Older Spines May Find Comfort and Clarity Again with Chiropractic Care
The spine, the support for the entire body, from the top of the head to the toes, from cognition to stenosis! Chiropractic embraces the spine of all ages, but the aging spine is especially loved. Aging gracefully is more than just an expression; it's a goal for many San Jose folks! However, as we age, our bodies undergo changes that can impact our quality of life. For older adults, tackling spinal health can lead to improvements in overall well-being. This is where Chiropractic Solutions and our San Jose 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 allowing a wide range of movements. Its health is essential for preserving mobility, balance, and even cognitive functions. As we get older, our spines face several challenges like disc degeneration, lower bone density, and such conditions as spinal stenosis. These conditions can lead to back pain, reduced mobility, and even decline in cognition. Chiropractic care focuses on the musculoskeletal system, especially the spine. With complete treatment plans, chiropractors aspire to ease pain and enhance function. This approach is especially good for older adults, as it addresses the root causes of many 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 doesn't always lead to dementia, it can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. A recent study by Ziloochi et al. (1) studied the effects of chiropractic care on resting-state EEG of MCI patients. The results were promising, showing improvements in brain function and cognitive performance. This suggests that chiropractic care can positively impact cognitive health in older adults. Chiropractic care can help enhance blood flow and nervous system function, which are crucial for cognitive health. Regular chiropractic care may lower symptoms of MCI, enhancing memory and cognitive function.
MANAGING SPINAL STENOSIS WITH CHIROPRACTIC
Spinal stenosis is a condition where the spaces within the spine narrow, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. This can lead to pain, numbness, and muscle weakness, predominantly in the lower back and legs. As a frequent issue among older adults, handling spinal stenosis is crucial for maintaining mobility and quality of life. Research by Jensen et al. (2) highlights the effectiveness of conservative care, with chiropractic care, in dealing with lumbar spinal stenosis. The study found that patients experienced significant pain relief and improved mobility over 12 months of care. Chiropractors use a variety of techniques to manage spinal stenosis, including 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 aim to ease pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, reducing 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 reduced mobility and quality of life. Long-term studies, such as the one performed by McNaughton et al. (3), provide valuable insights into how chiropractic care can affect back pain over time. The study evaluated older men with low back pain over ten years, exposing that regular chiropractic care significantly reduced pain and improved overall spine health. For older adults, this can mean 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 enjoy better freedom of movement, participate in physical activities, and keep their independence.
CONTACT Chiropractic Solutions
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 delivers a head-to-toes holistic approach to handling health challenges that accompany 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 wanting to investigate the benefits of chiropractic care, now is the perfect time to take action. Whether you're an older adult, a caregiver, or someone experiencing back pain or cognitive decline, San Jose chiropractic care at Chiropractic Solutions can offer the support and relief you need.
Schedule you’re your San Jose chiropractic appointment with Chiropractic Solutions now!