The Neuroarticular Lesion in the Elderly: A Condensed Literature Review
Received 21 August 2002; received in revised form 1 October 2002; accepted 29 October 2002.
Abstract
Objective
This condensed literature review was performed to show how inappreciably known are the aging effects of the neuromuscular system, especially the neuroarticular function. To give a needed perspective on the aging process of the musculoskeletal system of a rapidly aging population that is all-important to the chiropractor.
Data Sources
An online search of several databases (MEDLINE and MANTIS) provided several guidelines for review. Comparison among the guidelines was made on different aspects: format, focus, significance of aging of the neuroarticular process, and primary diagnostic considerations. For brevity, no tables were cited for comparisons on the aspects covered and supported by the references.
Data Synthesis
Condensed literature review from abstracts and full-length articles were used to establish the review conclusions.
Results
The data and information found in this literature search are insufficient to draw primary conclusions about the aging process and the neuroarticular complex.
Conclusion
It may be simply concluded that there needs to be additional concentrated research in the area of the neuroarticular process and the lesion that occurs at some point in time to a significant majority of individuals. As a large portion of chiropractic patients are elderly, this perspective should be read by all chiropractors. There were several criteria in mind when the project began, especially to improve the chiropractic care of the aged patient, to review and to develop needed data, and to understand the neuroarticular process involvement. This article was to accomplish the understanding and build interest in the degeneration ramifications in the neuroarticular complex of the elderly. This interest may stimulate more attention on the subject with an extensive literature search of the topic and additional research needed.
ABSTRACT