What happens to the bones and joints with ageing?

Aging is a natural physiological process. One part of the body that is greatly affected by the process of aging is the musculo-skeletal system. Our spine starts to deteriorate and excess strain is felt over our joints and muscles.  The elasticity present within our body deteriorates and this increases the chance of injuring the soft tissues and bony structures of the body.

Often, when people reach the age where they have more time on their side for recreational activities, it can be disheartening if pain in their body framework restricts them from enjoying these activities. Many elderly patients lose their level of fitness at this stage in their lives; as a result, the elderly are more prone to injury.

With age we are more prone to problems such as osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, carpal tunnel syndrome, shoulder pain, neck stiffness, arthritic knees and arthritic hips. We may also see other changes. Not heal as quickly from knocks and bumps. Surgery features more often in this period in our lives.  And it may take a long time to get moving again. Or we may be experiencing signs of declining health.

Many retired people may not be as active as they used to be. I hear many say that you are more active!  But over time we start to see signs of wear and tear.  Many people mistakenly believe that the effect of aging on the body’s joints is untreatable and that they have no alternative but to learn to live with their pain. However, there is always room to improve the body’s function and to reduce the pain. Yes, age does play a factor in basic wear and tear but Osteopaths do not believe that you should put up with stiffness and the pain of arthritis.

Obviously we can’t reverse the effects of age, but pain killers are not the only solution for the aches and pains associated with ageing and medications prescribed for these symptoms, such as anti-inflammatory drugs, often have undesirable side-effects.  Osteopathy can help to reduce pain and stiffness and therefore reduce reliance on medication.

Osteopathy certainly does something to improve movement, loosen muscles and ease stiffness.  Treatment can also improve your basic posture through gentle stretching and soft tissue techniques. Osteopaths don’t see age as a terminal illness; we see a condition that we can ease through our non-invasive therapy.

Don’t suffer unnecessarily!

Ease pain and stiffness – please contact Oliver (Registered Osteopath) at the clinic in Tel Aviv on 054-987-5789.