Aging doesn’t have to be a pain in the neck, or back!
The aging process is a normal part of life’s physiology. The musculoskeletal system is one of many body systems greatly affected. Dehydration and the loss of elasticity in our body reduces our resilience to stress and increases our chance of soft and bone tissue injuries (ageing pain).
Aging pain symptoms
- Generalised, early morning stiffness
- Lower back pain and stiffness
- Neck and arm pain
- Arthritis and joint swelling
Generally speaking, arthritis may be characterised in two forms – degenerative, also known as osteoarthritis, is characterised by wear and tear; and Inflammatory, also known as rheumatoid arthritis which has metabolic and/or blood causes.
Aging pain causes
There are a multitude of causes of back pain. It can come from any structure within the back and can also be referred to the back from other issues. As with neck pain, we can also differentiate back pain based on whether it was traumatic in origin or if it has come about slowly over time. Many acute back injuries come about through lifting injuries, from heavy items like weights in the gym or building site, as well as lightweight items like cleaning up clothes and children’s toys. Some of our patients have even put their back out by picking up a piece of paper. These injuries probably represent cumulative processes which wear down the resources of the back over time. Insidious injuries are similar, where a repeated activity or posture, slowly causes strain on the back over time.
Aging pain risk factors
Symptoms are commonly seen in people over the age of 55 years. Older patients benefit from receiving osteopathy as it alleviates their painful symptoms to improve their quality of life. Many turn to anti-inflammatory drugs, which do help, but long-term use can have side effects that complicates any condition.
Need a little more info about our Osteopathic services?
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What to expect from your Osteopath
Osteopathic treatment for older patients is aimed to improve blood flow, lymphatic drainage, increase joint range and function, reduce and alleviate abnormal nervous stimulation. Osteopaths work together with medical practitioners to help overcome the patient’s dysfunction and promote general overall wellbeing.