The spine, the support for the entire body, head
to toe, cognition to spinal stenosis pain! Chiropractic embraces the spine of
all ages, but the aging spine is particularly adored.
Aging gracefully is more than just a phrase; it is
a goal for many La Grande folks! However, as we age,
our bodies go through 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 Paulette Hugulet, DC, LLC
and our La Grande chiropractic care comes in.
UNDERSTANDING THE AGING SPINE
The spine is more than just a column of bones.
It's a complex system that supports our whole body,
protecting the spinal cord and allowing
a wide range of movements. Its health is essential
for maintaining mobility, balance, and even cognitive
functions. As we age, our spines face several
challenges like disc degeneration, lower bone density, and such conditions as
spinal stenosis.
These conditions can lead to back pain, reduced
mobility, and even decline in cognition. Chiropractic
care focuses on the musculoskeletal system, especially
the spine. With complete treatment plans, chiropractors aim
to ease pain and improve function. This approach
is particularly beneficial for older adults, as it deals
with the root causes of numerous age-related spine
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 include 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, 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, enhancing
memory and cognitive function.
MANAGING SPINAL STENOSIS WITH CHIROPRACTIC
Spinal stenosis is a condition where the
spaces within the spine narrow, exerting 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, managing spinal stenosis is crucial for
maintaining mobility and quality of life. Research by Jensen et al. (2) highlights
the effectiveness of conservative care, with chiropractic treatments,
in coping with 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 contain 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 advice.
These treatments aim to ease pressure on the spinal
cord and nerves, reducing pain and improving
function. For older adults, regular chiropractic care can be a key part of their pain management strategy.
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 conducted by McNaughton
et al. (3), provide valuable insights into how chiropractic care can
affect back pain over time. The study followed
older men with low back pain over ten years, revealing
that regular chiropractic care significantly decreased pain and better
overall spine health. For older adults, this can translate into
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 conserving
spinal health, individuals can have better
freedom of movement, participate in physical activities, and maintain
their independence.
CONTACT 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 delivers a head-to-toes holistic
approach to handling health challenges that accompany aging. From improving cognitive function to managing
spinal stenosis and chronic back pain, the benefits of
chiropractic care for older adults are well-known. For those wanting
to explore the benefits of chiropractic care, now is the perfect
time to take action. Whether you're an older adult,
a caregiver, or someone experiencing back pain or cognitive
decline, La Grande chiropractic care at Paulette Hugulet, DC, LLC can provide
the support and relief you need.
Schedule you’re your La Grande
chiropractic appointment with Paulette Hugulet, DC, LLC now!