Arthritis and Aging

For better or for worse, time is going to do what time does to all of us. Unfortunately, part of that means that inevitably, if one gets old enough, parts are going to start wearing out. When we talk about the spine, that "wearing out" goes by several names. A patient may talk to their primary care provider or read a radiology report and learn terms like degenerative disc disease, spondylosis, or hear talk of thinning discs or bone spurs. These are essentially all ways to say the same thing...arthritis. Unfortunately, nothing short of a time machine is going to cure osteoarthritis. While it is talked about as a disease, for anyone lucky enough to live long enough it will be a natural by-product of a life well-lived. Once there is remodeling of the bones and deterioration of discs, these changes are permanent. While Dr. Taylor is no more able to "fix" these natural changes than anyone else, he does have the ability to lessen the symptoms, and optimally, slow the progression of further degeneration while decreasing, or eliminating, the need for pain medication.

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​Chiropractic care at Sikeston Chiropractic can be a valuable option for managing arthritis pain. By focusing on spinal alignment and joint function, Dr. Taylor aims to reduce pain and improve mobility in affected areas. Many patients report experiencing relief from stiffness and discomfort through regular adjustments. Additionally, chiropractic treatments can complement other therapeutic approaches, enhancing overall wellness. 

 

The bottom line is that if it hurts to move, some people will eventually begin to move less, or even not at all. Once we stop moving, it's a short road to not being able to move. A sedentary lifestyle is a leading cause of many terminal diseases, and can deprive us of living independently (and joyfully) as we get older. Dr. Taylor realizes this, and sees chiropractic as key to maintaining mobility, which opens the door for patients to continue moving on their own terms to live their lives to the fullest.