We all have to deal with the fact that we are getting older, whether we like it or not. As we become older, we go through a lot of changes. Some changes are symbolic, such as marriage or retirement, while others are physical. Many people realize that their movements are restricted and sometimes painful as compared to when they were younger.
Years of activity and certain activities can wear down your bones and joints over time. This is why older adults are typically associated with equipment like walkers or canes. However, no two people are alike, and they may be suffering from a variety of illnesses.
Even if the reasons and severity of the problems differ, all of them may have their symptoms decreased with the help of specialists like a physical therapist or a joint chiropractor.
Consider calling a provider like Foundation Chiropractic if you have any of the following concerns. Their sensitive approach to therapy will undoubtedly provide you with relief and help you prevent future difficulties.
Arthritis
Arthritis is a common problem that many older adults face. This happens when the body’s joints swell or become inflamed. Aging contributes to this because the body’s cartilage tends to dry up, resulting in less cushion. Ligaments in the body lose flexibility as we age, causing tension and discomfort when extended during exercise.
In addition to the swelling, arthritis may cause you to become less active over time, owing to terrible pain. Some folks find it nearly repulsive. Aside from physical health, arthritis can have an influence on mental health since decreased physical activity can lead to feelings of loneliness and unhappiness.
Because age is not the only factor that contributes to the development of arthritis, avoiding it entirely may be impossible. However, some precautions that may be taken include maintaining a healthy weight and nutrition, being active, and discontinuing dangerous activities such as smoking.
Degeneration of the Disc
Your spine is composed of vertebrae separated by discs that provide cushioning because they are filled with a jelly-like fluid. However, if the body is subjected to a lot of strain, these discs might wear out over time. This causes a spinal disease known as disc degeneration.
There are four stages of disc degeneration. The most serious difficulty with the onset of this condition is that symptoms almost always go unnoticed. This speeds up the progression of degradation. Pain and discomfort may develop, making movement difficult. If the condition advances far enough, the spine can become crooked, and the vertebrae can be permanently damaged.
Although disc degeneration cannot be avoided, there are a few things that may be done to slow it down. Stretching on a regular basis, in addition to exercise, can aid with disc tension relief. Maintain a straight posture to avoid putting additional strain on your vertebrae.
Osteoporosis
People’s bones grow more prone to wear and pressure as they age. Osteoporosis is a decrease in bone density that leads to fragility and an increased risk of fractures or breaks. It’s easy to believe we’ll be healthy forever, but if your bones aren’t strong enough, one incorrect move might land you in the hospital.
The majority of osteoporosis patients are women who have gone through menopause. This is because estrogen encourages bone density. When people go through “life transitions,” this hormone decreases. Another common cause of the disease is a lack of calcium or vitamin D.
Fortunately, there are various ways to avoid the symptoms of osteoporosis. Maintaining an active lifestyle can aid bone and muscle strength development. For many elderly persons, jogging and swimming may be helpful and low-impact hobbies. Including dairy, fruit, and vegetables in your diet can also help you get more vitamins and minerals.
Spinal Stenosis
Your spine requires movement in order for your spinal cord to operate properly. As a result, as your bones deteriorate, so will that section of your spine. Your musculoskeletal system tightens and becomes inflammatory as a result of this limitation, known as spinal stenosis. As a result, pinched nerves form, which can lead to other problems such as sciatica. This affects both the neck and the lower back.
Numbness is a symptom of spinal stenosis, which, while usually mild, can progress to significant complications if not treated swiftly. Prolonged numbness can result in chronic nerve injury, which can paralyze parts of the body and cause some people to lose bladder control. Those who have been affected may require surgery.
Weight loss can help prevent spinal stenosis by decreasing stress on your spine caused by excess weight. Increased flexibility can also aid in the prevention of spinal narrowing.
Getting Chiropractic Care
In addition to seeing a doctor for medications or surgery, some older people may seek help from a chiropractor. Chiropractic work is safer since it takes a complete approach and has no negative side effects.
Chiropractors straighten out the kinks in your spine, which can put a strain on your bones and joints. This also facilitates the neurological system’s connection with the rest of the body, which increases brain function, which some people believe may deteriorate as they age.
Though many people associate chiropractic therapy with audible popping and cracking, there are quieter alternatives available. Fundamental Chiropractic treats its Idaho patients by utilizing the torque release technique (TRT). Instead of using their hands, the chiropractor will gently press along your spine using an integrator.
As you get older, your medical history is sure to change. As a consequence, Fundamental Chiropractic thinks that doing research on you is vital in order to uncover the root causes of your ailments. They will also take scans of your spine to discover any issues that may be occurring without your notice.
Their support will increase your mental performance as well. They believe that you can only fully recuperate if every component of your body is functioning properly. They accomplish this by carefully listening to your needs and aspirations. They will show you every progress you make during therapy in order to keep you going.
Age can provide a bevy of difficulties. While they may be tough to comprehend, you are not required to experience their symptoms. With early preventative therapy and the aid of a knowledgeable chiropractor, you will be able to remain active, alert, and pain-free regardless of your age. Go to www.foundationmeridian.com to discover more about Foundation Chiropractic.