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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, from the top of the head to the toes, from cognition to stenosis! Chiropractic embraces the spine of all ages, but the older spine is especially loved. Aging gracefully is more than just a phrase; it's a goal for many Fort Wayne folks! However, as we grow older, our bodies undergo changes that can affect our quality of life. For older adults, addressing spinal health can lead to improvements in overall well-being. This is where Cox Chiropractic Medicine Inc and our Fort Wayne 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 entire body, protecting the spinal cord and enabling a wide variety of movements. Its health is vital for maintaining mobility, balance, and even cognitive functions. As we get older, our spines face 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, decreased mobility, and even cognitive decline. Chiropractic care focuses on the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine. With complete treatment plans, chiropractors aspire to alleviate pain and enhance function. This approach is especially good for older adults, as it deals with the root causes of numerous age-related spinal issues.

COGNITIVE DECLINE AND CHIROPRACTIC CARE

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a disorder that falls between normal age-related cognitive decline and more severe disorders like dementia. Symptoms consist of memory loss, trouble with concentration, and challenges in doing daily tasks. 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 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, improiving memory and cognitive function.

MANAGING SPINAL STENOSIS WITH CHIROPRACTIC

Spinal stenosis affects the spaces within the spine narrow, putting 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, 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 treatments, in managing lumbar spinal stenosis. The study found that patients had significant pain relief and improved mobility over 12 months of care. Chiropractors use various techniques to manage spinal stenosis, including spinal manipulation like the gentle, research-documented, safe protocol in the Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management that incorporates stretching exercises, nutrition, and lifestyle recommendations. These treatments aim to alleviate pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, easing pain and increasing function. For older adults, regular chiropractic care can be a key part of their pain management plan.

THE TRAJECTORY OF OLDER BACK PAIN PATIENTS

Back pain is a common complaint among older adults, often resulting in decreased mobility and quality of life. Long-term studies, such as the one performed by McNaughton et al. (3), give valuable insights into how chiropractic care can affect back pain over time. The study studied 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 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 preserving spinal health, individuals can enjoy better freedom of movement, participate in physical activities, and keep their independence.

CONTACT Cox Chiropractic Medicine Inc

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 accompany aging. From improving cognitive function to managing spinal stenosis and chronic back pain, the advantages of chiropractic care for older adults are well-known. For those wanting to explore the benefits of chiropractic care, now is the best time to do it. Whether you are an older adult, a caregiver, or someone undergoing back pain or cognitive decline, Fort Wayne chiropractic care at Cox Chiropractic Medicine Inc can offer the support and relief you need.

Make you’re your Fort Wayne chiropractic appointment with Cox Chiropractic Medicine Inc now!