Is Chiropractic Care Right for "Aging Bones?"

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Aging bones. “Nothin' like em." Ouch. Or… Maybe not.

More than ever before, countless treatment modalities support us as we age. Massage and physical therapy are considered "mainstream" and readily accepted as part of a wellness program. However, acupuncture, reiki, polarity, guided imagery, and sound healing are newer cousins to the older, more broadly embraced therapies. What have we left out? Chiropractic care.

Why chiropractic? Isn't it dangerous?

Spinal manipulation (a chiropractic adjustment) might make you think of a "bone cracking" experience. The sound that can accompany an adjustment is not bone-on-bone, but rather simply, air pockets moving as the adjustment takes place. Chiropractic treatment focuses on the alignment of the spine and its components, called vertebrae. Nerves pass naturally through the normal openings that occur between vertebrae. Pain, limited range of motion, stiffness, and other symptoms occur when the vertebrae are out of alignment, causing pressure on nerves.  

Special consideration for aging bodies is required. The force delivered during an adjustment needs to be modified based on muscle mass, bone density, health, and pain. For this reason, x-rays are often taken before beginning chiropractic treatment to determine if there are any reasons why care would not be appropriate. The ability to modify force during treatments, taking into account each individual's unique circumstances, allows chiropractic care to be safe for all ages. Very small infants through those of advanced age can benefit from this therapy. 

What can I expect from chiropractic care?

Pain is one of the most prevalent symptoms that bring people to the chiropractor. The alleviation of symptoms, an increased range of motion, and ease of movement are the ultimate outcome results of treatment. An adjustment is not (and never should be) painful. Soreness can occur following an adjustment, and the use of ice to the area affected after treatment is usually very successful. 

Is it too late for me to get started?

Nope! With a thorough skeletal assessment and full health history, an abundance of consideration is taken to customize chiropractic treatment to meet the specific needs and concerns of each individual. Modifications can be made to fit each individual who is in pain or struggling with limited mobility. Chiropractic care is not only a natural method of healing, but it is also safe and effective.

How often will I need to get treatment?

Because muscles have memory, as does other connective tissue, being "corrected" from misalignment, can't (and doesn't) happen with one adjustment. Joints that are adjusted into corrective positioning can slip back into misalignment and need adjustment again. Stretching and exercises to support correct alignment supports spine health and can contribute to needing fewer adjustments.

What else supports good spine alignment and health?

Hydration and nutrition. These factors are the driving force behind much of our wellness or lack thereof. Diet and lifestyle choices contribute to many areas of physical dysfunction, including spinal health. Chiropractic care can result in some recommendations for dietary supplements that might be helpful to restore and improve your overall wellness.

So…how do I begin?

Do your homework, as you would with any service you are considering. Develop your list of questions, and don't be afraid to ask. Get feedback from those whose opinion you respect. Visit several practitioners and ask what makes their delivery of care different. Try it and see how it works for you. You are the consumer of this service and decide what works for you and what doesn't. Gathering information, collecting the data, and polling those who are in chiropractic care is an excellent way to start your search.

Here is to your health, your comfort, and wellbeing. Snap Crackle Pop.

Joanne MacInnis, RN, is the founder and president of Aberdeen Home Care, Inc., of Danvers, a concierge private duty home care agency in business since 2001.  Dr. Tyler Pinstein, D.C., is owner of Danvers Family Chiropractic and lives with his family in Manchester-by-the-Sea, where he also grew up.

chiropractic, alternative medicine, manual therapy, world chiropractic alliance, spinal manipulation, acupuncture, massage, danvers family chiropractic, chiropractic adjustment, joanne macinnis, aberdeen home care inc., tyler pinstein