elderly couple holding hands

Chiropractic care continues to gain traction in the medical community as a safe and effective way to address many kinds of illnesses. However, there is a growing population that may be missing out on the benefits of this intervention: the elderly. Although older patients suffer from many of the ailments that can be helped with chiropractic adjustments, people often fear that the procedure is too rough for this population, potentially causing harm.

A skilled chiropractor is able to change their approach, depending on the physical attributes of the patient. For elderly people or others who need a softer touch, a chiropractor can adapt their technique to ensure that the treatment is appropriate. These gentle adjustments can be safely administered, even to frail elderly. Here are just some of the benefits chiropractic care offers the elderly.

Fall Reduction

Falls are a major issue for the elderly population, often causing life-changing injuries, but geriatric chiropractic care has been shown to reduce the risk of falling. Along with education, exercise, and environmental changes, adjustments can help elderly people stay safe from falls.

Disease Prevention

A well-adjusted spine has health benefits throughout the body, and the same is true of lifestyle choices. A chiropractor can be a vital resource for information to help people stay well. Along with adjustments, chiropractors are able to recommend lifestyle changes that can help elderly patients fight back against illnesses, including hypertension, osteoporosis, asthma, diabetes, and depression.

Back and Joint Pain

There is a growing body of evidence that supports the understanding that chiropractic care for the elderly reduces back and joint pain. These chronic conditions often contribute to seniors’ growing frailty. It’s a self-feeding cycle: it hurts to move, so the patient exercises less, so the pain gets worse. Persistent pain not only makes it harder to stay strong, but it’s a major risk factor for depression. Regular adjustments reduce the back and joint pain that prematurely rob elderly people of their ability to participate in and enjoy life.

For elderly people, staying healthy and strong is a goal that requires support in many ways. Geriatric chiropractic care is one important way to help people maintain vitality as the years go by. To see how we can support you or your loved one, contact your local chiropractor today.

You may also like