Mobility is essential for health and enjoyment of life. When we no longer can extend an arm, stand up straight or maintain the balance and flexibility necessary to be agile, we run risks of falls and injuries. Mobility is related to comfort, speed, physical capabilities and our ability to do everyday tasks like mow the lawn or reach a glass on a high shelf. Because of this, mobility is a quality to be treasured and protected.

Age, Injuries and Imbalances: Three Threats to Mobility

As we age, or as our bodies manage the physical effects of demanding physical activity or prolonged sitting, our mobility can become threatened. Muscle groups that are not challenged in a regular and balanced manner may cause over-development of one muscle group and shortening or tightness in the underused muscle group, resulting in problems like hunching of the shoulders or the inability to maintain good posture. Injuries, small and large, when not treated with proper physical therapy, stretching and chiropractic adjustments, can also result in limited mobility.

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Natural Ways to Improve Mobility

Fortunately, there are natural ways to increase mobility, even if you’ve neglected this aspect of your health. Try the following three strategies for rebalancing your muscle groups and regaining mobility.

1. Identify the muscle groups that have been over and under worked.

Then come up with an exercise plan to strengthen the muscle groups that have been underworked.

For example, if you hunch your shoulders, you need to strengthen your back muscles and lengthen your chest muscles to counter the hunch. Start lifting light weights, using resistance bands or doing the “Superman” exercise (lie on your stomach and lift your arms and legs, contracting your back muscles) to strengthen your back.

2. Stretch.

Our bodies become less limber as we age and as we accumulate scar tissue. Regular stretching can break up some of that scar tissue and promote blood flow to the muscles, promoting healing and improving flexibility.

Back to that example of someone who has limited mobility because he hunches his shoulders. This person should lie on the floor and place a pillow under his shoulder blades (center of the upper back) and allow his back to arch and his chest to expand, lengthening the chest muscles that are usually hunched.

3. Invest in chiropractic adjustments.

Routine chiropractic adjustments slows the progression of joint degeneration, improving function and decreasing risk of injury. When the vertebrae are properly aligned, the entire body functions better, reducing pinching of nerves and stressing of muscles, ligaments and tendons. Proper lubrication of joints and muscles is increased, improving mobility and function.

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Looking for a Huntersville Chiropractor that Can Improve Mobility?

If you’re looking for natural ways to regain mobility, make an appointment to meet with Dr. Doyle, Huntersville chiropractor. Dr. Doyle accepts insurance, including Medicare, and has experience serving a wide range of patients dealing with mobility issues. Find a natural way to regain your mobility, and get your life back.