Balance and Coordination in Older Adults: How Chiropractic Care Can Help
While many people assume that decreased balance is simply part of getting older, research shows that nervous system health, spinal alignment, and joint function play major roles in stability. That’s where chiropractic care comes in. At Dr. Noah Banks’ chiropractic office in Bentonville, Arkansas, we see firsthand how improving spinal health can support better balance and coordination in older adults.
Why Balance and Coordination Decline with Age:
Aging affects nearly every system in the body, but balance relies heavily on three key systems:
The vestibular system (inner ear, which helps with orientation and equilibrium)
The visual system (eyes, which provide feedback about the environment)
The proprioceptive system (nerves, muscles, and joints, which tell the brain where the body is in space)
When these systems become less efficient, balance problems are more likely. For example, stiff joints, misalignments in the spine, or nerve interference can disrupt proprioception, making it harder for the brain to process where the body is in space. This increases the risk of falls or unsteadiness.
A study in the Journal of Geriatric Physical Therapy found that reduced proprioceptive input is strongly linked to higher fall risk in older adults. Supporting these systems through natural care can therefore play an important role in maintaining independence.
How Chiropractic Care Supports Balance and Coordination:
Chiropractic care is centered on the relationship between the spine, nervous system, and overall body function. For older adults concerned about balance, chiropractic adjustments and supportive therapies can make a meaningful difference in several ways:
Improving Spinal Alignment
Misalignments (subluxations) in the spine can place stress on the nervous system, limiting communication between the brain and body. Correcting alignment helps restore clear pathways, which can enhance proprioception and coordination.Enhancing Joint Mobility
Stiff or arthritic joints reduce range of motion and can affect how the body reacts to changes in movement or environment. Gentle adjustments keep joints moving properly, improving responsiveness and stability.Reducing Dizziness and Vertigo
Some older adults experience balance problems due to dizziness or vertigo. Research in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics suggests that chiropractic care can reduce symptoms of cervicogenic dizziness, which originates in the neck.Strengthening Posture
A forward head posture or rounded shoulders can shift the body’s center of gravity, making falls more likely. Chiropractic adjustments, combined with posture exercises, support a stronger, more upright stance.Promoting Nervous System Health
Since the nervous system controls balance, coordination, and movement, reducing interference through chiropractic adjustments helps it function at its best.
Research Supporting Chiropractic for Balance:
A study published in Clinical Interventions in Aging highlighted that manual therapies, including chiropractic care, can improve mobility, balance, and quality of life in older adults. Another clinical review in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that chiropractic adjustments improved proprioceptive function and postural stability in patients.
These findings reinforce what patients in Bentonville experience daily: chiropractic care helps older adults feel steadier on their feet and more confident in their movements.
Practical Steps to Support Balance Alongside Chiropractic:
While chiropractic adjustments form the foundation of restoring alignment and nervous system health, there are additional steps older adults can take to support balance:
Stay Active: Regular movement, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, keeps muscles strong and joints mobile.
Strengthen the Core: A strong core supports posture and stability.
Check Vision and Hearing: Since these senses contribute to balance, addressing changes early helps reduce risk.
Maintain Good Footwear: Supportive shoes provide a stable base for movement.
Hydration and Nutrition: Dehydration and nutrient deficiencies can impact muscle and nerve function.
Chiropractors often provide lifestyle recommendations tailored to each patient to complement adjustments and maximize results.
Chiropractic Care for Older Adults in Bentonville:
At Dr. Noah Banks’ chiropractic office, we take a gentle and individualized approach to caring for older adults. Adjustments are tailored to each patient’s comfort level and health needs, ensuring safe, effective care. Many of our patients report not only improved balance and reduced fall risk, but also less pain, more energy, and better overall mobility.
For families in Bentonville and the surrounding area, chiropractic care offers a natural, drug-free way to support independence and confidence as loved ones age.
Final Thoughts:
Balance and coordination are vital for living well at any age, but especially for older adults who want to maintain independence and avoid injuries. Chiropractic care addresses the spinal and nervous system factors that contribute to stability, making it a valuable part of a fall-prevention and wellness strategy.
If you or a loved one is concerned about balance or unsteadiness, chiropractic care may provide the support needed to move through life with confidence.
Contact Dr. Noah Banks’ chiropractic office in Bentonville, Arkansas, today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward restoring balance and mobility.
