Chiropractic, a solution to bone and joint pain for the over 50’s

By Jessica Davy, Chiropractor and member of the British Chiropractic Association (BCA)

Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions are among the leading reasons older adults seek medical care, making them some of the highest users of healthcare services [1], in fact, over a quarter of people aged 55-64 report suffering from a long-term MSK condition [2]. These conditions significantly impact health and quality of life, often reducing mobility, limiting social participation, increasing isolation, and creating feelings of frustration and helplessness [3, 4].

While natural changes in the body are expected as we age, it is important to distinguish between inevitable age-related changes and preventable or treatable pain. Older adults often experience changes in the spine that make them more susceptible to injury and less able to handle everyday strain. In addition, research shows that lower back pain in older adults is more likely to be moderate to severe and debilitating compared to younger adults [5].

How Chiropractic Care Can Help

Chiropractic care is a health profession focused on diagnosing, treating, and preventing mechanical disorders of the MSK system, and their effects on the nervous system and overall health [6]. Recent research highlights that chiropractic care is a valuable resource for older adults. In a study of 6,781 chiropractic consultations, one in six patients were aged 65 or older. Among these patients, back pain was the most commonly treated condition (accounting for 82% of consultations), followed by neck pain and lower limb issues. Chiropractors frequently use soft tissue therapy, mobilisation, and mechanically assisted adjustments to accommodate the needs of these older adults [1].

Chiropractors can also promote active participation in health management, often recommending tailored exercise programs to improve strength, flexibility, and overall mobility. This multifaceted approach supports older adults in maintaining an active and fulfilling lifestyle.

Tips for Active Ageing

Maintaining an active lifestyle is essential for MSK health and overall wellbeing at any age. Incorporating regular physical activity into daily routines can improve flexibility, reduce inflammation, enhance stability, and positively influence mental health. Specific exercises like aerobic activities, resistance training, and Tai Chi are particularly beneficial for older adults with conditions such as osteoarthritis [7, 8], osteoporosis [9, 10], and headaches related to neck pain [11].

Practical Steps for Staying Active

  • Start with low-impact activities: Walking or swimming are excellent options for those beginning their fitness journey.
  • Engage in group activities: Exercising with others can boost motivation and make physical activity more enjoyable.
  • Follow recommended guidelines: Aim for 30 minutes of walking on five or more days per week, combined with strength exercises at least twice weekly, to reduce the risk of persistent lower back pain [12].

Before starting any new exercise routine, it is advisable that patients consult a healthcare professional, such as a BCA chiropractor, to create a plan suited to your abilities and goals.

The Importance of Stretching

Stretching is a vital component of MSK health. Regular stretching helps maintain joint flexibility, improves stability, and alleviates stiffness. The British Chiropractic Association’s Straighten Up UK program offers an effective daily routine of simple stretches designed to improve posture and prevent back pain. These exercises are adaptable to individual needs and can be completed in just a few minutes per day.

Consult a Healthcare Professional

If you are experiencing back pain, spinal health issues, or require guidance on exercise and prevention, consider consulting a BCA chiropractor. Chiropractors employ a variety of techniques to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall function. In addition to hands-on spinal manipulation, chiropractors offer a comprehensive care package that includes advice on therapeutic exercises, self-care strategies, and lifestyle changes.

By integrating chiropractic care into your health regimen, you can take proactive steps toward a healthier, more active life as you age.

 

References:
  1. de Luca, K., Hogg-Johnson, S., Funabashi, M. et al. The profile of older adults seeking chiropractic care: a secondary analysis. BMC Geriatr 21, 271 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12877-021-02218-6
  2. Centre for Ageing Better (2023) Health and Wellbeing. In: State of Ageing 2023-24. [online] Available at: https://ageing-better.org.uk/health-and-wellbeing-state-ageing-2023-4
  3. de Luca K, Parkinson L, Haldeman S, Byles J, Blyth F. The relationship between spinal pain and comorbidity: a cross-sectional analysis of 579 community-dwelling, older, Australian women. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2017;40(7):459–66. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmpt.2017.06.004
  4. Ferreira ML, de Luca K. Spinal pain and its impact on older people. Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol. 2017;31(2):192–202. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.berh.2017.08.006
  5. Tamcan O, Mannion AF, Eisenring C, Horisberger B, Elfering A, Muller U. The course of chronic and recurrent low back pain in the general population. Pain. 2010;150(3):451–7. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pain.2010.05.019
  6. World Federation of Chiropractic. Definition of Chiropractic; 2001. https://www.wfc.org/website/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=90&Itemid=&lang=en. Accessed 5 Mar 24.
  7. Kolasinski SL, Neogi T, Hochberg MC, Oatis C, Guyatt G, Block J, et al. 2019 American College of Rheumatology/Arthritis Foundation guideline for the Management of Osteoarthritis of the hand, hip, and knee. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken). 2020;72(2):149–62. https://doi.org/10.1002/acr.24131
  8. Jevsevar DS, Brown GA, Jones DL, Matzkin EG, Manner PA, Mooar P, et al. The American Academy of Orthopaedic surgeons evidence-based guideline on: treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee, 2nd edition. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2013;95(20):1885–6. https://doi.org/10.2106/00004623-201310160-00010
  9. Watson SL, Weeks BK, Weis LJ, Harding AT, Horan SA, Beck BR. High-intensity resistance and impact training improves bone mineral density and physical function in postmenopausal women with osteopenia and osteoporosis: the LIFTMOR randomised controlled trial. J Bone Miner Res. 2018;33(2):211–20. https://doi.org/10.1002/jbmr.3284
  10. Harding AT, Weeks BK, Lambert C, Watson SL, Weis LJ, Beck BR. Effects of supervised high-intensity resistance and impact training or machine-based isometric training on regional bone geometry and strength in middle-aged and older men with low bone mass: the LIFTMOR-M semi-randomised controlled trial. Bone. 2020;136:115362. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bone.2020.115362
  11. Côté P, Yu H, Shearer HM, Randhawa K, Wong JJ, Mior S, et al. Non-pharmacological management of persistent headaches associated with neck pain: a clinical practice guideline from the Ontario protocol for traffic injury management (OPTIMa) collaboration. Eur J Pain. 2019;23(6):1051–70. https://doi.org/10.1002/ejp.1374
  12. Kim W, Jin YS, Lee CS, Hwang CJ, Lee SY, Chung SG, et al. Relationship between the type and amount of physical activity and low back pain in Koreans aged 50 years and older. PMR. 2014;6(10):893–9. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pmrj.2014.04.009