Osteopathy and Getting Older

Helping you keep healthy in later life

Everybody gets grey hair and wrinkles as they get older. In the same way, it is normal for our muscles, bones, joints and associated tissues to change as we age.

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 procedures.

If you do begin to notice problems, your osteopath can work with you to keep you healthier, allowing you to enjoy the pleasure of into your later years.

How can your osteopath 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 and managing conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatic pain and osteoporosis.

Advice

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, whilst 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 as you get older to help reduce the risk of falling, particularly if you are over the age of 65. 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 pressure off your knees, hips and spine when walking for longer periods
A short rest can help recover energy for the remainder of the days activities