Age is the primary contributor to many spinal conditions. This is because of the strain that comes after decades of wear and tear. The most damaging age-related spinal condition is spondylosis/arthritis of the vertebrae. This can lead to everything from herniated discs, to vertebral fractures. Spondylosis increases the risk for cervical spondylotic myelopathy. This condition involves the compression of the spinal cord, placing increased strain on the nerves, discs, and supporting soft tissue/s. A chiropractor will work with senior patients on all levels. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic will offer recommendations and educate the individuals on the effects of the condition and how to prevent and safeguard.

Signs and Symptoms cervical spondylotic myelopathy

The slow compression of the spine brought on by spondylosis generates the onset of numerous symptoms. Seniors should have a general understanding of these symptoms and be able to recognize them if they present.

• Numbness in the fingers and toes
• Loss of balance and coordination
• Instability symptoms
• General neck pain
• Discomfort at the base of the neck
• Referred pain in different areas of the body like the legs

An individual with preexisting spinal conditions has an increased risk of developing cervical spondylotic myelopathy. Conditions that further devolve from spondylosis include:

• Herniated discs
• Disc degeneration
• Disc inflammation

Identification

Cervical spondylotic myelopathy is triggered by a traumatic event or an underlying condition.

• The first and most common is trauma.
• Slip and fall accidents can cause damage to the cervical spine that takes longer to heal.
• The stress further compresses the vertebrae because of the body’s need to support itself.
• Trauma tends to affect muscles and ligaments. This weakens the overall support of the spine.
• Arthritis is another catalyst for cervical spondylotic myelopathy.
• This autoimmune condition can affect the facet joints, causing instability that leads to compression.

Spine-health

Most senior individuals are aware and understand the increased risk of accidents and injury/s. A chiropractor will take the time to inform them and focus on helping the individual address specific conditions they have or have an increased risk of acquiring. For individuals with spondylosis or those at-risk should consider a chiropractic treatment plan that involves decompression techniques, and strength training of the core muscles. Combined with regular adjustments and wellness examinations will provide a solid foundation for avoiding the effects of cervical spondylotic myelopathy.

InBody

Vitamin D Keeps You on Your Feet

Falls are a primary cause of injury/s for older adults. Low vitamin D levels can be a contributor to weakened bones. There is a strong correlation that vitamin D deficiency can increase the risk of falls in older adults. This has to do with the effects on muscle strength and function. Daily vitamin D plus calcium supplementation improves quadriceps strength, postural control, and regular functions, like standing, and walking. Supplements help counter the effects of aging and inactivity on the muscles and are important in the prevention of potential fall/s that could result in injury. The benefit of supplementing is noticeable in individuals that have a history of falls along with improvements in muscle strength, function, and an increase in strength, and functional performance.

Dr. Alex Jimenez’s Blog Post Disclaimer

The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*

Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*

References

Etheridge J, Kalantar SB. The pathophysiology and biological mechanisms of cervical spondylotic myelopathy. Semin Spine Surg. 2014;26:62-67.