Acupuncture for Gut Health: The Benefits Explained

Can individuals dealing with gut inflammation find relief from acupuncture therapy to reduce associated pain symptoms like back pain?

Table of Contents

Introduction

When many start thinking about their health and well-being, they will notice the various factors negatively affecting their daily routine. Environmental factors or traumatic injuries can cause an impact on the person’s body, which then causes musculoskeletal issues as well as organ issues. One of the pain-like issues that many people seem to deal with is gut inflammation, and it can cause a cascading effect on the body and lead to referred pain in the upper and lower body portions. This can affect a person’s daily routine and cause overlapping risk profiles, leading to musculoskeletal conditions like back pain. At the same time, gut inflammation can be in acute or chronic stages and become an issue for people with pre-existing conditions. Luckily, numerous treatments reduce gut inflammation associated with back pain and provide a positive impact on individuals. Today’s article looks at the effect of gut inflammation on the body, how gut inflammation correlates with back pain, and how acupuncture therapy can help reduce gut inflammation. We talk with certified medical providers who consolidate our patients’ information to assess how gut inflammation is impacting their bodies and how it correlates with back pain. We also inform and guide patients on how acupuncture therapy can help reduce the inflammatory effects that are causing gut and back issues. We encourage our patients to ask their associated medical providers intricate and important questions about how their pain is causing issues to their bodies. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., includes this information as an academic service. Disclaimer.

The Effects Of Gut Inflammation On The Body

Do you feel extremely tired in the morning, even after a full night? Have you experienced any soreness or tenderness in your gut or different back portions? Or do you experience any muscle aches or joint stiffness throughout your lower back? When people are experiencing these inflammatory issues, it could be due to their gut system feeling these pain-like issues. The gut system is in a relationship with the central nervous system as it is part of the gut-brain axis and helps the autonomic system actively influence the immune system. This allows the musculoskeletal system to promote normal body function. When environmental factors or traumatic injuries start to negatively affect the gut-brain axis and cause the immune system to mass produce inflammatory cytokines and cortisol to cause musculoskeletal and gut issues. The inflammatory effects of the gut system cause impairments within the intestinal barrier function and the translocation of the gut microbes and even promote the hyper-activation of the mucosal immune system to produce pro-inflammatory cytokines that fuel gut inflammation. (Amoroso et al., 2020) When that happens, it can have a major impact on the immune system, and where the gut microbiota can be triggered by environmental factors like metabolic syndrome, obesity, and type-2 diabetes, which has detrimental consequences for the human body. (Scheithauer et al., 2020) What this does to the body is that gut inflammation can affect the immune system, vital organs, and the musculoskeletal system.

Gut Inflammation Correlates With Back Pain

So, back pain usually follows when many individuals have gut issues associated with environmental factors. When the intestinal permeability in the gut starts to deal with inflammation, all the bacteria and the cytokines from the immune system will rapidly produce and travel their way to the various muscles, tissues, and ligaments that start to be affected. Since back pain is a common musculoskeletal condition many people endure, gut inflammation can also be present. Since the bacterial microbes and inflammatory cytokines are reaching the spine’s back muscles and skeletal structures, they can start causing degenerative issues, leading to back pain. The skeletal structure of the spine has facet joints, spinal discs, and bones that protect the spinal cord and can also be affected by gut inflammation. The blood-disc barrier within the spine protects the spinal disc from inflammatory effects that may invoke musculoskeletal issues. However, when the bacterial microbes from the gut start to attach and break down the blood-disc barrier, they can rapidly multiply since the immune system surveillance is unavailable, causing low oxygen levels to degenerate the spinal discs and causing back pain issues. (Ratna et al., 2023) At the same time, environmental factors also play an issue in the development of back pain associated with gut inflammation. Luckily, numerous treatments can help not only reduce gut inflammation but also provide pain relief to back pain.

Fighting Inflammation Naturally- Video

Fighting Inflammation Naturally | El Paso, Tx (2023)

Have you been dealing with various mood changes affecting your daily routine? Do you feel constantly sluggish or tired throughout the day? Or do you feel aches and pains in your mid-section and lower back? Many people experiencing these pain-like issues in their bodies are dealing with gut inflammation that is affecting their backs. When environmental factors start to cause an overproduction of bacterial microbes in the intestinal permeability, the inflammatory cytokines begin to induce inflammation in the musculoskeletal system. This can lead to the development of back pain and cause issues to the body when it is not treated right away. This is where various treatments help reduce the inflammatory effects of the gut system and help reduce numerous issues it has caused. Many treatments are non-surgical and customizable to individuals dealing with gut inflammation associated with back pain. The video above shows how non-surgical treatments can help reduce inflammation naturally and benefit many people dealing with gut inflammation.

Acupuncture Reducing Gut Inflammation

Various non-surgical treatments can range from traction therapy to chiropractic care, depending on the pain severity and environmental factors causing the issue. For gut inflammation, many individuals might try acupuncture, one of the oldest forms of non-surgical treatment that can help reduce inflammatory cytokines. Acupuncture originates from China and is used by highly trained medical professionals who use fine, solid, thin needles to be placed on various body acupoints to restore body energy. Acupuncture can also serve as a multifaceted regulatory therapy that involves multiple therapeutic mechanisms to regulate the HPA axis and reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines levels. (Landgraaf et al., 2023) At the same time, acupuncture can help recover gastrointestinal dysfunction from various gut disorders by blocking the brain’s neuron signals that are causing inflammatory responses to the gut and musculoskeletal system. (Jang et al., 2020). Acupuncture can also be combined with other non-surgical therapies to help improve body functionality, as acupuncturists find the acupoints within the body to regulate the intestinal microbiota and inflammation, thus regulating the central nervous system function to enhance a person’s quality of life. (Bao et al., 2022) By incorporating acupuncture as part of a person’s health and well-being, many people can make small changes in their daily routine to reduce gut inflammation from overproducing and prevent their associated comorbidities from returning.

References

Amoroso, C., Perillo, F., Strati, F., Fantini, M. C., Caprioli, F., & Facciotti, F. (2020). The Role of Gut Microbiota Biomodulators on Mucosal Immunity and Intestinal Inflammation. Cells, 9(5). doi.org/10.3390/cells9051234

Bao, C., Wu, L., Wang, D., Chen, L., Jin, X., Shi, Y., Li, G., Zhang, J., Zeng, X., Chen, J., Liu, H., & Wu, H. (2022). Acupuncture improves the symptoms, intestinal microbiota, and inflammation of patients with mild to moderate Crohn’s disease: A randomized controlled trial. EClinicalMedicine, 45, 101300. doi.org/10.1016/j.eclinm.2022.101300

Jang, J. H., Yeom, M. J., Ahn, S., Oh, J. Y., Ji, S., Kim, T. H., & Park, H. J. (2020). Acupuncture inhibits neuroinflammation and gut microbial dysbiosis in a mouse model of Parkinson’s disease. Brain Behav Immun, 89, 641-655. doi.org/10.1016/j.bbi.2020.08.015

Landgraaf, R. G., Bloem, M. N., Fumagalli, M., Benninga, M. A., de Lorijn, F., & Nieuwdorp, M. (2023). Acupuncture as multi-targeted therapy for the multifactorial disease obesity: a complex neuro-endocrine-immune interplay. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne), 14, 1236370. doi.org/10.3389/fendo.2023.1236370

Ratna, H. V. K., Jeyaraman, M., Yadav, S., Jeyaraman, N., & Nallakumarasamy, A. (2023). Is Dysbiotic Gut the Cause of Low Back Pain? Cureus, 15(7), e42496. doi.org/10.7759/cureus.42496

Scheithauer, T. P. M., Rampanelli, E., Nieuwdorp, M., Vallance, B. A., Verchere, C. B., van Raalte, D. H., & Herrema, H. (2020). Gut Microbiota as a Trigger for Metabolic Inflammation in Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes. Front Immunol, 11, 571731. doi.org/10.3389/fimmu.2020.571731

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Chiropractic Techniques & Terminology for Spinal Alignment

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Portrait of male doctor physiotherapist in her workplace at hospital. — Portrait of male doctor physiotherapist in her workplace at hospital

“For individuals suffering from back pain, can knowing basic chiropractic terminology help in understanding diagnosis and treatment plan development?”

Table of Contents

Chiropractic Terminology

The chiropractic principle is that a properly aligned spine positively affects an individual’s overall health. One of the main aspects of chiropractic care is applying calculated force to the spinal joints to restore correct spinal alignment. Chiropractic terminology describes specific types of techniques and care.

General Subluxation

A subluxation can mean different things for various doctors. In general, a subluxation is a significant structural displacement or an incomplete or partial dislocation of a joint or organ.

To medical doctors, a subluxation refers to a partial dislocation of a vertebrae.
This is a serious condition, usually brought on by trauma, that can result in a spinal cord injury, paralysis, and/or death.
X-rays show a conventional subluxation as an obvious disconnect between the vertebrae.

Chiropractic Subluxation

The chiropractic interpretation is more subtle and refers to the misalignment of adjacent spinal vertebrae.
Subluxations are the main pathology treated by chiropractors. (Charles N.R. Henderson 2012)
Subluxation in this context refers to position changes in the joints and soft tissues of the spine.
Vertebral misalignment is believed to lead to pain and abnormal intervertebral joint motion.
This difference between the serious subluxation medical condition and the chiropractic version may cause individuals to dismiss seeking back pain treatments.

Motion Segment

Chiropractors and surgeons use it as a technical term.
Motion segment refers to two adjacent vertebrae and the intervertebral disc between them.
This is the area chiropractors assess and adjust.

Adjustment

The chiropractor performs a spinal manual adjustment to realign joint subluxations.
Adjustments involve applying force to motion segments to bring them back into a centered alignment.
The goal for adjustments and realigning the vertebrae includes:
Nerves can transmit signals without interruption.
Positively affects overall health. (Marc-André Blanchette et al., 2016)

Manipulation

Spinal manipulation is a technique used by chiropractors to provide relief for musculoskeletal pain related to the back and neck. Manipulation provides mild to moderate relief and works as well as some conventional treatments like pain-relieving medications. (Sidney M. Rubinstein et al., 2012)

Spinal manipulation is divided into grades of mobilization.
Depending on their training, practitioners of various medical disciplines may be licensed to perform grade 1 to grade 4 mobilizations.
Only physical therapists, osteopathic physicians, and chiropractors are licensed to perform grade 5 mobilizations, which are high-velocity thrust techniques.
Most massage therapists, athletic trainers, and personal trainers are not licensed to perform spinal manipulations.

Based on a systematic review, the effectiveness of these treatments found that there is quality evidence that manipulation and mobilization can help reduce pain and improve function for individuals with chronic low back pain, with manipulation appearing to produce a more profound effect than mobilization. Both therapies are safe, with multimodal treatments potentially being an effective option. (Ian D. Coulter et al., 2018)

As with any treatment, results vary from person to person and with different chiropractors. There are also potential risks with spinal manipulation. Though rare, cervical, carotid, and vertebral artery dissections have occurred with cervical/neck manipulation. (Kelly A. Kennell et al., 2017) Individuals with osteoporosis may be advised to avoid chiropractic adjustments or manipulation because of the increased risk of injury. (James M. Whedon et al., 2015)

Many individuals choose chiropractic treatment for a variety of conditions. Understanding chiropractic terminology and reasoning allows individuals to ask questions as they discuss their symptoms to develop a personalized treatment plan and restore function and wellness.

What Causes Disc Herniation?

References

Henderson C. N. (2012). The basis for spinal manipulation: chiropractic perspective of indications and theory. Journal of electromyography and kinesiology : official journal of the International Society of Electrophysiological Kinesiology, 22(5), 632–642. doi.org/10.1016/j.jelekin.2012.03.008

Blanchette, M. A., Stochkendahl, M. J., Borges Da Silva, R., Boruff, J., Harrison, P., & Bussières, A. (2016). Effectiveness and Economic Evaluation of Chiropractic Care for the Treatment of Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review of Pragmatic Studies. PloS one, 11(8), e0160037. doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0160037

Rubinstein, S. M., Terwee, C. B., Assendelft, W. J., de Boer, M. R., & van Tulder, M. W. (2012). Spinal manipulative therapy for acute low-back pain. The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, 2012(9), CD008880. doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD008880.pub2

Coulter, I. D., Crawford, C., Hurwitz, E. L., Vernon, H., Khorsan, R., Suttorp Booth, M., & Herman, P. M. (2018). Manipulation and mobilization for treating chronic low back pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis. The spine journal : official journal of the North American Spine Society, 18(5), 866–879. doi.org/10.1016/j.spinee.2018.01.013

Kennell, K. A., Daghfal, M. M., Patel, S. G., DeSanto, J. R., Waterman, G. S., & Bertino, R. E. (2017). Cervical artery dissection related to chiropractic manipulation: One institution’s experience. The Journal of family practice, 66(9), 556–562.

Whedon, J. M., Mackenzie, T. A., Phillips, R. B., & Lurie, J. D. (2015). Risk of traumatic injury associated with chiropractic spinal manipulation in Medicare Part B beneficiaries aged 66 to 99 years. Spine, 40(4), 264–270. doi.org/10.1097/BRS.0000000000000725

Get the Most from Different Types of Salts for Cooking and Health

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Bowls with assorted speciality salt — Assorted speciality salt, himalayan pink salt, italian black truffle salt, india black kala namak salt, hawaiian black lava sea salt, hickory smoked sea salt

“For individuals looking to improve their diet, can knowing the different salt types help in food preparation and health?”

Table of Contents

Salt Types

Salt brings out the natural flavor of foods and can be used as a preservative. Salt types come in various colors and textures for cooking, flavor, and health. Some are considered healthier compared to regular table salt, like pink Himalayan salt and different sea salts. Some individuals prefer them because most go through less processing and can have more trace minerals like magnesium and potassium. However, all salts are healthy in moderation, as sodium is a necessary part of a balanced diet. Although essential for the body, sodium can be harmful when too much is consumed. A study examining consumer-grade pink Himalayan sea salts available in Australia determined that to receive the additional health benefits of the minerals from this type of salt, individuals must consume so much that it elevates the amount of sodium in the body to dangerous levels. (Flavia Fayet-Moore et al., 2020)

Salt

Salt is a mineral made from the combined elements:

Sodium – Na
Chlorine -Cl
Together, they form crystallized sodium chloride NaCl.

The majority of salt production comes from evaporated seawater and salt mines. Many salts used in food preparation are iodized. Iodine is added to various refined salt products to help meet nutritional requirements. Iodine intake levels that fall below the recommended values could result in a deficiency and develop goiter. Goiter is associated with hypothyroidism. (Angela M. Leung et al., 2021) Lack of iodine can also have adverse effects on growth and development. (National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements. 2023)

Essential for Health

Salt sustains life and optimal bodily function. Sodium and chlorine are important elements that maintain:

Cellular balance
Circulation
Blood sugar levels

Sodium is a mineral and an electrolyte. Common electrolytes include potassium, calcium, and bicarbonate. Without adequate sodium levels, the brain cannot send the necessary impulses to the rest of the body to function properly. However, consuming too much salt can cause health issues.

Higher salt intake in individuals who are sensitive to salt can increase blood pressure.
Doctors usually recommend that individuals with hypertension reduce sodium intake or follow a low-sodium diet.
Elevated sodium levels also cause water retention – considered a protective response as the body works to regulate serum sodium levels concentration in the blood to maintain balance.
If levels are too high, a condition known as hypernatremia can develop, which can cause:
Excessive thirst
Vomiting
Infrequent urination
Diarrhea
Sodium levels that are too low can lead to hyponatremia, which can cause:
Fatigue
Weakness
Confusion

A blood test will determine whether serum sodium concentration is high, low, or normal. (U.S. National Library of Medicine. MedlinePlus. 2022)

One teaspoon of salt contains around 2,360mg of sodium. (U.S. Department of Agriculture. FoodData Central. 2020)
Though there are different types of salt, they all contain roughly the same amount of sodium.

Types

The average sodium intake by adults is around 3,393mg per day, ranging between 2,000–5,000mg. Guidelines recommend a maximum intake of 2,300mg per day. (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of Agriculture. 2020) Whether from unhealthy dietary choices like processed foods or incorrect knowledge of sodium content when cooking, an American Heart Association survey showed that more than half of respondents inaccurately stated that sea salt had a lower sodium content than table salt. (American Heart Association. 2024)

Refined – Table Salt

Refined/iodized salt is finely granulated and commonly used in cooking. This type is highly refined to remove impurities and eliminate trace minerals often found in specialty salts. Because the salt is finely ground, anti-caking agents are added to ensure the salt doesn’t clump. Some table salts also have added sugar and other additives.

Refined table salt is about 97–99% sodium chloride (NaCl).
Iodine is added to prevent iodine deficiency.
Individuals trying to reduce sodium intake but meet iodine levels can do so with foods like eggs, dairy products, and fish.

Kosher

Kosher salt is coarse and flakey and can add a crunchy texture to dishes and drinks. Pure kosher salt does not contain additives like anti-caking agents and iodine. The size of the salt crystals is ideal for drawing out moisture.

Per teaspoon, kosher salt generally has less sodium than 1 teaspoon of table salt.
Because it has a coarser grain, less salt fits in the measuring spoon.

Sea Salt

Sea salt is produced from evaporated seawater and comes as fine grains or large crystals. Examples include:

Black Sea
Celtic
French – fleur de sel
Hawaiian sea salt

Sea salt can have trace amounts of minerals like iron, potassium, and zinc, which can produce different flavors in cooking but no additional health benefits with normal consumption. Some sea salts may also contain trace amounts of microplastics. However, research indicates these amounts are too low to warrant public health concerns. (Ali Karami et al., 2017)

Himalayan Pink Salt

Himalayan pink salt is mined in the red salt range in Pakistan, the second-largest salt mine in the world, and in the Andes mountains of Peru. Trace amounts of iron oxide make the salt pink. It is typically used at the end of cooking to add flavor and a crunch. Himalayan salt is popular for its health benefits and mineral properties. However, using Himalayan salt over other types has no known health advantages. Researchers concluded that the potential health benefits provided by the higher nutrient content would be counteracted by the large amount of sodium that would need to be consumed. (Flavia Fayet-Moore et al., 2020)

Substitutes

Salt substitutes contain some or all sodium and potassium, magnesium, or other minerals. Substitutes can be half sodium chloride and half potassium chloride. Monosodium glutamate/MSG can also be used as an alternative. A study found that substituting salt with MSG is safe and comparable to salt flavor. (Jeremia Halim et al., 2020) Individuals often use substitutes on a sodium-restricted diet but should check with their doctor before using these products, especially if they have kidney conditions.

Body In Balance – Chiropractic+Fitness+Nutrition

References

Fayet-Moore, F., Wibisono, C., Carr, P., Duve, E., Petocz, P., Lancaster, G., McMillan, J., Marshall, S., & Blumfield, M. (2020). An Analysis of the Mineral Composition of Pink Salt Available in Australia. Foods (Basel, Switzerland), 9(10), 1490. doi.org/10.3390/foods9101490

Leung, A. M., Braverman, L. E., & Pearce, E. N. (2012). History of U.S. iodine fortification and supplementation. Nutrients, 4(11), 1740–1746. doi.org/10.3390/nu4111740

National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements. (2023). Iodine: Fact Sheet for Professionals. Retrieved from ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iodine-HealthProfessional/

U.S. National Library of Medicine. MedlinePlus. (2022). Sodium blood test. Retrieved from medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/sodium-blood-test/

U.S. Department of Agriculture. FoodData Central. (2020). Salt. Retrieved from fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/1112305/nutrients

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Department of Agriculture. (2020). 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Retrieved from www.dietaryguidelines.gov/sites/default/files/2020-12/Dietary_Guidelines_for_Americans_2020-2025.pdf

American Heart Association. (2024). Sea Salt vs. Table Salt (Healthy Living, Issue. www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/sodium/sea-salt-vs-table-salt

Karami, A., Golieskardi, A., Keong Choo, C., Larat, V., Galloway, T. S., & Salamatinia, B. (2017). The presence of microplastics in commercial salts from different countries. Scientific reports, 7, 46173. doi.org/10.1038/srep46173

Halim, J., Bouzari, A., Felder, D., & Guinard, J. X. (2020). The Salt Flip: Sensory mitigation of salt (and sodium) reduction with monosodium glutamate (MSG) in “Better-for-You” foods. Journal of food science, 85(9), 2902–2914. doi.org/10.1111/1750-3841.15354

Tackling Jaw Pain Using Acupuncture

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Can individuals with jaw pain find relief in acupuncture therapy to reduce pain and improve jaw mobility in the upper body portions?

Table of Contents

Introduction

The head is part of the upper musculoskeletal body quadrant supported by the neck area, which consists of the skull, various muscles, and vital organs that provide stability, mobility, and functionality. Around the head, the different facial features include the mouth, nose, eyes, and jaw to allow the host to eat, speak, smell, and see. While the head provides sensory and motor function, the neck includes motor stability to ensure no injuries or trauma affect the head. Located below the eyes is the jaw, which allows motor function with various muscles and joints to hyperextend without pain or discomfort. However, multiple factors can affect the jaw muscles and joints to invoke pain and discomfort, which can cause radiating referred pain down to the neck muscles. Today’s article looks at how jaw pain can affect the upper body, how non-surgical treatments can help with jaw pain, and how treatments like acupuncture can help restore jaw mobility. We talk with certified medical providers who consolidate our patients’ information to provide treatments to reduce jaw pain affecting their jaw and neck area. We also inform and guide patients on how acupuncture and non-surgical treatments can benefit many individuals with pain correlating with the jaw. We encourage our patients to ask their associated medical providers intricate and important questions about how their pain affects their quality of life and reduces jaw pain. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., includes this information as an academic service. Disclaimer.

Jaw Pain Affecting The Upper Body

Do you feel muscle soreness in your jaw and neck muscles throughout the day? Have you constantly rubbed or massaged your jaw muscles to reduce tension? Or have you been dealing with headaches or neck pain continually that affects your daily routine? Many individuals experiencing these pain-like symptoms are dealing with jaw pain or TMJ (temporomandibular joint syndrome). The jaw consists of mastication muscles on each side that help provide various functions like chewing, swallowing, or talking. When multiple traumatic or ordinary factors start to affect the jaw, it can disrupt the sensory-motor function of the upper body. For individuals, jaw pain is common worldwide, and with TMJ, it can become an issue as the pain seems to affect the jaw’s motor control while being accompanied by restricted mouth opening and impaired max bite force. (Al Sayegh et al., 2019) Additionally, TMJ affects not only the mastication muscles but also the temporomandibular joint, the joint that connects the jaw to the skull, which becomes inflamed and causes more issues.

So, how would TMJ affect the upper body? Well, when TMJ affects the mastication muscles and the temporomandibular joint, many individuals will experience various symptoms like:

Difficulty moving mouth when chewing
Popping/cracking sensation when opening or closing the jaw
Headaches/Migraines
Ear pain
Tooth pain
Neck and shoulder pain

This causes myofascial and intraarticular disorders that affect the muscles and joints of the jaw, which are linked to the skull. (Maini & Dua, 2024) To that point, many individuals will be experiencing referred pain, thinking they are dealing with a toothache when it is due to trigger points in the mastication muscles. This is when TMJ is accompanied by muscle-joint pain in the neck or upper back or if teeth issues accompany TMJ, but it depends on the individual and situation they are under. However, numerous treatments can reduce jaw pain and its associated symptoms that affect the jaw and the neck.

The Non-Surgical Approach To Wellness- Video

The Non-Surgical Approach to Wellness with Chiropractic Care | El Paso, Tx (2024)

Non-Surgical Treatments For Jaw Pain

When reducing jaw pain, many individuals seek treatment to minimize the pain-like effects and regain mobility back to their jaws. It can be challenging and complex when people are dealing with jaw pain. It is a multifactorial issue that can affect the neck and back areas. So, when people speak with their primary doctors about their jaw pain, they will get an evaluation of where their pain is located and if they have any complaints correlating with the jaw pain. Afterward, many doctors will refer to musculoskeletal specialists to relieve the jaws’ pain. Treatments and techniques used by chiropractors, massage therapists, and physiotherapists can help ease the inflamed and tense mastication muscles. Techniques like soft tissue mobilization can help relax the masticatory muscles by lengthening them to the extent of releasing the trigger points in the muscles. (Kuc et al., 2020) At the same time, physiotherapy can help the jaw muscle through various relaxing techniques to increase the range of motion while strengthening the jaw to reduce pain and stress. (Byra et al., 2020) Many of these treatments are non-surgical, which means they are non-invasive and effective for the person’s pain while affordable.

Acupuncture To Restore Jaw Mobility

When it comes to non-surgical treatments, one of the oldest forms is acupuncture, which can help reduce the pain-like effects of jaw pain and restore mobility. Acupuncture originates from China, and highly trained medical professionals use thin, solid needles to be placed in acupoints on the body to disrupt the pain signal and provide relief. For jaw pain, acupuncturists will put needles on the acupoints of the jaw or the surrounding muscles to reduce mechanical hypersensitivity of the nerve cells that are causing pain while improving the sensory-motor function with a positive response. (Teja & Nareswari, 2021) Additionally, when dealing with ear pain associated with TMJ affecting the neck muscles, acupuncture can help enhance the neck’s range of motion by placing the needles on the trigger points of the cervical muscles. (Sajadi et al., 2019) When acupuncture treatment helps many individuals with jaw pain affecting their necks and heads, they can provide beneficial, positive results through consecutive treatment and improve jaw mobility function.

References

Al Sayegh, S., Borgwardt, A., Svensson, K. G., Kumar, A., Grigoriadis, A., & Christidis, N. (2019). Effects of Chronic and Experimental Acute Masseter Pain on Precision Biting Behavior in Humans. Front Physiol, 10, 1369. doi.org/10.3389/fphys.2019.01369

Byra, J., Kulesa-Mrowiecka, M., & Pihut, M. (2020). Physiotherapy in hypomobility of temporomandibular joints. Folia Med Cracov, 60(2), 123-134. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/33252600

Kuc, J., Szarejko, K. D., & Golebiewska, M. (2020). Evaluation of Soft Tissue Mobilization in Patients with Temporomandibular Disorder-Myofascial Pain with Referral. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 17(24). doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17249576

Maini, K., & Dua, A. (2024). Temporomandibular Syndrome. In StatPearls. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31869076

Sajadi, S., Forogh, B., & ZoghAli, M. (2019). Cervical Trigger Point Acupuncture for Treatment of Somatic Tinnitus. J Acupunct Meridian Stud, 12(6), 197-200. doi.org/10.1016/j.jams.2019.07.004

Teja, Y., & Nareswari, I. (2021). Acupuncture Therapies for Addressing Post Odontectomy Neuropathy. Med Acupunct, 33(5), 358-363. doi.org/10.1089/acu.2020.1472

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Understanding Quadriceps Tightness for Pain Relief

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Professional chiropractor or physiotherapist helps to heal a young woman's back. Doctor fixes the patient lying on a couch of a modern rehabilitation clinic Concept of physical rehabilitation. High quality photo

“For individuals with lower back pain, it could be quadricep muscle tightness causing the symptoms and posture problems. Can knowing the signs of quadricep tightness help prevent pain and avoid injury?”

Table of Contents

Quadriceps Tightness

Quadriceps muscles are in the front of the thigh. Forces that could be creating chronic pain and posture problems could be happening at the same time are:

Quadricep tightness causes lower back pain as the pelvis gets pulled down.
Tight quadriceps lead to weakened hamstring muscles.
These are the opposing muscles behind the thigh.
Stress and pressure on the hamstrings can cause back pain and problems.
Pelvic alignment becomes affected, causing posture problems and increased pain symptoms. (Sai Kripa, Harmanpreet Kaur, 2021)

Quadriceps Tightness Pulls the Pelvis Down

One of the four muscles in the quadriceps group:

The rectus femoris attaches to the pelvis at the anterior superior iliac spine, which is the front part of the hip bone.
The rectus femoris is the only muscle in the group that crosses over the hip joint, which also affects movement.
When the quadriceps, especially the rectus femoris, become tight, they pull down on the hips.
The pelvis tilts downward or forward, technically referred to as the anterior tilt of the pelvis. (Anita Król et al., 2017)
The spine is between the pelvis, and if the pelvis tilts forward, the lumbar spine compensates by arching.
A larger arch in the lower back is referred to as excessive lordosis and often causes tightness and pain in the back muscles. (Sean G. Sadler et al., 2017)

Hamstring Compensation

When the quadriceps tighten and the pelvis gets pulled down, the back has an abnormal lift. This puts the hamstring on a consistent stretch that can cause pain symptoms.
Healthy posture and hamstring muscle tone help maintain correct pelvic positioning in the back.
This is correct because it helps maintain a comfortable position.
Quadricep tightness can set off a reaction as the pelvis tilts down in front and up in the back while overly stretching the hamstrings.
Pain and soreness are the usual result
Lack of hamstring strength and quadriceps stretching can cause the hamstrings to lose their ability to support correct pelvic and spinal positions. (American Council on Exercise. 2015)

Knowing When Quads Are Tightening

Individuals often don’t realize their quadriceps are tight, especially those who spend most of the day sitting.
The more time spent in a chair can cause the quadriceps and lower back muscles to tighten steadily.

Individuals can try a few tests at home:

Standing Up

Push the hips forward.
Push from the sitting bones so you’re at the correct level.
How far forward do the hips go?
What is felt?
Pain could indicate tight quadriceps.

In A Lunge Position

With one leg forward and bent in front of the other.
The back leg is straight.
How far forward does the leg go?
What is felt?
How does the front of the hip on the back leg feel?

Standing Bent Leg

Stand with the front leg bent and the back leg straight.
Discomfort in the back leg could mean tight quadriceps.

In A Kneeling Position

Arch the back
Grab the ankles
Modify the position to adjust for any pain or joint issues.
If you have to prop yourself up or modify the pose to reduce pain, it could be tight quadriceps.

Helping to understand the condition can help in communication with a healthcare provider.
A healthcare provider and/or physical therapist can conduct a posture evaluation examination to test the quadriceps.

Understanding Academic Low Back Pain: Impact and Chiropractic Solutions

References

Kripa, S., Kaur, H. (2021). Identifying relations between posture and pain in lower back pain patients: a narrative review. Bulletin of Faculty of Physical Therapy, 26(34). doi.org/doi: 10.1186/s43161-021-00052-w

Król, A., Polak, M., Szczygieł, E., Wójcik, P., & Gleb, K. (2017). Relationship between mechanical factors and pelvic tilt in adults with and without low back pain. Journal of back and musculoskeletal rehabilitation, 30(4), 699–705. doi.org/10.3233/BMR-140177

Sadler, S. G., Spink, M. J., Ho, A., De Jonge, X. J., & Chuter, V. H. (2017). Restriction in lateral bending range of motion, lumbar lordosis, and hamstring flexibility predicts the development of low back pain: a systematic review of prospective cohort studies. BMC musculoskeletal disorders, 18(1), 179. doi.org/10.1186/s12891-017-1534-0

American Council on Exercise. (2015). 3 Stretches for Opening Up Tight Hips (Fitness, Issue. www.acefitness.org/resources/everyone/blog/5681/3-stretches-for-opening-up-tight-hips/

How Acupuncture Makes Headaches A Thing of the Past

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Can individuals dealing with headaches find the relief they are looking for from acupuncture to reduce pain-like symptoms?

Table of Contents

Introduction

As part of the musculoskeletal system, the neck is part of the upper body portions and allows the head to be mobile through full rotations without pain and discomfort. The surrounding muscles, ligaments, and tendons help protect the cervical spinal region and have a fantastic relationship with the shoulders. However, the neck area can succumb to injuries, leading to pain-like symptoms that can cause pain and discomfort in the upper regions. One of the pain-like symptoms that correlates with neck pain is headaches. Headaches can vary in acute to chronic stages as they affect many individuals and the various factors that correlate with them. When headaches start to form, many individuals will look at multiple treatments to reduce the pain-like symptoms that correlate with headaches and have the relief they deserve. Today’s article looks at the various factors that correlate with headaches, how headaches cause overlapping risk profiles with neck pain, and how treatments like acupuncture can reduce headaches. We talk with certified medical providers who consolidate our patients’ information to provide treatments like acupuncture to minimize headaches. We also inform and guide patients on how acupuncture can benefit many individuals dealing with neck pain associated with headaches. We encourage our patients to ask their associated medical providers intricated and important questions about their pain-like symptoms that correlate with headaches and neck pain. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., includes this information as an academic service. Disclaimer.

The Various Factors Correlating Headaches

Have you been experiencing tension around the back of your neck after a long day? Do you feel a dull ache after staring at the computer or phone screen? Or do you feel a pounding sensation that you must lie down for a few minutes? Many of these pain-like scenarios are associated with headaches that affect many individuals from time to time. Headaches are correlated with various biochemical and metabolic risk profiles or changes that cause central sensitization and neuronal dysfunction. (Walling, 2020) This causes many individuals to develop acute or chronic pain-like symptoms that affect their heads and various locations around the face and the neck area. Some of the multiple factors that can lead to the development of headaches include:

Stress
Allergies
Tension
Inability to sleep
Lack of water and food
Traumatic injuries
Bright strobing lights

Additionally, other factors like obesity can become a strong risk factor for secondary headaches like migraines to have symptoms of intracranial hypertension impact the body. (Fortini & Felsenfeld Junior, 2022) This could lead to the development of neck pain caused by headaches.

Headaches & Neck Pain

When it comes to headaches associated with neck pain, many individuals will experience tension and pain in the surrounding muscles and the ongoing symptoms. Neck pain can cause overlapping risk profiles to muscles, ligaments, facet joints, and visceral structures of the neck that can trigger the development of a headache or become a symptom that co-exists with a neck disorder. (Vicente et al., 2023) Additionally, neck pain and headaches are strongly associated as muscular pain plays a role in headache development as they provide negative consequences within their social lives. Headaches can hinder a person’s ability to concentrate, while neck pain causes limited mobility and stiffness. (Rodriguez-Almagro et al., 2020)

Tension Headaches Overview- Video

Acupuncture Reducing Headaches

When individuals are dealing with headaches, many will incorporate home remedies to reduce the tension they are experiencing from the various factors. This can provide temporary relief to mitigate the effects of the pain-like symptoms associated with headaches. However, when the pain from headaches becomes unbearable with neck pain in the mix, that is where non-surgical treatments could be the answer. Non-surgical treatments are effective on pain caused by headaches and customized to the person’s pain. For example, acupuncture could help with headaches and neck pain. Acupuncture is one of the oldest forms of non-surgical treatments; highly trained professionals use solid thin needles to be placed in various acupoints in the body to restore energy flow and reducing pain associated with headaches. (Turkistani et al., 2021)

Acupuncture can even help reduce the frequency and duration of headaches while disrupting the pain signals and help provide insight into the positive effects of pain reduction. (Li et al., 2020) When people start incorporating acupuncture as part of their health and wellness treatment plan, they will feel their headaches reduced and their neck mobility back to normal. Through consecutive treatment, they will feel much better and become more aware of the various factors pertaining to headache production while making small changes to reduce their chances of returning.

References

Fortini, I., & Felsenfeld Junior, B. D. (2022). Headaches and obesity. Arq Neuropsiquiatr, 80(5 Suppl 1), 204-213. doi.org/10.1590/0004-282X-ANP-2022-S106

Li, Y. X., Xiao, X. L., Zhong, D. L., Luo, L. J., Yang, H., Zhou, J., He, M. X., Shi, L. H., Li, J., Zheng, H., & Jin, R. J. (2020). Effectiveness and Safety of Acupuncture for Migraine: An Overview of Systematic Reviews. Pain Res Manag, 2020, 3825617. doi.org/10.1155/2020/3825617

Rodriguez-Almagro, D., Achalandabaso-Ochoa, A., Molina-Ortega, F. J., Obrero-Gaitan, E., Ibanez-Vera, A. J., & Lomas-Vega, R. (2020). Neck Pain- and Unsteadiness-Inducing Activities and their Relationship to the Presence, Intensity, Frequency, and Disability of Headaches. Brain Sci, 10(7). doi.org/10.3390/brainsci10070425

Turkistani, A., Shah, A., Jose, A. M., Melo, J. P., Luenam, K., Ananias, P., Yaqub, S., & Mohammed, L. (2021). Effectiveness of Manual Therapy and Acupuncture in Tension-Type Headache: A Systematic Review. Cureus, 13(8), e17601. doi.org/10.7759/cureus.17601

Vicente, B. N., Oliveira, R., Martins, I. P., & Gil-Gouveia, R. (2023). Cranial Autonomic Symptoms and Neck Pain in Differential Diagnosis of Migraine. Diagnostics (Basel), 13(4). doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics13040590

Walling, A. (2020). Frequent Headaches: Evaluation and Management. American Family Physician, 101(7), 419-428. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/32227826

www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2020/0401/p419.pdf

Disclaimer

Improve Athletic Performance with Acupuncture: The Natural Way

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Doctor putting acupuncture needles in the back of a woman on the laying table — A doctor putting acupuncture needles in the back of a woman on the laying table

“For fitness and sports enthusiasts, weekend warriors, and athletes looking to improve physical performance, can incorporating acupuncture for sports performance be effective?”

Table of Contents

Acupuncture For Sports Performance

Acupuncture for sports performance follows the same needle insertion for specific points to treat pain symptoms, alleviate inflammation and fatigue, and enhance blood circulation to improve physical and athletic performance. Acupuncture is based on traditional Chinese medicine principles that focus on restoring the balance of the nervous system and body to activate natural healing and increase energy circulation. (Johns Hopkins Medicine. 2024).

Acupuncture has become a popular alternative treatment for sports injuries as it has shown positive outcomes and recovery from injuries. (George G. A. Pujalte et al., 2023)
The body’s blood and energy pathways, known as meridians, become blocked by inflammation because of illness, injury, or overuse, resulting in pain, stress, and various symptoms. The acupuncture needles stimulate the pathways to clear the blockages, allowing optimal circulation of energy and blood to reduce inflammation and restore balance. (Jiajie Zhu et al., 2021)
Sports acupuncture works by maintaining optimal circulation of blood and energy through meridians through the arteries, tendons, muscles, and organs for enhanced productivity and ability. (Liang Kang et al., 2021)
Electroacupuncture involves connecting electrical stimulation from a tens machine to specific points over an area to enhance the needle treatment. (Keitaro Kubo et al., 2020)

Acupuncture Can Help

Ways that acupuncture can help include:

Increase Range of Motion

Acupuncture can help loosen tight muscles, tendons, and ligaments overused during training or games.(Chi-Tsai Tang, 2023)
This allows athletes to perform at peak levels without risking worsening or causing further injury.

Increase Flexibility

Acupuncture helps increase elasticity in joints by releasing adhesions within connective tissue for increased mobility.

Improve Reflexes

Targeting key points stimulates nerve activity, which can improve quicker reflexes and improve coordination.(Chi-Tsai Tang, Bo Song. 2022)

Increase Circulation

Acupuncture increases blood circulation to areas lacking oxygen.
This expedites muscle recovery after intense physical exertion.(Keitaro Kubo et al., 2020)

Improve Mental Focus

Acupuncture releases endorphins, which reduce pain and also provide an overall sense of calmness and relaxation.
This enables athletes to stay focused and motivated throughout training and games. (Chi-Tsai Tang, 2023)

Reduce Fatigue

Regular acupuncture for sports performance can help maintain energy levels to help prevent burnout and maintain optimal performance during practice and games. (George G. A. Pujalte et al., 2023)

Relieve Muscle Tension

Acupuncture treatment can help relax tense muscles caused by repetitive use as well as from stress tension that could be caused by anxiety before a game or tournament.
This helps athletes remain flexible and explosive. (Chi-Tsai Tang, Bo Song. 2022)

For individuals who want to improve their physical performance, sports acupuncture can provide a natural, non-invasive alternative that can help improve athletic performance mentally and physically.

Lumbar Spine Injuries in Sports: Chiropractic Healing

References

Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2024). Acupuncture (Health, Issue. www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/acupuncture

Zhu, J., Li, J., Yang, L., & Liu, S. (2021). Acupuncture, from the ancient to the current. Anatomical record (Hoboken, N.J. : 2007), 304(11), 2365–2371. doi.org/10.1002/ar.24625

Kang, L., Liu, P., Peng, A., Sun, B., He, Y., Huang, Z., Wang, M., Hu, Y., & He, B. (2021). Application of traditional Chinese therapy in sports medicine. Sports medicine and health science, 3(1), 11–20. doi.org/10.1016/j.smhs.2021.02.006

Tang, C. T., & Song, B. (2022). Acupuncture and Dry Needling for Sports Performance and Recovery. Current sports medicine reports, 21(6), 213–218. doi.org/10.1249/JSR.0000000000000968

Kubo, K., Iizuka, Y., Yajima, H., Takayama, M., & Takakura, N. (2020). Changes in Blood Circulation of the Tendons and Heart Rate Variability During and After Acupuncture. Medical acupuncture, 32(2), 99–107. doi.org/10.1089/acu.2019.1397

Tang C. T. (2023). Practicing Outside the Lines: Using Acupuncture in the Athletic Training Room and on the Field. Medical acupuncture, 35(5), 266–269. doi.org/10.1089/acu.2023.0043

Nonsurgical Therapeutic Options for Chronic Low Back Pain: Exploring Your Options

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Can nonsurgical therapeutic options help individuals with chronic low back pain find the relief they are looking for to restore body function?

Table of Contents

Introduction

Between the upper, middle, and lower back portions of the musculoskeletal system, many individuals have succumbed to traumatic injuries, repetitive motions, and overlapping environmental risk profiles that cause pain and disability, thus affecting their everyday routine. As one of the most common work conditions, back pain can cause individuals to deal with socio-economic burdens and can range from acute to chronic, depending on the injuries and factors that correlate with this issue. As part of the musculoskeletal system, the back has various muscles in the three quadrants that support the upper and lower extremities and have an outstanding relationship with the spine as each muscle group surrounds the spine and protects the spinal cord. When environmental factors and traumatic injuries start to cause pain-like symptoms in the back, it can put a person in excruciating pain, hence why many seek non-surgical treatments to reduce the pain-like effects of back pain and find the relief they are seeking. Today’s article looks at the impact of chronic low back pain and how non-surgical treatments can positively affect individuals dealing with chronic low back pain. We talk with certified medical providers who consolidate our patients’ information to provide numerous non-surgical treatment options to minimize chronic lower back pain affecting their extremities. We also inform and guide patients on how various non-surgical treatments can benefit their health and wellness as they can help reduce musculoskeletal conditions like chronic back pain. We encourage our patients to ask their associated medical providers intricated and important questions about their chronic low back pain and what small changes they can incorporate to reduce its pain-like symptoms. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., includes this information as an academic service. Disclaimer.

The Impact Of Chronic Low Back Pain

Do you constantly feel severe muscle aches or pains in your back after an excruciating long workday? Do you experience muscle tiredness from your back to your legs after carrying a heavy object? Or have you noticed that twisting or turning motions temporarily relieve your lower back, only to worsen after a while? Often, many of these pain-like scenarios are correlated with chronic low back pain, and it can be due to the various factors that correlate with this common musculoskeletal condition. When it comes to musculoskeletal conditions associated with chronic low back pain, they are prevalent while their impact is pervasive. To that point, they affect many individuals as they are the number one most common cause of severe long-term pain and physical disability. (Woolf & Pfleger, 2003) Since back pain can be either acute or chronic, it can become multifactorial as many other pain symptoms tend to cause overlapping risk profiles in the body. The impact of chronic low back pain has underlying pathological causes that are not well-defined but can be related to psychosocial dysfunction. (Andersson, 1999)

Additionally, degenerative changes within the spine can also cause an impact on the development of chronic lower back pain. The risk factors that cause overlapping risk profiles can range from smoking and obesity to various occupations that require excessive motions. (Atkinson, 2004) When that happens, it causes people to have unnecessary stress that impacts their lives and causes them to be miserable. This is where many individuals start seeking treatment to reduce the effects of chronic lower back pain and reduce the chances of seeking surgical intervention.

The Role Of Chiropractic Care On Improving Your Health- Video

The Role of Chiropractic Care on improving your Health | El Paso, Tx (2023)

Non-Surgical Treatments For Chronic Back Pain

When people deal with chronic lower back pain, many often don’t realize that various motions, ages, and pathologies can modify the spine, causing the spinal discs to go through degenerative changes that correspond to the development of chronic lower back pain. (Benoist, 2003) When degenerative changes start to cause pain-like symptoms in the back, many will begin looking for affordable and effective treatments. Hence, this is why non-surgical treatments can help reduce the pain-like symptoms of chronic lower back pain and help restore body mobility. Non-surgical treatments are personalized to the person’s pain and range from acupuncture to massage therapy and spinal decompression. Non-surgical treatments are also affordable and help reduce the overlapping risk profiles of chronic low back pain while reducing its associated conditions.

Spinal Decompression Effects On Chronic Low Back Pain

Spinal decompression, as stated before, is a form of non-surgical treatment that incorporates mechanical gentle traction on the spine to alleviate chronic low back pain and can reduce the pain-like symptoms associated with it. Spinal decompression helps reduce the friction of the lumbar muscles, affecting the lumbar spine but also provides pain relief and body function. (Choi et al., 2022) Spinal decompression is safe while being gentle on the spine, combined with stabilization exercises to enhance intra-abdominal pressure and spinal ability to the lumbar. (Hlaing et al., 2021) When a person incorporates spinal decompression as part of their health and wellness journey, their pain and disability will lower over time while strengthening weakened muscles that were affected by chronic lower back pain. Incorporating these non-surgical treatments can help a person be more mindful of the environmental impact they are inflicting on their backs and live a better and healthier life.

References

Andersson, G. B. (1999). Epidemiological features of chronic low-back pain. Lancet, 354(9178), 581-585. doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(99)01312-4

Atkinson, J. H. (2004). Chronic back pain: searching for causes and cures. J Rheumatol, 31(12), 2323-2325. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15570628

www.jrheum.org/content/jrheum/31/12/2323.full.pdf

Benoist, M. (2003). Natural history of the aging spine. Eur Spine J, 12 Suppl 2(Suppl 2), S86-89. doi.org/10.1007/s00586-003-0593-0

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. doi.org/10.1155/2022/6343837

Hlaing, S. S., Puntumetakul, R., Khine, E. E., & Boucaut, R. (2021). Effects of core stabilization exercise and strengthening exercise on proprioception, balance, muscle thickness and pain related outcomes in patients with subacute nonspecific low back pain: a randomized controlled trial. BMC Musculoskelet Disord, 22(1), 998. doi.org/10.1186/s12891-021-04858-6

Woolf, A. D., & Pfleger, B. (2003). Burden of major musculoskeletal conditions. Bull World Health Organ, 81(9), 646-656. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14710506

www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2572542/pdf/14710506.pdf

Disclaimer

A Nutrition Breakdown of Tomatillos: Benefits and Nutrient Content

Dr. Alex Jimenez

“For individuals looking to add other fruits and vegetables to their diet, can adding tomatillos provide variety and nutrition?”

Tomatillo

Tomatillos are a fruit that can bring a bright citrus flavor to various dishes.

Nutrition

The U.S. Department of Agriculture provides the following information for one medium/34g tomatillo. (FoodData Central. U.S. Department of Agriculture. 2018)

Calories – 11
Carbohydrates – 2 grams
Fat – 0.3 grams
Protein – 0.3 grams
Fiber – 0.7 grams
Sodium – 0.3 milligrams
Sugars – 1.3 grams

Carbohydrates

Tomatillos are low in carbohydrates, with just 2 grams per medium fruit. (FoodData Central. U.S. Department of Agriculture. 2018)
Of this, 0.7 grams come from fiber, and 1.3 grams are natural sugars.

Fats

Tomatillos contain less than half a gram in one medium-sized tomatillo.

Protein

There is less than half a gram of protein per tomatillo.

Vitamins and Minerals

Tomatillos provide:

Vitamin A
Vitamin C
Potassium
And provide several other micronutrients in smaller doses.

Benefits

Tomatillo’s health benefits include the following.

Cardiovascular Health

Tomatillos provide a heart-healthy dietary addition. They are naturally low in sodium and rich in potassium, which could help regulate blood pressure. They provide vitamins A and C and antioxidants against free radicals.

The American Heart Association recommends the consumption of a variety of fruits and vegetables daily for various benefits. One of them is their fiber content. Fiber is the indigestible part of carbohydrates that can help decrease cholesterol by binding and removing cholesterol from the body. Tomatillos contain about one gram of fiber, a recommended addition to a heart-healthy diet. (American Heart Association. 2023)

Potentially Help Reduce Cancer Risk

Tomatillos have several antioxidants with cancer-preventing properties. They are a source of phytochemicals known as withanolides. These natural plant compounds have been shown to induce apoptosis/cell death in colon cancer cells. (Peter T. White et al., 2016) Diets high in fruits and vegetables have been associated with lower risks of cancer, making tomatillos a welcome addition to a high-antioxidant nutrition plan focused on cancer prevention.

Arthritis Symptoms Improvement

The withanolide antioxidants are also anti-inflammatory. Research on withanolides demonstrates clinical benefits in the alleviation of symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. (Peter T. White et al., 2016) Tomatillos may help reduce inflammation, which can make arthritis more manageable.

Vision Loss Prevention

Tomatillos provide a healthy source of key nutrients for eye health. Lutein and zeaxanthin are antioxidants that concentrate in the retina and help protect against environmental deterioration. Tomatillos provide:

Beta carotene
Vitamin E
Vitamin C
Copper
Zinc
In combination, these vitamins have shown the ability to slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration, a common cause of vision loss. (National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements. 2023)

Weight Loss

Tomatillos are a low-calorie whole food ingredient. Because of their high water content, it’s possible to fill up without adding excess calories. Fresh salsa made with tomatoes or tomatillos is a healthy, flavorful choice that is virtually free of added sugars. (The National Kidney Foundation. 2014)

Adverse Effects

Tomatillos are part of the nightshade family. While there is no conclusive evidence confirming any harmful effects, some individuals report experiencing sensitivity to them. (Cleveland Clinic. 2019) Individuals who believe they may be sensitive to tomatillos should consult a registered dietitian to determine the root cause and ways to improve tolerance.

Allergies

Although rare, serious reactions, including anaphylaxis, are possible even if the individual shows no signs of a tomato allergy.
Individuals unsure about an allergy to tomatillos should see an allergist for testing.

Varieties

Different varieties include yellow, green, and purple. (MacKenzie J. 2018)
Rendidora is a green variety that grows upright with a high yield.
Gulliver Hybrid, Tamayo, Gigante, and Toma Verde are also green but grow in a sprawling pattern.
Some purple varieties include Purple Hybrid, De Milpa, and Coban. (Drost D, Pedersen K. 2020)

Choosing

Choose tomatillos that are firm and green but large enough that they fill up the husks.
When they ripen too long, their flavor becomes bland. (MacKenzie J. 2018)

Storage and Safety

Tomatillos can last months in their husks, spread out in a well-ventilated area. (MacKenzie J. 2018)
Keep them in a paper bag in the refrigerator for no longer than 2 weeks if using sooner.
Do not store in plastic, as this can cause spoilage.
For extended storage, tomatillos may be frozen or canned.
Remove the husks, wash them, and dry them before eating or preparing them for long-term storage.

Preparation

Tomatillos have a distinct flavor and firm texture. They can be eaten whole with no need to seed or core them. (Drost D, Pedersen K. 2020) Use tomatillos for:

Raw
Salsa verde
As a topping
Sandwiches
Salads
Soups
Stews
Fried
Broiled
Roasted for a side dish
Added to smoothies

The Healing Diet: Combat Inflammation, Embrace Wellness

References

FoodData Central. U.S. Department of Agriculture. (2018). Tomatillos, raw. Retrieved from fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/168566/nutrients

American Heart Association. (2023). How to Eat More Fruit and Vegetables (Healthy Living, Issue. www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/add-color/how-to-eat-more-fruits-and-vegetables

White, P. T., Subramanian, C., Motiwala, H. F., & Cohen, M. S. (2016). Natural Withanolides in the Treatment of Chronic Diseases. Advances in experimental medicine and biology, 928, 329–373. doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-41334-1_14

National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements. (2023). Vitamin A: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. Retrieved from ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminA-HealthProfessional/

The National Kidney Foundation. (2014). 6 of the Best and Worst Condiments for Health (Kidney Basics, Issue. www.kidney.org/news/ekidney/july14/7_Best_and_Worst_Condiments_for_Health

Cleveland Clinic. (2019). What’s the Deal With Nightshade Vegetables? (healthessentials, Issue. health.clevelandclinic.org/whats-the-deal-with-nightshade-vegetables/

Jill, M. (2018). Growing Tomatillos and Ground Cherries in Home Gardens. extension.umn.edu/vegetables/growing-tomatillos-and-ground-cherries#harvest-and-storage-570315

Drost D, P. K. (2020). Tomatillos in the Garden (Horticulture, Issue. digitalcommons.usu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2658&context=extension_curall

Comprehending the Difference Between Dry Needling and Acupuncture

Dr. Alex Jimenez

For individuals dealing with musculoskeletal pain, can incorporating acupuncture and dry needling therapy improve functionality?

Table of Contents

Introduction

All around the world, many individuals have experienced musculoskeletal pain at one point in their lives. Musculoskeletal pain can range from acute to chronic, depending on how severe the affected muscles are in pain. Sometimes, when a person is dealing with pain in one location and feels it in a different body location, that is known as referred pain, and it can lead to overlapping risk profiles. Additionally, many individuals dealing with musculoskeletal pain are often associated with various environmental factors that contribute to its development or have traumatic injuries that causes the spine to be out of alignment with the body. When it comes to treating musculoskeletal pain, many individuals will do home remedies that can provide temporary relief until the pain flares up again. When that happens, many will seek treatment to reduce the pain-like effects and find the relief they are looking for. Today’s article examines two treatments, their benefits, and how they can reduce musculoskeletal pain. We talk with certified medical providers who consolidate our patients’ information to provide numerous treatments to minimize musculoskeletal pain affecting their bodies. We also inform and guide patients on how various treatments can be beneficial to their health and wellness as they can help reduce musculoskeletal pain. We encourage our patients to ask their associated medical providers intricated and important questions about the referred pain-like symptoms they are experiencing from musculoskeletal pain that is causing them pain and discomfort. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., incorporates this information as an academic service. Disclaimer.

What Is Acupuncture?

Do you wake up in the morning feeling general aches and pains in various muscle locations? Do you feel muscle stiffness in your neck, shoulders, or back after a long, hard workday? Or have you experienced pain-like symptoms like numbness or radiating burning sensations in your upper or lower body extremities? In these pain-like scenarios, many individuals are experiencing musculoskeletal pain once in their lives. This usually happens when environmental factors or traumatic injuries occur in the musculoskeletal system, causing the surrounding muscles, ligaments, and tissue to be overstretched, tight, or weakened, depending on the severity. When a person is dealing with musculoskeletal pain, they will seek treatments to reduce the musculoskeletal pain and be affordable and customizable to the individual’s pain, hence why non-surgical therapies can benefit the person dealing with musculoskeletal pain.

One of the oldest forms of non-surgical treatment is acupuncture, which can help reduce musculoskeletal pain. Acupuncture has been practiced in China for over two thousand years by modulating the body’s physiology by stimulating specific body regions or acupoints. (Wang et al., 2023) Acupuncture incorporates thin, solid needles used by highly trained medical professionals to restore the balance of qi or energy flowing through the body while positively affecting the central and peripheral nervous system. To that point, by changing pain perception, acupuncture can help reduce the inflammatory cytokines associated with musculoskeletal pain. (Kelly & Willis, 2019)

Acupuncture Benefits

Some of the benefits that acupuncture can help a person dealing with musculoskeletal pain include:

Release tight muscles.
Inflammation reduction
Regulate gut activity associated with musculoskeletal pain.
Improve pain and disability.

Since pain is a common indication for acupuncture, acupuncture for individuals experiencing musculoskeletal pain can help enhance the descending inhibitory effects while modulating the feelings of pain, which, to this point, modify central sensitization. (Zhu et al., 2021) This, in turn, helps many individuals experience positive effects from musculoskeletal pain reduction in their bodies.

What Is Dry Needling?

Dry needling is a different form of acupuncture that combines TCM (traditional Chinese medicine) and structural manipulation of the affected muscles experiencing pain. Dry needling is safe and, like acupuncture, cost-effective. It reduces pain and improves fascial and scar tissue mobility back to the muscle. (Munoz et al., 2022) At the same time, dry needling is used by highly trained professionals to treat soft tissues and neurovascular bundles correlated with numerous neuromusculoskeletal pain syndromes by inserting fine monofilament needles and stimulating specific reactions in the targeted tissue. (Lara-Palomo et al., 2022)

Dry Needling Benefits

Dry needling can help reduce musculoskeletal pain symptoms associated with myofascial pain syndrome by mechanically disrupting the trigger points to elicit a local twitch response. (Lew et al., 2021) Some of the benefits that dry needling provides include:

Decrease muscle tightness.
Pain reduction
Joint and muscle mobility
Increase blood flow.

How Acupuncture & Dry Needling Help With Pain?

Depending on how severe the individual’s pain is affecting their daily life, they can choose either acupuncture or dry needling and combine them with other non-surgical therapies to reduce the chances of musculoskeletal pain from causing overlapping risk profiles that can make a person’s life miserable. Both non-surgical techniques can be effective with patients dealing with musculoskeletal pain, improve stiffness and fatigue, and enhance quality of life. (Valera-Calero et al., 2022) Incorporating these non-surgical treatments to reduce musculoskeletal pain with healthy habits can give helpful results to the individual by making small changes in their everyday lives and being mindful of their bodies. This allows them to reduce the chances of musculoskeletal pain and its associated factors from recurring again in the future.

Revolutionizing Healthcare- Video

Revolutionizing Healthcare | El Paso, Tx (2023)

References

Kelly, R. B., & Willis, J. (2019). Acupuncture for Pain. American Family Physician, 100(2), 89-96. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31305037

www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2019/0715/p89.pdf

Lara-Palomo, I. C., Gil-Martinez, E., Antequera-Soler, E., Castro-Sanchez, A. M., Fernandez-Sanchez, M., & Garcia-Lopez, H. (2022). Electrical dry needling versus conventional physiotherapy in the treatment of active and latent myofascial trigger points in patients with nonspecific chronic low back pain. Trials, 23(1), 238. doi.org/10.1186/s13063-022-06179-y

Lew, J., Kim, J., & Nair, P. (2021). Comparison of dry needling and trigger point manual therapy in patients with neck and upper back myofascial pain syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Man Manip Ther, 29(3), 136-146. doi.org/10.1080/10669817.2020.1822618

Munoz, M., Dommerholt, J., Perez-Palomares, S., Herrero, P., & Calvo, S. (2022). Dry Needling and Antithrombotic Drugs. Pain Res Manag, 2022, 1363477. doi.org/10.1155/2022/1363477

Valera-Calero, J. A., Fernandez-de-Las-Penas, C., Navarro-Santana, M. J., & Plaza-Manzano, G. (2022). Efficacy of Dry Needling and Acupuncture in Patients with Fibromyalgia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 19(16). doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19169904

Wang, M., Liu, W., Ge, J., & Liu, S. (2023). The immunomodulatory mechanisms for acupuncture practice. Front Immunol, 14, 1147718. doi.org/10.3389/fimmu.2023.1147718

Zhu, J., Li, J., Yang, L., & Liu, S. (2021). Acupuncture, from the ancient to the current. Anat Rec (Hoboken), 304(11), 2365-2371. doi.org/10.1002/ar.24625

Disclaimer

Acupuncture for Weight Loss: An Overview

Dr. Alex Jimenez

An Auriculotherapy by using needles and pressure points

“For individuals wanting to improve and/or maintain health, research shows evidence that acupuncture may help promote weight loss. Can incorporating acupuncture into an overall health plan help achieve this goal?”

Table of Contents

Acupuncture Weight Loss

Acupuncture is a traditional medical therapy that inserts thin, flexible needles into the body at specific points. It has been around for more than 2,500 years. The practice is believed to stimulate the body’s energy/circulation, and research suggests that it could improve various factors known to contribute to weight gain and obesity. (Kepei Zhang et al., 2018)

Acupuncture regulates energy flow and helps restore the body’s balance, which is believed to promote homeostasis and self-healing. (Ning-Cen Li et al., 2019)
Acupuncture stimulates connective tissue, which affects blood circulation, nerves, and the immune system.
It has been used to help manage conditions like migraines, infertility, pain management, and weight loss.
At the first appointment, the acupuncturist will take a general medical history and identify weight loss goals.
They will help identify the root causes contributing to weight gain, e.g., slow metabolism, thyroid issues, and overeating, to develop an effective personalized treatment plan.
A trained and licensed practitioner may also be able to provide nutritional and health coaching in addition to acupuncture treatments.

Procedure

The needles are thin and designed to work effectively without causing pain or bleeding.
The needles are left in for 15 to 30 minutes per session, depending on the treatment stage.
The practitioner may lift or rotate the needles as part of the technique during a session.
Many individuals report that acupuncture treatments are relaxing and pain-free.
For weight loss, the ear points will be the focus.
Research suggests that stimulating certain outer ear points may help balance hormones that help decrease cravings and suppress appetite. (Li-Hua Wang et al.,2019)
Two hormones that help in weight loss and acupuncture may help rebalance include: (Li-Hua Wang et al.,2019)

Ghrelin

Controls appetite and meal stimulation.

Leptin

Regulates fat storage and metabolism.

Acupuncture Weight Loss can help:

Decrease food cravings
Suppress appetite
Improve digestion
Increase metabolism

Research

Acupuncture weight loss recent research:

One study compared the effectiveness of auricular/ear acupuncture to body acupuncture in obese women and found that those who received ear acupuncture lost more weight than the individuals who received acupuncture in other body areas. (Cayir Yasemin et al., 2017)
Another study found that overweight females between 20 and 30 years of age who received six weekly treatments of ear acupuncture experienced a reduction in waist circumference. (Felicity Lillingston et al., 2019)
Many individuals gain weight as a result of stress.
Research suggests that acupuncture therapy helps stimulate the release of endorphins or the body’s natural pain-relieving hormones.
This helps create calming, relaxing effects that counteract stress eating caused by tension, frustration, and anxiety. (Laila Ahmed Abou Ismail et al., 2015)
When incorporated with lifestyle adjustments, like regular exercise, improved sleep, stress management, and a balanced diet, a review of studies concluded that acupuncture is effective for weight loss. (S-Y Kim et al, 2018)

Safety

The risks of acupuncture are low when performed by a licensed and certified practitioner. The most common side effects include:

Soreness
Bruising
Minor bleeding where the needles were inserted
Fatigue

Before seeking acupuncture treatment, consult your healthcare provider about consideration. They may recommend a reputable practitioner if the treatment is right for you.

Chiropractic Care and Metabolism

References

Zhang, K., Zhou, S., Wang, C., Xu, H., & Zhang, L. (2018). Acupuncture on Obesity: Clinical Evidence and Possible Neuroendocrine Mechanisms. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM, 2018, 6409389. doi.org/10.1155/2018/6409389

Li, N. C., Li, M. Y., Chen, B., & Guo, Y. (2019). A New Perspective of Acupuncture: The Interaction among Three Networks Leads to Neutralization. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM, 2019, 2326867. doi.org/10.1155/2019/2326867

Wang, L. H., Huang, W., Wei, D., Ding, D. G., Liu, Y. R., Wang, J. J., & Zhou, Z. Y. (2019). Mechanisms of Acupuncture Therapy for Simple Obesity: An Evidence-Based Review of Clinical and Animal Studies on Simple Obesity. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM, 2019, 5796381. doi.org/10.1155/2019/5796381

Yasemin, C., Turan, S., & Kosan, Z. (2017). The Effects of Auricular and Body Acupuncture in Turkish Obese Female Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial Indicated Both Methods Lost Body Weight But Auricular Acupuncture Was Better Than Body Acupuncture. Acupuncture & electro-therapeutics research, 42(1), 1–10. doi.org/10.3727/036012917×14908026364990

Lillingston, F., Fields, P., & Waechter, R. (2019). Auricular Acupuncture Associated with Reduced Waist Circumference in Overweight Women-A Randomized Controlled Trial. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM, 2019, 6471560. doi.org/10.1155/2019/6471560

Ismail, L. A., Ibrahim, A. A., Abdel-Latif, G. A., El-Haleem, D. A., Helmy, G., Labib, L. M., & El-Masry, M. K. (2015). Effect of Acupuncture on Body Weight Reduction and Inflammatory Mediators in Egyptian Obese Patients. Open access Macedonian journal of medical sciences, 3(1), 85–90. doi.org/10.3889/oamjms.2015.010

Kim, S. Y., Shin, I. S., & Park, Y. J. (2018). Effect of acupuncture and intervention types on weight loss: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Obesity reviews : an official journal of the International Association for the Study of Obesity, 19(11), 1585–1596. doi.org/10.1111/obr.12747

How Decompression Can Help with Leg Back Pain

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Can individuals with leg and back pain find the relief by incorporating decompression to reduce pain-like associated symptoms?

Table of Contents

Introduction

The lower extremities help stabilize the upper body’s weight and provide movement to the individual. The lower body portions include the lower back, pelvis, hips, thighs, legs, and feet, as they all have specific jobs to do and have an outstanding relationship with each other. However, their lower back and legs are susceptible to injuries. When environmental factors or injuries start to cause issues in the musculoskeletal system, it can lead to referred pain and overlapping risk profiles that can cause a person to have mobility and stability issues. The affected muscles, tissues, ligaments, and nerve roots can become irritated, weak, and tight when environmental factors start to compress the spine and lead to pain over time. Today’s article looks at how the back and legs work together in the body, how they are impacted by pain from environmental factors, and how spinal decompression can reduce leg and back pain. We talk with certified medical providers who consolidate our patients’ information to provide numerous treatments to minimize back and leg pain affecting their mobility. We also inform and guide patients on how treatments like decompression can help reduce pain-like symptoms within the legs and back. We encourage our patients to ask their associated medical providers intricated and important questions about the referred pain-like symptoms they are experiencing from their legs and since that is disrupting their daily routine. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., incorporates this information as an academic service. Disclaimer.

How The Back & Legs Work Together?

Do you feel radiating pain in your back that is affecting your ability to walk? Do you experience muscle aches or tiredness in your legs after a long workday? Or do you feel stiffness in your back and legs after waking up? Many of these scenarios are correlated with leg and back pain that can impact a person’s gait and lead to associated pain-like symptoms. The back and leg muscles work together through the sciatic nerve, a long nerve from the lumbar spinal region, past the gluteal muscles, traveling down the back of the legs and stopping at the knees. The back consists of the core muscles and the lumbar spinal region, allowing the person to bend, twist, and extend.

Meanwhile, the leg muscles help a person become mobile while stabilizing the person’s weight. These two muscle groups have an outstanding relationship in the lower extremities, as people need to be mobile when doing activities. However, they can also become vulnerable to injuries and pain that can cause disability issues.

How Pain Is Associated With The Back & Legs?

When it comes to the lower back and the legs, environmental factors and traumatic injuries can affect the surrounding muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerve roots. For example, when working individuals routinely lift heavy objects, it can increase the risk of developing lower back pain while causing whole-body vibrations in the legs. (Becker & Childress, 2019) This is because what the heavy loading object does to the lower back is that it causes the spine to be compressed and contract the surrounding muscle. When it is repeated constantly, it can cause the spinal disc to herniate and aggravate the nerve roots. When these nerve roots become aggravated, it can lead to nerve entrapment and inflammation, thus causing individuals to experience chronic leg pain, foot drop, or ankle stability that affects their mobility. (Fortier et al., 2021)

Additionally, back and leg pain can even happen when the spine starts to experience degeneration, a natural process when the spinal disc shrinks over time. When the spinal disc in the lumbar spinal region degenerates over time, the nutrient supplies and changes in the extracellular composition cause the discs to be less capable of maintaining their load distribution function in the lower extremities. (Kim et al., 2020) However, many people who are experiencing leg and back pain can seek treatment to reduce the pain-like symptoms.

Chiropractic Care For Leg Instability- Video

Chiropractic Care for Leg Instability | El Paso, Tx (2023)

Spinal Decompression Reducing Pain On The Legs & Back

When it comes to treating leg and back pain, many individuals will start to seek affordable treatment that can reduce pain-like symptoms. Many non-surgical treatments like spinal decompression are excellent for reducing pain that is affecting the back and legs. Spinal decompression uses a traction machine that can help stretch out the tight muscles from the lower back and provide negative pressure to the affected disc by increasing the blood nutrient flow back to the disc while reducing pressure off the aggravated nerve root. (Choi et al., 2022) Spinal decompression can be combined with core stabilizing exercises that can help reduce pain and disability and improve stability in the legs and lower extremities. (Hlaing et al., 2021) With spinal decompression to reduce back and leg pain, many individuals can notice positive results after consecutive treatment, and their mobility is improved. (Vanti et al., 2021) When individuals who are experiencing leg and back pain and are looking for treatment can find the benefits of spinal decompression to be incorporated into their daily routine since it can be customizable and help them be more mindful of what movements and environmental factors are causing them pain. Making these small changes over time can improve their health and help them live healthier lives.

References

Becker, B. A., & Childress, M. A. (2019). Nonspecific Low Back Pain and Return To Work. American Family Physician, 100(11), 697-703. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31790184

www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2019/1201/p697.pdf

Fortier, L. M., Markel, M., Thomas, B. G., Sherman, W. F., Thomas, B. H., & Kaye, A. D. (2021). An Update on Peroneal Nerve Entrapment and Neuropathy. Orthop Rev (Pavia), 13(2), 24937. doi.org/10.52965/001c.24937

Kim, H. S., Wu, P. H., & Jang, I. T. (2020). Lumbar Degenerative Disease Part 1: Anatomy and Pathophysiology of Intervertebral Discogenic Pain and Radiofrequency Ablation of Basivertebral and Sinuvertebral Nerve Treatment for Chronic Discogenic Back Pain: A Prospective Case Series and Review of Literature. Int J Mol Sci, 21(4). doi.org/10.3390/ijms21041483

Vanti, C., Turone, L., Panizzolo, A., Guccione, A. A., Bertozzi, L., & Pillastrini, P. (2021). Vertical traction for lumbar radiculopathy: a systematic review. Arch Physiother, 11(1), 7. doi.org/10.1186/s40945-021-00102-5

Disclaimer

Walk Better and Faster with an Exercise Schedule

Dr. Alex Jimenez

concept of healthy lifestyle and sports in modern city — idea of healthy lifestyle and sports in a modern city. Female jogger. Fit young Caucasian woman running in park and enjoying healthy outdoor. Fitness girl in public park.

“For individuals who have decided to start exercising for fitness and health, walking is a great place to start. Can planning a walking exercise schedule help individuals maintain a fitness routine and improve endurance and speed quicker?”

Table of Contents

Walking Exercise Planning Schedule

While any amount of walking benefits health, individuals can increase the benefits by walking more per week or by increasing the pace. Brisk walking for 30 minutes per day, totaling 150 minutes per week, is recommended by health experts to decrease risks for heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and other conditions. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2022)

Individuals with ongoing health conditions should talk to their doctor before starting any new exercise program.
Beginners are encouraged to focus on using proper walking posture and technique to steadily improve strength and endurance.
The increased duration or intensity can help if weight loss is a goal.
Improving diet is also necessary for the best results.
Individuals can build healthy walking habits by tracking walks.

Schedule

Checklist

Individuals can walk outdoors, indoors, or on a treadmill.
Wear proper athletic shoes and clothing.
Check walking posture.
Walk at an easy pace for a couple of minutes before picking up speed.

First Week

An example of what a walking exercise schedule can look like, but it’s advised to consult a professional trainer to develop a personalized fitness plan.

Start with a 15-minute walk at an easy pace.
Walk five days the first week.
Building a healthy habit is the goal, so consistency is important.
Spread out rest days, like making days 3 and 6 rest days.
Weekly goal – 60 to 75 minutes

Second Week

Add five minutes, so the walk time increases gradually.
Or, individuals can extend more on some days, followed by a rest day.
Weekly goal – 80 to 100 minutes

Third Week

Add five more minutes with each session, so the walk increases to 25 minutes.
Weekly goal – 100 to 125 minutes

Fourth Week

Add another five minutes to increase the walk to 30 minutes.
Weekly goal – 120 to 150 minutes

Individuals who find any week to be difficult are suggested to repeat that week instead of adding time until they are able to progress naturally. Once able to walk for 30 minutes at a time comfortably, individuals are ready for a variety of different walking exercise workouts to add intensity and endurance. A weekly walking plan can include:

Longer walks
Higher-intensity walks
Speed-building walks

Beginner Walking Speed

An individual’s objective should be brisk walking to achieve a moderate-intensity workout. This is the intensity that is associated with the most health benefits.

Moderate intensity is usually associated with walking a mile in 20 minutes or less. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2022)
With a target heart rate of 64% to 76% of maximum heart rate. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2022)

Brisk walking should feel like:

Breathing is heavier than normal.
Able to carry a full conversation while walking.
Not out of breath. (Siti Ruzita Mahmod et al., 2018)
If the speed is slower and the heart rate is lower during the initial weeks, this is normal.

The first goal is to walk for 30 to 60 minutes a day without injury.
Adding speed and intensity gradually.
Staying consistent in regularly walking before trying to walk faster and longer.
Using proper walking posture and arm motion will help in faster walking.
To reduce the risk of injury, gradually increase the length of the walk or pace, only changing one component at a time.

Individuals may consider joining a walking group or club to have others to walk with and an incentive to maintain regular walking.

Home Exercises for Pain Relief

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). How Much Physical Activity Do Adults Need? Retrieved from www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/adults/index.htm

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Measuring Physical Activity Intensity. Retrieved from www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/measuring/index.html

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Target Heart Rate and Estimated Maximum Heart Rate. Retrieved from www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/measuring/heartrate.htm

Mahmod, S. R., Narayanan, L. T., & Supriyanto, E. (2018). Effects of incremental cardiorespiratory exercise on the speech rate and the estimated exercise intensity using the counting talk test. Journal of physical therapy science, 30(7), 933–937. doi.org/10.1589/jpts.30.933

The Benefits of Acupuncture for Piriformis Syndrome

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Can individuals with piriformis syndrome incorporate acupuncture with various therapies to reduce sciatic nerve pain and other symptoms?

Table of Contents

Introduction

As many individuals move around from one location to another thanks to the lower body extremities, the surrounding muscles, ligaments, nerve roots, and tissues help contribute to the sensory-motor function of the hips, legs, buttocks, and feet. All these muscle groups factor in to ensure they can be mobile without the effects of pain or discomfort. However, many factors and issues can cause the surrounding muscles to develop musculoskeletal problems over time, affecting a person’s mobility. One of the muscles that helps share the responsibility for mobility to hips and buttocks is the piriformis muscle, which is often overlooked when various injuries or repetitive motions start to affect a person’s ability to walk. Today’s article examines how piriformis syndrome affects mobility, how sciatic pain correlates with piriformis syndrome, and how therapies like acupuncture can help reduce piriformis syndrome. We talk with certified medical providers who consolidate our patients’ information to provide numerous treatments to minimize piriformis syndrome affecting a person’s mobility. We also inform and guide patients on how treatments like acupuncture can help reduce sciatic nerve pain associated with piriformis syndrome. We encourage our patients to ask their associated medical providers intricated and important questions about the referred pain-like symptoms they are experiencing from piriformis syndrome that is affecting their ability to walk. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., incorporates this information as an academic service. Disclaimer.

Piriformis Syndrome Affecting Mobility

Have you been experiencing muscle tightness in your hips or buttock region, affecting your walking ability? Do you feel sensations of numbness, tingling, or burning pain traveling down to your knees and feet? Or, after a long day of work, do you feel pain when you are sitting down? Most of these symptoms are often correlated with piriformis syndrome. The six surrounding muscles surrounding the gluteal region of the thighs and hips all work together to provide lower body movement while stabilizing the hips and rotating the thighs. The piriformis muscle is a small, flat, pear-shaped muscle that runs on top of the sciatic nerve. Piriformis syndrome is a clinical musculoskeletal condition that causes sciatic nerve entrapment that causes many individuals to report shooting and burning pain down to their buttock region. (Hicks et al., 2024) This causes many people to think they are dealing with low back pain associated with sciatica. When a person is dealing with piriformis syndrome, they will experience limited mobility in their hips, which, over time, if not treated, will affect the thighs and legs.

How Does Sciatic Nerve Pain correlate with Piriformis Syndrome?

Additionally, since piriformis syndrome is correlated with sciatic nerve pain, some clinical findings causing overlapping risk profiles include restricted external hip rotation and muscle tightness of the lumbosacral muscles. Other clinical findings range from palpatory pain over the greater sciatic notch to aggravated pain in a seated position. (Sharma et al., 2023) Since sciatic nerve entrapment is correlated with piriformis syndrome, it is still regarded as the non-discogenic cause of sciatica. (Son & Lee, 2022) When that sciatic nerve gets trapped within the piriformis muscle, many people will experience numbness, tingling sensations, and similar pain patterns in the legs, just like sciatica; however, when individuals are looking for treatments to reduce the sciatic nerve pain and improve the piriformis muscle.

Acupuncture Therapy Reduces Piriformis Syndrome

When people are looking for treatments to reduce their sciatic nerve pain correlated with piriformis syndrome, they are seeking treatments that are affordable and can reduce the pain through consecutive sessions. Acupuncture therapy can help reduce the effects of piriformis syndrome. Acupuncture is a complementary and alternative therapy from China that uses solid, thin needles to be placed on the acupoints in the body. Additionally, highly trained professionals can incorporate various acupuncture methods to treat and reduce the effects of piriformis syndrome. (He et al., 2023) At the same time, when a person is being treated for piriformis syndrome, an acupuncturist uses ultrasound-guided techniques to allow accurate needle placement within the deep muscles to provide an effective treatment response. (Fusco et al., 2018) This allows the affected surrounding muscles to relax and reduce sciatic nerve pain.

Acupuncture Reducing Sciatic Nerve Pain

Since sciatic nerve pain and piriformis syndrome have overlapping risk profiles, they can also be associated with other musculoskeletal pain conditions that can affect a person’s mobility. Acupuncture can help mitigate the pain signals causing motor or sensory disturbances within the pelvic and hip regions. (Kvorning et al., 2004) Acupuncture is one of the oldest forms of non-surgical therapy that can be combined with other various therapies to help remobilize the hips and decompress the pain affecting the sciatic nerve while providing relief. (Vij et al., 2021) By incorporating acupuncture as part of a person’s health and wellness treatment plan, they will begin to gradually manage the associated symptoms and reduce the chances of piriformis syndrome from returning to cause sciatic nerve pain in the lower extremities. This allows people to be more mindful and help restore the body’s natural healing process over time.

Reclaim Your Mobility- Video

Reclaim Your Mobility: Chiropractic Care for Sciatica Recovery | El Paso, Tx (2024)

References

Fusco, P., Di Carlo, S., Scimia, P., Degan, G., Petrucci, E., & Marinangeli, F. (2018). Ultrasound-guided Dry Needling Treatment of Myofascial Trigger Points for Piriformis Syndrome Management: A Case Series. J Chiropr Med, 17(3), 198-200. doi.org/10.1016/j.jcm.2018.04.002

He, Y., Miao, F., Fan, Y., Zhang, F., Yang, P., Zhao, X., Wang, M., He, C., & He, J. (2023). Acupuncture Methods for Piriformis Syndrome: A Protocol for Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis. J Pain Res, 16, 2357-2364. doi.org/10.2147/JPR.S417211

Hicks, B. L., Lam, J. C., & Varacallo, M. (2024). Piriformis Syndrome. In StatPearls. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28846222

Kvorning, N., Holmberg, C., Grennert, L., Aberg, A., & Akeson, J. (2004). Acupuncture relieves pelvic and low-back pain in late pregnancy. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand, 83(3), 246-250. doi.org/10.1111/j.0001-6349.2004.0215.x

Sharma, S., Kaur, H., Verma, N., & Adhya, B. (2023). Looking beyond Piriformis Syndrome: Is It Really the Piriformis? Hip Pelvis, 35(1), 1-5. doi.org/10.5371/hp.2023.35.1.1

Son, B. C., & Lee, C. (2022). Piriformis Syndrome (Sciatic Nerve Entrapment) Associated With Type C Sciatic Nerve Variation: A Report of Two Cases and Literature Review. Korean J Neurotrauma, 18(2), 434-443. doi.org/10.13004/kjnt.2022.18.e29

Vij, N., Kiernan, H., Bisht, R., Singleton, I., Cornett, E. M., Kaye, A. D., Imani, F., Varrassi, G., Pourbahri, M., Viswanath, O., & Urits, I. (2021). Surgical and Non-surgical Treatment Options for Piriformis Syndrome: A Literature Review. Anesth Pain Med, 11(1), e112825. doi.org/10.5812/aapm.112825

Disclaimer

Acupuncture for Arthritis: Can It Help Manage Symptoms?

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Close up of a needle and hands of physiotherapist doing a dry needling. — Close up of a needle and hands of physiotherapist doing a dry needling in a physiotherapy center.

“For individuals with arthritis, can incorporating acupuncture with other therapies help manage pain and other symptoms?”

Table of Contents

Acupuncture For Arthritis

Acupuncture has been around for thousands of years and is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that utilizes needles inserted into various parts of the body to relieve pain and inflammation. The practice is based on the concept of life energy that flows throughout the body along pathways called meridians. When the energy flow becomes disrupted, blocked, or injured, pain or illness can present. (Arthritis Foundation. N.D.) Further research is needed to determine how the acupuncture therapeutic mechanisms work and the overall effectiveness. However, there is emerging evidence suggesting that acupuncture can provide symptom relief for individuals with joint pain, especially those with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. (Pei-Chi Chou, Heng-Yi Chu. 2018)

Benefits

The actual method that reduces the pain and inflammation is still unclear. Theories include that the needles suppress inflammatory responses, improve blood flow, and relax muscles. Although acupuncture cannot cure or reverse arthritis, it may be useful for managing pain and decreasing associated symptoms, especially in combination with other therapies. (Pei-Chi Chou, Heng-Yi Chu. 2018)

Rheumatoid Arthritis

A systematic review of 43 studies, including humans and animals with rheumatoid arthritis, demonstrated varied results. Several studies showed improvement in symptoms and decreased biological markers of rheumatoid arthritis following one to three sessions of acupuncture for four weeks or more. (Sharon L. Kolasinski et al., 2020) Beneficial outcomes following acupuncture treatment for rheumatoid arthritis include:

Reduced pain
Reduced joint stiffness
Improved physical function

The results of the human and animal studies suggested that acupuncture has the potential to down-regulate:

Levels of interleukins
Levels of tumor necrosis factor
Specific cell signaling proteins/cytokines involved in the inflammatory response, which become elevated in autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. (Pei-Chi Chou, Heng-Yi Chu. 2018)
Most of the study subjects were also receiving other forms of treatment, especially medication. Therefore, it is difficult to conclude how beneficial acupuncture is alone or as a supplemental addition to other medical treatments. (Pei-Chi Chou, Heng-Yi Chu. 2018)

Osteoarthritis

Acupuncture for osteoarthritis of the hand, hip, and knee is recommended, according to the American College of Rheumatology and Arthritis Foundation, meaning that it may be worth trying, although more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness. However, since the risk is relatively minor, acupuncture is generally considered a safe alternative treatment option for managing the symptoms. (Sharon L. Kolasinski et al., 2020)

Chronic Pain

As clinical trials suggest that acupuncture may be effective in providing pain relief, it may be a recommended option for individuals suffering from chronic pain. A recent systematic review of 20,827 patients and 39 trials concluded that acupuncture is effective for the treatment of chronic musculoskeletal pain, headache, and osteoarthritis pain. (Andrew J. Vickers et al., 2018)

Other possible benefits include the antioxidative effects: (Pei-Chi Chou, Heng-Yi Chu. 2018)

Alleviating oxidative stress and inflammation
Improving energy metabolism
Triggering the release of endorphins/hormones that help reduce pain.

Safety

Acupuncture is considered a safe procedure by a licensed and certified professional.
To practice acupuncture in the United States, an acupuncturist needs a minimum of a master’s degree from a program accredited by the American Academy of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine and a license in the state where they received their acupuncture treatment.
Doctors with an MD or DO degree licensed in the United States to practice medicine can also be licensed by the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture after additional training.

Risks

Risks associated with acupuncture are bleeding and bruising, especially for individuals who have a bleeding disorder like hemophilia or take a blood thinning medication. Individuals are recommended to talk to their healthcare provider to determine if acupuncture is a safe option.

Side Effects

Most individuals do not experience any side effects, although possible reactions can include: (Shifen Xu et al., 2013)

Soreness
Bruising
Scarring
Needle shock: a vasovagal response that presents as feeling faint, clammy hands, chills, and slight nausea.

Acupuncture Session

During the initial treatment, individuals will discuss their medical history and what joints and areas of their bodies are presenting with symptoms.
After a physical exam, the individual will lie on a treatment table.
Individuals may be face up or down depending on what areas of the body the acupuncturist needs to access.
It is recommended to wear loose clothing that can be rolled up or moved out of the way to access different areas easily.
Depending on what areas need to be accessed, individuals may be asked to change into a medical gown.
The acupuncturist will use alcohol swabs to disinfect the area before inserting the needles.
The needles are made of stainless steel and are extremely thin.
Individuals may feel a slight pinch in sensitive areas like the hands and feet, but needle insertion should be comfortable and well-tolerated without significant discomfort.
For electroacupuncture, the acupuncturist will pass a mild electric current through the needles, typically 40 to 80 volts.
The needles stay in place for 20 to 30 minutes.
After the treatment is finished, the acupuncturist will remove the needles and dispose of them.

Frequency

The frequency of acupuncture sessions will vary depending on the severity of the symptoms and whether the visits are approved and reimbursed by the health insurance company.

Cost and Insurance

Costs for acupuncture can vary from $75 to $200 per session.
The first session, which involves an initial assessment and evaluation, usually costs more than follow-up visits.
Whether the health insurance will cover some or all of the costs of acupuncture sessions depends on the individual insurance company and the condition being treated.
Medicare currently covers acupuncture services up to 12 visits within a 90-day period for chronic low back pain only.
Medicare will not cover acupuncture for other conditions. (Medicare.gov. N.D.)

Acupuncture is not a cure for arthritis, but it may be a useful tool to help manage pain and other symptoms. Make sure to consult a healthcare provider if acupuncture is safe to try based on medical history.

Arthritis Explained

References

Arthritis Foundation. (N.D.). Acupuncture for arthritis (Health & Wellness, Issue. www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/treatment/complementary-therapies/natural-therapies/acupuncture-for-arthritis

Chou, P. C., & Chu, H. Y. (2018). Clinical Efficacy of Acupuncture on Rheumatoid Arthritis and Associated Mechanisms: A Systemic Review. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM, 2018, 8596918. doi.org/10.1155/2018/8596918

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