How to Age with Confidence

Staying fit, active and independent this summer

Cram Osteopaths

“Giving up our favourite activities is just part of getting older”…said NOBODY over 60! At Cram Osteopaths, we see this as the perfect time to rebuild confidence in movement. Balance is key and relies on strength, mobility and your body’s awareness of position. When these decline, everyday tasks can feel less secure. Doing less may feel safer, but it often leads to more stiffness, weakness and a higher risk of falls.

From being stuck at home to back to enjoying regular Keep Fit classes!

At Cram Osteopaths, we recently worked with Mary, 90, a retired Office Clerk from Ayrshire, who is socially active and values staying mobile and in control of her day-to-day life.

Mary developed persistent pain in her left thigh, buttock and groin following a stumble. What began as discomfort soon started to affect something far more important, her ability to move around her home with ease, including using her chairlift, and to continue attending her local Keep Fit classes, which are important both physically and socially.

For Mary, the goal was clear, to keep doing the things that matter to her without needing to rely on others.

Following a detailed assessment at Cram Osteopaths, we created a simple, targeted plan to restore movement and reduce strain.

Within just three visits, the change was significant. Mary could lift her leg with ease again, move more freely at home and return to her regular activities with renewed confidence.

Simple exercises to build confidence

• Balance – stand beside a sturdy chair and hold it for support. Lift one foot slightly off the ground and balance on the other leg. Keep your posture upright. Hold for 10 to 20 seconds, then change sides. Repeat three times each side
  
• Sit to stand – sit on a firm chair with feet flat on the floor. Cross your arms over your chest and lean slightly forward, then stand up slowly. Sit back down with control. Repeat 5 to 10 times. If needed, hold on to a stable surface such as a dining table to help guide yourself up safely
  
• Arm raises – this can be done seated or standing. Keep your back tall and slowly raise both arms straight overhead, then lower them back down to your sides. Repeat 10 times
  
  Confidence Checklist
  Keep moving, little and often
  Practise daily
  Address aches early
  Stay consistent
  
  Call Cram Osteopaths (Ayr Clinic) to arrange a consultation.

Cram Osteopaths – here to help you stay active, steady and confident at every stage of life.