As comedian George Burns once observed, “You can’t help getting older, but you don’t have to get old.” Burns, who lived to be 100, shared the sentiment of others who believe aging should not be an obstacle to a full and happy life. Yet chronic conditions and disability are common culprits that can rob the “life” out of our later years.
Conversations around what it takes to age well have become more frequent with the aging of the population. In the U.S., the baby boom generation (about 73 million strong) is now between the ages of 60 and 78. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the number of Americans aged 65 and older will increase 47% (from 58 million to 82 million) by the year 2050.
The American Chiropractic Association (ACA) and doctors of chiropractic nationwide will celebrate National Chiropractic Health Month this October with the theme “Plan for a Strong Healthspan.” The campaign will raise awareness of the importance of a strong musculoskeletal (MSK) system for healthy aging and the benefits of chiropractic’s evidence-based, non-drug approach to treating MSK pain, improving joint function and enhancing overall wellness.
Lifespan vs. healthspan
Our lifespan is the number of years we live; our healthspan is marked by the years we live without major chronic illnesses or disability—able to do what matters most. In addition to cardiovascular health, metabolic health and other factors, musculoskeletal health contributes to healthspan by making it possible for people to stay physically active, reduce the risk of falls, engage in daily activities, and remain independent longer.
“Physical activity is vital to healthy aging, and our musculoskeletal system is what keeps us moving,” said ACA President Leo Bronston, DC, MAppSC. “Doctors of chiropractic help patients enhance their overall health and quality of life as they age by providing evidence-based, non-drug therapies to manage common musculoskeletal conditions and advising them on health promotion and injury prevention strategies.”
The essential benefits of physical activity
Made up of our muscles, bones, and joints, the MSK system is what literally moves our bodies and makes it possible to be physically active, which is considered one of the most powerful contributors to health and longevity. According to groups such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), physical activity in adults is associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, some cancers, Type 2 diabetes, falls and mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. CDC recommends adults get 150 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity a week (such as 30 minutes a day, five days a week).
Knowing that physical activity is essential to enhancing overall health and well-being, the importance of the musculoskeletal system comes into focus. When we are injured and immobile or movement is restricted by conditions such as back pain, neck pain and joint pain, our options can rapidly diminish. WHO notes that the prevalence of MSK conditions that cause functional limitations is “rapidly increasing.” In addition, the Global Burden of Disease report lists MSK conditions among the most common causes of chronic pain and disability, with low back pain ranked as the No. 1 single leading cause of disability worldwide. Headache disorders rank No. 3 and neck pain is No. 15.
Not only can musculoskeletal pain prevent people from getting enough physical activity—missing out on a multitude of associated health benefits—but it can also make it harder to work, travel and engage in everyday activities such as dressing, cooking, maintaining a home or engaging in social activities. These changes can have profound consequences on an individual’s quality of life, contributing to a shorter healthspan.
Where does chiropractic fit in?
Doctors of chiropractic (DCs) are experts in treating the musculoskeletal system. They provide an evidence-based, non-drug approach to treating conditions such as back pain, neck pain, joint pain, and headaches. They seek to find the source of pain and functional limitations, rather than just covering up symptoms. They are part of the modern healthcare team, working collaboratively to enhance the health and wellness of their patients and communities.
During National Chiropractic Health Month, look for more information about musculoskeletal health and chiropractic at www.handsdownbetter.org/NCHM and on this blog in the coming weeks.
You can also follow the conversation in social media this month with the hashtag #StrongHealthspan.
