.webp)
The "Getting Older" Trap: Deconstructing the Myth
In our clinic, we often hear patients say, "I guess these aches and pains are just part of getting older." At E3 Chiropractic + Wellness, we couldn't disagree more. While it is a biological fact that our tissues change over time, the idea that turning 50, 60, or 70 is a "tax" paid in the form of debilitating back pain or stiff joints is a myth we are determined to bust.
The "Getting Older" trap is a psychological barrier that leads to a "Decline Mindset." When you believe pain is inevitable, you stop seeking solutions and start accepting limitations. We work with high-performing adults across Saskatoon who are still hitting personal bests in the gym, outperforming their peers on the golf course, and keeping up with their grandkids without a second thought. The difference isn't "good genes"—it’s a commitment to specific, high-performance habits.
The Physiology of Aging vs. The Path of Inactivity
To understand how to perform at 50+, we must distinguish between chronological aging and functional decline.
- Sarcopenia (Muscle Loss): It is estimated that after age 30, we lose 3-5% of our muscle mass per decade. However, this is largely "disuse atrophy." Resistance training can significantly slow, stop, or even reverse this process.
- Joint Desiccation: As we age, the water content in our intervertebral discs and joint cartilage naturally decreases. While we can't stop time, we can maintain joint lubrication through consistent, full-range movement.
- Neurological Processing: Our balance and proprioception (the brain's awareness of where the body is in space) can dull over time. High-performers "sharpen" this system through stability training.
The 5 Habits of High-Performance
Dr. Kurtis, Dr. Zach, and Dr. Layne have identified five key habits that separate those who "age out" of activity from those who "age into" their best years:
1. Strength as a Non-Negotiable Priority
Strength is the foundation of independence. For the 50+ athlete, strength training isn't about bodybuilding; it's about "Body Armor." Stronger muscles take the load off your joints. If your glutes are strong, your lower back doesn't have to work as hard during a round of golf. If your quads are resilient, your knees stay protected during a walk through Meewasin Trail.
2. Stability Over Passive Stretching
Many patients in their 50s believe they just need to "stretch more" to get rid of stiffness. However, "tightness" is often the brain's way of creating stability where it feels a weakness. If you stretch a joint that is already unstable, you may actually increase your risk of injury. High-performers focus on core and joint control—teaching the body how to "lock in" and protect the spine during movement.
3. Viewing Health as an Investment, Not an Expense
The most successful patients at E3 don't see chiropractic care or functional coaching as a "cost" for when they break. They see it as a maintenance investment, much like an oil change for a high-end vehicle. They understand that spending time on movement today saves them months of recovery from a major injury tomorrow.
4. Addressing the "Whispers" Early
High-performers have a high level of "Body Literacy." They don't wait for a "scream"—a sharp, sudden back spasm—to book an appointment. They pay attention to the "whispers," such as morning stiffness that lasts a little too long or a slight loss of power in their golf swing. They book an Annual Audit to clear out minor joint restrictions before they manifest as a crisis.
5. Adopting a 90-Day Vision
Longevity isn't built in a weekend retreat. High-performing adults understand that meaningful changes to tissue and movement patterns take time. They follow a structured blueprint—a 90-day transformation plan—designed specifically for their movement history and future goals.
Case Study: The "Weekend Warrior" Pivot
Imagine a 55-year-old Saskatoon local who loves to golf but finds that by the 14th hole, their lower back is throbbing. In the past, they might have taken an ibuprofen and "pushed through." Using the E3 approach, this patient doesn't just get a "crack." We assess their hip mobility (the whisper) and realize their lack of hip rotation is forcing their lower back to twist too much. By addressing the hip and building core stability over 90 days, they aren't just pain-free—they’re hitting the ball 20 yards further.
Patient FAQ: Performance After 50
- Is it safe to lift weights at my age? Absolutely. In fact, it's one of the safest things you can do for long-term health, provided you are coached through proper mechanics.
- I have "wear and tear" on my X-rays. Can I still perform? Yes. X-rays are like wrinkles—they show where you've been, but they don't dictate what you can do. Many people with significant "wear" live high-performance, pain-free lives.
- How often should I be checked? This varies by individual, but we recommend an Annual Audit at minimum to ensure your movement foundation remains solid.
It’s Never Too Late to Start
Whether you are 30, 50, or 70, your body is remarkably adaptable. By shifting your mindset from "surviving" to "performing," you can ensure that your future self remains active, resilient, and ready for whatever Saskatoon throws your way.
Click HERE to book a discovery call with us today and take the first step toward a clearer, pain-free future!
___________________________________________________________
Disclaimer: The information in this article is for educational purposes only. Always consult a professional at E3 Chiropractic + Wellness for a personalized diagnosis and treatment plan.
