Chiropractic questions, answered
Is chiropractic safe for seniors?
By Dr. Jill Althoff, DC, founder of Althoff Wellness Clinic in Cheyenne, Wyoming. In practice since 2003 and author of two books on neuropathy.Short answer
For most older adults, yes, when the care is adjusted to the person. Osteoporosis, arthritis and heart concerns don't automatically rule out chiropractic, but they do change how we treat. Gentle methods like drop-table and instrument (Activator) adjusting avoid the twisting and force many people worry about. Your evaluation tells us what's safe and appropriate for you.
What seniors and their families worry about
Many older patients come in worried about brittle bones, about being "cracked," or about whether it's even worth it at their age. Some come in skeptical, and that's fine. I really enjoy treating seniors. There's so much wisdom there, and once we earn their trust, they're some of my favorite people to care for.
How we adjust care for older adults
- Osteoporosis. We can usually still find a safe way to adjust, using lower-force methods.
- Drop-table adjusting. A section of the table drops slightly as we apply a gentle push, so very little force is needed.
- Activator adjusting. A small hand-held instrument delivers a quick, light impulse. We often use it when someone prefers a gentler approach or has cardiovascular concerns.
- A table that lowers to the floor. Patients step onto the platform standing up, and the table brings them down and back up. No climbing on or off.
What most seniors really want
Most of the seniors I see want one thing: to stay independent. They want to stay in their own home, keep driving, keep doing the hobbies they love, and not depend on someone else.
That matters to me. When people stop doing the things they love and start losing their independence, their health often declines faster. So our care plans are built around keeping people moving and active.
"Is it worth it at my age?"
I hear this a lot. My answer is to ask what their kids or grandkids would say. Even a few more months of staying active and living on their own is a big deal to a family.
More than adjustments
Many older patients have joint pain and arthritis in their knees, hips or shoulders. Along with adjusting, we often use SoftWave, an FDA-cleared shockwave device designed to support the body's own healing response. For some people, care like this helps them stay more active and put off surgery like a knee replacement, whether their goal is the grocery store or the pickleball court. Results vary from person to person.
Learn more about chiropractic care in Cheyenne or read about "bone on bone" knees.
More from Dr. A
This page is educational and is not a substitute for medical advice. Individual results vary.