Published: December 01, 2008 10:18 am            

Osteoporosis requires a trained chiropractor

Dr. Heather Wright, Democrat Columnist

Osteoporosis is the decrease in bone density. Think of it like wood that has been eaten by termites. Bone that is very osteoporotic looks similar to and is weakened like the wood would be.

Women, as well as men, get osteoporosis for a variety of reasons: the aging process, certain drugs, long-term inactivity, and mineral deficiencies can all cause a decrease in bone density.

Spine pain is a common symptom of osteoporosis.

Chiropractors see many patients with differing levels of osteoporosis. It is safe for someone with osteoporosis to see a chiropractor, but in moderate to severe cases, certain low-force techniques are required. Chiropractic is a very good way to conservatively help manage the associated joint pain, and it also helps keep patients more mobile. This in turn is very important since research shows weight-bearing activities (ie- staying mobile) help stimulate the body to strengthen or “buffer up” the bones with minerals. This can therefore also indirectly help the osteoporosis.

So remember, if you or a loved one suffers from the aches and pains of osteoporosis, don’t hesitate to send them to a chiropractor. Make sure that the chiropractor is trained in one of the low-force adjusting techniques in the more severe cases though.

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“Back to Health” is published on the second and fourth Mondays of the month. Questions may be sent to Dr. Wright, B.S., D.C., CCEP, 702B Eureka, Weatherford, TX 76086 or by e-mail at hwright@ev1.net.

        

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