Falls account for more than 80% of injury related hospital admission in people older than 65 years and they are the leading cause of injury-related death in older adults.  Related direct medical costs are at least $19 billion, expected to reach $44 billion by 2020. Of those fallers whose injuries require hospitalisation, 40-50% subsequently lose their independence and enter a nursing home.

Pain related musculoskeletal disability such as osteoarthritis influences balance, gait and ability to accomplish daily activities and contributes to risk of falling. Arthritis is a common cause for back pain and can result in swelling, stiffness and aching. Allow our chiropractor to evaluate your condition to offer a diagnosis and an appropriate treatment. Depending on the severity of your arthritis and the location of your pain, you may need ongoing chiropractic care, or a short-term treatment plan.

Chiropractic is therefore frequently used for complementary and alternative care as it is low risk, natural and drug free. By addressing joint pain, stiffness, vertigo and dizziness, current literature suggests chiropractic has a positive effect on improving balance and increases joint mobility. Treatment is very different to younger population due to their joint stiffness or pre-existing conditions that require slower gentler approaches.  Treatment involves gentle stretches, joint traction/mobilisation, dry needling, shockwave therapy (if suitable) and fall prevention exercises all to achieve improved balance and muscle function. Commonly the practitioner will communicate with the patient’s other health care providers to ensure management is from a multidisciplinary approach.