Older Spines May Find Comfort and Clarity Again with Chiropractic Care
The spine, the support for the whole body, head to toe, cognition to spinal stenosis pain! Chiropractic loves the spine of all ages, but the aging spine is particularly loved. Aging gracefully is more than just a phrase; it's a goal for many Manchester folks! However, as we grow older, our bodies go through changes that can affect our quality of life. For older adults, addressing spinal health can lead to improvements in overall well-being. This is where Manchester Chiropractic & Sports Injuries and our Manchester chiropractic care comes in.
UNDERSTANDING THE AGING SPINE
The spine is more than just a pillar of bones. It's a complex system that supports our whole body, sheltering the spinal cord and enabling a wide variety of movements. Its health is vital for preserving mobility, balance, and even cognitive functions. As we age, our spines face several challenges. Degeneration of the spinal discs, reduced bone density, and the development of conditions such as spinal stenosis become more prevalent. These issues can lead to back pain, decreased mobility, and even decline in cognition. Chiropractic care concentrates on the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine. With comprehensive treatment plans, chiropractors aspire to ease pain and improve function. This approach is especially good for older adults, as it addresses the root causes of numerous age-related spinal issues.
COGNITIVE DECLINE AND CHIROPRACTIC CARE
Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a condition that falls between normal age-related cognitive decline and more severe disorders like dementia. Symptoms include memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and challenges in doing daily tasks. While MCI does not always lead to dementia, it can significantly affect an individual's quality of life. A recent study by Ziloochi et al. (1) investigated the effects of chiropractic care on resting-state EEG of MCI patients. The results were promising, demonstrating improvements in brain function and cognitive performance. This implies that chiropractic care can positively impact cognitive health in older adults. Chiropractic care can help boost blood flow and nervous system function, which are vital for cognitive health. Regular chiropractic care may lower symptoms of MCI, enhancing memory and cognitive function.
MANAGING SPINAL STENOSIS WITH CHIROPRACTIC
Spinal stenosis affects the spaces within the spine narrow, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. This can lead to pain, numbness, and muscle weakness, primarily in the lower back and legs. As a common issue among older adults, handling spinal stenosis is vital for maintaining mobility and quality of life. Research by Jensen et al. (2) highlights the effectiveness of conservative care, with chiropractic treatments, in managing lumbar spinal stenosis. The study found that patients experienced significant pain relief and better mobility over 12 months of care. Chiropractors use various techniques to contain spinal stenosis, incorporating spinal manipulation like the gentle, research-documented, safe protocol in the Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management that incorporates stretching exercises, nutrition, and lifestyle recommendations. These treatments work to alleviate pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, easing pain and increasing function. For older adults, regular chiropractic care can be a key part of their pain management plan.
THE TRAJECTORY OF OLDER BACK PAIN PATIENTS
Back pain is a common complaint among older adults, often resulting in decreased mobility and quality of life. Long-term studies, such as the one done by McNaughton et al. (3), provide valuable insights into how chiropractic care can affect back pain over time. The study followed older men with low back pain over ten years, exposing that regular chiropractic care significantly reduced pain and better overall spine health. For older adults, this can translate into fewer pain episodes and a more active, fulfilling life. Improved mobility is one of the most significant benefits of chiropractic care for older adults. By preserving spinal health, individuals can experience greater freedom of movement, partake in physical activities, and keep their independence.
CONTACT Manchester Chiropractic & Sports Injuries
Listen to this PODCAST with Dr. Keith Bartley on The Back Doctors Podcast with Dr. Michael Johnson as he illustrates spinal stenosis and how his use of The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management helped his patient.
Chiropractic care delivers a head-to-toes holistic approach to handling health challenges that come with aging. From improving cognitive function to treating spinal stenosis and chronic back pain, the benefits of chiropractic care for older adults are well-known. For those looking to investigate the benefits of chiropractic care, now is the best time to take action. Whether you're an older adult, a caregiver, or someone experiencing back pain or cognitive decline, Manchester chiropractic care at Manchester Chiropractic & Sports Injuries can offer the support and relief you need.