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Osteopathy for Older Adults
Osteopathy for Older Adults
As we mature (yes, I am one), we often begin to notice more aches and stiffness. Old injuries remind us that they never fully went away. Getting out of bed in the morning takes longer, and getting moving feels harder. At that point, many people consider seeing an osteopath.
Age is absolutely not a barrier to osteopathic treatment. The aim is to keep you mobile, active, and as pain-free as possible, without over-reliance on medication or WD-40.
Staying Active as You Get Older
Years of accumulated physical stress, along with normal joint degeneration, can leave us stiff and achy. You may feel too young for a hip or knee replacement but still want to keep enjoying life. In many cases, osteopathy can help.
Osteopathic treatment is specific and gentle. When provided by an experienced osteopath, it is usually painless. Our goal is simple: to keep you active and doing the things you enjoy.
Tailored Treatment for Individual Needs
Some Older Adults live with advanced degeneration or osteoporosis. In these situations, treatment is always tailored to your individual needs. Osteopaths use a wide range of approaches, from very gentle hands-on techniques to specific exercise programmes designed to restore movement.
Osteopathy for Older Adults
Alongside regular osteopathic care, we often encourage suitable exercise such as Pilates or Feldenkrais to help maintain strength and mobility.
We regularly see clients well into their 90s.
Case Study: Fred
Fred is 70 and has osteoarthritis in his hip and knee, which he manages reasonably well. However, his lower back causes him severe and constant pain. Scans show no significant findings, and pain medication gives him unwanted side effects. Fred is currently on a waiting list for a hip replacement.
On assessment, his osteopath identified that Fred’s back was compensating for the arthritic joints and taking excessive load. This led to muscle spasm and further disruption to his walking pattern. By releasing soft tissue tension around the back, hip, and knee, the osteopath improved joint mobility. With additional osteopathic rehabilitation exercises, Fred now experiences less pain and can do more in daily life.