Chiropractic Care and Mobility in Older Adults: Can It Really Make a Difference?
Falls, Reaction times and mobility
As we age, one of the biggest health concerns we face is the risk of falls. Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults, often leading to decreased independence and quality of life. It can also lead to a sudden loss of confidence and fear of falling again and also worry on the part of close family and friends should they fall again. While exercise, balance training, and healthy habits play a huge role in reducing fall risk, research suggests that chiropractic care may also provide a valuable benefit: improving reaction times and mobility.
The Science Behind It
A 2016 randomized controlled trial investigated whether chiropractic care could improve sensorimotor function in older adults. In this study, participants were asked to complete a task called the choice stepping reaction time test. This test measures how quickly a person can respond to a visual or sound stimulus by stepping onto a platform.
Why does this matter? Because quick reaction time is directly linked to reducing the risk of trips and falls. The faster someone can step, shift weight, or adjust their posture, the more likely they are to prevent a fall.
What the Study Found
The results were promising:
Older adults who received 12 weeks of chiropractic care showed significant improvements in their reaction time compared to those who did not.
Their choice stepping reaction time improved by about 119 milliseconds over the course of the study.
This may sound like a small number, but in the context of balance and fall prevention, even fractions of a second can make a big difference.
? You can read the full study here:
Effectiveness of Chiropractic Care to Improve Sensorimotor Function Associated With Falls Risk in Older People: A Randomized Controlled Trial
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27050038/ pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
What This Means for Older Adults
These findings suggest that chiropractic care doesn't just help with back or neck pain—it may also support the nervous system in ways that improve mobility and responsiveness. By enhancing communication between the brain and body, chiropractic adjustments may help older adults move more confidently and safely in daily life.
A Holistic Approach
Chiropractic care works best as part of a holistic approach to wellness. For older adults, this could include:
- Regular balance and strength training exercises, T'ai Chi is brilliant for this.
- Good nutrition for bone and muscle health and supplements if necessary.
- Socialising and staying mentally active
- Keeping an eye on any changes in health
Chiropractic care may help to keep older adults active, independent, and less at risk of falling.
Interested in learning more about how chiropractic care can support mobility and overall well-being? Contact me for a consultation and find out how I can help you or your loved ones.