Older Spines May Find Comfort and Clarity Again with Chiropractic Care
The spine, the support for the entire 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 particularly loved. Aging gracefully is more than just a phrase; it's a goal for many La Grande folks! However, as we grow older, our bodies go through 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 Dr. Paulette Hugulet, DC, LLC and our La Grande 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, protecting the spinal cord and enabling a wide range 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 conditions can lead to back pain, lowered mobility, and even cognitive decline. Chiropractic care focuses on the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine. With complete treatment plans, chiropractors aspire to ease pain and enhance function. This approach is especially good for older adults, as it addresses the root causes of numerous age-related spinal 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 performing daily tasks. While MCI doesn't always lead to dementia, it can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. A recent study by Ziloochi et al. (1) investigated the effects of chiropractic care on resting-state EEG of MCI patients. The results were promising, showing improvements in brain function and cognitive performance. This implies that chiropractic care can positively impact cognitive health in older adults. Chiropractic care can help boost blood flow and nervous system function, which are crucial 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, putting 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 common issue among older adults, managing spinal stenosis is vital for maintaining mobility and quality of life. Research by Jensen et al. (2) highlights the effectiveness of conservative care, with chiropractic care, in coping with lumbar spinal stenosis. The study revealed that patients experienced significant pain relief and better mobility over 12 months of care. Chiropractors use various techniques to manage spinal stenosis, incorporating 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 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 leading to 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 impact back pain over time. The study evaluated older men with low back pain over ten years, exposing 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 significant benefits of chiropractic care for older adults. By preserving spinal health, individuals can experience more freedom of movement, participate in physical activities, and keep their independence.
CONTACT Dr. Paulette Hugulet, DC, LLC
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 treating spinal stenosis and chronic back pain, the benefits of chiropractic care for older adults are well-documented. For those wanting to explore 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, La Grande chiropractic care at Dr. Paulette Hugulet, DC, LLC can offer the support and relief you need.
Schedule you’re your La Grande chiropractic appointment with Dr. Paulette Hugulet, DC, LLC now!