As we grow older, it is normal for our bodies to change. Grey hair and wrinkles are visible signs of ageing, but our muscles, bones and joints also change over time. So, how do we achieve healthy ageing?
These changes are a natural part of life. Ageing does not always mean you will experience pain or stiffness. However, if discomfort or reduced mobility becomes a problem, treatment and advice from an osteopath can help.
Osteopathic care can work alongside GP support and medication when needed. If you begin to notice aches, stiffness or reduced movement, your osteopath can help you stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle in later life.
Many people believe that aches and pains are simply part of getting older, but this does not always have to be the case.
An osteopath can help you manage common age-related conditions and support overall mobility and wellbeing. Many patients find it helpful to speak to an osteopath about ways to stay active and reduce the risk of injury or falls.
Osteopaths often help people manage conditions such as:
Osteopathic treatment is tailored to each individual. The approach will vary depending on your age, fitness level and diagnosis.
Treatment may include gentle hands-on techniques that aim to:
These treatments are often combined with exercises and practical advice to help you manage pain, stay active and maintain good health.
You do not need to see your GP before visiting an osteopath, although some patients choose to do so.
Although aches and pains can occur as we age, they do not need to prevent you from enjoying an active lifestyle.
Simple lifestyle choices can help support healthy ageing and maintain independence.
Aim to complete around 150 minutes of exercise each week. This can be broken into sessions of ten minutes or more. The activity should raise your body temperature and breathing slightly while still allowing you to hold a conversation.
Activities such as brisk walking or dancing can improve circulation, reduce the risk of falls and boost mood and confidence.
Eating a healthy and varied diet is also important for maintaining overall health and energy levels.
Balance exercises can also help reduce the risk of falling, especially for people over the age of 65. Activities such as Tai Chi can improve balance and coordination. Strength exercises for the arms, legs and body are also beneficial.
Wearing supportive footwear, such as trainers, can help absorb shock when walking and reduce pressure on the knees, hips and spine.
Taking short rest periods during the day can also help restore energy and support recovery.
In the UK, osteopaths are regulated by the General Osteopathic Council. By law, anyone practising as an osteopath must be registered with this regulatory body.
Registered osteopaths must meet strict professional standards and complete ongoing professional development to maintain their registration.
Osteopaths train to degree level and qualify with either:
Training takes a minimum of four years and includes more than 1000 hours of supervised clinical practice with patients.
Osteopaths are recognised by NHS England as Allied Health Professionals and play an important role in the diagnosis, treatment and care of people of all ages.
Osteopaths are trained to diagnose a wide range of health issues, including those that may require further investigation.
During your first appointment, the osteopath will ask about your symptoms, general health and medical history. All information is treated as confidential according to the standards set by the General Osteopathic Council and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
It is natural to feel concerned about symptoms or discomfort. Your osteopath will carry out a routine examination to check for any serious conditions and will explain if further investigation is needed.
After the examination, your osteopath will discuss your treatment options. Together you will agree on a treatment plan and any likely costs.
Your treatment may begin at the first appointment. Some people experience mild soreness afterwards, but this usually settles within 24 hours.
If you have concerns about your treatment, you should speak with your osteopath.
You are also welcome to bring someone with you to your consultation if you would like additional support.
We are members of the Institute of Osteopathy, the professional membership organisation for osteopaths. The organisation supports the development of the profession and promotes high standards of patient care.
Membership of the Institute of Osteopathy provides reassurance to patients and the public that practitioners meet high professional standards and deliver quality care.
For more information about the Institute of Osteopathy, visit www.iosteopathy.org or call 01582 488455.
All information in this article was sourced from the Institute of Osteopathy:
https://www.iosteopathy.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/OsteopathygettingOlder-6pp-Aug-2018.pdf
Additional references include NICE guidance:
www.nice.org.uk/guidance/NG59
