Getting Older - Arthritis
Helping you keep healthy in later life
Everybody gets grey hair and wrinkles as they age, In the same way, it is normal for muscles, bones, joints and associated tissues to change. Ageing does not necessarily mean that we will experience increased pain or stiffness. However, if this does become a problem, people often find that treatment and advice from an osteopath can complement GP care and pharmaceutical products. If you do begin to notice problems, an osteopath can work with you to keep you healthier, allowing you to enjoy the pleasures of life into your later years.
Advice as you get older
Although aches and pains may be a common element of ageing, they don’t have to get in the way of any lifestyle. Here are some tips to keep you healthy and active:
150 minutes of exercise per week, in blocks of ten minutes or more (enough to make you warmer and breathe harder, while still being able to have a conversation) can help reduce the risk of circulation problems and falls. This might include activities such as dancing or brisk walking. It can also help to improve your mood and levels of confidence
Make sure you eat a healthy, varied diet
Doing some form of balance exercises twice a week (for example, Tai Chi) is also recommended to help reduce the risk of falling, particularly for the over-65s
Try to also include exercises that strengthen your arms, legs and body
The use of trainers or similar footwear can help absorb shocks and take the pressure off knees, hips and spine when walking for longer periods
How an osteopath can help
You don’t have to put up with aches and pains simply because you are getting older. In fact, many people find it helpful to talk to an osteopath about ways of keeping active, preventing common problems such as falls, or managing conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatic pain and osteoporosis. Osteopathic care is based on the individual needs of the patient and so varies depending on your age, fitness levels and diagnosis. Osteopaths use a wide range of gentle hands-on techniques, focusing on releasing tension, stretching muscles and improving mobility.