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Older Spines May Find Comfort and Clarity Again with Chiropractic Care

July 24, 2024

The spine, the support for the whole body, head to toe, cognition to spinal stenosis pain! Chiropractic loves the spine of all ages, but the older spine is especially adored. Aging gracefully is more than just an expression; it is a goal for many Nashua folks! However, as we grow older, our bodies undergo changes that can impact our quality of life. For older adults, addressing spinal health can lead to improvements in overall well-being. This is where Moriarty Chiropractic and our Nashua 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 enabling a wide variety of movements. Its health is essential for preserving mobility, balance, and even cognitive functions. As we get older, our spines encounter several challenges. Degeneration of the spinal discs, reduced bone density, and the development of conditions such as spinal stenosis become more prevalent. These issues can lead to back pain, lowered mobility, and even cognitive decline. Chiropractic care focuses on the musculoskeletal system, especially the spine. With comprehensive treatment plans, chiropractors aspire to alleviate pain and improve function. This approach is especially good for older adults, as it addresses 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 consist of memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and challenges in doing daily everyday jobs. While MCI does not 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, demonstrating improvements in brain function and cognitive performance. This suggests that chiropractic care can positively impact cognitive health in older adults. Chiropractic care can help improve 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, primarily 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) stresses the effectiveness of conservative care, with chiropractic care, in dealing with lumbar spinal stenosis. The study revealed that patients got significant pain relief and better mobility over 12 months of care. Chiropractors use various techniques to contain spinal stenosis, including 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, easing pain and increasing function. For older adults, regular chiropractic care can be an essential part of their pain management plan.

THE TRAJECTORY OF OLDER BACK PAIN PATIENTS

Back pain is a common complaint among older adults, often leading to 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 followed older men with low back pain over ten years, revealing that regular chiropractic care significantly reduced pain and improved overall spine health. For older adults, this can translate into fewer pain episodes and a more active, fulfilling life. Better mobility is one of the most significant benefits of chiropractic care for older adults. By conserving spinal health, individuals can have better freedom of movement, participate in physical activities, and keep their independence.

CONTACT Moriarty Chiropractic

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 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 looking to investigate the benefits of chiropractic care, now is the perfect time to take action. Whether you are an older adult, a caregiver, or someone experiencing back pain or cognitive decline, Nashua chiropractic care at Moriarty Chiropractic can provide the support and relief you need.

Make you’re your Nashua chiropractic appointment with Moriarty Chiropractic now!