Older Spines May Find Comfort and Clarity Again with Chiropractic Care
The spine, the support for the entire body, head to toe, cognition to spinal stenosis pain! Chiropractic embraces the spine of all ages, but the aging spine is particularly loved. Aging gracefully is more than just a phrase; it is a goal for many Augusta folks! However, as we age, our bodies undergo changes that can impact our quality of life. For older adults, addressing spinal health can lead to improvements in general well-being. This is where Lombardy Chiropractic Clinic and our Augusta chiropractic care comes in.
UNDERSTANDING THE AGING SPINE
The spine is more than just a pillar of bones. It's an intricate system that supports our whole body, sheltering the spinal cord and allowing a wide variety of movements. Its health is vital for maintaining mobility, balance, and even cognitive functions. As we age, our spines encounter several challenges like disc degeneration, lower bone density, and such conditions as spinal stenosis. These conditions can lead to back pain, lowered mobility, and even cognitive decline. 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 deals with the root causes of many age-related spine 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, trouble with concentration, 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) studied the effects of chiropractic care on resting-state EEG of MCI patients. The outcomes were promising, demonstrating improvements in brain function and cognitive performance. This suggests that chiropractic care can positively influence 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 reducedecrease 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, exerting 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 common issue among older adults, managing spinal stenosis is vital for maintaining mobility and quality of life. Research by Jensen et al. (2) highlights the effectiveness of conservative care, including chiropractic care, in dealing with lumbar spinal stenosis. The study revealed that patients got significant pain relief and improved mobility over 12 months of care. Chiropractors use a variety of 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 improving function. For older adults, regular chiropractic care can be an essential part of their pain management strategy.
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 conducted 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, revealing that regular chiropractic care significantly decreased pain and better 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 conserving spinal health, individuals can enjoy better freedom of movement, partake in physical activities, and keep their independence.
CONTACT Lombardy Chiropractic Clinic
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 come with aging. From improving cognitive function to managing spinal stenosis and chronic back pain, the advantages of chiropractic care for older adults are well-documented. For those wanting to explore the benefits of chiropractic care, now is the best time to do it. Whether you're an older adult, a caregiver, or someone undergoing back pain or cognitive decline, Augusta chiropractic care at Lombardy Chiropractic Clinic can provide the support and relief you need.
Schedule you’re your Augusta chiropractic appointment with Lombardy Chiropractic Clinic now!