Home Blog Page 61

Head Pressure

By
Dr Alexander D Jimenez DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP
-
Headache, stress and anxiety with a business woman holding her head in pain while feeling pressure

Can chiropractic treatment protocols diagnose what’s causing head pressure in individuals, and provide effective treatment?

Head Pressure

Head Pressure

Head pressure can have various causes and symptoms that affect different areas depending on whether the cause is a headache, allergies, injury, illness, or disease. The location of the pressure or pain can help a doctor of chiropractic determine the cause.

  • The underlying factor is usually not life-threatening, but the pressure that has built can be the result of serious conditions like a head injury or brain tumor.
  • Chiropractic ​care, which includes a combination of spinal manipulation, active and passive exercises, and massage, is often used for headache management and prevention. (Moore Craig, et al., 2018)
  • Chiropractic therapy is often sought out for tension and cervicogenic headaches, migraines, and each responds differently to the treatment.

The Head

  • The head is made up of a complex system of lobes, sinuses/channels, blood vessels, nerves, and ventricles. (Thau L, et al., 2022)
  • The pressure of these systems is regulated and any disruption to this balance can be noticeable.
  • Diagnosis can be difficult to figure out what is causing discomfort or head pressure.
  • Pain, pressure, irritability, and nausea are all symptoms that can occur with headaches. (Rizzoli P, Mullally W. 2017)

Location

  • Head pressure in more than one spot is possible with a migraine or a severe cold. (American Migraine Foundation 2023)
  • Pain can present in more than one area if there has been a head injury.
  • If the pressure is more specific in a certain region, it can help provide clues about the cause of the symptoms.
  • Medical issues can cause pressure in different areas. (Rizzoli P, Mullally W. 2017)
  • An example is a sinus infection which can cause pressure under the eyes and around the nose.
  • A migraine or tension headache can present as: (MedlinePlus. Migraine 2021)
  • A tight band around the head.
  • Pain or pressure behind the eyes.
  • Stiffness and pressure in the back of the head and/or neck.

Causes of Pressure

The root cause of the problem is not always clear. There can be a number of potential causes.

Tension Headache

Tension headaches are the most common that feels like pressure squeezing the head. They usually develop because of tightening scalp muscles caused by:

  • Stress
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Head injuries
  • Unusual positioning of the head or illness can cause tension headaches.

Other than muscle tension, tension headaches can develop from: (MedlinePlus. Tension headache.)

  • Physical stress
  • Emotional stress
  • Eye strain
  • Fatigue
  • Overexertion
  • Overuse of caffeine
  • Caffeine withdrawal
  • Over alcohol use
  • Sinus infections
  • A cold or flu
  • Smoking
  • Tension headaches can also run in families. (MedlinePlus. Tension headache.)

Sinus Headache

  • A sinus headache – rhinosinusitis – is caused by a viral or bacterial infection in the sinus cavities. (American Migraine Foundation 2023)
  • There are sinus cavities on each side of the nose, between the eyes, in the cheeks, and on the forehead.
  • The location of where these headaches cause pressure varies, depending on which sinuses are infected. (Cedars Sinai. Sinus Conditions and Treatments)
  • Sinus infection headaches are obvious from the discolored nasal drainage.
  • Individuals can have facial pain and pressure, lose their sense of smell, or have a fever. (American Migraine Foundation 2023)

Ear Conditions

  • The ears help the body sense movement and balance.
  • A problem in the inner ear that helps control balance can cause a type of migraine known as a vestibular migraine. (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association)
  • This type of migraine doesn’t always present with pain symptoms.
  • Problems with balance and feelings of vertigo/sense of spinning are common with these types of migraines. (American Migraine Foundation)
  • An ear infection can also cause feelings of head pressure and/or pain.
  • Infections can cause pressure to build on the delicate structures of the middle and inner ear.
  • These infections are usually caused by viral illness or bacteria. (FamilyDoctor.org)

Neurological Causes

  • Neurological diseases and conditions can lead to increased pressure in the head.
  • The pain symptoms depend on the specific cause.
  • For example, a stroke can affect the whole head, while decreased brain fluid levels may affect just the base of the skull.
  • The latter condition is known as intracranial hypertension which means increased pressure in the brain. (Schizodimos, T et al., 2020)
  • For some individuals, there is no clear cause, this is known as idiopathic intracranial hypertension. (Wall, Michael. 2017) (National Health Service 2023)

Other causes of increased intracranial pressure include:

Other

  • Head pressure can also occur only at times when standing up, bending down to pick up an object, or otherwise changing posture in some way that blood pressure is affected.

Chiropractic Treatment

The Injury Medical team will develop a personalized treatment plan to help relieve pressure symptoms through a multidisciplinary approach that can include. (Moore Craig, et al., 2018)

  • Spinal manipulation
  • Low-load craniocervical mobilization
  • Joint mobilization
  • Decompression
  • Deep neck flexion exercises
  • Neuromuscular massage
  • Physical therapy exercises
  • Relaxation techniques
  • Stress management
  • Nutritional recommendations

Multidisciplinary Evaluation and Treatment

References

Moore, C., Leaver, A., Sibbritt, D., & Adams, J. (2018). The management of common recurrent headaches by chiropractors: a descriptive analysis of a nationally representative survey. BMC neurology, 18(1), 171. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12883-018-1173-6

Thau, L., Reddy, V., & Singh, P. (2022). Anatomy, Central Nervous System. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing.

Rizzoli, P., & Mullally, W. J. (2018). Headache. The American journal of medicine, 131(1), 17–24. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjmed.2017.09.005

American Migraine Foundation. Is it a migraine or a sinus headache?

MedlinePlus. Migraine.

MedlinePlus. Tension headache.

Cedars Sinai. Sinus conditions and treatments.

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. Dizziness and balance.

American Migraine Foundation. What to know about vestibular migraine.

FamilyDoctor.org. Ear infection.

Schizodimos, T., Soulountsi, V., Iasonidou, C., & Kapravelos, N. (2020). An overview of the management of intracranial hypertension in the intensive care unit. Journal of Anesthesia, 34(5), 741–757. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00540-020-02795-7

Wall M. (2017). Update on Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension. Neurologic Clinics, 35(1), 45–57. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ncl.2016.08.004

National Health Service. Intracranial hypertension.

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Hydrocephalus. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/hydrocephalus

The Efficacy Of Spinal Decompression For Low Back Pain

By
Dr Alexander D Jimenez DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP
-

How efficient is spinal decompression to alleviate pain-like symptoms in many individuals with low back pain?

Introduction

Low back pain is a common condition that affects many people worldwide. It can cause discomfort and prevent individuals from returning to their normal routines. The pain can be specific or non-specific, depending on the severity of the symptoms. It can also be associated with other musculoskeletal conditions, such as sciatica, DDD, and osteoarthritis, affecting the spine’s mobility and stability. Fortunately, treatments are available to reduce the pain and associated symptoms while relieving the lumbar spinal region. At the same time, working with certified medical providers who use our patients’ information to treat individuals experiencing pain-like symptoms associated with low back pain. We inform them that non-surgical treatments like decompression can help reduce the progression of low back pain and its associated pain-like symptoms. At the same time, we also explain to them how adding decompression to their routine can alleviate the pain-like symptoms. We encourage our patients to ask essential questions while seeking education from our associated medical providers about their situation. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., provides this information as an educational service. Disclaimer

 

The Burden Of Low Back Pain

Do you often experience muscle stiffness and aches from excessive sitting at your desk job? Do you feel excruciating pain in your hips and low back after a long day of moving heavy objects? Or do you feel constant pain after moving from one location to another, only to find relief when resting? Many of these scenarios are a normal routine associated with low back pain for many working people. Since low back pain is common worldwide, it can greatly impact many individuals trying to alleviate it. For many individuals dealing with low back pain, it can be an economic burden, and it causes unnecessary stress to the working individual. (Maetzel & Li, 2002) When a person is dealing with low back pain and is working, it can lead to work disability which then cascades to frequent doctor visits to missing time off work to eventually short-term disability. At the same time, low back pain has many potential, either normal or traumatic factors affecting the region of the lower back, hips, and buttocks. Many individuals with low back pain noticed the corresponding relationship between the genetic and environmental factors that often correspond to where the pain is localized. (Manek & MacGregor, 2005)

 

 

Low back pain can often develop at an early age and be associated with serious pathologies (Jones & Macfarlane, 2005) that can correlate with environmental factors that lead to spinal misalignment or subluxation. Low back pain covers a huge spectrum of pain-like conditions that are frequently overlapped and can be prone to different stressors that can impact the body while becoming a challenge to diagnose when getting treated. (Knezevic et al., 2021) However, many individuals with low back pain can find relief from not only the economic burden of low back pain but also find the right therapies to alleviate pain-like symptoms associated with low back pain from their bodies.

 

Body In Balance- Video

Body In Balance *CHIROPRACTIC + FITNESS + NUTRITION* El Paso, Tx (2023)

When it comes to treating low back pain, many individuals will go to their primary doctors for a physical examination to determine where the pain radiates in the lumbar region. (Chou, Qaseem, et al., 2007) At the same time, the individual’s primary doctor should assess what factors are the causes for the development of low back pain and come up with a customized treatment plan to reduce the pain from the lumbar region while also working with other medical professionals to kick start the person’s health and wellness journey. Numerous non-surgical treatments are cost-effective, safe, and non-pharmacological when alleviating low back pain. They can provide positive, beneficial results after a few sessions of treatments to reduce low back pain. Non-surgical treatments like chiropractic care, massage therapy, spinal decompression, and physical therapy can help relieve many individuals with low back pain. The video above explains how these treatments, combined with the right tools, can help bring balance back into the body.

The Efficacy Of Spinal Decompression

When reducing the effects of low back pain, non-surgical treatments are cost-effective and safe for many individuals with low back pain. Many non-surgical therapies are efficient for chronic or acute low back pain and can be combined with numerous therapies to reduce the chances of low back pain from returning in the future. (Chou, Huffman, et al., 2007) Non-surgical treatments like spinal decompression are efficient for low back pain as it helps stretch the tight, shortened muscles in the lumbar region and reduce any pain-like symptoms associated with low back pain.

 

How Spinal Decompression Alleviates Low Back Pain

Now how would spinal decompression alleviate low back pain? Well, since low back pain has many factors that can contribute to its development, one of these factors that can contribute to low back pain is compressed intervertebral discs. When the spinal discs are compressed, they can become herniated under pressure and aggravate the spinal nerve root, leading to low back pain symptoms. With spinal decompression, individuals will be strapped to a traction machine and have their bodies gently pulled to reduce pressure off the aggravated nerve and pull the disc back into its original position. To that point, spinal decompression allows mobility back to the lower extremities and improves stability in the lumbar region. (Meszaros et al., 2000) Additionally, decompression can help reduce the effects of low back pain, whether done manually or through a traction machine that allows negative pressure into the spine while allowing the body to heal itself and rehydrate the spinal discs naturally. (Macario et al., 2008) With spinal decompression combined with other therapies, many people can return to work pain-free while being more mindful of how they listen to their bodies.

 

References

Chou, R., Huffman, L. H., American Pain, S., & American College of, P. (2007). Nonpharmacologic therapies for acute and chronic low back pain: a review of the evidence for an American Pain Society/American College of Physicians clinical practice guideline. Ann Intern Med, 147(7), 492-504. https://doi.org/10.7326/0003-4819-147-7-200710020-00007

 

Chou, R., Qaseem, A., Snow, V., Casey, D., Cross, J. T., Jr., Shekelle, P., Owens, D. K., Clinical Efficacy Assessment Subcommittee of the American College of, P., American College of, P., & American Pain Society Low Back Pain Guidelines, P. (2007). Diagnosis and treatment of low back pain: a joint clinical practice guideline from the American College of Physicians and the American Pain Society. Ann Intern Med, 147(7), 478-491. https://doi.org/10.7326/0003-4819-147-7-200710020-00006

 

Jones, G. T., & Macfarlane, G. J. (2005). Epidemiology of low back pain in children and adolescents. Arch Dis Child, 90(3), 312-316. https://doi.org/10.1136/adc.2004.056812

 

Knezevic, N. N., Candido, K. D., Vlaeyen, J. W. S., Van Zundert, J., & Cohen, S. P. (2021). Low back pain. The Lancet, 398(10294), 78-92. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0140-6736(21)00733-9

 

Macario, A., Richmond, C., Auster, M., & Pergolizzi, J. V. (2008). Treatment of 94 Outpatients With Chronic Discogenic Low Back Pain with the DRX9000: A Retrospective Chart Review. Pain Practice, 8(1), 11-17. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1533-2500.2007.00167.x

 

Maetzel, A., & Li, L. (2002). The economic burden of low back pain: a review of studies published between 1996 and 2001. Best Pract Res Clin Rheumatol, 16(1), 23-30. https://doi.org/10.1053/berh.2001.0204

 

Manek, N. J., & MacGregor, A. J. (2005). Epidemiology of back disorders: prevalence, risk factors, and prognosis. Curr Opin Rheumatol, 17(2), 134-140. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.bor.0000154215.08986.06

 

Meszaros, T. F., Olson, R., Kulig, K., Creighton, D., & Czarnecki, E. (2000). Effect of 10%, 30%, and 60% body weight traction on the straight leg raise test of symptomatic patients with low back pain. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther, 30(10), 595-601. https://doi.org/10.2519/jospt.2000.30.10.595

 

Disclaimer

Black Pepper Health Benefits

By
Dr Alexander D Jimenez DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP
-
Black pepper corns and powder on white stone background, top view

Should individuals increase their intake of black pepper to help with various health issues like fighting inflammation, strengthening the immune system, and improving digestion?

Black Pepper Health Benefits

Black Pepper

One of the most popular spices, black pepper offers anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing effects. Piperine is the compound that gives black pepper its flavor, helps prevent inflammation, (Gorgani Leila, et al., 2016), and helps to increase the absorption of selenium, vitamin B12, and turmeric. (Dudhatra GB, et al., 2012) Piperine has been found to be almost as effective as prednisolone – a common medication for arthritis – in reducing symptoms.

  • Black pepper has been used in ancient Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years because of its concentration of beneficial plant compounds. (Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2023)
  • Pepper is made by grinding peppercorns, which are dried berries from the vine Piper nigrum.
  • The plant is a tall woody plant with small flowers that bloom a yellowish-red color.
  • It has a sharp and mildly spicy flavor that goes with all kinds of dishes.

Nutrition

The following nutrition is for 1 tablespoon of black pepper. (USDA, FoodData Central)

  • Calories – 17
  • Fat – 0.2g
  • Carbohydrates – 4.4g
  • Sodium – 1.38mg
  • Fiber – 1.8g
  • Sugars – 0g
  • Protein – 0.7g
  • Magnesium – 11.8mg
  • Vitamin K – 11.3mg
  • Calcium – 30.6mg
  • Iron – 0.7mg
  • Potassium – 91.7mg
  • Black pepper provides vitamin K, necessary for blood clotting, bone metabolism, and regulating blood calcium levels.
  • Additional vitamins include C, E, A, and B vitamins, calcium, and potassium. (Platel K, Srinivasan K., et al., 2016)

Benefits

Decrease Inflammation

Inflammation is the immune system’s response to injury, illness, or any mental or physical stressor, that triggers the body’s healing and repair process. However, long-term inflammation can lead to various health problems and, in individuals that begin to develop arthritis, joint degeneration. Damage to the body’s pain processors can exacerbate pain and other uncomfortable symptoms.

  • The main active component piperine, has been shown to decrease inflammation. (Kunnumakkara AB, et al., 2018)
  • Chronic inflammation can be a cause of diabetes, arthritis, asthma, and heart disease.
  • While the anti-inflammatory effects have not been extensively studied in humans, there are several mouse studies that show promising results.
  • In one study, treatment for arthritis with piperine resulted in less joint swelling and decreased inflammation markers. (Bang JS, Oh DH, Choi HM, et al., 2009)

Antioxidants

  • The active compound, piperine is rich in antioxidants, which prevent or delay the free radical damaging effects from exposure to pollution, smoke, and the sun.
  • Free radicals are associated with diseases like heart disease and cancer. (Lobo V., et al., 2010)
  • In one study, rats with a diet of concentrated black pepper had less free radical damage than a group that did not ingest concentrated black pepper. (Vijayakumar RS, Surya D, Nalini N. 2004)

Brain Function Improvement

  • Piperine has been shown to decrease symptoms associated with Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s and improve brain function. (Ramaswamy Kannappan, et al., 2011)
    Studies show piperine increased memory as well as the ability to decrease the production of amyloid plaques, which are damaging proteins associated with Alzheimer’s disease.

Blood Sugar Control Improvement

  • Studies suggest that piperine can improve blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity.
  • In one study, individuals with insulin resistance took a piperine supplement for 8 weeks.
  • After 8 weeks, improvements were seen in the response to the insulin hormone to remove glucose from the blood (Rondanelli M, et al., 2013)

Improved Nutrient Absorption

  • Black pepper is considered to have the ability to bind and activate with other foods for improved positive health effects.
  • It increases the absorption of certain nutrients such as calcium, turmeric, selenium, and green tea.
  • It is often recommended to consume calcium or selenium with a source of black pepper and to ensure any turmeric supplement you take contains black pepper. (Shoba G, et al., 1998)

Storage

  • Whole peppercorns sealed in a container and stored in a cool, dry place can last up to a year.
  • Over time ground black pepper loses its flavor, therefore it is recommended to use within 4 to 6 months.

Allergic Reactions

  • If you believe you are allergic to black pepper, see a healthcare professional who can perform testing to determine the root cause of symptoms.
  • Allergies can present as tingling or itching in the mouth, hives, abdominal pain, and possible nausea and vomiting.
  • Symptoms can also include wheezing, congestion, and/or swelling of the lips, tongue, mouth, and throat.
  • Black pepper can be substituted with spices like chili powder, cayenne pepper, and allspice.

The Healing Diet

References

Gorgani, L., Mohammadi, M., Najafpour, G. D., & Nikzad, M. (2017). Piperine-The Bioactive Compound of Black Pepper: From Isolation to Medicinal Formulations. Comprehensive reviews in food science and food safety, 16(1), 124–140. https://doi.org/10.1111/1541-4337.12246

Dudhatra, G. B., Mody, S. K., Awale, M. M., Patel, H. B., Modi, C. M., Kumar, A., Kamani, D. R., & Chauhan, B. N. (2012). A comprehensive review on pharmacotherapeutics of herbal bio-enhancers. TheScientificWorldJournal, 2012, 637953. https://doi.org/10.1100/2012/637953

Johns Hopkins Medicine. Ayurveda, 2023. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/ayurveda

USDA, FoodData Central. Spices, pepper, black.

Platel, K., & Srinivasan, K. (2016). Bioavailability of Micronutrients from Plant Foods: An Update. Critical reviews in food science and nutrition, 56(10), 1608–1619. https://doi.org/10.1080/10408398.2013.781011

Kunnumakkara, A. B., Sailo, B. L., Banik, K., Harsha, C., Prasad, S., Gupta, S. C., Bharti, A. C., & Aggarwal, B. B. (2018). Chronic diseases, inflammation, and spices: how are they linked? Journal of translational medicine, 16(1), 14. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12967-018-1381-2

Bang, J. S., Oh, D. H., Choi, H. M., Sur, B. J., Lim, S. J., Kim, J. Y., Yang, H. I., Yoo, M. C., Hahm, D. H., & Kim, K. S. (2009). Anti-inflammatory and antiarthritic effects of piperine in human interleukin 1beta-stimulated fibroblast-like synoviocytes and in rat arthritis models. Arthritis research & therapy, 11(2), R49. https://doi.org/10.1186/ar2662

Lobo, V., Patil, A., Phatak, A., & Chandra, N. (2010). Free radicals, antioxidants, and functional foods: Impact on human health. Pharmacognosy reviews, 4(8), 118–126. https://doi.org/10.4103/0973-7847.70902

Vijayakumar, R. S., Surya, D., & Nalini, N. (2004). Antioxidant efficacy of black pepper (Piper nigrum L.) and piperine in rats with high-fat diet-induced oxidative stress. Redox report: communications in free radical research, 9(2), 105–110. https://doi.org/10.1179/135100004225004742

Kannappan, R., Gupta, S. C., Kim, J. H., Reuter, S., & Aggarwal, B. B. (2011). Neuroprotection by spice-derived nutraceuticals: you are what you eat! Molecular neurobiology, 44(2), 142–159. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12035-011-8168-2

Rondanelli, M., Opizzi, A., Perna, S., Faliva, M., Solerte, S. B., Fioravanti, M., Klersy, C., Cava, E., Paolini, M., Scavone, L., Ceccarelli, P., Castellaneta, E., Savina, C., & Donini, L. M. (2013). Improvement in insulin resistance and favorable changes in plasma inflammatory adipokines after weight loss associated with two months’ consumption of a combination of bioactive food ingredients in overweight subjects. Endocrine, 44(2), 391–401. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12020-012-9863-0

Shoba, G., Joy, D., Joseph, T., Majeed, M., Rajendran, R., & Srinivas, P. S. (1998). Influence of piperine on the pharmacokinetics of curcumin in animals and human volunteers. Planta medica, 64(4), 353–356. https://doi.org/10.1055/s-2006-957450

Lumbar Disc Degeneration Relieved With Decompression

By
Dr Alexander D Jimenez DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP
-

How does decompression alleviate sciatic nerve pain in many working individuals with lumbar disc degeneration?

Introduction

The discs between the spinal vertebrae act as a cushion when pressure is added to the body. These discs get compressed when the body is in motion. Our bodies and spines also age as we age, which causes the spinal intervertebral disc to degenerate over time. The outer part of the spinal disc may crack under pressure, causing the inner part to protrude and irritate the spinal nerve roots. This can cause sciatic nerve pain, which may result in radiating pain in the legs, buttocks, and lower back. This can cause mobility issues and disability, making it difficult for working individuals to perform their jobs. Non-surgical treatments, such as safe and gentle traction, can help alleviate sciatic nerve pain by reducing pressure on the spine and maintaining disc height. By slowing down the progression of lumbar disc degeneration, individuals can reduce the frequency of visits to their primary care doctors and avoid disability. Today’s article provides an overview of lumbar disc degeneration, its association with sciatic nerve pain, and the benefits of decompression in restoring disc height and reducing pain. As we work with certified medical providers who use our patients’ information to treat individuals experiencing sciatic nerve pain associated with lumbar disc degeneration. We inform them that non-surgical treatments like decompression can help reduce the progression of lumbar disc degeneration and reduce sciatic nerve pain. At the same time, we also explain to them how adding decompression to their routine can alleviate the pain-like symptoms. We encourage our patients to ask essential questions while seeking education from our associated medical providers about their situation. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., provides this information as an educational service. Disclaimer

 

Lumbar Disc Degeneration Overview

Have you begun to notice how your legs, buttocks, and feet are constantly experiencing tingling sensations that it makes it difficult to do everyday actions? Do you feel excruciating pain in your legs while standing, only to find relief from resting? Or do you notice that you are getting aches and muscle strains from normal motion like bending, twisting, and turning after waking up in the morning? Many individuals, especially older working adults, are experiencing these issues due to lumbar disc degeneration. Now lumbar disc degeneration usually occurs naturally as the body ages, which then causes the intervertebral disc to wear and tear constantly under pressure, then cracks and causes the disc to herniate. Since the intervertebral disc provides structural support and shock absorption against mechanical loads to the lumbar region, when normal or traumatic factors cause changes, it can cause dysfunction and instability in the lumbar spine. (Mohd Isa et al., 2022)

 

 

When the intervertebral discs begin to crack under pressure, it can cause pain-like symptoms affecting the upper and lower extremities. Additionally, lumbar disc degeneration can cause spinal flexibility to decrease and reduce the spine’s ROM (range of motion), which causes more stress on the surrounding muscles, ligaments, and tissues. Lumbar disc degeneration can cascade events from disc bulging to nerve root irritation. (Liyew, 2020) This means that when there are advanced degenerative changes to the lumbar facet joints and the surrounding soft tissues, it can cause the spinal canal to narrow and compress the adjacent nerve root. To that point, it can lead to reduce disc height and lead to sciatic nerve pain.

 

Lumbar Disc Degeneration Associated With Sciatica

Now how would lumbar disc degeneration be associated with sciatic nerve pain? When the intervertebral disc is being compressed under unwanted pressure, it can crack over time and herniate out of its original position, which then can press on the nerve root causing radiating pain to travel to the affected muscle area. Since the sciatic nerve is positioned in the lumbosacral region, it runs from the top of the gluteus muscles and down to the back of the hamstrings and calves. When unwanted pressure causes the intervertebral disc to herniate and start to affect the sciatic nerve, it causes a frequent symptom known as lumbar sciatica, where the herniated disc is compressing the sciatic nerve. (Zitouna et al., 2019) To that point, it can cause radiating, shooting pain down to the leg, making it difficult for individuals with demanding jobs to find relief. Since the lumbar intervertebral discs have a corresponding relationship with the central nervous system, the nerve roots that surround the spinal discs help with providing neuron signals to the adjacent muscles, which allows the arms, hands, legs, and feet to move. (Bogduk, Tynan, & Wilson, 1981) However, when the intervertebral discs are herniated, it can disrupt the neuron signaling to the muscles and cause referred pain to the lower or upper extremities. When this happens, many individuals opt to seek treatment.

 

Sciatica Secrets Revealed- Video

Sciatica Secrets Revealed! | El Paso, Tx (2023)

Many individuals dealing with sciatic nerve pain associated with lumbar disc degeneration will often find temporary relief to continue their work despite constant pain. This is due to the unwanted pressure that is causing an overload on the spinal disc to cause them to degenerate and invoke pain in the lower regions. At the same time, age and degenerative structural changes have a close relationship that can cause a greater effect on stress distribution to the lower back. (Adams, McNally, & Dolan, 1996) This leads to overlapping risk profiles contributing to sciatic nerve pain associated with lumbar disc degeneration due to normal and traumatic factors. However, many individuals don’t have to suffer from pain-like symptoms related to lumbar disc degeneration as there are numerous treatments to restore disc height and reduce sciatic nerve pain. Non-surgical treatments are great for many individuals looking for cost-efficiency and can be personalized to the person’s pain. (Louis-Sidney et al., 2022) Non-surgical treatments like chiropractic care, massage and physical therapy, and spinal decompression can help many individuals with lumbar disc degeneration associated with sciatic nerve pain. These treatments incorporate mechanical and manual manipulation of the spine to realign the body out of subluxation while incorporating various techniques to stretch out the soft tissues and muscles to strengthen their length and reduce nerve entrapment. The video above explains a bit more about how these treatments can restore mobility to the body, reduce inflammation, and relieve muscle tension caused by lumbar disc degeneration associated with sciatic nerve pain.

Spinal Decompression Restores Disc Height

Now non-surgical treatments like spinal decompression can help reduce the progress of lumbar disc degeneration by restoring disc height. Spinal decompression uses gentle traction on the spine to allow the necessary nutrients, fluids, and blood to be reabsorbed back into the spine. It will enable the herniated disc to return to its original position and rehydrate it. (Yu et al., 2022) Since the spine and body age naturally, spinal decompression can restore disc height by creating negative pressure to regain mobility and stretch out the affected muscles surrounding the spine.

 

Spinal Decompression Reduces Sciatic Nerve Pain

Additionally, decompression can help reduce sciatic nerve pain as it can help the herniated disc alleviate the pressure on the sciatic nerve and can restore mobility to the body. Spinal decompression can become a positive outcome for many working individuals as it allows individuals to be more mindful of their habits that were the cause of the pain they were experiencing. (Brogger et al., 2018) With non-surgical treatments like spinal decompression, many individuals can become efficient with work while being more conscious about what factors contribute to the pain. This, in turn, allows them to focus on their well-being and strengthen their weak points with a personalized plan that will enable them to make small changes in their day-to-day lives and become pain-free after a few consecutive treatments.

 

References

Adams, M. A., McNally, D. S., & Dolan, P. (1996). ‘Stress’ distributions inside intervertebral discs. The effects of age and degeneration. J Bone Joint Surg Br, 78(6), 965-972. https://doi.org/10.1302/0301-620x78b6.1287

 

Bogduk, N., Tynan, W., & Wilson, A. S. (1981). The nerve supply to the human lumbar intervertebral discs. J Anat, 132(Pt 1), 39-56. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7275791

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1233394/pdf/janat00225-0045.pdf

 

Brogger, H. A., Maribo, T., Christensen, R., & Schiottz-Christensen, B. (2018). Comparative effectiveness and prognostic factors for outcome of surgical and non-surgical management of lumbar spinal stenosis in an elderly population: protocol for an observational study. BMJ Open, 8(12), e024949. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2018-024949

 

Liyew, W. A. (2020). Clinical Presentations of Lumbar Disc Degeneration and Lumbosacral Nerve Lesions. Int J Rheumatol, 2020, 2919625. https://doi.org/10.1155/2020/2919625

 

Louis-Sidney, F., Duby, J. F., Signate, A., Arfi, S., De Bandt, M., Suzon, B., & Cabre, P. (2022). Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Treatment: Is Surgery Better than Non-Surgical Treatments in Afro-Descendant Populations? Biomedicines, 10(12). https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines10123144

 

Mohd Isa, I. L., Teoh, S. L., Mohd Nor, N. H., & Mokhtar, S. A. (2022). Discogenic Low Back Pain: Anatomy, Pathophysiology and Treatments of Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. Int J Mol Sci, 24(1). https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms24010208

 

Yu, P., Mao, F., Chen, J., Ma, X., Dai, Y., Liu, G., Dai, F., & Liu, J. (2022). Characteristics and mechanisms of resorption in lumbar disc herniation. Arthritis Res Ther, 24(1), 205. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13075-022-02894-8

 

Zitouna, K., Selmene, M. A., Derbel, B., Rekik, S., Drissi, G., & Barsaoui, M. (2019). An unexpected etiology of lumbosciatica. Tunis Med, 97(12), 1415-1418. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32173813

Disclaimer

Gender Expression: LGBTQ+ Inclusive Healthcare

By
Dr Alexander D Jimenez DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP
-
Physiotherapy, rehabilitation and healthcare with a man and woman in discussion about treatment in .

Gender is a concept with many facets. Everyone has a gender expression. Can learning about gender expression help healthcare professionals provide better and more effective treatment plans for the LGBTQ+ community?

Gender Expression: LGBTQ+ Inclusive Healthcare

Gender Expression

Gender expression refers to the ways that individuals present their gender identity and themselves. This can be clothing, haircuts, behaviors, etc. For many, there can be confusion between what society expects from their gender and how these individuals choose to present themselves. Gender expression is constructed from the culture that surrounds it, meaning that there may be a shared social expectation about gender. It can also mean that the same feminine hair or clothing style in one setting could be seen as masculine in another.

  • Society tries to regulate expression by making women wear certain kinds of clothes, and men other kinds, in order to participate in school, work, and when in public.
  • When cultures enforce gender norms it is known as gender policing, which can range from dress codes to physical and emotional punishment.
  • Creating a safe space for all genders requires awareness of these explicit or implicit gender norms so policing can be prevented. (José A Bauermeister, et al., 2017)
  • Research has shown that there are increased rates of discrimination against transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals compared with bias against those who are LGBTQ. (Elizabeth Kiebel, et al., 2020)

Health Care

  • Gender expression can and does affect access to and quality of health care.
  • Individuals with a gender expression that is different from what is expected for their assigned sex at birth may experience increased bias and harassment from providers. (Human Rights Watch. 2018)
  • A significant percentage of patients feared health workers would treat them differently because of their expression. (Cemile Hurrem Balik Ayhan et al., 2020)
  • Minority stress has been shown to play an important role in health imbalances. (I H Meyer. 1995)
  • Research suggests that gender expression is a part of the minority stress described by cisgender sexual minorities and gender minorities. (Puckett JA, et al., 2016)

Better Training

  • The effects of gender expression are different depending on a person’s sex, gender identity, and their setting.
  • However, doctors do need to know a person’s sex that was assigned at birth to be able to do proper screening tests, like screening for prostate or cervical cancer.
  • One way to be more affirming is for the doctor to introduce themselves first, using their own pronouns.
  • Health workers should ask everyone what name they prefer to be called and what pronouns they use.
  • This simple act invites the patient to share without creating awkward uneasiness.

Each person chooses how to present themselves to the world, and we respect all. We at Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic will work to address the effects of minority stress on health disparities and raise awareness of the ways to continually improve positive experiences for LGTBQ+ individuals seeking inclusive health care for neuromusculoskeletal injuries, conditions, fitness, nutritional, and functional health.

Revolutionizing Healthcare

References

Bauermeister, J. A., Connochie, D., Jadwin-Cakmak, L., & Meanley, S. (2017). Gender Policing During Childhood and the Psychological Well-Being of Young Adult Sexual Minority Men in the United States. American journal of men’s health, 11(3), 693–701. https://doi.org/10.1177/1557988316680938

Kiebel, E., Bosson, J. K., & Caswell, T. A. (2020). Essentialist Beliefs and Sexual Prejudice Toward Feminine Gay Men. Journal of homosexuality, 67(8), 1097–1117. https://doi.org/10.1080/00918369.2019.1603492

Human Rights Watch. “You Don’t Want Second Best”—Anti-LGBT Discrimination in US Health Care.

Ayhan, C. H. B., Bilgin, H., Uluman, O. T., Sukut, O., Yilmaz, S., & Buzlu, S. (2020). A Systematic Review of the Discrimination Against Sexual and Gender Minority in Health Care Settings. International journal of health services: planning, administration, evaluation, 50(1), 44–61. https://doi.org/10.1177/0020731419885093

Meyer I. H. (1995). Minority stress and mental health in gay men. Journal of health and social behavior, 36(1), 38–56.

Puckett, J. A., Maroney, M. R., Levitt, H. M., & Horne, S. G. (2016). Relations between gender expression, minority stress, and mental health in cisgender sexual minority women and men. Psychology of Sexual Orientation and Gender Diversity, 3(4), 489–498. https://doi.org/10.1037/sgd0000201

Golfing Wrist Injuries

By
Dr Alexander D Jimenez DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP
-
Beautiful young woman is holding a golf club, looking at camera and smiling while standing on golf course

Golfing wrist injuries are common with treatment requiring 1-3 months of rest and immobilization and if tears are present surgery. Can chiropractic treatment help avoid surgery, expedite recovery, and rehabilitation?

Golfing Wrist Injuries

Golfing Wrist Injuries

Golfing Wrist Injuries: According to a study, there are over 30,000 golf-related injuries treated in American emergency rooms every year. (Walsh, B. A. et al, 2017) Nearly a third are related to a strain, sprain, or stress fracture.

  • One of the most common causes of wrist pain is overuse. (Moon, H. W. et al, 2023)
  • Repeated swinging generates added stress on the tendons and muscles, leading to inflammation and pain.
  • Improper swing techniques can cause the wrists to twist uncomfortably, resulting in inflammation, soreness, and injuries.
  • Golfers who grip the club too tightly can add unnecessary strain on their wrists, leading to pain and weakened grip.

Wrist Tendonitis

  • The most common wrist injury is an inflammation of the tendons. (Ray, G. et al, 2023)
  • This condition is often caused by overuse or repetitive motion.
  • It usually develops in the leading hand from bending the wrist forward on the backswing and then extends backward at the finish.

Wrist Sprains

  • These can occur when the golf club hits an object, like a tree root, and makes the wrist bend and/or twist awkwardly. (Zouzias et al., 2018)

Hamate Bone Fractures

  • When the club hits the ground abnormally it can compress the handle against the bony hooks at the end of the smaller hamate/carpal bones.

Ulnar Tunnel Syndrome

  • This can cause inflammation, and numbness, and is usually caused by an improper or loose grip.
  • It causes nerve damage to the wrist from repeated bumping of the golf club handle against the palm.

de Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

  • This is a repetitive motion injury below the thumb at the wrist. (Tan, H. K. et al, 2014)
  • This causes pain and inflammation and is usually accompanied by a grinding sensation when moving the thumb and wrist.

Chiropractic Treatment

Given the nature of these injuries, medical attention should be sought out for image scans to look at any damage and properly immobilize the wrist. Once a fracture has been ruled out or healed, golfing wrist injuries can benefit from chiropractic and physical therapy. (Hulbert, J. R. et al, 2005) A typical treatment may involve a multifaceted approach involving various therapies including:

  • Active release therapy, myofascial release, athletic taping, corrective exercise, and stretching. 
  • A chiropractor will examine the wrist and its functioning to determine the nature of the injury.
  • A chiropractor may recommend using a splint to immobilize the wrist, particularly in cases of overuse.
  • They will relieve pain and swelling first, then focus on strengthening the joint.
  • They may recommend a regimen of icing the hand.
  • Adjustments and manipulations will relieve pressure on the nerves to reduce swelling and restore mobility.

Peripheral Neuropathy Successful Recovery

References

Walsh, B. A., Chounthirath, T., Friedenberg, L., & Smith, G. A. (2017). Golf-related injuries treated in United States emergency departments. The American journal of emergency medicine, 35(11), 1666–1671. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajem.2017.05.035

Moon, H. W., & Kim, J. S. (2023). Golf-related sports injuries of the musculoskeletal system. Journal of exercise rehabilitation, 19(2), 134–138. https://doi.org/10.12965/jer.2346128.064

Ray, G., Sandean, D. P., & Tall, M. A. (2023). Tenosynovitis. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing.

Zouzias, I. C., Hendra, J., Stodelle, J., & Limpisvasti, O. (2018). Golf Injuries: Epidemiology, Pathophysiology, and Treatment. The Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 26(4), 116–123. https://doi.org/10.5435/JAAOS-D-15-00433

Tan, H. K., Chew, N., Chew, K. T., & Peh, W. C. (2014). Clinics in diagnostic imaging (156). Golf-induced hamate hook fracture. Singapore medical journal, 55(10), 517–521. https://doi.org/10.11622/smedj.2014133

Hulbert, J. R., Printon, R., Osterbauer, P., Davis, P. T., & Lamaack, R. (2005). Chiropractic treatment of hand and wrist pain in older people: systematic protocol development. Part 1: informant interviews. Journal of chiropractic medicine, 4(3), 144–151. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0899-3467(07)60123-2

A Cost-Effective Treatment For Lumbosacral Pain

By
Dr Alexander D Jimenez DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP
-

In individuals with lumbosacral pain, how do cost-effective treatments compare to traditional care treatments affect muscle strain?

Introduction

The human spine is divided into three sections, which form an S-curve shape that supports the upper and lower body parts, maintaining good posture during movement. The spinal discs or intervertebral discs act as shock absorbers within each section of the spinal column. They help reduce axial overload and protect the spinal cord. The cervical, thoracic, and lumbar sections have specific roles in the upper and lower body parts, ensuring comfort and pain-free movement. However, many people engage in normal activities such as lifting improperly, sitting excessively, or carrying an unreasonable weight, leading to pain and disability over time without proper care. The lumbosacral region of the spine is the most commonly injured and is linked to low back pain. Lumbosacral pain can result from normal or traumatic factors, making individuals miss work or daily activities, leading to financial burdens when visiting a doctor. Symptoms associated with lumbosacral pain can cause referred pain to other parts of the body, leading individuals to think that the primary pain location is elsewhere. Fortunately, various cost-effective treatments can reduce the effects of lumbosacral pain and alleviate muscle strain in the lower back region. This article focuses on the many factors associated with lumbosacral pain, cost-effective treatments to reduce it, and the difference between traction and spinal decompression, which can alleviate muscle strain in the lumbosacral spinal region. As we work with certified medical providers who use our patients’ information to treat individuals experiencing lumbosacral pain and explain how combining non-surgical decompression as part of their routine can alleviate the pain-like symptoms affecting the lumbosacral region. We inform them about non-surgical treatments to ease lumbosacral pain while reducing muscle strain. We encourage our patients to ask essential questions while seeking education from our associated medical providers about their situation. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., provides this information as an educational service. Disclaimer

 

Lumbosacral Pain Associated Factors

How many times a day have you been experiencing low back pain associated with lifting heavy objects? Do you feel muscle aches or strains in your lower back from excessing sitting from your job? Or do you feel pain in your lower back after a long day of work that feels better after sitting down? Many individuals don’t often realize that the pain they are feeling in their lumbosacral region could be due to the normal factors that are causing repetitive motions that are causing the spinal discs in the lumbosacral area to be compressed, damaged, or herniated. To that point, lumbosacral pain may correlate with low back pain. Since low back pain is mostly a non-specific issue, many working individuals with a sedentary desk job or an active job requiring physical exertion can be a clue to the causes of low back pain associated with lumbosacral pain. (See Tan & Kumar, 2021) Additionally, lumbosacral pain can cause the individual to have unwanted stress while undergoing treatment. The cost of treating lumbosacral pain associated with the low back can increase drastically.

 

 

The working individual would have to worry about the cost of traditional medical care and how to compensate for the lost wages to pay for the treatment. (Snook, 1988) This leads many individuals to continue working even when in excruciating pain by incorporating home treatments to reduce the pain temporarily. When the lumbosacral spine is dealing with pain, the nerve roots that surround the lumbosacral region will begin to go haywire, causing somato-visceral pain where the sensory signals cause symptoms of tingling and numbness to travel down to the legs, glutes, low back, and thighs. (Vaitkus & Sipylaite, 2021) Luckily, many individuals can be at ease in numerous ways. There are cost-effective treatments to reduce the pain-like issues associated with the lumbosacral region and alleviate the muscle strain caused by lumbosacral pain.

Can Core Exercises Erase Back Pain?-Video

YouTube player

Many individuals will look for home remedies to reduce the pain in the affected muscle area when treating lumbosacral pain associated with low back pain. Many people will opt for exercises, ice/hot packs, or massages to ease low back pain related to lumbosacral pain. (“Simple treatments best for acute low-back problems, say federal guidelines,” 1995) All these treatments are cost-effective and can be combined with non-surgical treatments to stretch the tight muscles, realign the spine, and help rehydrate the spinal discs back to the spine. The video above asks if core exercises can help ease back pain. The video details how weak core muscles correlate with lower back lumbosacral pain. Engaging the core during exercise can help stabilize the lumbosacral region while improving overall wellness.

Cost-Effective Treatments Relieve Lumbosacral Pain

When relieving lumbosacral pain, cost-effective non-surgical treatments can help many individuals find the relief they need. The effects of non-surgical treatments for the lumbosacral vertebrae apply various techniques to the spine by widening the spinal disc height, reducing muscle strain and spasms, and separating the vertebrae. (Colachis & Strohm, 1969) Many individuals have opted for these treatments because they are safe, cost-effective, and gentle on the spine. Since the spinal discs can be compressed due to unwanted axial load, spinal manipulation done by a chiropractor can realign the spine out of subluxation. (Cyriax, 1950) This allows the individual to feel instant relief and reduce the aggravated nerve roots from the lumbosacral spine. Other cost-effective treatments like traction therapy and spinal decompression can also alleviate lumbosacral pain that is causing the issue to many individuals.

 

Traction vs. Spinal Decompression

The difference between traction therapy and spinal decompression therapy varies within the individual and what their personalized treatment plan requires. Traction therapy incorporates half of the person’s body weight with additional weight to reduce nerve root compression and can be combined with other treatments like hot/cold therapies and electro-stimulation; combined with an exercise program can strengthen the weak muscles and reduce muscle strain. (Alrwaily, Almutiri, & Schneider, 2018)
With spinal decompression, many individuals will be strapped into a mechanical machine and feel a gentle pull on their spine. This creates negative pressure between the spine and allows the disc to lay off the aggravating nerve root and promote healing properties back to the disc. (Choi et al., 2022) Spinal decompression causes a direct distraction within the spinal segments with minimal discomfort to the individual. Both cost-effective treatments are suitable for individuals with lumbosacral pain along their spine as they can help relieve pain and reduce muscle strain along the lumbar region after a few sessions. Non-surgical treatments are beneficial for many individuals who are looking to take back their health and wellness without being in pain.

References

Alrwaily, M., Almutiri, M., & Schneider, M. (2018). Assessment of variability in traction interventions for patients with low back pain: a systematic review. Chiropr Man Therap, 26, 35. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12998-018-0205-z

 

Choi, E., Gil, H. Y., Ju, J., Han, W. K., Nahm, F. S., & Lee, P.-B. (2022). Effect of Nonsurgical Spinal Decompression on Intensity of Pain and Herniated Disc Volume in Subacute Lumbar Herniated Disc. International Journal of Clinical Practice, 2022, 6343837. https://doi.org/10.1155/2022/6343837

 

Colachis, S. C., Jr., & Strohm, B. R. (1969). Effects of intermittent traction on separation of lumbar vertebrae. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 50(5), 251-258. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/5769845

 

Cyriax, J. (1950). The treatment of lumbar disk lesions. Br Med J, 2(4694), 1434-1438. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.2.4694.1434

 

See, Q. Y., Tan, J. B., & Kumar, D. S. (2021). Acute low back pain: diagnosis and management. Singapore Med J, 62(6), 271-275. https://doi.org/10.11622/smedj.2021086

 

Simple treatments best for acute low-back problems, say federal guidelines. (1995). Am J Health Syst Pharm, 52(5), 457. https://doi.org/10.1093/ajhp/52.5.457a

 

Snook, S. H. (1988). The costs of back pain in industry. Occup Med, 3(1), 1-5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2963383

 

Vaitkus, A., & Sipylaite, J. (2021). Sensory Perception in Lumbosacral Radiculopathy with Radicular Pain: Feasibility Study of Multimodal Bedside-Suitable Somatosensory Testing. Acta Med Litu, 28(1), 97-111. https://doi.org/10.15388/Amed.2021.28.1.18

Disclaimer

Creating El Paso’s Inclusive Health Care For LGTBQ+

By
Dr Alexander D Jimenez DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP
-

How can physicians create a positive experience for LGTBQ+ individuals seeking inclusive health care for muscle pain?

Introduction

Finding proper treatment for many body pain conditions should not be challenging when numerous factors and conditions can impact a person’s lifestyle. When it comes to these factors can range from their home environment to their medical conditions, which then harms their well-being and not being heard when informed about their situation. This can cause barriers to be built up and causes the individual not to be seen or heard when seeking treatment for their pain. However, many individuals within the LGBTQ+ community can seek numerous personalized solutions to improve their general well-being and have a positive experience that suits their needs. This article explores how inclusive health care can positively impact the LGBTQ+ community and how non-surgical treatments like chiropractic care can be incorporated into a person’s personalized inclusive health care plan. Additionally, we communicate with certified medical providers who integrate our patient’s information to reduce general pain through inclusive healthcare treatment. We also inform them that non-surgical treatments can be a positive experience for them to minimize general body pain. We encourage our patients to ask amazing questions while seeking education from our associated medical providers about their pain conditions in a safe and positive environment. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., incorporates this information as an educational service. Disclaimer

 

What Is Inclusive Health Care?

Have you been dealing with constant stress that is causing pain in your body? Do you feel like there are barriers that are preventing you from getting the relief you need from your pain? Or are many environmental factors preventing you from getting back your health and wellness? Many individuals seeking treatment for general pain or conditions affecting their health and wellness will often research which care treatment suits their wants and needs in a positive and safe manner while being inclusive. Healthcare treatments like inclusive health care can provide a positive and safe outcome for members of the LGBTQ+ community. Inclusive health care can help many healthcare professionals establish an inclusive code of conduct within the LGBTQ+ community to improve health-specific outcomes. (Moran, 2021) Now inclusive health care is defined as removing barriers to health care services that should be equally accessible and affordable to many individuals regardless of age, sexual orientation, and gender identity. For many people within the LGBTQ+ community, many individuals identify as gender minorities. A gender minority is an individual who identifies as gender non-conforming and whose gender identity or expression differs from the conventional gender binary. Inclusive health care is an important aspect for the LGBTQ+ community as it can benefit people in getting the treatment they deserve.

 

How Does Inclusive Health Care Benefits The LGTBQ+ Community?

Regarding inclusive health care, many healthcare providers must respect their patients and their needs when coming in for a general check-up. Since many individuals in the LGBTQ+ community are already dealing with enough stress, especially young people, it is important to have a calm, safe, and non-judgmental environment promoting safety and inclusion. (Diana & Esposito, 2022) There are many ways that inclusive health care can provide beneficial results to the individual and health care provider. Some may include:

  • What pronouns the individual preferred
  • What the individual wants to be identified
  • Being respectful of the patient’s needs
  • Building a trusted relationship with the individual

When individuals in the LGBTQ+ community have inclusive health care in a positive environment, it can create a positive experience for them as it can improve mental health and general well-being and make a huge impact that can be life-saving. (Carroll & Bishop, 2022) The Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Team is committed to building a positive and safe space for individuals in the LGBTQ+ community that need inclusive health care to reduce pain-like symptoms through personalized treatment plans.

How Can Chiropractic Care Transform Pain To Relief-Video

How can Chiropractic Care transform pain into relief | El Paso, Tx (2023)

With many individuals looking for the right kind of treatment for general pain and discomfort, many people will look into non-surgical therapies. Non-surgical treatments can be beneficial for many individuals in the LGBTQ+ community as it is safe and can provide individuals with an understanding of what is impacting their bodies. Non-surgical treatments like chiropractic care, spinal decompression, and MET therapy can alleviate pain-like symptoms associated with musculoskeletal disorders through a personalized treatment plan catered to the person. Many health professionals who are respectful and provide a supportive environment for LGBTQ+ individuals seeking inclusive health has been reported an increase in their confidence, and a decrease in their anxiety, which can potentially decrease uncertainty for future visits. (McCave et al., 2019) Creating a safe, positive environment for individuals seeking inclusive health care can help them reduce the pain they have been experiencing while easing their minds. The video explains how non-surgical treatments like chiropractic care can help reduce musculoskeletal pain associated with stress and help realign the body out of subluxation. Additionally, these small changes in creating a safe and inclusive environment when receiving health care can make a lasting and positive impact on many individuals. (Bhatt, Cannella, & Gentile, 2022)

Utilizing Beneficial Treatments For Inclusive Health Care

When it comes to non-surgical treatments being part of inclusive treatment, it is critical to reduce the health disparities and to ensure that many LGBTQ+ individuals receive the needed medical they deserve. (Cooper et al., 2023) Since many individuals face unique health challenges, from body and gender dysmorphia to common muscle strains associated with musculoskeletal disorders, many individuals can seek non-surgical treatments like chiropractic care. Chiropractic care can help meet the individual’s needs by supporting their musculoskeletal health and general well-being. (Maiers, Foshee, & Henson Dunlap, 2017) Chiropractic care can reduce musculoskeletal conditions that many LGBTQ+ individuals have and can be aware of what factors are affecting their bodies in a safe and positive environment. Non-surgical treatments can be combined with other therapies in inclusive health care for LGBTQ+ individuals. They can provide a safe environment in the clinic and improve their care quality by being cost-effective. (Johnson & Green, 2012) Inclusive health care can help make LGBTQ+ individuals a safe and positive space to make them get the treatment they deserve without negativity.

 

References

Bhatt, N., Cannella, J., & Gentile, J. P. (2022). Gender-affirming Care for Transgender Patients. Innov Clin Neurosci, 19(4-6), 23-32. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/35958971

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9341318/pdf/icns_19_4-6_23.pdf

 

Carroll, R., & Bisshop, F. (2022). What you need to know about gender-affirming healthcare. Emerg Med Australas, 34(3), 438-441. https://doi.org/10.1111/1742-6723.13990

 

Cooper, R. L., Ramesh, A., Radix, A. E., Reuben, J. S., Juarez, P. D., Holder, C. L., Belton, A. S., Brown, K. Y., Mena, L. A., & Matthews-Juarez, P. (2023). Affirming and Inclusive Care Training for Medical Students and Residents to Reduce Health Disparities Experienced by Sexual and Gender Minorities: A Systematic Review. Transgend Health, 8(4), 307-327. https://doi.org/10.1089/trgh.2021.0148

 

Diana, P., & Esposito, S. (2022). LGBTQ+ Youth Health: An Unmet Need in Pediatrics. Children (Basel), 9(7). https://doi.org/10.3390/children9071027

 

Johnson, C. D., & Green, B. N. (2012). Diversity in the chiropractic profession: preparing for 2050. J Chiropr Educ, 26(1), 1-13. https://doi.org/10.7899/1042-5055-26.1.1

 

Maiers, M. J., Foshee, W. K., & Henson Dunlap, H. (2017). Culturally Sensitive Chiropractic Care of the Transgender Community: A Narrative Review of the Literature. J Chiropr Humanit, 24(1), 24-30. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.echu.2017.05.001

 

McCave, E. L., Aptaker, D., Hartmann, K. D., & Zucconi, R. (2019). Promoting Affirmative Transgender Health Care Practice Within Hospitals: An IPE Standardized Patient Simulation for Graduate Health Care Learners. MedEdPORTAL, 15, 10861. https://doi.org/10.15766/mep_2374-8265.10861

 

Moran, C. I. (2021). LGBTQ population health policy advocacy. Educ Health (Abingdon), 34(1), 19-21. https://doi.org/10.4103/efh.EfH_243_18

Disclaimer

Cranberry Juice Health Benefits

By
Dr Alexander D Jimenez DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP
-
Cold Refreshing Organic Cranberry Juice Cocktail with Ice

Individuals dealing with health problems, UTIs, and skin issues can become chronic, what are the effects and benefits of drinking cranberry juice?

Cranberry Juice Health Benefits

Cranberry Juice

Cranberries are a healthy source of nutrients and antioxidants. Cranberry juice is a recommended source of vitamin C, with the added benefits of promoting digestive, heart, immune, and skin health. Most individuals can safely drink cranberry juice to their diet with no issues, but women who are pregnant or individuals that take blood thinners, or medications should discuss adding cranberry intake with a doctor or specialist first.

  • One cup of unsweetened cranberry juice provides 23.5 milligrams or 26% of the daily value for vitamin C. (USDA 2018)
  • To avoid excess consumption of added sugars and maximize the benefits, it is recommended to drink unsweetened cranberry juice.

Digestive Health

  • Cranberries contain antioxidant compounds/polyphenols that have been shown to help with digestive health.
  • A study found that drinking cranberry juice was associated with increased beneficial gut bacteria and decreased constipation.
  • Improvements in inflammatory markers were also observed.(Chicas MC, et al.,2022)

Heart Health

  • Research funded by a cranberry juice company found participants who consumed cranberry juice twice daily had lower levels of several risk factors for heart disease, stroke, and diabetes than those who received a placebo. (USDA 2016)
  • A systematic review and meta-analysis found that cranberry supplementation may improve body weight and blood pressure levels.
  • Cranberries may also help improve high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol—considered “good” cholesterol—in younger adults.
  • Further studies are needed to confirm these findings. (Pourmasoumi M, et al.,  2019)

Immune Health

  • Cranberry juice contains vitamin C, which is important for immune system function.
  • Research suggests that inadequate vitamin C consumption can lead to decreased immunity and an increased risk of infections. (Carr A, Maggini S, 2017)

Skin Health

  • Thanks to its high antioxidant content, cranberry juice may help protect your skin against damage caused by free radicals that contributes to premature aging.
  • The vitamin C in cranberry juice is also needed for collagen production.
  • Collagen is a type of protein that provides strength, elasticity, and structural support to the skin, helping to keep it firm and smooth.(Pullar JM, et al., 2017)

Infection Prevention

  • A study found that cranberry components known as proanthocyanidins, can promote oral health.
  • Cranberries activate antibacterial processes that can prevent bacteria from binding together, reducing periodontitis/gum disease and the formation of dental plaque. (Chen H, et al., 2022)

Urinary Tract Infection Prevention

  • Cranberries have gone through many studies for home treatment of UTIs.
  • It is believed the chemical compounds/proanthocyanidins can help prevent certain bacteria from sticking to the lining of the urinary tract, thus reducing the risk of UTIs. (Das S. 2020)
  • A study found cranberry products in the form of juice or tablets may lower the risk of UTIs in at-risk groups by approximately 30%.
  • At-risk groups include those with recurrent UTIs, pregnant women, older adults, and individuals with chronic indwelling catheters (devices used for short-term bladder drainage) and neurogenic bladder (conditions in which people lack bladder control due to problems in the brain, spine, or spinal cord). (Xia J Yue, et al., 2021)

Daily Amount

There is no official recommendation on the optimal amount of juice an individual should consume for health benefits. Most studies examining the benefits have used amounts ranging from 8 to 16 ounces, or around 1 to 2 cups per day. (The Cranberry Institute) However, cranberry juice with large amounts of added sugar can contribute to increased calories, leading to weight gain and other health concerns. Therefore, it is important to read the product label and look for pure, 100% cranberry juice.

  • If the pure juice is too tart, dilute it with some ice or water.
  • Avoid cranberry cocktails that are often mixed with other juices, like grape or apple juice, and contain added sugars that can decrease the benefits.
  • Examples of common added sugars include: (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 2022)
  • Fruit nectar
  • Honey
  • Molasses
  • Brown sugar
  • Cane sugar
  • Raw sugar
  • Cane juice
  • Corn syrup
  • High-fructose corn syrup
  • Maple syrup
  • Malt syrup
  • Dextrose, fructose, glucose, maltose, sucrose, lactose

Smart Choices Better Health

References

Carr A, Maggini S. Vitamin C, and immune function. Nutrients. 2017;9(11):1211. doi:10.3390/nu9111211

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Know your limit for added sugars.

Chicas MC, Talcott S, Talcott S, Sirven M. Effect of cranberry juice supplementation on the gut microbiome and inflammatory markers: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in overweight individuals. Curr Dev Nutr. 2022;6(Suppl 1):272. doi:10.1093/cdn/nzac053.013

Chen H, Wang W, Yu S, Wang H, Tian Z, Zhu S. Procyanidins and their therapeutic potential against oral diseases. Molecules. 2022;27(9):2932. doi:10.3390/molecules27092932

The Cranberry Institute. How much cranberry juice should I drink in a day?

Das S. Natural therapeutics for urinary tract infections-a review. Futur J Pharm Sci. 2020;6(1):64. doi:10.1186/s43094-020-00086-2

Pham-Huy, L. A., He, H., & Pham-Huy, C. (2008). Free radicals, antioxidants in disease and health. International journal of biomedical science: IJBS, 4(2), 89–96.

Pourmasoumi M, Hadi A, Najafgholizadeh A, Joukar F, Mansour-Ghanaei F. The effects of cranberry on cardiovascular metabolic risk factors: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clinical Nutrition. 2020;39(3):774-788. doi:10.1016/j.clnu.2019.04.003

Pullar JM, Carr AC, Vissers MCM. The roles of vitamin C in skin health. Nutrients. 2017;9(8):866. doi:10.3390/nu9080866

USDA. Cranberry juice, unsweetened.

USDA. Cranberry juice can boost heart health.

Xia J Yue, Yang C, Xu D Feng, Xia H, Yang L Gang, Sun G ju. Consumption of cranberry as adjuvant therapy for urinary tract infections in susceptible populations: A systematic review and meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis. PLoS One. 2021;16(9):e0256992. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0256992

Joint Manipulation Health Benefits

By
Dr Alexander D Jimenez DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP
-
Helpful female doctor assisting senior patient with getting up from the chair

Individuals at work, school, etc, perform all kinds of repetitive physical tasks that put their bodies through a great deal of musculoskeletal stress, what are the effects and benefits of joint manipulation therapy for pain relief?

Joint Manipulation Health Benefits

Joint Manipulation Health Benefits

Joint manipulation is a form of manual therapy that involves applying force to the spinal or peripheral joints to:

  • Relieve pain symptoms.
  • Realign the joints to their proper position.
  • Restore flexibility.
  • Improve mobility.
  • Increase range of motion.

Chiropractors, massage, and physical therapists use various manipulation techniques to help move and feel better after an injury or illness that causes loss of functional mobility. Here we explain joint manipulation, its applications, and if the technique is safe for you and your condition.

Joint Popping

  • The joints in the body are places where two or more bones come together to allow movement.
  • On the ends of a bone is a lining of hyaline cartilage.
  • The cartilage allows the joint surfaces to glide/slide smoothly.
  • If the cartilage is injured or damaged, pain and limited motion can present.
  • When a joint doesn’t move properly, the muscles surrounding that joint don’t contract properly.
  • If a joint is dysfunctional for some time, significant muscle wasting and atrophy can occur around the joint, leading to difficulty with mobility like standing, walking, or reaching. (Hurley MV.1997)

The body is made up of cells that breathe by converting energy and releasing waste materials. One type of waste material from cell respiration is carbon dioxide. The gas is transported through the blood and delivered out of the body while breathing. Small pockets of gas can get trapped in the joints that expand and contract as pressure around the joint changes during movement, known as cavitation. When the gas is released through joint manipulation, there can be a popping or snapping sound as the joint is moved. Once the gas is released, joint pressure is decreased and mobility is increased. (Kawchuk, et al., 2015)

Causes

Non-medical

There are non-medical and medical causes of joint dysfunction and derangement that include:

  • Overuse and repetitive strain.
  • Unhealthy sitting and/or standing posture.
  • Lack of physical activity.
  • Over-stretching or stretching incorrectly.

In these situations, the joints can be temporarily placed in a dysfunctional/compromised position. When moving to the correct position, a popping sound can present as built-up pressure is released.

Medical

Joint problems can occur from medical conditions that can include:

  • Herniated cervical or lumbar discs.
  • Spinal arthritis.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Osteoarthritis.
  • Joint contracture after being immobilized for some time.

In these cases, a medical problem can be causing a limitation in the joint’s position and movement. (Gessl, et al., 20220)

Benefits

If a chiropractic practitioner determines there is joint dysfunction then manipulation may be a treatment option. The benefits include:

Pain Relief

  • When a chiropractor or therapist gets an injured joint moving properly, the receptors in and around the area get reset allowing for pain relief.

Improved Muscle Activation

  • As a chiropractor manipulates a joint into its correct anatomical position, the surrounding muscles can flex and contract properly.

Improved Range of Motion

  • The joint is repositioned for proper movement.
  • This improves the range of motion and relieves tightness and stiffness.

Improved Functional Mobility

  • Once a joint is manipulated, the improved range of motion and muscle activation around the joint can lead to improved overall functional mobility. (Puentedura, et al., 2012)

Candidates

Joint manipulation is a safe manual therapy technique for certain individuals. (Puentedura, et al., 2016) This includes:

  • Individuals with acute neck, back, or peripheral joint pain.
  • Adults aged 25 to 65 with no serious medical conditions.
  • Athletes who have been injured from their sport.
  • Individuals who have been immobilized after injury or surgery.

Joint manipulation is not recommended for everyone and can be dangerous or lead to injury in individuals with certain conditions. (Puentedura, et al., 2016) These include individuals with:

Osteoporosis

  • Weakened bones may fracture if a high-velocity force is applied to a joint via manipulation

Joint fractures

  • Individuals with a joint fracture, should not have that specific joint manipulated.

Post Spinal Fusion Surgery

  • Individuals that have had spinal fusion in the neck or lower back should avoid spinal joint manipulations or adjustments for at least one year after the procedure.
  • The bones need time to heal thoroughly.
  • Manipulation can cause a failure of the fusion.

Individuals with Arterial Insufficiency In Their Neck

  • A rare but dangerous side effect of a neck adjustment is the risk of tearing an artery in the neck known as the vertebrobasilar artery. (Moser, et al., 2019)

If there is pain, loss of movement, or decreased mobility after an injury or surgery, a chiropractic adjustment with joint manipulation can be beneficial to help regain movement. Manual techniques can help improve joint mobility, alleviate pain, and increase strength and stability around the joints. Joint manipulation isn’t for everyone and is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional to see if it is safe for your specific condition.

Arthritis Explained

References

BASTOW J. (1948). Indications for joint manipulation. Proceedings of the Royal Society of Medicine, 41(9), 615.

Gessl, I., Popescu, M., Schimpl, V., Supp, G., Deimel, T., Durechova, M., Hucke, M., Loiskandl, M., Studenic, P., Zauner, M., Smolen, J. S., Aletaha, D., & Mandl, P. (2021). Role of joint damage, malalignment, and inflammation in articular tenderness in rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and osteoarthritis. Annals of the rheumatic diseases, 80(7), 884–890. https://doi.org/10.1136/annrheumdis-2020-218744

Hurley M. V. (1997). The effects of joint damage on muscle function, proprioception, and rehabilitation. Manual therapy, 2(1), 11–17. https://doi.org/10.1054/math.1997.0281

Kawchuk, G. N., Fryer, J., Jaremko, J. L., Zeng, H., Rowe, L., & Thompson, R. (2015). Real-time visualization of joint cavitation. PloS one, 10(4), e0119470. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0119470

Moser, N., Mior, S., Noseworthy, M., Côté, P., Wells, G., Behr, M., & Triano, J. (2019). Effect of cervical manipulation on the vertebral artery and cerebral hemodynamics in patients with chronic neck pain: a crossover randomized controlled trial. BMJ open, 9(5), e025219. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2018-025219

Puentedura, E. J., Cleland, J. A., Landers, M. R., Mintken, P. E., Louw, A., & Fernández-de-Las-Peñas, C. (2012). Development of a clinical prediction rule to identify patients with neck pain likely to benefit from thrust joint manipulation to the cervical spine. The Journal of orthopedic and sports physical therapy, 42(7), 577–592. https://doi.org/10.2519/jospt.2012.4243

Puentedura, E. J., Slaughter, R., Reilly, S., Ventura, E., & Young, D. (2017). Thrust joint manipulation utilization by U.S. physical therapists. The Journal of manual & manipulative therapy, 25(2), 74–82. https://doi.org/10.1080/10669817.2016.1187902

Inversion Therapy, Back Pain & Spinal Decompression

By
Dr Alexander D Jimenez DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP
-

In many inviduals with low back pain, how does spinal decompression and inversion therapy reduce nerve entrapment?

Introduction

Low back pain is a common problem worldwide that can cause individuals to miss out on important aspects of their lives, including work. The severity of the pain can be specific or non-specific, and it can be localized in one area or spread throughout the body, causing referred pain. Many normal and traumatic factors can contribute to low back pain, such as improper lifting, excessive weight gain, stress, excessive sitting, or repetitive motions. These factors can compress the spinal discs and cause the surrounding muscles to become over-stretched and tight, leading to nerve entrapment. However, various treatments are available to reduce low back pain and restore functionality to the body. This article focuses on two therapies, inversion therapy, and spinal decompression, and how they can be used together to reduce the likelihood of low back pain returning. By working with certified medical providers who use our patients’ information to treat individuals suffering from low back pain while combining inversion therapy and spinal decompression as part of their routine. We inform them about non-surgical treatments to regain spinal mobility and restore muscle strength to the back muscles while preventing the effects of low back pain from reoccurring. We encourage our patients to ask essential questions while seeking education from our associated medical providers about their situation. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., provides this information as an educational service. Disclaimer

 

How Does Inversion Therapy Reduce Back Pain

Do you suffer from muscle aches and strains in your lower back due to sitting for extended periods? Do you experience pain after carrying heavy objects or from being physically inactive? If these symptoms are associated with low back pain, seeking treatment is common. Many take over-the-counter medicines, hot/cold packs, or home remedies for temporary relief. Inversion therapy is another treatment option. In “The Ultimate Spinal Decompression” by Dr. Eric Kaplan, D.C., FIAMA, and Dr. Perry Bard, D.C., inversion therapy is mentioned as a method where the individual is suspended upside down in an inversion table for a few minutes to relieve pain-like symptoms. Inversion therapy can reverse the effects of gravity on the back, which can compress the spine and spinal disc over time, leading to back pain. Inversion therapy can relieve acute back pain by decompressing the back.

 

 

Using inversion therapy can help alleviate the symptoms of low back pain and reduce the need for surgery among many individuals. This practice, which has been used for thousands of years, involves utilizing gravity to provide traction for those experiencing lumbar disc herniation related to low back pain. By opting for non-surgical treatments, such as inversion therapy, individuals suffering from low back pain caused by various factors, including nerve entrapment, can experience relief. (Mendelow et al., 2021)

 

Back Pain & Nerve Entrapment Reduced

It is possible to experience low back pain with or without additional symptoms caused by factors affecting the back. This type of pain can result in mobility issues in the spinal region, pain that radiates into the lower extremities, and general discomfort associated with musculoskeletal conditions. (Delitto et al., 2012) Nerve entrapment can be a factor related to low back pain, and it can impact the peripheral pathway because signals from the peripheral system can cause irregular transmissions to the brain. This can lead to inflammatory cytokines releasing in the affected muscle and radiating shooting pain to the legs. As a result, the body can mimic leg pain correlated with low back pain, leading to a misdiagnosis of the issue. (Saal et al., 1988) Fortunately, various non-surgical treatments, such as inversion therapy and spinal decompression, can help reduce low back pain and its associated symptoms.

 

Enhance Your Lifestyle-Video

Enhance your lifestyle today! *Chiropractic Care* | El Paso, Tx (2023)

If you’re suffering from low back pain, non-surgical treatments can be a cost-effective, gentle, and safe solution. Innovative techniques are used to target the root cause of the pain and alleviate it from the musculoskeletal system. Inversion therapy, spinal decompression, and chiropractic care are some non-surgical treatments that can help relieve low back pain and prevent it from recurring. These therapies involve physical and mechanical manipulation of the spine to correct any subluxations. Misalignment of the body can cause low back pain and negatively impact one’s quality of life. Incorporating non-surgical treatments into your routine can help your body heal naturally and promote a healthy lifestyle. For more information on the benefits of these treatments, check out the video above.

How Spinal Decompression & Inversion Therapy Reduce Back Pain

 

As one of the forms of non-surgical treatment, spinal decompression is safer and more cost effective than traditional surgical treatments. Non-surgical treatments can be combined with other therapies to help improve and control the movement in the lumbar spine. (Zaina et al., 2016) So when spinal decompression is combined with inversion therapy, it can help decompress the spine, allowing the spinal discs to slip back into their original position and reduce the pressure off the aggravated and irritated nerve root from causing low back pain to occur again. Since inversion therapy is used for acute low back pain, spinal decompression therapy is used for individuals with chronic issues. After a few sessions of these treatments, the body will function normally and allow the back to be mobile again. When people start to think about their health and wellness for back pain issues, they can incorporate non-surgical treatments as part of their routine.

References

Delitto, A., George, S. Z., Van Dillen, L., Whitman, J. M., Sowa, G., Shekelle, P., Denninger, T. R., Godges, J. J., & Orthopaedic Section of the American Physical Therapy, A. (2012). Low back pain. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther, 42(4), A1-57. https://doi.org/10.2519/jospt.2012.42.4.A1

 

Kaplan, E., & Bard, P. (2023). The Ultimate Spinal Decompression. JETLAUNCH.

 

Mendelow, A. D., Gregson, B. A., Mitchell, P., Schofield, I., Prasad, M., Wynne-Jones, G., Kamat, A., Patterson, M., Rowell, L., & Hargreaves, G. (2021). Lumbar disc disease: the effect of inversion on clinical symptoms and a comparison of the rate of surgery after inversion therapy with the rate of surgery in neurosurgery controls. Journal of Physical Therapy Science, 33(11), 801-808. https://doi.org/10.1589/jpts.33.801

 

Saal, J. A., Dillingham, M. F., Gamburd, R. S., & Fanton, G. S. (1988). The pseudoradicular syndrome. Lower extremity peripheral nerve entrapment masquerading as lumbar radiculopathy. Spine (Phila Pa 1976), 13(8), 926-930. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2847334

 

Zaina, F., Tomkins-Lane, C., Carragee, E., & Negrini, S. (2016). Surgical versus non-surgical treatment for lumbar spinal stenosis. Cochrane Database Syst Rev, 2016(1), CD010264. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD010264.pub2

Disclaimer

Recommended Nutrition For Constipation

By
Dr Alexander D Jimenez DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP
-
Greek yogurt with figs and granola in a glass close up

The digestive system breaks down the foods eaten so the body can absorb the nutrients. During digestion, the unnecessary parts of these foods are turned into waste/stool, which is evacuated during a bowel movement. When the digestive system stops functioning properly due to factors such as diet change, eating unhealthy foods, lack of physical activity/exercise, medications, and certain health conditions, can cause constipation. Constipation occurs when the body cannot have a regular bowel movement. The distention, gas, bloating and not being able to have a bowel movement cause irritability and stress, which can worsen constipation. Incorporating recommended nutrition can help restore regular bowel movements and gut function.

Recommended Nutrition For Constipation

Recommended Nutrition For Constipation

Symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and difficult bowel movements are common. Diet and proper hydration have a significant role in digestive health, especially in relieving and preventing constipation. High-fiber foods, prebiotics, and adequate hydration from foods and beverages are essential for healthy bowel movements.

  • Fiber is found in whole grains, starches, fruits, and vegetables.
  • Soluble and insoluble fiber are important for digestive health.
  • Focusing on incorporating high-fiber fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
  • Foods rich in prebiotics like fermented foods are recommended when constipated.

The recommended nutrition for constipation, according to a dietitian includes.

Avocados

  • Avocados can be paired with just about anything and are full of nutrients and fiber.
  • One avocado contains around 13.5 grams of fiber.
  • One avocado will provide almost half daily fiber needs.
  • Other high-fiber fruits: pomegranates, guava, raspberries, blackberries, and passionfruit.

Figs

  • Figs can be eaten fresh and dried.
  • Figs are considered a laxative and have been shown to treat and reduce constipation.
  • They contain antioxidants, polyphenols, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and vitamins.
  • Other fruits similar to a fig: dried apricots, prunes, and plums.

Plums

  • Plums, prunes dried plums are packed with fiber and prebiotics that have a natural laxative effect.
  • Sorbitol – a sugar found in plums and prunes, acts as an osmotic laxative that retains water.
  • The added H2O makes the stools softer and easier to pass.
  • Natural fruit juices, like pear, apple, or prune are often prescribed for constipation.
  • Other fruits that aid in bowel movements: peaches, pears, and apples.

Kefir

  • Fermented foods like kefir are rich in beneficial bacteria that work to maintain digestive system health.
  • It can be consumed on its own or used in smoothies, cooking, and baking recipes.
  • Other fermented foods: kombucha, yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, and tempeh.

Oat Bran

  • Oat bran is oatmeal that has not had the bran removed.
  • The bran contains beneficial nutrients including fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
  • Oat bran contains soluble and insoluble fiber, as well as beta-glucan/non-starchy polysaccharides.
  • All improve the composition of gut bacteria and promote healthy bowel movements.
  • Other beneficial grains: oatmeal, wheat bran, rye, and barley.

Incorporating Gut-Beneficial Foods

How to incorporate recommended nutrition gut-beneficial foods into a regular menu:

Smoothie

  • Use kefir or yogurt as a base then balance it out with fiber-rich fruits like mango, blueberries, and kiwi.

Snacks

  • Diversify snacks with a plate of fiber and prebiotics.
  • Nuts, cheese, crackers, fruit, and a yogurt or avocado dip.

Oatmeal

  • Try oat bran to increase fiber.
  • Sprinkle a serving of flaxseeds, chia seeds, or hemp seeds for added fiber and healthy fats.

Parfait

  • Yogurt parfaits can maximize nutrients, flavor, and textures in a bowl.
  • Layer up on a favorite yogurt with granola, nuts, fruit, and seeds.

Grain Bowl

  • Fiber found in whole grains and seeds like barley, farro, and quinoa, helps promote healthy digestion.
  • Make a bowl with a grain base, then top with a protein, fresh or grilled veggies, avocado, and dressing.

Talk with a registered nutritionist or other healthcare provider to discuss recommended nutrition plan options.

Balancing Body and Metabolism

References

Arce, Daisy A et al. “Evaluation of constipation.” American family physician vol. 65,11 (2002): 2283-90.

Bharucha, Adil E. “Constipation.” Best practice & research. Clinical gastroenterology vol. 21,4 (2007): 709-31. doi:10.1016/j.bpg.2007.07.001

Gray, James R. “What is chronic constipation? Definition and diagnosis.” Canadian Journal of Gastroenterology = Journal Canadien de Gastroenterology vol. 25 Suppl B, Suppl B (2011): 7B-10B.

Jani, Bhairvi, and Elizabeth Marsicano. “Constipation: Evaluation and Management.” Missouri medicine vol. 115,3 (2018): 236-240.

Naseer, Maliha, et al. “Therapeutic Effects of Prebiotics on Constipation: A Schematic Review.” Current clinical pharmacology vol. 15,3 (2020): 207-215. doi:10.2174/1574884715666200212125035

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Symptoms and Causes of Constipation.

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease. Your Digestive System and How It Works.

Sinclair, Marybetts. “The use of abdominal massage to treat chronic constipation.” Journal of bodywork and movement therapies vol. 15,4 (2011): 436-45. doi:10.1016/j.jbmt.2010.07.007

Advanced Oscillation Protocols For Spinal Decompression

By
Dr Alexander D Jimenez DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP
-

In many individuals with spinal issues, how does spinal decompression compared with traditional care restore muscle strength?

Introduction

Many people unknowingly put pressure on their spines during daily activities, causing intervertebral disc compression and tightness in surrounding ligaments, muscles, nerve roots, and tissues. Repetitive motions and aging can also lead to intervertebral disc cracking and misalignment, resulting in pain and discomfort in the three common areas: the back, neck, and shoulders. Spinal stenosis is a spinal condition where the spinal cord is compressed and narrow and can cause symptoms of muscle weakness and pain to the upper and lower body extremities if left untreated. This article explores how non-surgical treatments like advanced oscillation and spinal decompression can restore muscle strength and alleviate the effects of spinal stenosis. By working with certified medical providers who use our patients’ information to treat individuals suffering from spinal stenosis. We inform them about non-surgical treatments to regain spinal mobility and restore muscle strength. We encourage our patients to ask essential questions while seeking education from our associated medical providers about their situation. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., provides this information as an educational service. Disclaimer

 

Spinal Stenosis Causing Muscle Strength Issues

Do you find yourself struggling to hold onto objects while doing activities? Are you experiencing strange sensations like numbness or tingling in your arms or legs? Or you’re dealing with chronic back and neck pain that won’t go away. These issues can all be related to problems with your spine, which can cause your muscles to weaken and lead to conditions like low back pain, sciatica, and spinal stenosis.

 

 

Research shows that spinal stenosis is a common condition caused by nerve root impingement or ischemia in the spinal canal. This can lead to pain, weakness, sensory loss in your extremities, and tingling or numbness in your hands or feet. Additionally, studies have found that spinal stenosis in the lumbar spine can increase your risk of developing locomotive syndrome, which can further affect the muscle strength in your arms and legs. {Kasukawa, 2019} 

 

Strong muscles are important for daily movements, such as using your arms, legs, hands, and feet. However, spinal stenosis affects your muscle strength. In that case, it can cause various issues, including numbness or tingling in your upper and lower limbs, severe pain when walking but relief when sitting or resting, decreased grip strength, sciatic pain that mimics and reduced walking distance. While spinal stenosis can be caused by normal or traumatic factors that affect the mobility, flexibility, and stability of the upper and lower muscle quadrants in the body, several available treatments can alleviate the effects of spinal stenosis and help restore muscle strength to the body.

 

Discovering The Benefits Of Chiropractic Care-Video

Discovering the Benefits of Chiropractic Care | El Paso, Tx (2023)

Many people experiencing musculoskeletal pain symptoms related to spinal stenosis use over-the-counter medication, hot/cold therapy, and stretching to alleviate the referred pain. Traditional surgery is an effective option to remove the damaged disc that is aggravating the nerve root and relieve the spinal column. However, this surgery is typically only recommended when other treatments have failed and can be expensive. {Herrington, 2023} Nevertheless, numerous cost-effective non-surgical treatments are available to help reduce the pain-like symptoms caused by spinal stenosis and alleviate associated symptoms. Chiropractic care and spinal decompression are non-surgical treatments that use mechanical and manipulated techniques to realign the body and minimize nerve entrapment that causes pain-like symptoms. The video above provides more information about how non-surgical treatments can assist many individuals in maintaining mobility and flexibility by providing a personalized treatment plan to prevent the recurrence of musculoskeletal and spinal conditions.

Advanced Oscillation For Spinal Stenosis

Many people opt for non-surgical treatments such as chiropractic care, massage therapy, spinal decompression, and advanced oscillation to alleviate pain. In “The Ultimate Spinal Decompression,” written by Dr. Eric Kaplan, D.C., FIAMA, and Dr. Perry Bard, D.C., it is noted that advanced oscillation therapy can be tailored to an individual’s needs, helping to minimize pain symptoms caused by spinal stenosis. Advanced oscillation settings can help reduce inflammation and muscle spasms associated with spinal stenosis while promoting the replenishment of nutrients in the spine. In addition, advanced oscillation can help the body restructure and re-tone the targeted spinal structures, loosening them up and reducing nerve entrapment. Advanced oscillation is one of the non-surgical treatments that synergizes well with spinal decompression.

 

Spinal Decompression To Restore Muscle Strength

Now spinal decompression has a unique ability to reduce the effects of spinal stenosis as it is safe on the spine, cost-effective, and non-invasive. What spinal decompression therapy does to the body is like advanced oscillation. It uses gentle traction to reduce intervertebral disc pressure through negative pressure, allowing oxygen, fluids, and nutrients to the spinal disc and releasing the aggravating nerve root. {Choi, 2015} Spinal decompression can also help restore disc height from the spine, allowing the compressed disc causing spinal stenosis to be put back into its original space. {Kang, 2016} When many individuals start thinking about their health and wellness, non-surgical treatments can give them a positive experience and improve their pain.

 

References

Choi, J., Lee, S., & Hwangbo, G. (2015). Influences of spinal decompression therapy and general traction therapy on the pain, disability, and straight leg raising of patients with intervertebral disc herniation. Journal of Physical Therapy Science, 27(2), 481–483. https://doi.org/10.1589/jpts.27.481

Herrington, B. J., Fernandes, R. R., Urquhart, J. C., Rasoulinejad, P., Siddiqi, F., & Bailey, C. S. (2023). L3-L4 Hyperlordosis and Decreased Lower Lumbar Lordosis Following Short-Segment L4-L5 Lumbar Fusion Surgery is Associated With L3-L4 Revision Surgery for Adjacent Segment Stenosis. Global Spine Journal, 21925682231191414. https://doi.org/10.1177/21925682231191414

Kang, J.-I., Jeong, D.-K., & Choi, H. (2016). Effect of spinal decompression on the lumbar muscle activity and disk height in patients with herniated intervertebral disk. Journal of Physical Therapy Science, 28(11), 3125–3130. https://doi.org/10.1589/jpts.28.3125

Kaplan, E., & Bard, P. (2023). The Ultimate Spinal Decompression. JETLAUNCH.

Kasukawa, Y., Miyakoshi, N., Hongo, M., Ishikawa, Y., Kudo, D., Kijima, H., Kimura, R., Ono, Y., Takahashi, Y., & Shimada, Y. (2019). Lumbar spinal stenosis associated with progression of locomotive syndrome and lower extremity muscle weakness. Clinical Interventions in Aging, Volume 14, 1399–1405. https://doi.org/10.2147/cia.s201974

Munakomi, S., Foris, L. A., & Varacallo, M. (2020). Spinal Stenosis And Neurogenic Claudication. PubMed; StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430872/

Disclaimer

Hiking Training Tips and Preparation

By
Dr Alexander D Jimenez DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP
-
Two unidentifiable female hikers walking down a desert trail in Scottsdale, Arizona at sunrise.

Hiking is a form of exercise accessible to a wide range of physical abilities, which makes it a great outdoor activity for all. The health benefits include improved blood pressure, sleep, and reduced stress and anxiety. However, being out in the elements without conditioning the body can lead to serious injuries and other health issues. Many trails are rough, uneven, and have elevation gain, so even the easiest courses require balance and strength to avoid injury. Hiking training that includes strength, cardio, and practice will help condition the body to allow the trip to be more enjoyable and safe.

Hiking Training Tips and Preparation

Hiking Training

Two of the most common hiking injuries are rolling the ankle and ankle sprains. Individuals that are out of shape or haven’t been active for some time are recommended to start with basic movements and exercises to warm up the muscles and increase heart rate.

Walk/Run Through Sand

  • This builds the muscles that protect the knees and ankles.

Increase Range of Motion

  • Using a resistance band will strengthen muscles through their full extension.
  • Standing on a tennis ball or balance disc is great as it builds the small stabilizer muscles around the ankles and knees.

Crunches

  • Building core strength will help maintain balance on uneven surfaces.

Squats and Lunges

  • Keep the back straight and take each squat and lunge slowly to strengthen the core muscles.

Push-ups

  • Sufficient upper body strength, especially the back muscles will help on long trips and when carrying a heavy pack.

Cardiovascular

  • Walking around the neighborhood, on a treadmill, or stationary bike will work to increase cardiovascular ability.
  • The objective is to get the heart rate up to build lung capacity.

Step-ups

  • Before a backpacking trip, weigh the pack – try 20 lbs. – and step up onto a park bench 16 to 18 inches high.
  • Add 5 pounds a week until the pack is as heavy as it will be on the hike.

Strength Hiking Training for Backpacking

Carrying a heavy pack activates many muscles, including those of the arms and shoulders, and back. Hiking for an extended period with a backpack requires getting used to the weight and feel of it. Nothing conditions the body for a pack better than actually experiencing it.

Shoulder and Neck

  • The trapezius muscles radiate out from the base of the neck.
  • This is where the shoulder harness of the pack sits.
  • Strong traps help prevent soreness.
  • Most of the pack’s weight should be on and around the hips, but it doesn’t always happen due to pack design and ​​body shape.

Shoulder and Arm

  • The shoulder of the arm used to put on and take off the pack does a lot of work at awkward angles.
  • The rotator cuff of the shoulder is vulnerable to these loads.

Upper Back

  • The muscles of the upper and mid back contract to stabilize the pack, especially with heavy loads.
  • Beginning hikers and backpackers tend to get a dull pain right in the center of the shoulder blades.

Lower Back

  • The lower back takes the brunt of the force from lifting and twisting the posterior chain of muscles.

Abdominal Muscles

Legs

  • Walking, squatting, and standing with the pack requires strong support from the legs.
  • Strong legs, especially thighs, make a difference.
  • An all-around beginner’s workout is a good place to begin.

Hiking Training: Preparing For A Weekend Hike

  • Go out for a walk two or three times during the week.
  • Make sure to move briskly enough to get the heart rate up, and keep it up for at least 30 minutes.
  • Wear a lightly-weighted daypack on weekday walks to prepare for the essential gear.
  • Wear the same shoes that you will be wearing on the hike.
  • A definite way to get blisters is to walk for a long time in shoes that haven’t been worn in a while or at all.

Take The Essentials

For simple day hikes, here are some essentials to have on hand:

  • Plenty of water
  • Simple first-aid kit
  • Map – paper type
  • Compass
  • Food
  • Fire-starter or matches
  • Multi-purpose knife or tool
  • Flashlight and batteries
  • Sun hat
  • Sunscreen and sunglasses

Start small and go slow until you feel comfortable in the surroundings. Start off with lightweight and short distances and gradually extend to heavier weights and longer distances. Remember to go at your own pace and don’t try to be an expert.

Hikers Strength Training

References

Chrusch, Adam, and Michelle Kavin. “Survey of Musculoskeletal Injuries, Prehike Conditioning, and On-Trail Injury Prevention Strategies Self-Reported by Long-Distance Hikers on the Appalachian Trail.” Wilderness & environmental medicine vol. 32,3 (2021): 322-331. doi:10.1016/j.wem.2021.04.004

Fleg, Jerome L. “Aerobic exercise in the elderly: a key to successful aging.” Discovery Medicine vol. 13,70 (2012): 223-8.

Gatterer, H et al. “Effect of weekly hiking on cardiovascular risk factors in the elderly.” Zeitschrift fur Gerontologie und Geriatrie vol. 48,2 (2015): 150-3. doi:10.1007/s00391-014-0622-0

Huber, Daniela, et al. “Sustainability of Hiking in Combination with Coaching in Cardiorespiratory Fitness and Quality of Life.” International journal of environmental research and public health vol. 19,7 3848. 24 Mar. 2022, doi:10.3390/ijerph19073848

Liew, Bernard, et al. “The Effect of Backpack Carriage on the Biomechanics of Walking: A Systematic Review and Preliminary Meta-Analysis.” Journal of applied biomechanics vol. 32,6 (2016): 614-629. doi:10.1123/jab.2015-0339

Li, Simon S W, et al. “Effects of a backpack and double pack loads on postural stability.” Ergonomics vol. 62,4 (2019): 537-547. doi:10.1080/00140139.2018.1552764

Li KW, Chu JC, Chen CC. Strength decrease, perceived physical exertion, and endurance time for backpacking tasks. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2019;16(7):1296. doi:10.3390/ijerph16071296

Mitten, Denise, et al. “Hiking: A Low-Cost, Accessible Intervention to Promote Health Benefits.” American Journal of lifestyle medicine vol. 12,4 302-310. 9 Jul. 2016, doi:10.1177/1559827616658229

Radial Nerve: Peripheral Upper Extremity

By
Dr Alexander D Jimenez DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP
-
Young woman getting her arm and elbow examined by male orthopedist medical appointment at clinic.

The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that begin in the cervical/neck spinal cord and travel down the cervicoaxillary canal into the armpit. Forming in the area of the shoulder joint at the branch junction of the brachial plexus, the radial nerve extends down the arm, through the elbow joint, into the forearm, across the wrist, and tips of the fingers. The nerves are susceptible to injury that can cause abnormal function leading to unusual sensations and impaired muscle function.

Radial Nerve: Peripheral Upper Extremity

Radial Nerve

One of the major nerves of the upper extremity.

  • There is one brachial plexus on each side of the body that carries the nerves to each arm.
  • The radial nerve has two major functions.
  • One is to provide sensations in the hands, forearms, arms, and fingers.
  • The other is to deliver messages to muscles about when to contract.

Motor Function

  • The radial nerve transmits signals to the muscles of the back of the arm and forearm on when to contract.
  • Individuals who have abnormal radial nerve function can experience weakness of the muscles and symptoms like wrist drop.
  • A wrist drop occurs when the back forearm muscles cannot support the wrist, causing the individual to hold the wrist in a flexed posture.
  • Abnormal radial nerve function can cause symptoms of numbness or tingling in the back of the hand.

Conditions

Associated conditions to the radial nerve include lacerations, contusions, fractures, and palsies.

Nerve Contusion

  • A contusion typically occurs through blunt force trauma that can crush and smash the nerve area.
  • This causes abnormal or no function.
  • A nerve contusion can occur from a personal, work, or sports injury or other conditions that generate intense pressure on the nerve/s.

Nerve Lacerations

  • A laceration occurs when there is a penetrating injury that cuts and/or severs the nerve.
  • This injury can occur from stab wounds or sliced by broken glass, metal, etc.

Fractures

  • Broken bones of the upper extremity can lead to extended damage to the nerves near the damaged bone.
  • The most common type of fracture associated with radial nerve malfunction is fractures to the humerus bone.
  • The nerve wraps tightly around the humerus and can be injured with a fracture.
  • Most fracture-related radial nerve injuries heal on their own and do not require surgery.
  • However, the way the injury heals can be the difference between normal function and chronic pain.

Crutch Palsy

  • Crutch palsy is pressure on the radial nerve in the armpit resulting from using crutches incorrectly.
  • To use crutches properly, the individual needs to support their body weight through the hands.
  • However, many tend to place pressure around the armpit at the top of the crutch, causing irritation to the nerve in that area.
  • Padding the top of crutches and using the proper form can prevent the condition.

Saturday Night Palsy

  • Saturday night palsy is the abnormal function of the radial nerve after sleeping in a position that causes direct pressure against the nerve.
  • This often occurs when an individual falls asleep with their arm draped over an armrest on a chair.
  • The name comes from when individuals are intoxicated and fall asleep in a location other than the bed and in awkward positions.

Treatment

Nerve injuries often cause symptoms at different locations other than where the nerve damage is, complicating diagnosis. Determining the specific location of nerve damage is the first step in developing an appropriate treatment plan. Once the location has been identified, steps can be taken to prevent worsening damage to the nerve.

  • The objective is to relieve the pressure from the irritation or compression.
  • Chiropractic treatment can relieve symptoms and restore function through:
  • Massage to relax the area and increase blood circulation.
  • Decompression to physically restore alignment.
  • Adjustments to restore body balance.
  • Exercises and stretches to maintain treatment, strengthen the muscles, and prevent injuries.
  • In cases where there is structural damage, surgery may be necessary to remove pressure or repair damage.

Avoid Surgery

References

Ansari FH, Juergens AL. Saturday Night Palsy. [Updated 2023 Apr 24]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557520/

Barton, N J. “Radial nerve lesions.” The Hand vol. 5,3 (1973): 200-8. doi:10.1016/0072-968x(73)90029-6

Daly, Michael, and Chris Langhammer. “Radial Nerve Injury in Humeral Shaft Fracture.” The Orthopedic Clinics of North America vol. 53,2 (2022): 145-154. doi:10.1016/j.ocl.2022.01.001

DeCastro A, Keefe P. Wrist Drop. [Updated 2022 Jul 18]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532993/

Eaton, C J, and G D Lister. “Radial nerve compression.” Hand Clinics vol. 8,2 (1992): 345-57.

Glover NM, Murphy PB. Anatomy, Shoulder and Upper Limb, Radial Nerve. [Updated 2022 Aug 29]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534840/

Ljungquist, Karin L et al. “Radial nerve injuries.” The Journal of hand surgery vol. 40,1 (2015): 166-72. doi:10.1016/j.jhsa.2014.05.010

Węgiel, Andrzej, et al. “Radial nerve compression: anatomical perspective and clinical consequences.” Neurosurgical review vol. 46,1 53. 13 Feb. 2023, doi:10.1007/s10143-023-01944-2

1...606162...156Page 61 of 156