Q: I am 82 years old and feel more stiff and rigid than I have ever felt. I try to move and stretch but I feel like I need someone to move my joints further than what I am able to do on my own. I have tried physical therapy and it does help some but some people tell me I should try a chiropractor too. Could it help and is it safe for me to have someone “pop” my bones?
A: Chiropractic is a form of health care that can benefit people of any age. Seniors can get particular benefit in many ways. One benefit from chiropractic treatment is an increase in the range of motion not only for the spine but for other joints, like shoulders. That increased ability to move can translate into little perks, like being able to bend and pick up a grandchild.
The greater flexibility that comes from chiropractic treatment also helps with balance and steadiness on one’s feet. Falls are responsible for about 90 percent of the bone fractures that happen to people over age 65. A fall can often result in a long hospital or nursing home stay. Also, if one or more joints are beginning to deteriorate because of a misalignment and improper movement, treatment by a doctor of chiropractic can help.
Pain relief is another benefit. Some of the aches and pains associated with growing older could be related to misalignments in the spine and subsequent pressure on the nerves that emanate from the spine. Various forms of medication may ease the pain, but a chiropractic adjustment may help to correct the problem. And whether you’re ailing or not, often times you’ll feel generally better after chiropractic care.
Some forms of chiropractic may not be as safe as others. Be sure to talk about your concerns with your chiropractor. The idea is to progressively get better function from your joints and move with more ease so you may start with very light mobilizations and work up to more movement with your adjustment. A Cox Table is a specifically made table to allow a chiropractor to ability of moving joints without a thrust or quick movement to the spine and is a great way to help increase mobility of arthritic joints. Check it out at www.coxtechnic.com.
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