Older adults

Osteoarthritis is not a reason to stop moving; it is the reason to keep moving, with help. Stiff joints that are moved regularly hurt less than stiff joints that are protected.

The examination for an older patient includes bone health, balance, medication and the conditions that change what we can safely do: osteoporosis, previous fractures, anticoagulants, replaced joints. Treatment is then adapted: mobilisation rather than adjustment where bone density is a concern, soft tissue work, and a home programme built around what you actually do, which for most of our older patients is walking, gardening and grandchildren.

We see a lot of people in their seventies and eighties from Pontypridd, Treforest and the valleys above who were told it was wear and tear and to live with it. Some of it is, and the stiffness and pain of living with it still respond to treatment. We also know when a hip or knee needs the surgeon rather than us, and we write to the GP.

What is included

• Bone health, balance and medication reviewed
• Mobilisation and gentle techniques where appropriate
• Home programme built around walking and gardening
• Concession follow-up fee for over 65s
• Ground-floor treatment room and step-free entrance
• Referral when a joint needs the surgeon

What it costs

New patient visit £65; concession follow-ups £36 for over 65s. Many older patients settle into a visit every four to eight weeks once the initial course is done, by choice. There is no VAT on chiropractic treatment. All fees are on the fees page; what the first hour involves is on the first visit page.