditions like arthritis. Chiropractic care can provide effective pain relief throughout the body by easing tightness and building strength.
This can lead to long-term pain relief for seniors. Additionally, incorporating chiropractic care and physical therapy allows seniors to prevent injuries and stay active while maintaining safety.
Promotes Overall Wellness
Chiropractic care benefits the musculoskeletal system and the entire body by addressing nerve interference caused by spinal misalignments.
As a result, this type of care can improve overall health and alleviate a wide range of health concerns, such as poor digestion, a weakened immune system, headaches, back pain, and other conditions that can affect the elderly, helping improve their quality of life.
Chiropractic care can help increase the range of motion of the spine and extremities by adjusting the spine. An increase in range of motion is associated with improved quality of life. It can help seniors perform everyday activities such as toileting, showering, and bending down to pick up their grandchildren. In addition, they can go on vacation without worrying about pain from walking long distances. This is also why many professional sports teams have chiropractors on their medical staff.
Prevents Spinal Degeneration
A misaligned spine can lead to premature wear and tear of the body. Chiropractic care can prevent spinal degeneration and other arthritic changes by aligning the spine and reducing stress. Even seniors who do not experience significant pain or discomfort can benefit from chiropractic care, as it can detect and address issues before they become substantial problems.
Improves Quality of Life
Many aging adults with chronic joint and muscle pain struggle to navigate everyday life. They become overly dependent on others and end up losing their independence. Loss of independence can leave an older adult feeling frustrated, angry, or scared, and it may increase one’s risk of developing a mental illness such as anxiety or depression. Aging adults often stop exercising or attending social events because they worry that strenuous activity can worsen chronic pain symptoms.
Chiropractic care can help aging adults lead a more fulfilling life by reducing pain and inflammation and improving flexibility. In a study, it was found that:
- People who receive regular chiropractic care are 22% less likely to develop arthritis.
- People who see a chiropractor regularly are more likely to exercise.
- Chiropractic care reduces the likelihood of an aging adult moving to a nursing home.
- Chiropractic care may help reduce the length of hospital stays.
Toth Chiropractic is a renowned chiropractic clinic serving Santa Rosa. Dr. Douglass Toth has spent years studying different chiropractic care techniques. His in-depth knowledge of chiropractic principles sets him apart from other chiropractors in Santa Rosa. To learn more, call (707) 355-6535.