[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]As everyone knows, health problems tend to increase with age. Although not reserved to just the elderly, many health conditions like arthritis, vertigo, osteoporosis, and hip fractures tend to disproportionately affect persons of advanced years. Even so, people are living longer. While extended life expectancies are certainly a goal to strive for, quality of life is just as important.
Unfortunately, many older Canadians are on multiple prescription medications. While these medications may be very necessary, these patients hardly need any extra burden added to their pharmaceutical load. That’s one of the chief advantages of chiropractic treatment – it’s all natural with no drugs used.
Another benefit is that chiropractic treatment and physiotherapy is gentle, so it is safe for people of every age. Older individuals often suffer from brittle bones and tenderness in the muscles and joints. A qualified chiropractor will be certain to use the minimum force necessary in treatment and will pay close attention to avoiding discomfort in their patients.
Below are a few specific examples of how chiropractic can help ease the signs of aging.
Arthritis
Arthritis can affect any joint in the body, including the joints of the spine. While chiropractic medicine is certainly centered around the spine, the fact is that chiropractic adjustments can be applied to any joint. So if you’re suffering from pain, stiffness, or restricted movement in your knees, for example, a chiropractor can help.
Chiropractic treatment can correct small misalignments of the joints, allowing for freer, less painful movement. Also, a chiropractor can recommend specialised exercises to loosen joints and nutritional supplements to promote the production of synovial fluid, the solution that lubricates the joints.
Vertigo and Balance Issues
Many older individuals are subject to balance difficulties and vertigo. Balance is coordinated by the inner ear in conjunction with a part of the brain called the cerebellum. As these organs atrophy or experience decreased blood supply, vertigo, or a spinning sensation, can occur. Vertigo, often in combination with declining vision, can lead to trips and falls.
In fact, falls are the greatest accident hazards for older Canadians. A fall all too often leads to a hip fracture or even head trauma, causing disability. Luckily, chiropractic medicine offers safe, all natural treatment for balance issues in the form of modalities and the use of specialised devices to practice balance and help to at least partially restore stability. Your chiropractor can also offer advice on vitamins and supplements to help decrease vertigo.
Expert Advice on Aging Issues
Experienced chiropractors are an excellent source of advice on healthy aging. They can give you good recommendations on topics like diet, exercise, safety precautions, and vitamins and other supplements. As we age, our dietary needs and exercise capacity change. What once worked at 30 may not necessarily be the right path at 60. Your chiropractor can serve as an excellent addition to your family physician when it comes to ways to deal with many of the health difficulties that arrive with growing older.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]