Is Chiropractic Care Safe for Seniors?

Chiropractic care has been around for over a century. Specialists in the field apply controlled force to different body parts to diagnose and treat certain conditions. The procedure targets the musculoskeletal system, treating mechanical disorders.

Chiropractic care is safe for seniors, but chiropractors dealing with seniors have to be extra careful. If you are planning to take a senior to a chiropractor, you have to find out a few things first. The answers to the following questions will guide you to know whether this treatment is right for your senior. 

Why Is the Treatment Needed?

Chiropractic care is effective in treating neck pain, headaches, and low back pain. Many seniors experience this pain owing to many factors, including aging. Thus, if seniors have any conditions affecting their musculoskeletal systems, they should get this treatment. 

Besides, the treatment does not require patients to take medication, making it ideal for seniors. High dependence on medication can lead to serious consequences, including addiction. Furthermore, most medications have serious side effects. Some medications introduce complications that seniors do not need at their age. 

Does the Senior Have Any Underlying Conditions?

The senior’s medical history will determine whether chiropractic care is good for them. For example, if they suffered a stroke in the recent past or have cancer in the spine, they may not be the best candidates for the procedure. Also, if the senior suffers from severe osteoporosis, loss of strength in an arm or leg, and any bone abnormality, other treatments would be ideal for them. 

What Are the Risks Involved?

Every medical procedure comes with a certain level of risk. However, those associated with chiropractic care are almost negligible. Common issues that arise following a chiropractic procedure include stiffness and soreness, which go away in two to three days. The side effects of these procedures are similar to the experience people get when they start a new exercise regimen. 

In unique cases where underlying conditions are present, a patient can experience compression of nerves in the lower spinal column. This care can also lead to the worsening of an existing disk herniation.

What Type of Treatments Will the Chiropractor Use?

Chiropractors use different approaches in treating their patients. Hence, find out the treatments your chiropractor offers and what they intend to do with your patient. This is important because you want the senior to be comfortable throughout the treatment. Some chiropractic treatments include: 
 

• Spinal mobilization.
   

• Direct thrust technique.
   

• Muscle energy technique.
   

• Myofascial release.
   

• Indirect positional technique.
   

• Cervical spine manipulation.
   

It is also important to note that chiropractic care can produce different results in different people. Therefore, if you notice that the condition is not improving, it might be the right time to seek alternative treatment from your doctor.

For more on chiropractic care safe for seniors, visit Chiropractic Nashville. Our office is in Nashville, Tennessee. You can call (615) 205-1022 today to schedule an appointment.