Chiropractic treatment for seniors
Chiropractic medicine is a safe and effective approach for older people to treat pain, improve mobility and reduce the risk of falling. We consider your personal and age-related challenges carefully and support you in leading a life that is as active and independent as possible, while minimizing your need for medication.
Frequent symptoms and chiropractic treatment options
In old age, illnesses such as osteoarthritis, osteoporosis and chronic back pain can affect mobility, everyday life and general well-being. In our clinic, we treat these diseases using a variety of chiropractic measures:
- In-depth consultation and information about the clinical picture and treatment options
- Gentle, evidence-based manual techniques
- Targeted mobilization with or without spinal traction
- Various soft tissue therapies
Studies confirm that chiropractic medicine can alleviate pain, relieve functional limitations and increase postural stability in seniors [1]. We determine the cause of your problem, work with you to create a treatment plan and, depending on your diagnosis and needs, involve other specialist departments for the most promising treatment.
Special considerations for the chiropractic treatment of seniors
Older people often need a form of therapy that is tailored to the complexities of the aging body—for example, due to reduced bone density and natural joint wear [2]. We also focus on balance and coordination problems caused by the spine. We aim to help you manage the demands and joys of everyday life and to build your confidence in your activities so that you can remain independent for as long as possible.
Chiropractic treatments are safe even in advanced age [3]. We primarily use gentle manual techniques, such as traction techniques and mobilization.
Prevention—for safe movement in old age
Chiropractic treatments play an important role in preventing falls by improving balance, proprioception and strength [4].
In combination with chiropractic treatment, individually adapted exercise programs help to improve posture and gait—instability is one of the main causes of falls [5]. Fall prevention strategies and measures are essential to improve or maintain independence and safety in everyday life.
The next step—when should I see a chiropractor?
![[Translate to Englisch:] Chiropraktische Behandluing im Alter](/fileadmin/_processed_/d/1/csm_chiropraktische-behandlung-im-alter_ca6290c97c.jpg)
Consulting our chiropractic medicine department is a good idea if your back or joint complaints are recurring. Chiropractic treatment can also help with general problems related to mobility or balance that do not appear to be linked to an injury or illness.
If you’re still unsure, consult your general practitioner first.
If you are insured with your health insurer under the general practitioner model, please also contact your GP practice for a referral.
How to contactus: +41 44 386 57 06 e-mail
References
Jenks A, de Zoete A, van Tulder M, Rubinstein SM; International IPD-SMT group. Spinal manipulative therapy in older adults with chronic low back pain: an individual participant data meta-analysis. Eur Spine J. 2022 Jul;31(7):1821-1845. doi: 10.1007/s00586-022-07210-1. Epub 2022 May 28. PMID: 35633383.
Hawk C, Schneider MJ, Haas M, Katz P, Dougherty P, Gleberzon B, Killinger LZ, Weeks J. Best Practices for Chiropractic Care for Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Consensus Update. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2017;40(4):217-229.
Rubinstein SM, de Zoete A, van Middelkoop M, Assendelft WJJ, de Boer MR, van Tulder MW. Benefits and harms of spinal manipulative therapy for the treatment of chronic low back pain: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. BMJ. 2019 Mar 13;364:l689. doi: 10.1136/bmj.l689. PMID: 30867144; PMCID: PMC6396088.
Holt KR, Haavik H, Lee AC, Murphy B, Elley CR. Effectiveness of Chiropractic Care to Improve Sensorimotor Function Associated With Falls Risk in Older People: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2016 May;39(4):267-78. doi: 10.1016/j.jmpt.2016.02.003. Epub 2016 Apr 2.
Grabowska W, Burton W, Kowalski MH, Vining R, Long CR, Lisi A, Hausdorff JM, Manor B, Muñoz-Vergara D, Wayne PM. A systematic review of chiropractic care for fall prevention: rationale, state of the evidence, and recommendations for future research. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2022 Sep 5;23(1):844. doi: 10.1186/s12891-022-05783-y. PMID: 36064383; PMCID: PMC9442928.
