The Role of Chiropractic Care in the Diagnosis, Prevention and Treatment of Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a very common condition, affecting almost 20% of women of the age of 50, and around 5% of men in the same age category. This health condition is characterized by weakening of the bones, which makes them more fragile and more likely to break in an accident or injury. Osteoporosis develops slowly over a number of years and is usually only diagnosed when the patient seeks medical assistance for a broken bone following an accident. The most common injuries in someone with osteoporosis are a broken hip, broken wrist or broken spinal bones.
Although there are different treatments to help manage and treat osteoporosis, the role of chiropractic care and the benefits that it can offer patients living with this condition is often overlooked. Here’s what you need to know about how regular chiropractic care can help support someone with osteoporosis.
What is chiropractic care?
Chiropractic care is a popular treatment where a practitioner called a chiropractor uses their hands, along with other techniques, to help relive issues affecting the bones, muscles and joints. The most well-known chiropractic technique is known as an adjustment, although is also sometimes referred to as a manipulation. This is where your chiropractor will use their hands to move your body in such a way to realign the individual bones of the spine. Contrary to popular belief, this doesn’t only help to counteract back pain and mobility problems, but actually has far-reaching, body-wide benefits. It is these additional benefits that make chiropractic care so valuable for patients with osteoporosis.
Diagnosing osteoporosis
Many people are surprised to learn that chiropractors can diagnose osteoporosis using x-rays, so if your chiropractor suspects that you may be affected, you may be offered this common screening test. In some instances, CT scans may also be offered, as well as a full, physical exam. Your chiropractor will also coordinate care with other healthcare providers, such as your primary care physician.
Preventing and treating osteoporosis with chiropractic care
Visiting a chiropractor can even help to prevent osteoporosis from developing or becoming worse. Maintaining a healthy diet and active lifestyle is one of the best ways of preventing osteoporosis and part of this is regular exercise. We understand that some people may not be good candidates for vigorous, high-impact or strenuous exercises that are proven to help build and maintain bone density, such as lifting weights, skipping or trampolining. However, your chiropractor can help recommend a suitable exercise plan for you based on your specific needs that will help improve your core stability and maintain your bone density.
What you eat is also important for bone health, and anyone with osteoporosis should have a diet that is rich in calcium and vitamin D. If your chiropractor believes that your diet doesn’t enable you to get enough of the right nutrients to support your bone health, they can recommend supplements which will help rectify this and boost your bone health.
Many people also don’t realize that chiropractic adjustments have a direct impact on the central nervous system – which is responsible for all body functions and systems. Each chiropractic adjustment stimulates the cells that are in charge of replacing bone, causing them to regenerate more quickly, which can help to increase bone density and strength. At the same time, the adjustments will help to optimize the health of your nervous system, ensuring that all other body systems are working to the best of their ability and boosting your overall health and wellness.
If you’d like more information about the role of chiropractic care in the diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis, call Copeland Chiropractic at (509) 865-5636 to reach our offices in Toppenish, Yakima, or Richland, Washington.
