Movement, Aging and Acting like Toddlers
As the years advance, our bodies undergo various changes that can impact our mobility, flexibility, and overall quality of life. However, emerging research suggests that incorporating regular physical activity into our routines can be a game-changer for maintaining and even enhancing our vitality. In this blog post, I will explore the scientifically-backed benefits of movement and exercise, shedding light on how daily exercise can play a pivotal role in promoting holistic well-being.
Improved Joint Health:
One of the primary concerns as we age is the health of our joints. A sedentary lifestyle can contribute to stiffness and discomfort, but engaging in regular exercise has been proven to promote joint health. A study published in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity (Felson et al., 2007) found that consistent physical activity can alleviate symptoms of osteoarthritis and reduce the risk of developing joint-related issues. In today's world we see more people exercising daily than there was in 2010. In 2010 studies showed that 18.5% of US people exercised daily, in 2022 that number climbed to over 20.5%. The old saying goes, “if you do not use it, you lose it”, and that cannot be more true. As we age we commonly lose mobility in our hips and shoulders. Men mostly lose mobility in their hips, which is why they often complain of lower back pain. Women are often targeted by shoulder mobility issues as they age. Incorporating a 15 minute hip and shoulder mobility program into your weekly schedule would help to prevent this common loss of mobility. If you are looking to do so, I encourage you to use the power of Youtube and search, “Hip 90/90 progressions” as well as “Shoulder Mobility Exercises”.
Enhanced Bone Density:
As we age, the risk of osteoporosis and decreased bone density becomes more prevalent. Weight-bearing exercises, such as walking, jogging, and resistance training, have been shown to strengthen bones and reduce the risk of fractures. A comprehensive review in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research (Babatunde et al., 2019) emphasizes the positive correlation between regular exercise and bone health in aging populations. Weight bearing exercises can be as simple as body weight squats in your living room, 3 sets x 20 reps x 3 times a week. An evening walk after dinner has also shown to increase digestion and leave you feeling less bloated. I am not saying that we need to be in an olympic gym squatting 300 pounds. However, challenging your body in ways it is not normally challenged to will lead to muscle growth and increased bone density.
Optimized Spinal Health:
Chiropractic care and regular exercise go hand in hand when it comes to maintaining spinal health. Research published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics (Cifuentes et al., 2011) suggests that combining chiropractic adjustments and soft tissue manipulation with targeted exercises can significantly reduce pain and improve spinal function, contributing to a better quality of life for individuals experiencing age-related musculoskeletal issues. Your spine is not delicate, it is not fragile, and most importantly it does not “go out of place”. Your spine is strong, sturdy and craves movement. Many times throughout my day I hear, “well I am just getting old” or “my body does not work like it used to” and I struggle to find an appropriate way to respond, but oftentimes the best response is that people do not do what they used to do. If we moved as frequently and as often as we did when we were toddlers we would still be as mobile and flexible as toddlers.
In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, new-age chiropractic care has a unique opportunity to integrate the latest research findings into holistic care practices. By emphasizing the benefits of movement and exercise, evidence-informed chiropractors can empower their patients to take an active role in preserving and enhancing their overall well-being. The combination of “new-age” chiropractic care and personalized exercise routines can pave the way for a healthier, more vibrant aging experience. As we embrace the inevitability of aging, let us also embrace the transformative power of movement for a life filled with vitality and joy.
Dr. Gavin Grimaldi, DC
Chiropractic Physician
Veloce Spine & Sport

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