Chiropractic care is a hands-on, non-invasive way to treat issues on your spine, muscles, joints, and your nervous system. It promotes physical recovery and may help improve one’s mental health, neurological health, and muscle strength. It is beneficial for almost everyone, no matter their age or gender.
From teens undergoing posture correction to rehabilitation for sports injuries to adults seeking therapy after a work-related injury or chiropractors, such as those from Easy Allied Health, can alleviate pain and discomfort to help patients recover and enjoy life to the fullest.
Although men and women benefit from regular chiropractic care, you might wonder if older adults can do the same. Seniors face several health-related issues, with back pain, neck pain, and headaches. Additionally, osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and spinal stenosis are often painful and debilitating. They limit an older person’s daily activities and impact their quality of life.
If you or an older loved one is looking for a drug-free and non-invasive method from pain Chiropractic care may be the answer. Spinal manipulation may not only alleviate the pain but may also improve your quality of life. However, much like any health treatment, chiropractic care comes with several risks. Some can’t help but wonder, is this pain and mobility treatment beneficial for aging and more vulnerable adults?
Safety Concerns Regarding Chiropractic Care For the Elderly
It’s understandable to have several reservations regarding alternative forms of treatment. After all, some may not have enough evidence to back up their claims. Regarding chiropractic care, 5% of seniors in the United States already use it for their age-related spine and neck problems and report positive benefits.
Although chiropractic is gaining popularity as an alternative medical treatment, most seniors have concerns about its impact on their health and well-being. For example, those with weaker bones due to osteoporosis or osteoarthritis may wonder if spinal manipulation can improve their condition or result in further injury. Others with lower pain tolerance may find it surprising to feel some soreness after the first few sessions. In addition, seniors may also feel concerned about the risk of stroke due to neck manipulations. Older adults often fear that non-invasive treatments such as chiropractic care may have adverse effects resulting in additional injury or even death.
While these issues are valid, these risks are minimal. Chiropractic care is a highly regulated medical profession. Several safety mechanisms are in place to ensure that the elderly do not incur further injuries from seeking chiropractic care. Regular consultations seek to improve the quality of life in older adults.
Safety Mechanisms To Ensure Quality Treatment
Chiropractic care adheres to high standards to ensure that patients, especially the elderly, benefit from specialized treatments. First off, chiropractors undergo several years of medical education and training to treat nervous system issues effectively. Some may even specialize in specific spinal disorders to provide better care for their patients. They may also undergo training in related fields such as medical imaging and care planning for more effective practice.
A reputable chiropractor performs appropriate techniques to alleviate pain and improve mobility. They also utilize medical imaging and other related technologies to determine the underlying cause of your pain and create a treatment plan to reduce it.
Second, chiropractic practice is mainly evidence-based. Treatments for the elderly are derived from best practices that address pain and mobility issues with senior health considerations in mind. A recent study, in particular, proves the efficacy of spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) as an effective treatment for low back pain in older adults. Another study also shows the likelihood of stroke in older patients undergoing chiropractic care is minimal, with risks compared to seeking treatment from other health providers.
Third, chiropractic care is usually done only after the approval of your or an elderly’s attending physician. This approval is needed for weaker bones or with lower pain tolerance. A doctor’s recommendation is also required for seniors who have complex health conditions and desire non-invasive and non-drug alternatives to pain and mobility treatments.
Lastly, chiropractic care is patient-centered. Elderly patients work with chiropractors to create a treatment plan that considers their needs, current health conditions, and future well-being.
Chiropractic doctors like those from North York Physio Clinic also work alongside caregivers to provide appropriate care for seniors who may have difficulty caring for themselves. They consult caregivers and family members to determine the most effective plan for the ailing senior. A holistic evaluation ensures chiropractic care provides short-term relief and a long-term plan for improved well-being.
Safety And Security In Chiropractic Care
Safety is a paramount concern for you or your elderly loved one when managing chronic pain and illness. Your journey may point you toward chiropractic care as a safe and effective way to treat age-related health challenges.
Evidence-based and patient-centered practice is at the heart of chiropractic care. Elderly patients and their caregivers can find assurance that personalized treatment stand-alone or as part of a healthcare plan will help the elderly overcome spine, neck, and joint problems so they can enjoy their golden years to the fullest.
Comments 1