Spinal Curvature in Older People

Since so many people look to chiropractors to help them manage back pain, at the Carolina Chiropractic Center, we get asked one question a lot: why do people stoop over as they age? Often, the answer is osteoporosis.

Once people are over the age of thirty, they usually begin to lose bone matter in their spines faster than they can replace it, which is what osteoporosis is. Women are especially susceptible to this. As the vertebrae lose matter, they become vulnerable to developing small compression fractures. These fractures can result from everyday activities and, while often painful, usually are not considered significant enough by the victim to be worth investigating. But people who get one compression fracture are at high risk of getting another, and as the spine breaks down, the patient stoops over. This is medically known as hyperkyphosis.

Osteoporosis can be prevented by maintaining a balanced diet, including sufficient calcium intake, and by regularly doing weight bearing exercises. If we suspect osteoporosis in a patient, we can test for it with x-rays and recommend therapeutic exercises, as well as spinal decompression and manipulations to improve the patient’s comfort.

Dr. James Huggins operates the Carolina Chiropractic Center at 1627 Suite C, South Irby, Florence, South Carolina, 29505. To set up an appointment, call 843-665-9192 or visit CarolinaChiroCenter.com and fill out a contact form.

 

Plantar Fasciitis

As specialists in the musculoskeletal system, chiropractors are interested in the relationship between gait and overall health. When people have foot pain, they tend to walk in a manner that is not optimal for spinal alignment. Fortunately, the Carolina Chiropractic Center has a number of ways to help.

The most common form of foot pain is plantar fasciitis. It is the inflammation of the connective tissue on the bottom of the feet which stretches from the heel to the toes. Plantar fasciitis is the kind of wear-and-tear injury which builds up over years but which causes sudden pain, usually located in the heel. Patients most commonly feel it after they have been still for a long time.

People who have put an unusual amount of stress on their heels are more likely to develop plantar fasciitis, but most people’s feet will wear down over time. Plantar fasciitis is one of the ailments which responds best to electric muscle stimulation. To reduce their discomfort outside the office, patients can be fitted for custom orthotics.

Dr. James Huggins operates the Carolina Chiropractic Center at 1627 Suite C, South Irby, Florence, South Carolina, 29505. To set up an appointment, call 843-665-9192 or visit CarolinaChiroCenter.com and fill out a contact form.