Older Spines May Find Comfort and Clarity Again with Chiropractic Care
The spine, the support for the whole body, from the top of the head to the toes, from cognition to stenosis! Chiropractic loves the spine of all ages, but the older spine is especially adored. Aging gracefully is more than just a phrase; it is a goal for many Juneau folks! However, as we grow older, our bodies undergo changes that can affect our quality of life. For older adults, tackling spinal health can lead to improvements in general well-being. This is where Aurora Chiropractic Center and our Juneau chiropractic care comes in.
UNDERSTANDING THE AGING SPINE
The spine is more than just a column of bones. It's an intricate system that supports our whole body, protecting the spinal cord and allowing a wide range of movements. Its health is vital for preserving mobility, balance, and even cognitive functions. As we get older, 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 conditions can lead to back pain, reduced mobility, and even cognitive decline. Chiropractic care concentrates on the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine. With comprehensive treatment plans, chiropractors aspire to alleviate pain and enhance 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 disorder 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) researched 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 influence cognitive health in older adults. Chiropractic care can help improve blood flow and nervous system function, which are vital for cognitive health. Regular chiropractic care may reducedecrease symptoms of MCI, enhancing memory and cognitive function.
MANAGING SPINAL STENOSIS WITH CHIROPRACTIC
Spinal stenosis affects the spaces within the spine narrow, exerting 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, managing spinal stenosis is crucial for maintaining mobility and quality of life. Research by Jensen et al. (2) stresses the effectiveness of conservative care, including chiropractic care, in coping with lumbar spinal stenosis. The study revealed that patients had 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 includes stretching exercises, nutrition, and lifestyle recommendations. These treatments aim to ease pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, decreasing pain and increasing function. For older adults, regular chiropractic care can be a key part of their pain management strategy.
THE TRAJECTORY OF OLDER BACK PAIN PATIENTS
Back pain is a common complaint among older adults, often leading to reduced mobility and quality of life. Long-term studies, such as the one done by McNaughton et al. (3), give valuable insights into how chiropractic care can impact back pain over time. The study studied 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. Better mobility is one of the most noteworthy benefits of chiropractic care for older adults. By preserving spinal health, individuals can have more freedom of movement, partake in physical activities, and maintain their independence.
CONTACT Aurora Chiropractic Center
Listen to this PODCAST with Dr. Keith Bartley on The Back Doctors Podcast with Dr. Michael Johnson as he describes spinal stenosis and how his use of The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management helped his patient.
Chiropractic care offers a head-to-toes holistic approach to managing health challenges that accompany aging. From improving cognitive function to treating spinal stenosis and chronic back pain, the advantages of chiropractic care for older adults are well-documented. For those looking to explore 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, Juneau chiropractic care at Aurora Chiropractic Center can offer the support and relief you need.
Make you’re your Juneau chiropractic appointment with Aurora Chiropractic Center now!