With the greying of the baby boomers in the Cardiff area, I see an increasing number of mature patients seeking chiropractic care for their aches and pains.
As we age, it is however important to distinguish between natural discomfort, and those that can be helped and improved.
The spine changes as we get older, and can lose some of its strength and flexibility. As a result, it may be less able to withstand day-to-day strains. Making it more vulnerable to chronic and acute injuries. Whatever the age though, it is not too late to benefit from a more active lifestyle.
Top tips for positive ageing:
Get Active
Regardless of age, a sedentary lifestyle can be harmful to musculoskeletal health and overall well-being. Staying active and incorporating exercise into your daily routine can help increase flexibility and mobility. In addition to the physical benefits, exercising can also have a profound impact on mental health and general outlook on life.
Low-impact exercises such as walking, Tai Chi or swimming may be a good way to get started. Regular exercise offers great benefits including better stability, reduced inflammation, improved mobility and much more. Joining group-based activities are also a great option – they offer a chance to socialise, provide motivation and it’s also more fun to exercise with a group!
Before beginning any kind of exercise routine, it is important to seek advice from a healthcare professional. They will assist with devising an exercise plan suited to your ability.
Whether it’s a short stroll, a long walk or an exercise program approved by a healthcare professional, staying active can help you stay healthier for longer.
Be mindful of your posture
Don’t disregard the importance of good posture – it keeps the body aligned and helps avoid excessive strain on ligaments and muscles. Good posture can help improve mobility, spinal health and quality of life.
It is never too late to correct poor posture habits. Make it a priority to assess and correct your posture as you go about your day. Rather than slouching or hunching, try your best to maintain adequate posture as best you can. Remember, ‘your best posture is your next posture!’ So don’t spend too long in one position and keep changing regularly throughout the day.
Start stretching
Regular stretching can help maintain joint flexibility, improve stability and may also help relieve stiff muscles. It can also help with increasing range of motion but it is important to perform stretches correctly. Consult a healthcare professional to gain a better understanding of how to perform stretches correctly, and to find out which stretches are best for you.
Take extra care when doing stretches that may require balancing and be sure to modify stretches to suit your ability level.
Consult a healthcare professional
If you suffer from chronic back pain, spinal health issues or need advice regarding exercise programs or preventative measures, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Agile Therapy offers a range of health care services that may be able to help you age more gracefully and put the spring back into your step.
Written by Mark Webster, Chiropractor
Mark Webster BSc, DC, MSc, MSc, FRCC, FBCA, FECA, SFHEA. Mark Webster graduated as a Chiropractor in 1993 from the Anglo-European College of Chiropractic (AECC) in Bournemouth.