Gentle Chiropractic Care
for Seniors
Move well. Think well. Be Well.
Senior-focused chiropractic and wellness care in Chillicothe, MO to help you or your loved ones stay active and pain-free at any age. At The Well-House Chiropractic, we understand the unique needs of older adults. Our gentle approach relieves aches and improves mobility without aggressive techniques. Don’t let age slow you down – our compassionate team is here to keep you moving, balanced, and living life to the fullest.
Healthy Aging with Chiropractic
Chiropractic care can be a game-changer for healthy aging. It’s one of the most popular natural therapies among seniors, and for good reason. Regular adjustments support your body’s alignment and nervous system, helping alleviate the “normal” aches many people associate with getting older. In fact, roughly one in seven chiropractic patients is over 65, and they often report improved energy, flexibility, and overall quality of life. We take a holistic, preventative approach – not only easing current pain but also working to prevent future issues so you can stay independent and active.
At The Well-House Chiropractic, Dr. Matthew Arthaud (D.C., RN) brings a unique dual background in chiropractic and nursing. This means you get technical expertise with a healing touch. We listen to your story, thoroughly assess your needs, and craft a gentle care plan that fits your health goals. Our mission is to help you age gracefully and comfortably, through natural treatments that put your well-being first.
Common Senior Ailments We Address
Many aches and pains often written off as “just part of aging” can actually be relieved or managed with targeted chiropractic care. We commonly help older adults with:
Back and Neck Pain
Chronic low back aches, stiff necks, and shoulder tension are the top reasons seniors seek chiropractic help. Gentle spinal adjustments can relieve pressure on nerves and ease muscle tightness for better comfort and sleep.
Arthritis & Joint Pain
Osteoarthritis in the spine or joints (knees, hips, shoulders) can cause constant pain and stiffness. Chiropractic adjustments and mobilization improve joint function and may reduce inflammation, complementing your arthritis management plan. In one study, arthritis sufferers who had biweekly chiropractic visits for six weeks felt more relief than those who only did standard exercises.
Hip, Leg & Sciatic Pain
Shooting sciatica pain down the leg, hip pain, or knee pain from wear-and-tear – we address the root cause (often misalignments or nerve irritation) to help you walk more comfortably. Improved alignment can take pressure off the sciatic nerve and leg joints.
Spinal Stenosis & Nerve Pressure
For seniors with spinal stenosis or degenerative disc issues, we use delicate techniques to reduce nerve compression. This can ease symptoms like radiating pain or numbness, making daily movements easier.
Poor Posture & “Dowager’s Hump”
Years of wear can lead to forward stooped posture or a pronounced upper back curve. We provide adjustments and simple exercises to improve posture gradually, which can relieve neck/upper back pain and even help with breathing.
Balance Issues & Dizziness
Subtle misalignments in the neck and spine can affect balance and coordination. By improving joint mobility and nervous system function, chiropractic care may help reduce dizziness (cervicogenic vertigo) and enhance proprioception, so you feel steadier on your feet.
Conditions like arthritis, joint pain, and balance problems don’t have to be accepted as “part of aging.” Studies indicate that chiropractic care can mitigate these common concerns. For example, many of our senior patients find they can walk farther, stand longer, and engage in hobbies again without the constant nagging pain. If you’re dealing with any of the issues above – or simply feeling “creaky” – know that relief is possible.
Gentle Techniques for Fragile Bones
Worried that an adjustment might be too forceful or “rough” for you or your elderly parent? Rest assured: our approach is gentle and safe for seniors, even those with osteoporosis or fragile bones. Dr. Arthaud is trained in low-force chiropractic techniques that avoid twisting or high-pressure moves. Instead, we use methods like instrument-assisted adjustments (a small hand-held tool) or drop-table adjustments that achieve results with minimal force.
Your comfort is our top priority. We will never force an adjustment. Every treatment is tailored to your health status and pain tolerance. If you have severe osteoporosis or joint degeneration, we modify techniques or focus on soft-tissue work and gentle mobilization. Chiropractic care has been found to be very safe for older adults – in fact, chiropractors have helped seniors for decades with an excellent safety record. You’re always in control: if any technique is uncomfortable, we adjust our approach or stop. Our goal is to make you feel better, not worse, so we proceed with caution, compassion, and your consent at each step.
Beyond adjustments, we may incorporate therapeutic stretching, light traction, or assistive devices to relieve pressure on joints. These gentle therapies can improve circulation and reduce muscle tension without straining your body. Many seniors actually find chiropractic sessions relaxing – some even nap during their treatments! You can feel confident that you’re in caring, capable hands.
Maintaining Mobility and Independence
Staying mobile is key to keeping your independence as you age. Regular chiropractic care can help you maintain your balance, coordination, and strength, reducing the risk of falls – one of the biggest concerns for seniors. In fact, a recent study suggests that older adults under chiropractic care for back pain experienced fewer falls (only 3.8% had a fall within 13 months, versus 5.4% who weren’t under chiropractic care). Aligning the spine and improving joint function has a positive ripple effect on your balance and stability. When your body moves properly, you’re less likely to stumble or overcompensate in ways that lead to falls.
Chiropractic also keeps you active and doing what you love. By relieving pain and stiffness, it enables you to continue walks in the park, gardening, playing with grandkids, or even just doing your own grocery shopping without as much assistance. One long-term analysis found that seniors who received regular chiropractic adjustments were less likely to have arthritis (48% incidence) compared to those who never saw a chiropractor (66% incidence). They were also more likely to avoid nursing home care, remaining able to live on their own longer. While chiropractic isn’t a magic cure-all, these statistics highlight how consistent care can translate into tangible quality-of-life improvements.
Our clinic also emphasizes at-home exercises and fall prevention tips for our senior patients. During your visit, we might teach you simple balance exercises (like holding onto a chair and doing gentle leg raises) or stretches to keep your joints limber. We’ll also discuss lifestyle tweaks: for example, proper footwear, home safety (removing tripping hazards), and nutritional support for bone health. By partnering with you in this way, we aim to keep you confidently on your feet. Your golden years should be active and enjoyable – we’re here to help make that a reality, keeping you moving well and living well.
Holistic Wellness for 60+ Adults
At The Well-House Chiropractic, you get more than just spine care – you get a whole-person approach to wellness. Dr. Arthaud’s background as both a Doctor of Chiropractic and a Registered Nurse means he looks at all aspects of your health. Beyond adjustments, our senior patients often benefit from integrative therapies and lifestyle guidance:
Functional Nutrition
What you eat plays a huge role in inflammation, bone strength, and overall vitality. We offer functional nutrition counseling (in-person or via telehealth) to ensure you’re getting the right nutrients for healthy aging. For instance, we can help with anti-inflammatory diet tips for arthritis or supplement recommendations (like calcium, vitamin D, or omega-3s) to support your joints and immune system.
Cupping & Soft Tissue Therapy
Stiff muscles or scar tissue around joints can worsen pain. We may use gentle cupping therapy or massage techniques to increase circulation and relieve muscle tension. Many seniors love cupping for the soothing relief it provides to tight back or shoulder muscles – it’s a gentle technique that feels like a reverse massage (light suction) and can improve flexibility.
Exercise and Mobility Coaching
We’ll advise you on appropriate exercises to keep you strong and limber. This might include stretching routines, light strength exercises, or balance training tailored to your ability. Staying active safely is crucial; our guidance can help you exercise without overexerting or injuring yourself.
Coordination with Your Medical Care
As needed, we’ll gladly coordinate with your primary care physician or specialists. Whether it’s understanding your medications or health conditions, or ensuring chiropractic fits well into your overall care plan, we take into account all of you. Our integrated approach means you don’t have to choose between conventional medicine and chiropractic – we blend the best of both. (For example, if you have a complex medical history or recent surgeries, we’ll adapt our care and communicate as needed with your doctors.)
This holistic suite of services means we can address many facets of senior wellness under one roof. Perhaps you come in for back pain, but we can also chat about nutrition for bone health. Our goal is to enhance your health in every way we can. By treating the whole person – body, mind, and lifestyle – we empower you to feel your best as you age.
Family Involvement and Caregiver Support
We understand that seeking care as a senior often involves family. If you’re an adult child or caregiver researching chiropractic for your parent or loved one, you’re in the right place. At The Well-House Chiropractic, we treat our senior patients like family – with patience, respect, and plenty of personal attention – and we welcome your involvement in the process.
Extended appointment times and personal care: We never rush our seniors. Initial consultations are thorough, allowing time to discuss concerns and health history (often with family input if desired). We’ll help Mom or Dad on and off the treatment table if they need a hand, and we make sure they’re comfortable at all times. Our clinic environment is warm and accessible – no stairs to worry about, chairs with arms for easy sitting, and a restroom close by. Little things like these make a big difference for older patients.
Open communication: We encourage seniors and their families to ask questions. Dr. Arthaud will happily explain what he’s doing in plain language (no confusing medical jargon) so everyone understands the treatment. If you accompany your parent, you can be present during the exam and even during treatments if it makes them more at ease. We find that when family members are informed and involved, it creates a strong support system that helps the patient get better faster. You’ll also get guidance on home care – for example, how to help Dad with his stretches or reminders for Mom about her exercises – so you can confidently assist them between visits.
Peace of mind: Knowing your loved one is in good hands brings peace of mind. Our team has experience working with seniors who have multiple health issues (from heart conditions to joint replacements). We take all necessary precautions and will refer out or co-manage care if something is outside our scope. Safety is always our top concern. Additionally, we accept Medicare and most major insurance plans, making the logistics easier for families. (Medicare Part B does cover chiropractic spinal adjustments for subluxations, and we’ll help verify any coverage and paperwork to minimize your stress.) You can trust that we’ll do everything we can to make care affordable, accessible, and effective for your loved one.
At the end of the day, our greatest reward is seeing grandparents regain their spark. Whether it’s a grandmother able to lift her grandchild again, or a grandfather getting back to his morning walks without pain, we love being part of those victories. We’re here to support not just the senior in our care, but also the family around them. Consider us an extension of your care team, dedicated to keeping your loved one healthy and happy in their later years.
Success Stories from Our Patients
At The Well-House Chiropractic, we’re not just building a practice – we’re building a wellness family and a healthier community. Thank you for taking the time to get to know us. We hope our passion for holistic, patient-centered care shines through.
Get Started: Regain Your Comfort and Freedom
Age is just a number – don’t let pain or stiffness hold you back. It’s never too late to improve your health. If you’re ready to move easier, sleep better, and feel more like yourself again, we invite you to take the next step:
Schedule a Consultation
Call or text us at (740) 823-9355 to book an appointment. Our friendly staff will find a convenient time, often within the week. You can also book your visit online through our easy scheduling portal.
Visit Our Chillicothe Clinic
We’re located at 519 Locust Street, Chillicothe, MO, with easy parking and wheelchair accessibility. We happily serve seniors from Chillicothe and surrounding communities like Trenton, Brookfield, Cameron, and beyond – including household names in north-central Missouri – so even if you’re coming from a bit of a distance, know that you’ll be welcomed like family.
Experience the Difference
During your first visit, we’ll conduct a gentle exam and talk through your health goals. Even after one session, many patients feel some relief – and we’ll map out a personalized care plan for lasting results.
Ready to feel younger and more active? Our team at The Well-House Chiropractic is here to support your journey to better health in your 60s, 70s, 80s, and beyond. Don’t spend another day living with pain or limitation. Reach out today and discover how gentle chiropractic care can help you or your senior loved one move well, feel well, and live well every day!
Frequently Asked Questions
About Senior Chiropractic at The Well-House
Is chiropractic care safe for seniors?
Yes. Chiropractic care is considered very safe for older adults, even those with osteoporosis or other health conditions, as long as it’s provided by a trained professional. We use gentle, low-force techniques specifically adapted to seniors’ needs – no aggressive twisting or cracking if it’s not appropriate. Research and decades of experience show that seniors can benefit from chiropractic without significant risk. Dr. Arthaud always evaluates each patient’s medical history (including any spinal surgeries, osteoporosis, or medications) and tailors treatment to ensure maximum safety and comfort. Many seniors actually find our gentle adjustments easier on them than a deep massage or other therapies. Your well-being is our top priority, so we take every precaution to make sure you feel secure and cared for during treatment.
Does Medicare cover chiropractic care for seniors?
Yes, Medicare Part B covers chiropractic care for seniors, but specifically for manual spinal adjustments to correct a subluxation (misaligned vertebra). This means if you have a spinal joint that isn’t moving properly and it’s causing pain, Medicare will pay for chiropractic adjustments to help fix it. Medicare typically covers 80% of the cost of the adjustment (after your Part B deductible), and secondary insurance or supplements can often cover the rest. It’s important to note that Medicare doesn’t cover other services a chiropractor might provide (like X-rays, massage, etc), but the core chiropractic adjustment is included. At The Well-House Chiropractic, we do accept Medicare for covered services, and our staff will help you navigate your claims to make the process easy. Many of our Medicare patients appreciate that they can get the care they need with minimal out-of-pocket expense.
What conditions can chiropractic help older adults with?
Chiropractic can help with a wide range of conditions common in older adults. The most frequent issues we address are back pain (including lower back pain and spinal arthritis) and neck pain, which often result from years of wear-and-tear or degenerative changes. We also successfully treat joint pains in the hips, knees, and shoulders – for example, pain from osteoarthritis or past injuries. Many seniors find relief from sciatica and nerve pain (such as tingling or numbness in the legs) through chiropractic adjustments that reduce nerve pressure. Additionally, chiropractic care can improve problems like headaches and some forms of dizziness or balance difficulties that are related to neck misalignments. By restoring proper alignment and motion to the spine and other joints, chiropractic helps reduce pain, inflammation, and stiffness associated with these conditions. It’s a drug-free way to manage chronic issues and improve overall function. Of course, every individual is different – during your initial visit, we’ll discuss your specific health concerns to make sure chiropractic is a good fit and design a plan tailored to your needs.
Will the adjustments hurt or be too forceful for someone older?
No – adjustments should NOT hurt, especially when performed with senior-friendly techniques. We pride ourselves on gentle care. Our chiropractor uses methods that apply light pressure or use specialized tools to avoid any jarring or uncomfortable movements. You may feel a mild pressure, a stretching sensation, or hear a soft “pop” with some techniques, but pain is not a normal part of the process. If an area is very tender, we can treat it with indirect or low-force methods that sidestep any sharp pain. Many seniors are surprised at how easy and relaxing an adjustment feels – some describe it as instant relief, or compare it to finally releasing a stuck joint. We always communicate during the treatment: if anything feels uncomfortable, we stop immediately and adjust our approach. Your feedback is key. Remember, our goal is to alleviate pain, never to cause it. After an adjustment, it’s common to feel better mobility right away, though you might have a little soreness (similar to starting a new exercise) that fades quickly. We’ll also give after-care advice (like using an ice pack if needed). Overall, our senior patients tolerate treatments very well and often look forward to their sessions once they experience how gentle they are.
How often should a senior citizen see a chiropractor?
The frequency of visits can vary depending on the individual’s condition and goals. For a new senior patient with a significant issue (say, severe arthritis pain or an acute back flare-up), we might start with weekly adjustments for a few weeks to get the pain under control and improve mobility. Research and clinical experience show that a short series of consistent visits yields the best initial results – it’s like physical therapy; consistency helps you progress. Once improvement is seen, we typically taper off to biweekly or monthly visits for maintenance. Many of our older patients choose to come in once a month (or every 4–6 weeks) to keep their spine aligned and prevent problems from creeping back. Others with chronic conditions might stick to twice a month if it helps them manage pain better. And if you’re feeling great and only want the occasional check-up, that’s fine too! We personalize the care plan to what you need and want. Importantly, you’re never “locked in” – unlike some stereotypes, we don’t insist that anyone come forever. However, just as you see a dentist regularly to keep your teeth healthy, many seniors find that periodic chiropractic tune-ups keep their bodies feeling younger and more agile. We’ll discuss a suggested schedule after your initial exam, and you can decide what level of ongoing care feels right for you.