Pros and Cons of Chiropractic for the Elderly

Chiropractic for the elderly is a viable treatment option.

Nowadays, chiropractors are being trusted patients to treat a variety of conditions. One group has particularly sought out this type of treatment. Chiropractic for the elderly has become a viable treatment and care option.

A large percentage of older adults are suffering from different types of body aches – from back pain to neck pain to sciatica. And unfortunately, the older people get, the more they are susceptible to a variety of pain and uncomfortable conditions.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care for the Elderly

Generally, chiropractic for the elderly is used to treat pain in the muscles and bones; back pain is the most common of these conditions. In fact, back pain is one of the most disabling conditions for adults 60 and older. Age-related factors, as well as psychosocial changes mostly, contribute to back pain.

The older you get, the more prone you are to various health conditions.

However, more and older patients are now seeing chiropractors.

They have entrusted getting help with their overall health – from treatment of existing conditions to prevention of future health issues – to chiropractic care – and for a good reason.

The chiropractic approach mainly treats the central nervous system and the spinal cord. In chiropractic, the spinal cord and central nervous system are regarded as massively essential parts of the body. Any irregularity or obstruction to the spinal cord alignment could affect the functions of other organs in our body – as well as our general health.

Some of the benefits of chiropractic for the elderly are:

Pain Relief

It’s not surprising that elderly patients turn to chiropractic adjustment approach for pain relief. Professional chiropractors are knowledgeable in fixing subluxations within the spinal cord that leads to inflammation and pain – without relying on medication.

This process means that chiropractors can rightfully fix any underlying origins of the pain, attempting to get rid of it entirely. This approach is better than trying to mask the pain and condition with certain medications or giving a temporary solution.

Chiropractic for the Elderly is a Natural Treatment

It’s no secret that a lot of prescribed medications may have unpleasant and uncomfortable side effects on some. With a significant percentage of senior citizens having a type of chronic condition, this group of individuals must find a treatment option that is not going to have them rely on medications.

Enhanced Quality of Life

Chiropractic treatment aids in a person’s efforts to keep his or her range of physical functions. This ability – specifically for older people – ultimately enhances a person’s quality of life. Sadly, it is common for older adults to anticipate the loss of physical capabilities as they grow older.  However, with the proper diet, exercise, and regular visits to healthcare providers and chiropractors, seniors can continue to extend a good quality of life for them.

Lower Risk of Falling Accidents

Many seniors are prone to falling; this is why healthcare professionals are always in search for good solutions to this problem. Chiropractic treatment is a viable solution to this issue.

This type of treatment helps lessen subluxations in the spine. The techniques used in this healthcare approach also help patients exercise and do stretches – improving their balance and strengthening their bodies.

Disadvantages of Chiropractic Care for Older Patients

As with any medical treatment, there may be specific issues that come with this type of alternative treatment. In the spirit of full disclosure, here are some disadvantages of chiropractic treatment for older patients.

Soreness

Some patients may experience soreness after a chiropractic session. While this may be normal, it may not be acceptable to patients with a lower tolerance for pain.

Risk of Bone Damage

Some patients are not suited for chiropractic care.

As we get older, the bones in our body tend to grow weaker. This fact is especially true for people who develop osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, or other similar bone-related health conditions.

These patients could be particularly at risk of bone damage when they undergo chiropractic care.

It’s best to seek your primary doctor’s advice and approval first before you seek out chiropractic treatment.