Many senior citizens already know the benefits of chiropractic care and how it can improve the ‘golden years’. Those who visit a chiropractor on a regular basis often report experiencing more energy, greater flexibility and less pain in day-to-day life. In fact, chiropractic is about much more than pain relief – it’s about improving the quality of life. With Americans living longer than ever before, there is no need to retire to the rocking chair during retirement. Instead, let chiropractic care keep you active, healthy and feeling living life to the fullest.
Facts about seniors and chiropractic:
- One in five adults will be age 65 or older by the year 2030.
- Among seniors, chiropractic is one of the most commonly used alternative therapies.
- While many seniors get adjustments to treat back pain or other symptoms, chiropractic is also effective for preventing or managing diseases and other health problems common to mature adults.
- A study published in “Topics of Clinical Chiropractic” found that 66 percent of seniors who do not get chiropractic treatment have arthritis in comparison to 48 percent of those who do visit a chiropractor regularly.
- The same study found that seniors who do not get chiropractic treatment are far more likely to be placed in a nursing home than those who do visit a chiropractor regularly.
Seniors who regularly undergo chiropractic treatment may enjoy many different types of benefits. Examples include:
Seniors have age-specific health needs that we are sensitive to here at our practice. Our focus is both intervention and prevention, with an emphasis on improving spinal alignment and minimizing stress on the bones and joints. Your appointment will begin with a discussion about your symptoms which may be followed by a chiropractic adjustment, lifestyle counseling or another type of alternative therapy. Our treatments are natural, non-invasive and designed to produce optimal results and long lasting benefits.
Chiropractic has been found safe for use in most people, including senior citizens. In fact, chiropractors have been helping older adults regain control of their lives for many years, with many success stories to support its effectiveness. For more information about chiropractic for seniors and how it may benefit you, please contact our office to schedule your consultation.
Children experience rapid growth and development during the few years of life. It is a time when musculoskeletal growth occurs quickly and often in ‘spurts’, putting stress on their young bodies. Though children may not experience pain or obvious complications from musculoskeletal injuries, even the tiniest subluxations may worsen and cause pain later in life if left untreated. Fortunately, children generally respond faster and more effectively to chiropractic treatment than adults do, and early treatment may also help prevent spine and nerve problems that could become symptomatic in the future.
Did you know…
that chiropractic care is appropriate for children of all ages? Though the techniques for pediatric chiropractic treatment vary, the premise of care is the same for a 1-year old as it is for a 100-year old. Many parents choose to bring their infants to the chiropractor for adjustments shortly after the birthing process, which is physically demanding for newborns. Other activities that can cause subluxation in children include learning to crawl, learning to walk and sitting up without support for long periods of time.
Unless your child has sustained a serious injury, it can be difficult to determine whether he or she needs chiropractic treatment. That is why we recommend scheduling periodic chiropractic well-check visits to ensure your child’s spine and nerves are in optimal alignment for childhood development.
If your child is in good health and not experiencing pain, your chiropractor may recommend well visits one to two times per year. If, however, your child has suffered an injury resulting in pain or imbalances like limping or favoring one side, schedule an appointment with your child’s chiropractor right away.
We believe the body’s overall health is connected to the spine and nerves. We also believe that the body is capable of healing and recovering from traumas and injuries when given the proper tools to do so. Though treatment results vary from child to child, chiropractic may be beneficial for improving childhood conditions like ADHD, colic and even frequent ear infections.
As adults approach middle age, many notice an increase in health complications that were not a problem earlier in life. Perhaps it is an achy lower back, a sudden injury or even the development of a chronic health condition like migraines or degenerative joint disease. Whatever the problem, many people in their 40s and 50s may equate the increase in health issues with the ‘normal aging process’. At our office, we encourage middle-aged patients to take charge of their health by incorporating chiropractic treatment into a wellness plan. Often, the problems that ail middle-aged adults can be quickly resolved with lifestyle changes and chiropractic adjustments – no medications required.
Did you know…
Did you know that chiropractic treatments for middle aged people can help fight disease and degenerative health problems? When used as a preventative tool, chiropractic adjustments can correct nerve interferences, minimize stress and improve the overall quality of life. In fact, many people who begin undergoing chiropractic treatment during middle age feel so good, they wonder why they did not start visiting a chiropractor sooner.
Results vary from patient to patient, but many people experience significant improvements in a wide range of acute and chronic health conditions. Examples include:
Depending on your symptoms, age and health history, we will evaluate your current health and determine the most effective course of treatment for improving it. Our goal is to eliminate pain and empower the body to recover from injuries and fight off disease. Treatment may include a combination of chiropractic adjustments, as well as lifestyle modifications that affect diet, daily activity and sleep habits.
It is never too early to take preventative action toward your future health. A chiropractor can help you feel better than ever and even identify potential health problems before they start. Our practice is founded in natural, non-invasive treatment and prevention. We utilize chiropractic adjustments, as well lifestyle counseling to maximize the health of our patients in ways they may have never known possible. For more information about chiropractic for middle-aged people, contact our office to schedule a consultation.
Your neck – also referred to as the cervical spine – is a delicate accumulation of vertebrae, nerves, and muscles that work to support your head. The neck is very flexible and capable of rotating from side to side, up and down. Though the neck is not weak, it is susceptible to injury and pain. Neck pain is a common complaint and is often the result of poor posture, whiplash, or even stress. Even a simple fall or sports injury are enough to cause a sprain or compress a disc. If you are experiencing neck pain that won’t seem to go away, chiropractic treatment may be your solution.
Did you know…
that a study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that chiropractic treatment results in significant improvement in pain levels among patients who experience chronic neck pain? Millions of Americans suffer from neck pain every day, many of whom could find relief by visiting a chiropractor. Of those who do seek treatment, many find that chiropractic not only relieves chronic neck pain, but it also helps alleviate other symptoms, such as headaches and migraines.
Yes. Chiropractors are trained and experienced in all types of musculoskeletal pain. Diagnostic testing and an in-person consultation will make it possible for a chiropractor to determine whether your chronic neck pain can be treated with chiropractic. If your chiropractor believes it will be best served by a different type of medical practitioner, he or she will give you the appropriate referral.
Your chiropractor will perform a neck adjustment or cervical manipulation treatment. This is a manual procedure that takes just seconds to complete but is capable of delivering instantaneous results. Many patients experience immediate relief of chronic neck pain, as well as muscle stiffness. You may hear popping as your chiropractor completes the cervical adjustment, but the treatment is not likely to be painful.
Yes. You may experience less neck pain by periodically visiting the chiropractor for preventative adjustments. In addition, your chiropractor may suggest getting frequent massages or practicing better posture to protect yourself against recurrent neck pain.
Chiropractic care is a conservative, non-invasive treatment used to relieve pain and treat underlying conditions of the neuromuscular system. Although it is highly effective on its own, the therapy works synergistically with massage therapy to deliver faster, more effective results. Massage prior to a chiropractic treatment helps loosen stiff muscles and make them more susceptible to manual adjustments. Many chiropractors not only recommend massage to patients – they offer it right in their offices.
Did you know…
that massage therapy has been used for thousands of years to relieve muscle stiffness and back pain related to stress and injury? Today, it is used around the world for those same reasons. In fact, there are more than 100 types of massage used in countries all around the world. Each offers its own benefits, but nearly all serve the same purposes – to relieve stress, improve range of motion, release built-up muscle toxins, and provide relief of pain and muscle stiffness.
Not everyone is a candidate for massage, so see your primary care physician before getting treatment. According to the National Institute for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine, massage administered by a trained and licensed professional carries very low risk of complications.
Your massage experience will depend primarily on the type of massage you get. If you see a professional masseuse, you can elect traditional massage for superficial muscle relaxation or deep tissue massage to target the muscles deep beneath the skin. Massages are usually available for durations of up to 90 minutes, although you can reap the benefits of massage in just 30 minutes or less.
Yes. Massage therapy helps loosen muscles by relieving toxins that are stored in them. These toxins need to be flushed out of your system in the hours following your massage, so it is recommended that you drink plenty of water once you complete your treatment.
Knee pain is a highly common complaint among Americans – especially those who are active in sports or are victims of repetitive use injuries. There are many causes of knee pain, including arthritis, inflammation, and injuries to the connective tissues. Many people suffering from knee pain want alternative treatment methods besides pain medications or surgery. Chiropractic offers a conservative and non-invasive approach to treating knee pain, and many patients begin to experience relief right away.
Did you know…
that many patients with knee pain are simple cases of improper arch support? Shoes make a big difference in the amount of pressure that is transferred to your knees when walking or running. If your arches are not properly supported, they cannot absorb shock as your foot strikes the ground. By simply wearing arch-supporting inserts inside your shoe, you can better distribute pressure and help prevent chronic knee pain.
Yes. Chiropractors are experts in pain relief and safe manipulation of the musculoskeletal frame. Chiropractic treatments are always the least invasive, so it makes sense to try those before pursuing more aggressive treatments. If your knee pain cannot be treated with chiropractic care, your chiropractor will refer you to a specialist who can assist you.
Your chiropractor will first examine your knee for signs of swelling and may order x-rays or other imaging to aid in the diagnostic process. If your knee is inflamed, you may need to rest it and ice it until swelling subsides. Next, your chiropractor may restore mobility to your knee with an adjustment similar to those you may receive for back pain or neck pain. Finally, your chiropractor may recommend massage and physical therapy to alleviate pain and restore function to the joint.
In addition to using adequate arch support, consider wearing a knee brace during physical activity to provide added support.
Joint pain is a common problem, and there is a host of treatments and medications available claiming to offer symptom relief. But few of those treatment options work to address the cause of joint problems rather than just the symptoms. Chiropractic treatment can be a viable remedy for joint problems and pain affecting all areas of the musculoskeletal system. Manual adjustments can encourage joints to line up and function properly, effectively reducing chronic pain for many patients.
Did you know…
that there are at least 360 joints facilitating movement in the human body? When just one of those joints becomes irritated or inflamed, it can cause intense pain and immobilization. According to the Centers for Disease Control, at least, 30 percent of American adults have experienced joint pain or stiffness at least once in the last month – many of them much more frequently than that!
Yes. Chiropractic treatment and manual joint adjustments can be effective for alleviating joint pains of all types, from sprains and strains to fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis. If you are experiencing joint pain, contact your chiropractor to find out if chiropractic treatment could benefit you.
Your chiropractor will first diagnose your pain by finding the source of the problem. If you have an injury, such as is common among athletes, you may be advised to continue chiropractic adjustments and supplement with physical therapy. If your joint pain is related to an underlying health condition, try modifying your diet to avoid inflammatory foods that could be contributing to your condition.
Yes. If you are overweight or obese, your weight could be putting excess pressure on your joints, resulting in chronic pain. Change your diet and exercise habits with the goal of obtaining and maintaining a healthy weight. You can also help prevent joint pain by wearing joint braces or resting the joint periodically throughout each day. If your joints are inflamed, try applying ice to them for a few minutes each day.
Nearly everyone has occasional headaches, but some people suffer with them chronically. Recurring headaches and migraines can severely limit quality of life. Most people who have frequent headaches are not suffering with an underlying health condition, but rather are experiencing headaches as a side effect of stress, poor sleep habits, overuse of caffeine, or even poor posture. Chiropractic has been shown to help alleviate the frequency and intensity of headaches among many chronic sufferers.
Did you know…
that severe headaches and migraines can affect anyone at any age, but women between the ages of 18 and 44 are most likely to suffer with them chronically? There are three classifications of headaches – cluster, migraine, and tension. Each can be triggered by internal or external factors, such as muscle tension, stress, strong fragrances and consumption of certain foods. A chiropractor will work with patients to help identify to a source of chronic headaches and create a plan for relief.
If you are suffering from chronic headaches and are looking for a more natural means of treating your pain than over-the-counter medications, you could benefit from chiropractic treatment. According to the American Chiropractic Association, a Duke University study found that chiropractic treatment is highly effective in the relief of tension headaches and headaches that originate in the neck, which are the most common type of headaches in America. In fact, tension headaches can recur on a near daily basis when left untreated.
Your first visit to a chiropractor will include a complete analysis of your symptoms, including the severity and frequency of your headaches. You’ll also answer questions about your family health history, as well as your dietary and sleep habits. Together with your chiropractor, you will work to identify potential headache triggers through a process of elimination.
Your visit may also include a chiropractic adjustment to correct misalignment to your neck and spine, which also could be contributing to your headaches. By adjusting your back, your chiropractor could relieve stress on your body’s musculoskeletal system. After just a few adjustments, you could experience significant improvement in your headache pain.
Yes. Be sure to get plenty of sleep each night and take steps to minimize your stress. Drink plenty of water each day to avoid headache-causing dehydration, and spend time each day stretching and participating in mild to moderate exercise.
Many people think of a podiatrist when it comes to foot care, but chiropractors treat pain and disorders of the feet and ankles as well. In fact, chiropractors are especially helpful in relieving pain stemming from conditions like plantar fasciitis and metatarsalgia. If you visit a chiropractor with chronic foot pain, you can be assured that you will be offered conservative and non-invasive treatment options that have been proven effective in relieving pain, as well as the underlying conditions responsible for discomfort.
Did you know…
that 25 percent of all the bones in your body are located in your feet? In fact, your feet not only have 26 bones, but they also have 19 muscles, 33 joints and 107 different ligaments! Considering the average person walks approximately 10,000 steps each day, it’s no wonder these bones can fall out of alignment.
You should see a chiropractor for foot care pertaining the muscles, joints, bones, and connective tissues of the feet. Chiropractors do not specialize in other disorders of the feet, such as infections or ingrown toenails. To find out more about chiropractic foot care and whether it’s right for you, schedule a consultation with your chiropractor today.
You can expect drug-free and surgery-free treatment options designed to reduce chronic foot pain. Your chiropractor may order an x-ray of your foot to determine whether your symptoms are related to a biomechanical problem. If they are, your foot will likely be adjusted in the office, potentially resulting in immediate symptom relief, less stiffness, and increased mobility.
Yes. Wearing the appropriate footwear to support your feet is important for overall foot health. If your problem is ankle-related, a brace may provide the support you need to avoid injury and live pain-free.
More and more people are foregoing back surgery to give spinal decompression a try. Back decompression is a gentle and non-invasive alternative to more aggressive treatments used to treat chronic pain. It works by applying gentle pressure to your back in an effort to expand space between compressed discs in your spine. When performed successfully, spinal decompression can provide effective relief for herniated discs, sciatica, pinched nerves and even degenerative disc disorders.
Did you know…
spinal decompression treatments take less than one hour to complete? Many patients find the time relaxing – especially when additional supplemental therapies like electrical stimulation or hot/cold therapy are used prior to or following treatment. If you decide spinal decompression is right for you, expect to visit your chiropractor as much as four times a week to reap maximum benefits.
Back decompression is not for everyone, and you may not be a candidate for treatment if you have metal rods in your back or are prone to fractures. However, it is a much more conservative treatment option than surgery is. If you are considering back surgery, contact your chiropractor first to find out if you could benefit from spinal decompression therapy.
During your back decompression treatment, you will lie flat on your back while a decompression machine gently tugs at your back. The effect is similar to the feeling you get in your back when you hang upside down. The tugging encourages your vertebrae to separate, relieving pressure on discs and nerves.
Back decompression typically requires multiple visits to achieve noticeable results. To maximize your chances of success with decompression, abide by the treatment schedule prescribed by your chiropractor.
