Chiropractic and the Elderly Population

With the population aged 65 and older expected to double between 2011 and 2030, and people living longer than ever before, there is an increasing need for quality health care for the elderly. Doctors of Chiropractic are ideal candidates to meet this demand, especially for those seeking an alternative to drugs or surgery.

Why is Chiropractic care so important for the maturing adult?

Injuries from falls have become the leading cause of injury deaths for seniors. With the Chiropractic emphasis on restoring balance and symmetry, many falls can be prevented.

The elderly also tend to suffer from chronic pain. Not knowing where else to turn, many rely on pharmaceuticals. In the long term, this destroys their health even more, not only because of side effects, but because the underlying problem has never been addressed and is bound to create other problems.

Dr. Morrison regards pain and symptoms as a guide to discovering where a problem originates. Incidentally, chronic pain gets resolved at the roots, and patients are left with an overall sense of well-being.

Is Chiropractic indicated in frail or osteoporotic patients?

Yes, in fact, Chiropractic care is recommended by the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research for the care of acute low back pain, as well as the American Geriatric Society Panel Guidelines for the management of chronic pain. Chiropractic is also covered by Medicare (America's leading social insurance program).

Chiropractic offers a wide range of low-force techniques that are well-suited for osteoporotic and frail patients.

What benefits does Chiropractic care provide for the maturing adult?

There are numerous benefits to be obtained by making regular Chiropractic care a part of one's life. People often find that problems which had nothing to do with the reason they came in will also vanish. A classic example is the patient who presents with low back pain being pleasantly surprised to find their digestion issues have disappeared.

Another example would be elderly patients who came to get relief from neck stiffness have found that under our care, their vision seems to have improved, or perhaps their hands shake less. The potential benefits are literally too numerous to mention.

Listed below are some of the most frequent benefits gained by Chiropractic care:

	Relief from acute and chronic pain (back, neck, arms, legs)
	Augmented flexibility
	Decreased joint point
	Prevention of arthrosis
	Enhanced balance and equilibrium
	Improved digestion
	Increasing mobility and strength emotional well-being and improved quality of life