The Tampa Bay area is one of the best places in the world to live. The warm sunshine combined with ample social activities encourages many to get outside and stay active. For seniors with back pain, arthritis, or decreased mobility enjoying this splendid climate and an active lifestyle can be very difficult. While some decline in mobility is normal as our birthday's add up, significant loss in the ability to get around and be active is not a normal process and can be hugely detrimental to a person's quality of life. According to the Center for Disease Control, the top two reasons people are disabled over 50 is arthritis and back pain. For decades Chiropractors have told their patients that getting adjusted regularly can slow the progressions of spinal arthritis, improve mobility, and reduce pain. A recent report out of the University of Iowa has come to the same conclusion. |
Chiropractic Patients Report Less Decline in Function
The study analyzed data from a US national survey conducted by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, called the Survey on Assets and Health Dynamics among the Oldest Old. The study identified 1,057 Medicare recipients with back pain for inclusion in the survey. Patients were asked about their overall health and ability to perform activities of daily living, such as walking up stairs or grocery shopping. Researchers analyzed medical records to identify which patients had received chiropractic care and/or traditional medical care during the study period.
Results of the Study
After adjusting for baseline characteristics, the researchers found that the older adults who had utilized senior chiropractic care were significantly less likely to have experienced declines in functional health than medical-care only seniors. The chiropractic patients also reported higher levels of overall self-health. The researchers suggested that regular chiropractic care appears to have a protective effect against the functional decline and disability commonly associated with aging. Commenting on the report, they concluded, "These results suggest that when chiropractic care confers significant and substantial benefits to older adults functional ability and self-rated health."
Chiropractic Care is Essential for Seniors
Like seeing a dentist biannually helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease, seeing your chiropractor for regular checkups can ensure that your spine is in good shape to maintain your functional health and overall quality of life well into your senior years.
At Back N' Balance, we design our care around the needs of our patients. We use a combination of treatments that are designed to improve mobility and decrease pain. We can help you maintain your independence and improve your everyday function. To make an appointment at Back N' Balance, call 727-733-6501.
Sources:
Weigel PA, Hockenberry J, Bentler SE, Wolinsky FD. The comparative effect of episodes of chiropractic and medical treatment on the health of older adults. J Manipulative Physiology Ther. 2014 Mar-Apr;37(3):143-54.
www.CDC.gov
At Back N' Balance, we design our care around the needs of our patients. We use a combination of treatments that are designed to improve mobility and decrease pain. We can help you maintain your independence and improve your everyday function. To make an appointment at Back N' Balance, call 727-733-6501.
Sources:
Weigel PA, Hockenberry J, Bentler SE, Wolinsky FD. The comparative effect of episodes of chiropractic and medical treatment on the health of older adults. J Manipulative Physiology Ther. 2014 Mar-Apr;37(3):143-54.
www.CDC.gov