Chiropractic works on the theory that many diseases and ailments are caused by subluxations, or misalignment of the vertebrae. Chiropractors will try to realign the vertebrae by means of adjustment and manipulation. Some chiropractors will work entirely on this theory and base their treatments exclusively on adjusting and manipulation alone. Others will work with other practitioners like physiotherapists and use alternative medicine treatments. Chiropractors do not use any form of medicines, they always rely on other treatments.



Painful joint problems, which are so prevalent in older people, are managed with manipulation and adjustments. This can sometimes be effective due to the fact that these treatments can increase mobility. When natural exercise and movement are encouraged, joints are less stiff and this can decrease the pain. With increased mobility the quality of life for seniors is greatly enhanced.

With older age the spine and tissues surrounding it can degenerate causing various problems with balance and coordination. Mechanoreceptors are found in the back of the cervical (neck region) joints of the spine. They are responsible for giving the brain information about balance and coordination. Sometimes these may become defective with advancing age. This results in a decreased sense of body awareness. As this becomes worse the patient is unable to get up from a chair or a prone position without assistance.

Chiropractic treatment stimulates the joint receptors in the cervical spine area, with manipulation and adjustment. This can help to improve balance and coordination by helping to restore and normalize the joint receptor functions. This may help an older person to move around with greater agility.

Joint degeneration can also be helped with chiropractic treatment. If the vertebrae in the spine become misaligned (subluxated) it will be more prone to damage by normal wear and tear. Chiropractors will align the spine with manipulation and decrease this degenerative process.

With increased mobility, balance and coordination an older person can enjoy their life more and keep in better health. This will often result in less pain and certainly decrease stiffness in a patient. The risk of falling will be decreased, eliminating the major cause of injury in the elderly. This allows seniors to live better and fuller lives.

There is still a lot of controversy surrounding chiropractic, with pros and cons on both sides, but this has also helped many people, when all other medical treatments have failed. There are several studies that have proven the benefits of chiropractic for the elderly.