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Is Your Spine Aging Well?

The human aging process results in many changes – changes in hearing, eyesight, agility, bone density, memory – and of course, changes in the spine. Generally, spinal changes related to aging involve some form of tissue deterioration that gradually worsens as you get older.

Some of the more common symptoms associated with the aging spine include:

• Loss of flexibility
• Stiffening in joints
• Lower back pain
• Problems sitting or standing for prolonged periods of time
• Difficulties with walking, twisting, turning
• Problems returning to a standing position after sitting
• Difficulty lifting heavier objects

Women typically experience symptoms of the aging spine sooner than men due to a decrease in estrogen production in the post-menopausal years that leads to a loss of bone density. Other factors such as weight, lifestyle, exercise, diet, medications and alcohol and nicotine usage can affect spinal health as well.

There are ways you can maintain a healthy spine and decrease your chances of developing conditions such as disc degeneration, osteoarthritis and osteoporosis that may result in chronic pain and loss of movement, including:

• Exercise – especially weight training and cardiovascular exercise to avoid significant bone loss. Even brisk walking can help.
  
  
• Lifestyle – Eat a balanced diet with sufficient calcium and Vitamin D intake, keep to a healthy weight and avoid smoking and high alcohol consumption.
  
  
• Drink plenty of water – Proper hydration helps lubricate joints, reduces stiffness and helps maintain spinal health.
  
  
• Receive regular chiropractic care – Chiropractic adjustments help to maintain proper motion which is critical to spinal disc, joints and tissue health.

An aching back doesn’t have to be a normal symptom of aging. As with any other moving part, the more you care for your spine, the longer it will run at peak performance!