What does a geriatric chiropractor do?

What is a Geriatric Chiropractor?

A geriatric chiropractor specializes in chiropractic care for elderly patients. Chiropractic is a form of alternative medicine that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, especially the spine. It is a non-invasive and drug free alternative to traditional medical treatment, which can be especially important for older adults who may be more vulnerable to the side effects of medications or surgery.

As people age, their bodies undergo a variety of changes, such as decreased bone density, loss of muscle mass, and increased stiffness, that can lead to chronic pain and a decline in mobility. Geriatric chiropractors are trained to understand these changes and to provide care that helps older patients improve their range of motion, reduce pain and stiffness, and maintain their overall health and well-being.

What does a Geriatric Chiropractor do?

Geriatric chiropractors play a crucial role in the healthcare of older adults. Their expertise helps enhance mobility, reduce pain, improve balance, and promote overall physical function, enabling older adults to maintain their independence and improve their quality of life.

Daily Responsibilities
A day in the life of a geriatric chiropractor can vary depending on their practice and patient load. However, a typical day may involve the following tasks:

• Consultations and Examinations – The chiropractor will conduct consultations with new patients to determine their medical history and identify any underlying health conditions. They will also perform physical exams to identify musculoskeletal issues that may be causing pain or mobility problems, and determine the best course of treatment.
• Treatment Sessions – A geriatric chiropractor will usually spend a significant portion of their day treating patients. This could involve spinal adjustments, soft tissue massage, exercise therapy, or other therapies designed to improve joint function and mobility, reduce pain and stiffness, and promote overall health and well-being.
• Patient Education – Geriatric chiropractors may spend time educating their patients on how to maintain proper posture, perform exercises safely and effectively, and make lifestyle modifications, such as dietary changes, to prevent future injuries.
• Administrative Tasks – Depending on the size of their practice and whether or not it includes support staff, geriatric chiropractors may also need to manage administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, updating patient records, and billing.

In addition to managing these responsibilities, some geriatric chiropractors may choose to focus their practice on certain areas of geriatric care. For example, they may specialize in treating patients with osteoporosis, arthritis, or other musculoskeletal conditions that commonly affect older adults. Other practitioners may focus on treating patients with neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease or dementia, which can have a significant impact on mobility and quality of life.

Furthermore, geriatric chiropractors who have training in complementary therapies such as acupuncture or massage may use these therapies in conjunction with chiropractic care to improve outcomes for their patients.

Techniques Used
Geriatric chiropractors employ various techniques and approaches to address age-related musculoskeletal issues and promote overall well-being in older individuals. Here are some common areas of focus and techniques used by geriatric chiropractors:

• Joint Mobilization: Geriatric chiropractors often utilize joint mobilization techniques to improve joint mobility and reduce stiffness. This gentle, hands-on approach aims to increase range of motion, alleviate pain, and enhance functional movement in older adults.
• Soft Tissue Therapy: Soft tissue techniques, such as myofascial release and massage, can be employed to address muscle tension, stiffness, and soft tissue restrictions commonly experienced by older adults. These techniques promote relaxation, enhance blood circulation, and relieve discomfort.
• Exercise and Rehabilitation: Geriatric chiropractors may provide customized exercise programs to help seniors improve strength, balance, and flexibility. These programs are designed to enhance mobility, prevent falls, and maintain or improve overall physical function.
• Posture Correction: Correcting poor posture is crucial in geriatric care, as it can affect mobility, balance, and spinal health. Chiropractors may use various methods, including ergonomic education, spinal adjustments, and specific exercises, to address postural imbalances and promote optimal spinal alignment.
• Fall Prevention: Geriatric chiropractors play a role in fall prevention by assessing and addressing factors that contribute to fall risks. They may provide balance training, recommend assistive devices, and offer guidance on home modifications to create a safe environment for older adults.
• Pain Management: Geriatric chiropractors employ a range of techniques to manage pain associated with musculoskeletal conditions commonly experienced by older individuals. These may include spinal adjustments, therapeutic modalities (e.g., heat or cold therapy), and lifestyle modifications.
• Nutritional and Lifestyle Guidance: Chiropractors often provide guidance on nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle habits that support optimal health and well-being in older adults. They may offer recommendations on diet, supplementation, stress management, and other lifestyle factors that impact musculoskeletal health and overall vitality.

What is the workplace of a Geriatric Chiropractor like?

Geriatric chiropractors can be employed in a variety of healthcare settings, including private practices, clinics, hospitals, and rehabilitation centers. Some may also work in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, or other long-term care settings where they provide on-site care to older adults.

In private practice, geriatric chiropractors may work as independent contractors or be employed by a larger chiropractic group. In either case, they may be responsible for managing their own patient load, billing, and administrative tasks.

In hospitals and rehabilitation centers, geriatric chiropractors often work alongside other healthcare professionals to provide multidisciplinary care to patients recovering from injuries or illnesses. They may also work with physical therapists, occupational therapists, and other specialists to develop comprehensive treatment plans that address the unique needs of older patients.

Regardless of their workplace, geriatric chiropractors will have access to treatment tables, equipment for performing spinal adjustments, and other therapeutic devices. In some settings they may have a dedicated treatment room; in others, they may work in a shared space with other healthcare professionals.