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Treating a Broken Collarbone: What You Need to Know

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-
Senior patient having medical examination at orthopedist office.

“For individuals with a broken collarbone, can conservative treatment help in the rehabilitation process?”

Treating a Broken Collarbone: What You Need to Know

Broken Collarbone

Broken collarbones are very common orthopedic injuries that can occur in any age group. Also known as the clavicle, it is the bone over the top of the chest, between the breastbone/sternum and the shoulder blade/scapula. The clavicle can be easily seen because only skin covers a large part of the bone. Clavicle fractures are extremely common, and account for 2% – 5% of all fractures. (Radiopaedia. 2023) Broken collarbones occur in:

  • Babies – usually during birth.
  • Children and adolescents – because the clavicle does not fully develop until the late teens.
  • Athletes – because of the risks of being hit or falling.
  • Through various types of accidents and falls.
  • The majority of broken collarbones can be treated with nonsurgical treatments, usually, with a sling to let the bone heal and physical therapy and rehabilitation.
  • Sometimes, when clavicle fractures are significantly shifted out of alignment, surgical treatment may be recommended.
  • There are treatment options that should be discussed with an orthopedic surgeon, physical therapist, and/or a chiropractor.
  • A broken collarbone is not more serious than other broken bones.
  • Once the broken bone heals, most individuals have a full range of motion and can return to the activities before the fracture. (Johns Hopkins Medicine. 2023)

Types

Broken clavicle injuries are separated into three types depending on the location of the fracture. (Radiopaedia. 2023)

Mid-Shaft Clavicle Fractures

  • These occur in the central area which can be a simple crack, separation, and/or fractured into many pieces.
  • Multiple breaks – segmental fractures.
  • Significant displacement – separation.
  • Shortened length of the bone.

Distal Clavicle Fractures

  • These happen close to the end of the collarbone at the shoulder joint.
  • This part of the shoulder is called the acromioclavicular/AC joint.
  • Distal clavicle fractures can have similar treatment options as an AC joint injury.

Medial Clavicle Fractures

  • These are less common and often related to injury to the sternoclavicular joint.
  • The sternoclavicular joint supports the shoulder and is the only joint that connects the arm to the body.
  • Growth plate fractures of the clavicle can be seen into the late teens and early 20s.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of a broken collarbone include: (National Library of Medicine: MedlinePlus. 2022)

  • Pain over the collarbone.
  • Shoulder pain.
  • Difficulty moving the arm.
  • Difficulty raising the arm from the side.
  • Swelling and bruising around the shoulder.
  • The bruising can extend down to the chest and armpit.
  • Numbness and tingling down the arm.
  • Deformity of the collarbone.
  1. In addition to swelling, some individuals may have a bump in the place where the fracture occurred.
  2. It can take several months for this bump to fully heal, but this is normal.
  3. If the bump appears inflamed or irritated, inform a healthcare provider.

Clavicular Swelling

  • When the sternoclavicular joint swells up or gets bigger, it is referred to as clavicular swelling.
  • It is commonly caused by trauma, disease, or an infection that affects the fluid found in the joints. (John Edwin, et al., 2018)

Diagnosis

  • At the healthcare clinic or emergency room, an X-ray will be obtained to assess for the specific type of fracture.
  • They will perform an examination to ensure the nerves and blood vessels surrounding the broken collarbone are unsevered.
  • The nerves and vessels are rarely injured, but in severe cases, these injuries can occur.

Treatment

Treatment is accomplished either by allowing the bone to heal or by surgical procedures to restore the proper alignment. Some common treatments for broken bones are not used for clavicle fractures.

  • For example, casting a broken collarbone is not done.
  • In addition, resetting the bone or a closed reduction is not done because there is no way to hold the broken bone in proper alignment without surgery.

If surgery is an option the healthcare provider looks at the following factors: (UpToDate. 2023)

Location of Fracture and Degree of Displacement

  • Nondisplaced or minimally displaced fractures are usually managed without surgery.

Age

  • Younger individuals have an increased ability to recover from fractures without surgery.

Shortening of the Fracture Fragment

  • Displaced fractures can heal, but when there is a pronounced shortening of the collarbone, surgery is probably necessary.

Other Injuries

  • Individuals with head injuries or multiple fractures can be treated without surgery.

Patient Expectations

  • When the injury involves an athlete, heavy job occupation, or the arm is the dominant extremity, there can be more reason for surgery.

Dominant Arm

  • When fractures occur in the dominant arm, the effects are more likely to be noticeable.

The majority of these fractures can be managed without surgery, but there are situations where surgery can produce better results.

Supports for Non-surgical Treatment

  • A sling or figure-8 clavicle brace.
  • The figure-8 brace has not been shown to affect fracture alignment, and many individuals generally find a sling more comfortable. (UpToDate. 2023)
  1. Broken collarbones should heal within 6–12 weeks in adults
  2. 3–6 weeks in children
  3. Younger patients are usually back to full activities before 12 weeks.
  4. The pain usually subsides within a few weeks. (UpToDate. 2023)
  5. Immobilization is rarely needed beyond a few weeks, and with a doctor’s clearance light activity and gentle motion rehabilitation usually begins.

Long-Lasting Injuries

References

Radiopaedia. Clavicular fracture.

Johns Hopkins Medicine. Clavicle fractures.

National Library of Medicine: MedlinePlus. Broken collarbone – aftercare.

UpToDate. Clavicle fractures.

Edwin, J., Ahmed, S., Verma, S., Tytherleigh-Strong, G., Karuppaiah, K., & Sinha, J. (2018). Swellings of the sternoclavicular joint: review of traumatic and non-traumatic pathologies. EFORT open reviews, 3(8), 471–484. doi.org/10.1302/2058-5241.3.170078

Foot Detox: Boost Your Health and Wellness

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-
Woman do foot bath herself at home

“For individuals with aches and pains throughout their body, can a foot detox help bring relief?”

Foot Detox For Pain Relief

Foot Detox

A foot detox involves soaking the feet in an ionic bath to help remove toxins from the body. They can also be performed using acupressure, scrubs, foot masks, and pads. Combined with eliminating toxins, detox is also believed to help enhance blood circulation and provide body pain and discomfort relief. However, current evidence is limited and there has been no evidence to support that toxins can be released from the feet using an ionic bath. However, they have been found to provide other benefits, which include:

  • Relaxation
  • Lower stress levels
  • Enhanced skin health and hydration.
  • Reduced inflammation in individuals with skin disorders.

Foot detoxes are considered generally safe, but individuals are recommended to speak to their healthcare provider.

Potential Benefits

The potential health benefits include:

  • Reduces inflammation and swelling.
  • Improves stress levels and mood.
  • Can help with weight management.
  • Can help with heart health and increased blood circulation.
  • Relieves aches and pains.
  • Balances pH levels.
  • Eliminate harmful pathogens and microorganisms.

However, most reports surrounding the benefits of foot detox are not proven by research investigating whether the health claims are scientifically accurate. One study in 2012 found that foot detoxes did not produce the intended results and could not help remove toxins from the body. (Deborah A. Kennedy, et al., 2012) Other research surrounding foot baths and massages showed that they could help reduce symptoms of mood disorders like schizophrenia because of the relaxing effect they produce. (Kazuko Kito, Keiko Suzuki. 2016)

Ways Toxins are Removed From the Body

Toxins are filtered out of the body in a variety of ways. Breathing out expels carbon dioxide from the body. Another way is through the body’s natural processes. The body has organs and other systems to filter out and release toxins.

  • Specific organs, such as the liver, kidneys, and lymph nodes, filter and remove harmful and unneeded substances. (UW Integrative Health. 2021)
  • The health claims surrounding toxin removal through the feet are currently insubstantial because no evidence supports the effectiveness and the anecdotal evidence is not based on science.
  • Water tested after foot detoxes did not detect any toxins. (Deborah A. Kennedy, et al., 2012)

Types

Foot detoxes can be an enjoyable experience that can help relieve sore feet, relax the body, and offer relief for certain foot ailments. They could be an excellent addition to a self-care routine. Some of the most commonly used natural foot detoxes include the following.

Epsom Salt Foot Bath

Apple Cider Vinegar

  • Apple cider vinegar foot baths are made by diluting 1 cup of vinegar in warm water and soaking the feet for 20–30 minutes.
  • There is limited research available to confirm the health claims.
  • The studies that have been done have found the reverse effect, that bathing the feet in apple cider vinegar and water can irritate the skin. (Lydia A Luu, et al., 2021)

Baking Soda and Sea Salt

Sea salt combined with baking soda dissolved in a bath and soak the feet for up to 30 minutes. While research is limited, some evidence supports the health benefits associated with sea salt that include: (Ehrhardt Proksch, et al., 2005)

  • Enhances skin hydration.
  • Improve skin barrier function. (Kanwar A. J. 2018)
  • Reduces inflammation in skin conditions, like atopic dermatitis.

Foot baths should be avoided for the following:

  • There are open sores on the feet that could be irritated by salt and other foot bath ingredients.
  • Individuals with a pacemaker or any electrical body implant.
  • Pregnant women.
  • Consult a healthcare provider before trying any new health protocols.

Foot Orthotics Benefits

References

Kennedy, D. A., Cooley, K., Einarson, T. R., & Seely, D. (2012). Objective assessment of an ionic footbath (IonCleanse): testing its ability to remove potentially toxic elements from the body. Journal of environmental and public health, 2012, 258968. doi.org/10.1155/2012/258968

Kito, K., & Suzuki, K. (2016). Research on the Effect of the Foot Bath and Foot Massage on Residual Schizophrenia Patients. Archives of psychiatric nursing, 30(3), 375–381. doi.org/10.1016/j.apnu.2016.01.002

UW Integrative Health. Improving your health by removing toxins from your body.

Akyuz Ozdemir, F., & Can, G. (2021). The effect of warm salt water foot bath on the management of chemotherapy-induced fatigue. European journal of oncology nursing: the official journal of European Oncology Nursing Society, 52, 101954. doi.org/10.1016/j.ejon.2021.101954

Vakilinia, S. R., Vaghasloo, M. A., Aliasl, F., Mohammadbeigi, A., Bitarafan, B., Etripoor, G., & Asghari, M. (2020). Evaluation of the efficacy of warm salt water foot-bath on patients with painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy: A randomized clinical trial. Complementary therapies in medicine, 49, 102325. doi.org/10.1016/j.ctim.2020.102325

Luu, L. A., Flowers, R. H., Gao, Y., Wu, M., Gasperino, S., Kellams, A. L., Preston, D. C., Zlotoff, B. J., Wisniewski, J. A., & Zeichner, S. L. (2021). Apple cider vinegar soaks do not alter the skin bacterial microbiome in atopic dermatitis. PloS one, 16(6), e0252272. doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0252272

Proksch, E., Nissen, H. P., Bremgartner, M., & Urquhart, C. (2005). Bathing in a magnesium-rich Dead Sea salt solution improves skin barrier function, enhances skin hydration, and reduces inflammation in atopic dry skin. International journal of dermatology, 44(2), 151–157. doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-4632.2005.02079.x

Kanwar A. J. (2018). Skin barrier function. The Indian Journal of Medical Research, 147(1), 117–118. doi.org/10.4103/0971-5916.232013

Maintaining Gut Flora Balance

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-
Conception of healthy eating. With woman. Doctor in formal clothes is working in the cabinet.

For individuals with stomach issues, can maintaining gut flora balance promote and improve gut health?

Maintaining Gut Flora Balance

Gut Flora Balance

Maintaining gut flora balance is part of optimal digestive health. Gut microbiota, gut microbiome, or gut flora, are the microorganisms, including bacteria, archaea, fungi, and viruses that live in the digestive tract. The type and amount of bacteria present depend on their location in the body which could be the small intestine and colon. This is the storage housing for waste/stool, and the colon comprises hundreds of different types of bacteria, which have specific jobs and functions.

Unhealthy Flora

The more common pathogens are bacteria that can cause illness if left unchecked, including germs like streptococcus/strep throat or E. coli/urinary tract infections and diarrhea. Other common germs found in the colon include: (Elizabeth Thursby, Nathalie Juge. 2017)

Clostridioides Difficile

  • C. diff overgrowth can cause watery foul-smelling stools daily, and abdominal pain and tenderness.

Enterococcus Faecalis

  • Enterococcus faecalis is a cause of post-surgical abdominal and urinary tract infections.

Escherichia Coli

  • E. coli is the most common cause of diarrhea in adults.
  • This bacteria is present in almost every healthy adult’s colon.

Klebsiella

  • Klebsiella overgrowth is associated with a Western diet that consists of various meat and animal products.

Bacteroides

  • Bacteroide overgrowth is associated with colitis, which causes painful inflammation of the colon.

Healthy Flora

Healthy bacteria like Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus, help maintain gut flora balance and keep the unhealthy bacteria in check. Without healthy flora, the entire colon can become overrun by bad flora, which can result in symptoms like diarrhea and/or illness. (Yu-Jie Zhang, et al., 2015) These protective, microscopic germs have important functions that include:

  • Assisting with vitamin synthesis – vitamins B and K in the small intestine.
  • Increases immune system function.
  • Maintaining regular bowel movements.
  • Maintaining a clean colon naturally without the need for colon cleansers.
  • Destroying the unhealthy bacteria.
  • Preventing unhealthy bacteria overgrowth.
  • Breaking up gas bubbles from food fermentation.

Bacterial Dismantling

Whether labeled as healthy bacteria or unhealthy, they are both single-celled organisms that can be destroyed quite easily. Sometimes, it is necessary, like when having to take antibiotics to kill a strep throat infection. However, the antibiotics also kill the beneficial bacteria, which can lead to compounding problems that can include: (Mi Young Yoon, Sang Sun Yoon. 2018)

  • Bowel irregularity – diarrhea and constipation.
  • Yeast overgrowth – can cause itching, burning around the anus and lead to vaginal and oral yeast infections.
  • Dysbiosis – the technical name for a lack of healthy bacteria or a bacterial imbalance.
  • Complications for individuals suffering from irritable bowel syndrome.

There are different ways to destroy bacteria including.

  • Individuals who need to take antibiotics to cure an infection. (Eamonn M M Quigley. 2013)
  • Chronic laxative use.
  • Fiber supplementation overuse.
  • Prolonged diarrhea – can flush out the bad and good bacteria.
  • Stress
  • Completing a bowel prep, like those required for a colonoscopy.

Diagnosing Gut Flora Issues

Many times, problems with gut flora will correct themselves, and no action is required. However, individuals facing chronic bowel problems, like colitis or inflammatory bowel disease, may require medical intervention of their colon’s bacteria.

  • Comprehensive Digestive Stool Analysis/CDSA is a stool test that checks what type and amount of bacteria are present, nutrient absorption rates/digestion speed, and how well food is digested.
  • If there is a significant difference in the proportion of unhealthy versus beneficial bacteria, a healthcare provider may suggest taking a probiotic or a live microbial supplement to help repopulate and maintain gut flora balance.

Gut Dysfunction

References

Thursby, E., & Juge, N. (2017). Introduction to the human gut microbiota. The Biochemical journal, 474(11), 1823–1836. doi.org/10.1042/BCJ20160510

Zhang, Y. J., Li, S., Gan, R. Y., Zhou, T., Xu, D. P., & Li, H. B. (2015). Impacts of gut bacteria on human health and diseases. International journal of molecular sciences, 16(4), 7493–7519. doi.org/10.3390/ijms16047493

Yoon, M. Y., & Yoon, S. S. (2018). Disruption of the Gut Ecosystem by Antibiotics. Yonsei medical journal, 59(1), 4–12. doi.org/10.3349/ymj.2018.59.1.4

Quigley E. M. (2013). Gut bacteria in health and disease. Gastroenterology & hepatology, 9(9), 560–569.

Tennis Weight Training

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-
Young woman playing tennis

“Tennis requires strength, power, and endurance. Can combining tennis weight training into a player’s fitness regimen that is broken up into phases achieve optimal results?”

Tennis Weight Training

Tennis Weight Training

In professional sports that utilize weight lifting, the training is often broken up into seasonal phases. (Daniel S Lorenz, Michael P Reiman, John C Walker. 2010) Each phase consists of specific objectives that contribute to and build upon the previous phase. This is known as periodization. Tennis is played year-round indoors and outdoors. This is an example of a tennis weight training program to build up strength.

Pre-Season

  • In the early pre-season, players prepare to rebuild their strength after a break.
  • The emphasis is on building functional strength and some muscle.

Late Pre-Season

  • In late pre-season, players workout to get ready for the start of the season.
  • Here, the emphasis is on building maximum power.

In Season

  • In season, regular practice, play, and competition get underway and players are in top condition.
  • In this phase, strength and power maintenance is the focus.

Season Break

  • This is when players need to relax for a while.
  • However, players need to keep active if they want to maintain some level of fitness.
  • The emphasis is on rest and recovery with the maintenance of light activity, like cross-training and light gym workouts.
  • Research has shown that taking a break from serious strength training does help the body recover and rebuild. (Daniel Lorenz, Scot Morrison. 2015)
  1. This is a three-phase all-around program.
  2. The first phase concentrates on building basic strength and muscle
  3. The second phase on power delivery.
  4. Players who play year-round can continue with the power program once they build the basics.
  5. Players who take a break for longer than six weeks should start again with the strength program.

Pre-Season – Phase One

Strength and Muscle

  • The focus is on lifting heavy weights, but not going full force to begin training the nervous system to work with the muscle fibers.
  • Some muscle building or hypertrophy/building muscle size will happen during strength development.
  • Strength is the foundation for the power development phase.

Exercises:

  1. Duration: 6-8 weeks
  2. Workout Days: 2-3, with at least one day, however, two are recommended between sessions.
  3. Reps: 8-10
  4. Sets: 2-4
  5. Rest between sets: 1-2 minutes
  • Barbell squat, dumbbell squat, or sled hack squat
  • Romanian deadlift
  • Dumbbell bent-over row
  • Dumbbell triceps extension or machine pushdown
  • Cable wood chop
  • Lat pulldown to the front with a wide grip
  • Reverse crunch

Things to Remember

Use the Proper Weight

  • Adjust the weight so that the last reps are heavy but don’t cause a complete failure.

Balance the Lower Half

  • The posterior chain of the hips, the gluteals/buttocks, the upper legs, and the abdominals are of equal importance and require equal attention. (Eline Md De Ridder, et al., 2013)
  • Squats and deadlifts build strength and power in this region.

Follow Proper Form

  • For upper body exercises like the dumbbell press, lat pulldown, and wood chops the proper form needs to be followed.
  • Keep the forearms in a vertical plane with the upper arms.
  • Do not extend excessively at the bottom of the movement.
  • Remember to protect the vulnerable shoulder joint.

Listen to The Body

  • Strength training is physically and mentally challenging.
  • Individuals who are not able to recover from a session with only one rest day are recommended to move the program to two sessions per week.
  • Muscle soreness or delayed onset muscle soreness – DOMS – is normal, however, joint pain is not.
  • Monitor arm and shoulder reactions during this phase.
  • Stop if any joint pain or discomfort is felt.

Late Pre-Season – In-Season – Phase Two

Power

Power is the ability to move the heaviest loads in the shortest time and is the combination of strength and speed. In this phase, the player builds on the strength developed in phase one with tennis weight training that will increase the ability to move a load at high velocity.

  • Power training requires lifting weights at high velocity and with explosiveness.
  • The body needs to rest adequately between repetitions and sets so that each movement is done as fast as possible.
  • The number of sets can be less than phase one because there is no point in training at this level when the body is fatigued.

Exercises

  1. Duration: Ongoing
  2. Days per week: 2
  3. Reps: 8 to 10
  4. Sets: 2-4
  5. Rest between repetitions: 10 to 15 seconds​
  6. Rest between sets: at least 1 minute or until recovered
  • Barbell or dumbbell hang clean
  • Cable push-pull
  • Cable wood chop
  • One arm cable raises
  • Medicine ball push press
  • Medicine ball standing twist with a partner or alone – 6×15 repetitions fast and recover between sets.

Reminders When Preparing For the Season

Recovery Time

  • In power training, it’s important that the body has relatively recovered for each repetition and set so that the individual can maximize the movement.
  • The weights should not be as heavy and the rest periods sufficient.

Push When Possible

  • Rest is important, at the same time, the player needs to push through reasonably heavy loads to develop power against significant resistance.
  • When doing medicine ball twists, do a full set at maximum, then sufficiently rest before the next one.
  • If doing the medicine ball exercises alone, use a lighter ball and keep the ball in your hands while twisting.

In Season – Phase Three

When the season begins training does not stop in order to help maintain strength and power.

Strength and Power Maintenance

  • Alternate phase one and phase two for a total of two sessions each week.
  • Every fifth week, skip weight training to achieve optimal recovery.

Key Points

Things to keep in mind during the season.

Avoid Overscheduling

  • Avoid strength training on the same day when practicing on the court.
  • If the weight training has to be both on the same day, try to separate the workouts into morning and afternoon sessions.

Plan Time

  • Rest completely from strength training one week out of every six.
  • Light gym work is fine.
  • During the season, use intuition when it comes to working out at the gym.
  • Individuals with limited time, stick to court skills training instead of tennis weight training.

Off Season

If there is an off-season, this is the time for emotional and physical decompression and full-body recovery.

  • For several weeks, forget about weight training and do other things.
  • Stay fit and active with cross-training or other physical activities but keep it light to prevent injuries.

It is recommended to consult a coach, trainer, sports chiropractor, and/or physical therapist to develop a program specific to an individual’s needs, fitness goals, and access to resources.

Spine Injuries In Sports

References

Lorenz, D. S., Reiman, M. P., & Walker, J. C. (2010). Periodization: current review and suggested implementation for athletic rehabilitation. Sports health, 2(6), 509–518. doi.org/10.1177/1941738110375910

Lorenz, D., & Morrison, S. (2015). CURRENT CONCEPTS IN PERIODIZATION OF STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING FOR THE SPORTS PHYSICAL THERAPIST. International journal of sports physical therapy, 10(6), 734–747.

De Ridder, E. M., Van Oosterwijck, J. O., Vleeming, A., Vanderstraeten, G. G., & Danneels, L. A. (2013). Posterior muscle chain activity during various extension exercises: an observational study. BMC musculoskeletal disorders, 14, 204. doi.org/10.1186/1471-2474-14-204

Fixed Sagittal Imbalance

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-
Back pain often occurs with employees who work in warehouses, Because they have to pull, lift, and push goods throughout the day of work.

“Individuals with fixed sagittal imbalance, a condition where the normal curve of the lower spine is greatly reduced or absent altogether that can cause pain and difficulty balancing. Can chiropractic treatment, physical therapy, and exercise help improve the condition?”

Fixed Sagittal Imbalance

Fixed Sagittal Imbalance

The condition is commonly known as flat back syndrome and can be present at birth or can happen as a result of surgery or a medical condition.

  • It can also happen for other reasons, including degenerative disc disease, traumatic injury, or as a result of spinal surgery. (Columbia University Irving Medical Center. 2023)
  • Individuals with flat back syndrome position their head and neck too far forward.
  • A major symptom is difficulty standing for long periods of time.

Symptoms

The spine has two curves. The lumbar spine in the lower back and cervical spine in the neck curve inward. The thoracic spine in the upper back curves outward. The curves are part of the spine’s natural alignment. They help the body balance and maintain the center of gravity.

  • If these curves begin to disappear the body can have trouble and difficulty standing up straight.
  • The loss of curvature causes the head and neck to pitch forward, making it hard to walk and do regular normal activities.
  • Individuals have to flex their hips and knees and adjust their pelvis in order to stand up straight. (Columbia University Irving Medical Center. 2023)
  • There is a tendency to stoop forward which gradually increases and can even feel like the body is falling forward.
  • By the end of the day, the body is exhausted from the strain of trying to maintain balance.

Causes

Some causes of fixed sagittal imbalance include: (Columbia University Irving Medical Center. 2023)

  • Congenital – present at birth.
  • Degenerative disc disease.
  • Ankylosing spondylitis – a type of inflammatory arthritis of the spine.
  • Compression fractures of the vertebrae – for example, caused by osteoporosis.
  • The condition used to be common after spine surgery to correct scoliosis/abnormal curvature of the spine.
  • The devices implanted could cause flat back syndrome, especially for older individuals.
  • However, new and updated surgical techniques have decreased the complications.

Diagnosis

A doctor will ask about medical history, injuries, or back surgery. This will followed by a physical exam, that can include:

  • A musculoskeletal exam.
  • A neurologic exam.
  • A gait examination will assess standing and walking ability.
  • The gait exam is done because the gait can change to compensate for the loss of the curvature.
  • X-ray imaging will show spinal alignment.
  • Other possible sources of symptoms will be considered before a diagnosis can be confirmed.

Treatment

Treatment often involves physical therapy and exercise, bracing to provide increased support, and sometimes surgery.

  • Physical therapy typically begins with stretching and targeted strengthening exercises to improve posture.
  • The goal is to reverse the pattern of muscle imbalance that keeps the lower back flat.
  • Exercises to strengthen the neck, rear shoulder muscles, back, core, and buttocks can include: (National Health Service. n.d.)
  • Abdominal stretches
  • Hamstring stretches.
  1. Hamstring stretches improve the alignment of the lumbar spine.
  2. Hold the stretch for about 30 seconds at a time.
  3. Repeat three to five times once or twice a day.
  • Back extensions
  • Chest stretches
  • Planking
  • Side-lying leg raises
  • Seated rows in a gym or pull-ups

In severe cases, patients may need corrective surgery. A few options include: (Columbia University Irving Medical Center. 2023)

A chiropractor and/or physical therapist can recommend exercises and other forms of treatment. (Won-Moon Kim, et al., 2021)

Life-Changing Chiropractic Relief

References

Columbia University Irving Medical Center. Flatback syndrome.

National Health Service. Common posture mistakes and fixes.

Lee, B. H., Hyun, S. J., Kim, K. J., Jahng, T. A., Kim, Y. J., & Kim, H. J. (2018). Clinical and Radiological Outcomes of Posterior Vertebral Column Resection for Severe Spinal Deformities. Journal of Korean Neurosurgical Society, 61(2), 251–257. doi.org/10.3340/jkns.2017.0181

Kim, W. M., Seo, Y. G., Park, Y. J., Cho, H. S., & Lee, C. H. (2021). Effect of Different Exercise Types on the Cross-Sectional Area and Lumbar Lordosis Angle in Patients with Flat Back Syndrome. International journal of environmental research and public health, 18(20), 10923. doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182010923

Sciatic Endometriosis

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-
Young woman with back spine pain ache sitting on sofa

“Can combining chiropractic treatment with the common therapies of medication, exercise, and/or physical therapy help relieve sciatic endometriosis pain symptoms?”

Sciatic Endometriosis

Sciatic Endometriosis

Sciatic endometriosis is a condition in which endometrial cells (tissue that resembles the lining of the uterus) grow outside of the uterine lining and compress the sciatic nerve. This places stress and pressure on the nerve causing back, pelvic, hip, and leg pain, especially before and during the menstrual cycle. It can also cause pain, irregular periods, and infertility. (The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. 2021)

  • These areas of endometrial tissue growth are also known as lesions or implants.
  • Women with sciatic endometriosis often experience leg pain and weakness around the time of their menstrual cycle. (Lena Marie Seegers, et al., 2023)
  • Sciatic endometriosis can also cause pain when urinating, during a bowel movement, during sex, and fatigue, and irregular vaginal bleeding.

The Sciatic Nerve

  • Typically, endometrial lesions grow and attach to the ovaries, fallopian tubes, bladder, intestines, rectum, or peritoneum/abdominal cavity lining. (The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. 2021)
  • The abnormal growth may be caused by higher-than-normal levels of estrogen.
  • Researchers believe that endometriosis is related to retrograde menstruation, which causes menstrual blood to flow back into the pelvis instead of out through the vagina. (World Health Organization. 2023)
  • Sometimes, the cells grow in the area of the pelvis right above the sciatic nerve. (Adaiah Yahaya, et al., 2021)
  • The sciatic nerve is the longest nerve in the body and travels down the back of each leg. (Johns Hopkins Medicine. 2023)
  • When endometrial lesions place pressure on the sciatic nerve, they can cause irritation and inflammation leading to severe pelvic pain, which makes it harder to conceive. (Liang Yanchun, et al., 2019)

Symptoms

Some women with endometriosis experience no symptoms or misinterpret the symptoms as typical premenstrual syndrome/PMS signs. The most common signs and symptoms of sciatic endometriosis include:

  • Difficulty walking or standing.
  • Loss of sensation, muscle weakness, and reflex alteration.
  • Limping.
  • Balance problems.
  • Bloating and nausea.
  • Constipation or diarrhea before or after a period.
  • Painful, heavy, and/or irregular periods.
  • Bleeding between periods.
  • Pain during sex, urination, and bowel movements.
  • Pain in the stomach, pelvis, lower back, hips, and buttocks. (MedlinePlus. 2022)
  • Weakness, numbness, tingling, burning, or dull aching sensations in the back of one or both legs.
  • Foot drop or trouble lifting the front of the foot. (Center for Endometriosis Care. 2023)
  • Infertility.
  • Fatigue.
  • Depression and anxiety.

Diagnosis

Endometriosis, including sciatic endometriosis, typically cannot be diagnosed with a pelvic examination or ultrasound by themselves. A healthcare provider may need to perform a biopsy using laparoscopy and discuss menstrual cycles, symptoms, and medical history.

  • The laparoscopy procedure involves making tiny incisions and taking a tissue sample with tools attached to a thin tube with a camera. (MedlinePlus. 2022)
  • Imaging tests, like magnetic resonance imaging/MRI, and computed tomography/CT scans, can help provide essential information about the location and size of any endometrial lesions. (The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. 2021)

Treatment

Symptoms can sometimes be temporarily relieved with over-the-counter/OTC pain relievers. Depending on the condition and severity a healthcare provider may prescribe hormonal treatment to prevent new endometrial implants from growing. These can include:

Sciatica In Depth

References

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Endometriosis.

Seegers, L. M., DeFaria Yeh, D., Yonetsu, T., Sugiyama, T., Minami, Y., Soeda, T., Araki, M., Nakajima, A., Yuki, H., Kinoshita, D., Suzuki, K., Niida, T., Lee, H., McNulty, I., Nakamura, S., Kakuta, T., Fuster, V., & Jang, I. K. (2023). Sex Differences in Coronary Atherosclerotic Phenotype and Healing Pattern on Optical Coherence Tomography Imaging. Circulation. Cardiovascular imaging, 16(8), e015227. doi.org/10.1161/CIRCIMAGING.123.015227

World Health Organization. Endometriosis.

Yahaya, A., Chauhan, G., Idowu, A., Sumathi, V., Botchu, R., & Evans, S. (2021). Carcinoma arising within sciatic nerve endometriosis: a case report. Journal of surgical case reports, 2021(12), rjab512. doi.org/10.1093/jscr/rjab512

Johns Hopkins Medicine. Sciatica.

Yanchun, L., Yunhe, Z., Meng, X., Shuqin, C., Qingtang, Z., & Shuzhong, Y. (2019). Removal of an endometrioma passing through the left greater sciatic foramen using a concomitant laparoscopic and transgluteal approach: case report. BMC women’s health, 19(1), 95. doi.org/10.1186/s12905-019-0796-0

MedlinePlus. Endometriosis.

Center for Endometriosis Care. Sciatic endometriosis.

Chen, S., Xie, W., Strong, J. A., Jiang, J., & Zhang, J. M. (2016). Sciatic endometriosis induces mechanical hypersensitivity, segmental nerve damage, and robust local inflammation in rats. European journal of pain (London, England), 20(7), 1044–1057. doi.org/10.1002/ejp.827

Siquara de Sousa, A. C., Capek, S., Howe, B. M., Jentoft, M. E., Amrami, K. K., & Spinner, R. J. (2015). Magnetic resonance imaging evidence for perineural spread of endometriosis to the lumbosacral plexus: report of 2 cases. Neurosurgical focus, 39(3), E15. doi.org/10.3171/2015.6.FOCUS15208

Garlic Tea Health Benefits

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-
Detail of table with items for immunity

“Garlic tea is an herbal tonic made from garlic, lemon, and honey. What medicinal uses and benefits can garlic provide that is supported by scientific research?”

Garlic Tea Health Benefits

Garlic Tea

Garlic tea:

  • Garlic – Allium sativum – is a perennial plant from Central Asia.
  • The plant produces a bulb that is used in cooking and in health remedies all over the world.
  • Garlic powder, oil, and supplements are available.
  • Supplements can be made from garlic oil or from fresh, dried, or aged garlic.
  • Each form may have a different effect on the body. (National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. 2020)
  • The tea is commonly made with garlic, lemon, and honey, but can be made with a variety of different ingredients.
  • It is used for cold symptoms like congestion and cough.

Health Benefits

Some, but not all benefits are supported by scientific evidence. It is important to keep in mind that these studies are analyzing garlic, and not necessarily garlic tea. The dose of garlic in tea may not be the same as a more concentrated dose that is used in the studies. Also, cooking or boiling garlic can change its therapeutic effects.

Potential Benefits

However, some of these are not backed up by research: (Leyla Bayan, Peir Hossain Koulivand, Ali Gorji. 2014)

  • Improves immune health
  • Prevents and treats cancer
  • Helps with Weight loss
  • Helps fight infections
  • Helps reduce cholesterol
  • Helps to disinfect wounds
  • Helps treat vaginal yeast infections
  • Relief from mouth ulcers
  • Improves exercise performance
  • Treatment for atherosclerosis
  • Helps to ward off mosquitos

Research-Backed Benefits of Garlic

  • The scientific evidence about garlic’s benefits. Garlic is a healthy source of organosulfur compounds, including alliinase, which is released when it is crushed or chopped. (Leyla Bayan, Peir Hossain Koulivand, Ali Gorji. 2014)
  • Organosulfur compounds are believed to provide health benefits.
  • An overview of garlic studies found that there are promising health benefits, however, the researchers caution that larger studies are needed to confirm the results and verify the right dosage to get the results. (Johura Ansary, et al., 2020)

The current studies show the following possible benefits:

Honey and Lemon

Honey and lemon provide their own health benefits.

  • Lemon is a healthy source of vitamin C.
  • Research has found that lemons may help reduce blood pressure when combined with walking. (Yoji Kato, et al., 2014)
  • Honey can help soothe cold and flu symptoms, including cough and congestion.
  • It is also an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial. (Saeed Samarghandian, et al., 2017)

Side Effects

According to the NIH, garlic is safe for most individuals in moderate amounts. ((National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. 2020)

  • Common side effects of garlic consumption include bad breath, upset stomach, and body odor.
  • Garlic can also cause bloating, gas, and heartburn for some.
  • There are allergies to garlic and individuals with an allergy can experience more severe symptoms.
  • The NIH also advises that taking garlic may increase your risk of bleeding.
  • Individuals taking a blood thinner like warfarin or about to undergo surgery should discuss taking supplements or drinking garlic tea with their healthcare provider.
  • Garlic has been found to interfere with the effectiveness of some drugs that are used to treat HIV infection.
  • Lemon can cause tooth erosion so it is recommended to rinse teeth after drinking.
  • Honey has sugar content so it is recommended to use it in small quantities.

Healthy Diet and Chiropractic

References

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Garlic.

Bayan, L., Koulivand, P. H., & Gorji, A. (2014). Garlic: A review of potential therapeutic effects. Avicenna journal of phytomedicine, 4(1), 1–14.

Ansary, J., Forbes-Hernández, T. Y., Gil, E., Cianciosi, D., Zhang, J., Elexpuru-Zabaleta, M., Simal-Gandara, J., Giampieri, F., & Battino, M. (2020). Potential Health Benefit of Garlic Based on Human Intervention Studies: A Brief Overview. Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland), 9(7), 619. doi.org/10.3390/antiox9070619

Zhang, S., Liu, M., Wang, Y., Zhang, Q., Liu, L., Meng, G., Yao, Z., Wu, H., Xia, Y., Bao, X., Gu, Y., Wang, H., Shi, H., Sun, S., Wang, X., Zhou, M., Jia, Q., Song, K., & Niu, K. (2020). Raw garlic consumption is inversely associated with prehypertension in a large-scale adult population. Journal of human hypertension, 34(1), 59–67. doi.org/10.1038/s41371-019-0257-0

Zhou, X., Qian, H., Zhang, D., & Zeng, L. (2020). Garlic intake and the risk of colorectal cancer: A meta-analysis. Medicine, 99(1), e18575. doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000018575

Avci, A., Atli, T., Ergüder, I. B., Varli, M., Devrim, E., Aras, S., & Durak, I. (2008). Effects of garlic consumption on plasma and erythrocyte antioxidant parameters in elderly subjects. Gerontology, 54(3), 173–176. doi.org/10.1159/000130426

Burian, J. P., Sacramento, L. V. S., & Carlos, I. Z. (2017). Fungal infection control by garlic extracts (Allium sativum L.) and modulation of peritoneal macrophage activity in a murine model of sporotrichosis. Brazilian journal of biology = Revista brasleira de biologia, 77(4), 848–855. doi.org/10.1590/1519-6984.03716

Kato, Y., Domoto, T., Hiramitsu, M., Katagiri, T., Sato, K., Miyake, Y., Aoi, S., Ishihara, K., Ikeda, H., Umei, N., Takigawa, A., & Harada, T. (2014). Effect on blood pressure of daily lemon ingestion and walking. Journal of nutrition and metabolism, 2014, 912684. doi.org/10.1155/2014/912684

Samarghandian, S., Farkhondeh, T., & Samini, F. (2017). Honey and Health: A Review of Recent Clinical Research. Pharmacognosy Research, 9(2), 121–127. doi.org/10.4103/0974-8490.204647

A Focus On Non-Surgical Therapeutic Options For Low Back Pain

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-

Can non-surgical options be beneficial for many working individuals with low back pain than surgical therapeutic options?

Introduction

Many working individuals will experience pain in their lower backs due to their demanding workloads that are causing unwanted pressure load on the lumbar region of the spine. With the spine’s main job to support the body’s upper and lower quadrants, many individuals with demanding jobs are either constantly sitting down at their desks or carrying heavy objects to different locations. With low back pain being a normal problem for everyone at some point, many individuals find temporary solutions to relieve the pain, only to repeat the factors. To that point, this leads to chronic musculoskeletal disorders that can cause referred pain to the lower and upper extremities and can be pricey when going into treatment. However, there are numerous options for working individuals that are cost-effective and safe on their lower backs. Today’s article examines how low back pain affects the working individual and how non-surgical treatment options vary with surgical possibilities when dealing with low back pain. Coincidentally, we communicate with certified medical providers who incorporate our patients’ information to ease low back pain associated with musculoskeletal disorders. We also inform them that there are non-surgical options to reduce the effects of low back pain and restore their quality of life. We encourage our patients to ask amazing educational questions to our associated medical providers about their musculoskeletal symptoms correlating with low back pain. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., incorporates this information as an academic service. Disclaimer

 

How Does Low Back Pain Affect The Working Individual?

Have you been dealing with constant radiating pain in your lower back, legs, or feet after a long workday? Do you feel pain when moving around, only to find relief when resting? Or do you and your loved ones feel muscle aches and strains when stretching in the morning? Many individuals, especially working individuals, deal with low back pain daily when dealing with these musculoskeletal issues. Low back pain is extremely common for working individuals as it can affect their job performance and be an economic burden when treated. Low back pain is a multifactorial problem that has an increased rate of affecting individuals and contributes to the growth of numerous health problems. Low back pain can cause many individuals to miss work due to the lack of clarity on the causes, treatments, and factors contributing to this musculoskeletal disorder. (Pai & Sundaram, 2004)

 

 

So, how would low back pain affect the working individual? Since many people have demanding jobs, it can cause the surrounding muscles, ligaments, and tissues in the lumbar region to be overworked, and the spinal discs degenerate over time. When there are unrelenting changes within the spine, it can be associated with affecting the lumbar structures of the spine to degenerate over time. This, in turn, causes the lumbar spine to go through biochemical changes that can generate pain-like symptoms in the lumbar region and cause structural changes to the spine, leading to lower back pain. (Benoist, 2003)

 

Additionally, there are many causes and factors that many working individuals will do that lead to low back pain. Normal factors like improper lifting, stepping wrong, or sitting down excessively can contribute to lower back pain. At the same time, traumatic factors like accidents, injuries, or playing sports can also lead to lower back pain. When musculoskeletal conditions like low back pain become an issue, it can become a major burden to health and social care systems for many individuals, with indirect costs that can be pricey when treated. (Woolf & Pfleger, 2003)

 

Chiropractic Care After Accidents & Injuries-Video

Chiropractic Care After Accidents and Injuries | El Paso, Tx (2023)

Now, with low back pain being a nuisance to many, individuals will seek out treatment to reduce the pain they are experiencing in their lower back and mitigate the residual symptoms they have been dealing with in the other body extremities. Sadly, low back pain, especially in its chronic state, can become a diagnosis of convenience for many people, affecting their socioeconomic, work, and psychosocial lifestyles. (Andersson, 1999) Many individuals will seek out numerous treatment opportunities to reduce low back pain. Surgical treatments for low back pain are great for individuals when regular home therapies don’t work but can be pricey. Many will opt for non-surgical therapies when it comes to finding cost-effective treatments for treating low back pain. Non-surgical treatments, including chiropractic care and spinal decompression, are excellent for treating low back pain. Pain specialists like chiropractors and massage therapists utilize various techniques (mechanical and manual) to realign the body and stretch out the affected muscles that are affected by low back pain. The video explains how these treatments can reduce low back pain associated with accidents and injuries.

Non-Surgical Options For Low Back Pain

 

As stated earlier, non-surgical treatments can help reduce low back pain and can be combined with other therapies to manage the pain. Non-surgical treatments can be personalized to the person’s pain and can provide pain relief to the body. When individuals undergo a non-surgical treatment, pain specialists incorporate mechanical and manual manipulation to restore joint and spinal motion to the lower back. (Park et al., 2023) Additionally, individuals with low back pain include an exercise regime to effectively increase the person’s range of motion while increasing the person’s chances to return to normal daily activities and work. (van Tulder et al., 2000)

 

Non-Surgical Options Vs. Surgical Options

There is a vast difference between non-surgical and surgical options for treating low back pain. Anyone can personalized non-surgical options to provide more effective improvement in reducing pain, restoring lumbar range of motion, and improving back muscle endurance within a few sessions. (Amjad et al., 2022) Now, when home remedies and non-surgical options do not reduce pain, surgical options are only effective for low back pain. This is due to the psychological component that causes individuals to have persistent back pain that is not causing the relief that the person needs. (Corp et al., 2021) But both options are excellent when reducing low back pain as many doctors tell their patients to be more mindful about how they are using the muscles in their bodies and make small changes to reduce the chances of the pain from returning. When many working individuals start to think more about their pain and how to minimize its chances of returning, they can continue to live life to the fullest pain-free.

 

References

Amjad, F., Mohseni-Bandpei, M. A., Gilani, S. A., Ahmad, A., & Hanif, A. (2022). Effects of non-surgical decompression therapy in addition to routine physical therapy on pain, range of motion, endurance, functional disability and quality of life versus routine physical therapy alone in patients with lumbar radiculopathy; a randomized controlled trial. BMC Musculoskelet Disord, 23(1), 255. doi.org/10.1186/s12891-022-05196-x

 

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

 

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

 

Corp, N., Mansell, G., Stynes, S., Wynne-Jones, G., Morso, L., Hill, J. C., & van der Windt, D. A. (2021). Evidence-based treatment recommendations for neck and low back pain across Europe: A systematic review of guidelines. Eur J Pain, 25(2), 275-295. doi.org/10.1002/ejp.1679

 

Pai, S., & Sundaram, L. J. (2004). Low back pain: an economic assessment in the United States. Orthop Clin North Am, 35(1), 1-5. doi.org/10.1016/S0030-5898(03)00101-9

 

Park, S. C., Kang, M. S., Yang, J. H., & Kim, T. H. (2023). Assessment and nonsurgical management of low back pain: a narrative review. Korean J Intern Med, 38(1), 16-26. doi.org/10.3904/kjim.2022.250

 

van Tulder, M., Malmivaara, A., Esmail, R., & Koes, B. (2000). Exercise therapy for low back pain: a systematic review within the framework of the cochrane collaboration back review group. Spine (Phila Pa 1976), 25(21), 2784-2796. doi.org/10.1097/00007632-200011010-00011

 

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

Reducing Low Back Inflammation With Traction

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-

Can traction therapy help many individuals dealing with low back pain reduce inflammation and improve quality of life?

Introduction

When many individuals do everyday activities, if they are not careful, they can cause pain-like issues such as muscle strain, stiffness, and aches in different locations in the upper and lower portions of their bodies. When this happens, it can lead to the body’s natural defense, known as inflammation. Inflammation is the immune system’s natural defense to heal the affected area in the body naturally. However, depending on the severity of the issue causing the person to be in pain, inflammation can be beneficial or harmful. When many individuals start to make repetitive motions to their bodies, it can cause the muscle and tissue fibers to be overstretched and ache. To that point, these repetitive motions to the body could potentially lead to low back pain. Have you or your loved ones experienced inflammatory effects that lead to low back pain? When this happens, many individuals seek non-surgical treatments to reduce inflammation in the lower back, which can help restore their quality of life. Today’s article post looks at the correlation between inflammation and low back pain and how non-surgical treatments like traction therapy can reduce inflammation and restore a person’s quality of life. Coincidentally, we communicate with certified medical providers who incorporate our patients’ information to ease low back pain associated with inflammation that leads to the development of musculoskeletal disorders. We also inform them that non-surgical treatments like traction therapy can help reduce the chronic inflammatory effects in the body. We encourage our patients to ask amazing educational questions to our associated medical providers about their symptoms correlating with low back pain. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., incorporates this information as an academic service. Disclaimer

 

Inflammation Correlating With Low Back Pain

 

Do you often experience muscle aches in your lower back after a long, hard workday? Do you feel your skin is so hot to the touch that it is causing your muscles to ache constantly? Or did you injure your back due to improper lifting, so the pain is unbearable? Many individuals don’t often realize that the scenarios they are doing in their daily lives correspond to the development of low back pain. Low back pain is a multifactorial musculoskeletal disorder with many symptoms that are often correlated with inflammation. Inflammation is the body’s immune defense that starts to heal the affected area where the body has succumbed to injuries. Inflammation can be beneficial and harmful in its acute and chronic form while correlating with low back pain. When it comes to low back pain, its factors can lead to lumbar disc herniation, which then can be highly associated with inflammation. (Cunha et al., 2018) This is due to the surrounding nerve roots being entrapped, and the adverse symptoms of the lower back start to stimulate the nerve fibers to evoke inflammation, leading to pain-like issues in the lower extremities. When the lower extremities are associated with lower back pain, the lumbar components will start to degenerate over time, activating the inflammatory cytokine pathways that can directly damage the nerves and lower nociceptors, causing pain to the legs and lower back. (Li et al., 2021) When inflammation correlates with low back pain, it is a recurrent condition that many individuals seek treatment from their primary doctors. (Von Korff & Saunders, 1996) When this happens, many individuals incorporate these treatments to reduce inflammation and restore their quality of life.

 

Fighting Inflammation Naturally-Video

Fighting Inflammation Naturally *Chiropractic Care* | El Paso, Tx (2023)

When inflammation is correlated with low back pain, many individuals will seek affordable treatment that works with their hectic schedules. Non-surgical treatments can work around a person’s schedule and are cost-effective. Treatments like traction therapy, massage therapy, chiropractic care, physical therapy, and spinal decompression are all non-surgical treatments that utilize manual and mechanical manipulation to relieve people suffering from low back pain and reduce the effects of inflammation affecting the lower extremities. These non-surgical treatments can relieve many individuals after a few consecutive sessions and slowly reduce the inflammatory effects. The video above shows how non-surgical treatment can help restore the body while naturally reducing inflammatory outcomes in a personalized treatment plan.

How Traction Reduces Inflammation

When it comes to treating low back pain correlating with inflammation, traction therapy, a form of non-surgical treatment, can be beneficial in reducing these pain-like issues. The pain specialist first assesses individuals with inflammation correlating with low back pain as they note where the pain affects them in their bodies. Afterward, they will be strapped into a traction machine, gently pulling their spines to reduce pain involving the aggravated nerves and muscles. The intervertebral discs will also be increased during traction to improve the spinal disc height. (Andersson, Schultz, & Nachemson, 1983) This allows the affected nerve roots to stop pain signals from affecting the lower extremities and promote healing. Traction therapy can even decompress the nucleus pulposus, one of the effects of low back pain, by pulling it back to its original position. (Ramos & Martin, 1994) This, in turn, reduces the inflammatory effects and allows the body to heal itself naturally.

 

Traction Therapy Restoring Quality Of Life

When many individuals incorporate traction therapy, it can restore their quality of life. Traction therapy can help reduce the symptoms of inflammation and pain by minimizing the chances of needing surgery. (Wang et al., 2022) Traction therapy can also be combined with manual therapy to stretch and strengthen the surrounding weak muscles and help restore the joint’s mobility. (Kuligowski, Skrzek, & Cieslik, 2021) To that point, many individuals dealing with inflammation correlating with low back pain can notice their pain being diminished and be more mindful of what habits are the root causes of their pain and how to reduce them from causing the pain to return.

 

References

Andersson, G. B., Schultz, A. B., & Nachemson, A. L. (1983). Intervertebral disc pressures during traction. Scand J Rehabil Med Suppl, 9, 88-91. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6585945

 

Cunha, C., Silva, A. J., Pereira, P., Vaz, R., Goncalves, R. M., & Barbosa, M. A. (2018). The inflammatory response in the regression of lumbar disc herniation. Arthritis Res Ther, 20(1), 251. doi.org/10.1186/s13075-018-1743-4

 

Kuligowski, T., Skrzek, A., & Cieslik, B. (2021). Manual Therapy in Cervical and Lumbar Radiculopathy: A Systematic Review of the Literature. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 18(11). doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18116176

 

Li, W., Gong, Y., Liu, J., Guo, Y., Tang, H., Qin, S., Zhao, Y., Wang, S., Xu, Z., & Chen, B. (2021). Peripheral and Central Pathological Mechanisms of Chronic Low Back Pain: A Narrative Review. J Pain Res, 14, 1483-1494. doi.org/10.2147/JPR.S306280

 

Ramos, G., & Martin, W. (1994). Effects of vertebral axial decompression on intradiscal pressure. J Neurosurg, 81(3), 350-353. doi.org/10.3171/jns.1994.81.3.0350

 

Von Korff, M., & Saunders, K. (1996). The course of back pain in primary care. Spine (Phila Pa 1976), 21(24), 2833-2837; discussion 2838-2839. doi.org/10.1097/00007632-199612150-00004

 

Wang, W., Long, F., Wu, X., Li, S., & Lin, J. (2022). Clinical Efficacy of Mechanical Traction as Physical Therapy for Lumbar Disc Herniation: A Meta-Analysis. Comput Math Methods Med, 2022, 5670303. doi.org/10.1155/2022/5670303

Disclaimer

Cervical Acceleration – Deceleration – CAD

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-
Medical staff helping asian patient with neck brace removing cervical neck collar after injury accident during consultation.. Injured young adult healing fracture and trauma in hospital waiting area

“Individuals who have suffered cervical acceleration-deceleration/CAD more commonly known as whiplash, can experience headaches, and other symptoms like neck stiffness, pain, fatigue, and shoulder/neck/back discomfort. Can non-surgical and conservative treatments help alleviate the symptoms?”

Cervical Acceleration - Deceleration - CAD

Cervical Acceleration – Deceleration or CAD

Cervical acceleration-deceleration is the mechanism of a neck injury caused by a forceful back-and-forth neck motion. It happens most commonly in rear-end vehicle collisions when the head and neck whip forward and backward with intense acceleration and/or deceleration causing the neck to flex and/or extend rapidly, more than normally, straining and possibly tearing muscle tissues and nerves, ligaments, dislocation of spinal discs and herniations, and cervical bone fractures.

  • For symptoms that do not improve or worsen after 2 to 3 weeks, see a healthcare provider or chiropractor for further evaluation and treatment.
  • Whiplash injuries strain or sprain the neck muscles and/or ligaments, but can also affect the vertebrae/bones, disc cushions between the vertebrae, and/or the nerves.
  • For individuals who experience a headache that starts at the base of the skull following a motor vehicle accident is more than likely a whiplash headache. (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. 2023)

Symptoms

Whiplash symptoms can present right away, or after several hours to a few days after the incident, and tend to worsen in the days after the injury. Symptoms can last a few weeks to a few months, and can severely limit activity and range of motion. Symptoms can include: (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. 2023)

  • Pain that extends into the shoulders and back.
  • Neck stiffness
  • Limited neck motion
  • Muscle spasms
  • Numbness and tingling sensations – paresthesias or pins and needles in the fingers, hands, or arms.
  • Sleep problems
  • Fatigue
  • Irritability
  • Cognitive impairment – memory and/or concentrating difficulties.
  • Ringing in the ears – tinnitus
  • Dizziness
  • Blurred vision
  • Depression
  • Headaches – A whiplash headache usually starts at the base of the skull and can vary in intensity. Most individuals experience pain on one side of the head and toward the back, though some can experience symptoms all over their head, and a small number experience headaches on the forehead or behind the eyes. (Monica Drottning. 2003)
  • The headaches can become aggravated by moving the neck around, especially when looking up.
  • Headaches are often associated with shoulder pain along with sensitive neck and shoulder muscles that when touched can increase pain levels.
  • Whiplash headaches can lead to chronic neck-related headaches known as cervicogenic headaches. (Phil Page. 2011)

Causes

The most common cause of whiplash is rear-end automobile accidents and collisions. (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. 2023)
However, cervical acceleration-deceleration injuries can also occur from:

  • Playing sports – hockey, martial arts, boxing, tackle football, gymnastics, basketball, volleyball, soccer, and baseball.
  • A slip and fall that causes the head to suddenly jolt forward and back.
  • Physical assault – getting punched or shaken.
  • Being struck on the head by a heavy or solid object.

Treatment

  1. Symptoms usually resolve within 2 to 3 weeks.
  2. Icing the neck for 10 minutes several times a day can help reduce pain and inflammation. (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. 2023)
  3. It is also important to rest your neck area following the injury.
  4. A cervical collar can be utilized temporarily to stabilize the neck, but for long-term recovery, it is recommended to keep the area mobile.
  5. Physical activity reduction until the individual can look over both shoulders, and tilt their head all the way forward, all the way back, and from side to side without pain or stiffness.

Additional Treatments

  • Traction and decompression therapies.
  • Chiropractic adjustments
  • Therapeutic various massage techniques.
  • Electronic nerve stimulation
  • Posture retraining
  • Stretching
  • Sleep position adjustments.
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories – NSAIDs – Ibuprofen or Naproxen.
  • Muscle relaxers

If symptoms do not improve, a healthcare provider may recommend physical therapy and/or stronger pain medications. For whiplash headaches that last for several months, acupuncture, or spinal injections may be recommended.

Neck Injuries

References

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Whiplash Information Page.

Drottning M. (2003). Cervicogenic headache after a whiplash injury. Current pain and headache reports, 7(5), 384–386. doi.org/10.1007/s11916-003-0038-9

Page P. (2011). Cervicogenic headaches: an evidence-led approach to clinical management. International journal of sports physical therapy, 6(3), 254–266.

Trunk Muscle Response To Lumbar Traction Therapy

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-

Can lumbar traction therapy alleviate an individual’s lower back pain by restoring weak trunk muscles over time?

Introduction

The trunk muscles are the body’s main stabilizers that support upper body weight and stabilize the lower body weight. These muscles work with the lumbar back muscles so the individual can maintain good posture and be mobile when in motion without pain. However, when traumatic or normal forces start to affect the trunk muscles, it can lead to unwanted musculoskeletal pain that can lead to a life of disability and affect their performance in their routine. Weak truck muscles can lead to low back pain issues while causing referred pain to the lower extremities. However, many individuals are finding ways to strengthen their trunk muscles by slowly integrating core exercises and going to non-surgical treatments to reduce the pain they have been experiencing. Today’s article looks at how weak truck muscles correlate with low back pain and how non-surgical treatments like lumbar traction can reduce pain associated with weak trunk muscles. Additionally, we communicate with certified medical providers who incorporate our patients’ information to ease low back pain associated with weak trunk muscles, causing many musculoskeletal issues in the lower body. We also inform them that non-surgical treatments can help re-strengthen the truck muscles. We encourage our patients to ask amazing educational questions for our associated medical providers about their symptoms correlating with weak trunk muscles. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., incorporates this information as an academic service. Disclaimer

 

Weak Trunk Muscles Correlate With Low Back Pain

Do you often experience low back pain after carrying a heavy object from one location to another at work? Do you slouch more than usual when you are relaxing at home? Or have you noticed that you can’t hold a plank for less than 30 seconds during a workout? Many individuals dealing with these issues in these scenarios could be dealing with weak core muscles that can lead to low back pain. Since low back pain is a common problem that many people have, some of the correlating factors could be weak trunk muscles. Weak trunk muscles in the body can be due to the body naturally degenerating, causing the intervertebral disc to deteriorate. When the water content and spinal disc height begin to go through mechanical changes from unwanted pressure loads, it can cause the intervertebral discs to bulge out of the spine more and cause the surrounding ligaments and muscles to deal with more stress and become weak over time. (Adams et al., 1990) When the trunk muscles weaken, the lower extremities will start to develop musculoskeletal conditions that can lead to pain. Spinal disorders develop over time when normal or traumatic forces begin to affect the quality and quantity of the trunk muscle functions for its range of motion, strength, and endurance when a person is doing normal activities. (Allen, 1988)

 

 

So how would weak trunk muscles and low back pain have this relationship to affect a person’s spine? When muscle activity begins to be reduced within the trunk region, symptoms like stiffness and pain can cause postural shrinkage to the spinal disc in the lumbar region. (Cholewicki, 2004) Additionally, when dealing with low back pain, their trunk muscles undergo structural changes that can affect their stability. These changes can lead to reduced movement speed and range of motion, which then causes many of the accessory muscles to compensate for the pain that the person is experiencing. (Van Dieën, Cholewicki, & Radebold, 2003) However, numerous individuals will opt for a treatment plan to reduce low back pain and also help strengthen weak core muscles.

 

Can Core Exercises Help With Back Pain?-Video

Can Core Exercises Help with Back Pain? | El Paso, Tx (2023)

When it comes to strengthening and restoring weak muscles to reduce low back pain, many individuals will try exercising to lessen the pain they are experiencing in their lumbar spine and strengthen their weakened core muscles. The video above indicates that including core strengthening workouts in a workout routine can be essential to pain management. Exercising alone can be challenging without the right motivation, but it can be included in a personalized treatment plan that can be effective and customizable to manage lumbar impairment. (Li & Bombardier, 2001) Many individuals opt for non-surgical treatments due to their cost-effectiveness and how safe it is on the spine to reduce muscle weakness within the trunk muscles.

Lumbar Traction Restoring Weak Trunk Muscles

When dealing with weak trunk muscles correlating with low back pain, incorporating non-surgical treatment could be the answer to reducing the pain they have been experiencing. Non-surgical treatments like lumbar traction, spinal decompression, massage therapy, physical therapy, and chiropractic care utilize mechanical and manual techniques to reduce pain in the upper and lower body portions, help stretch out shortened and tight muscles, and kick-start the body’s natural healing process. Since lumbar traction is a non-surgical treatment, it can help restore muscle strength within the trunk region. Lumbar traction can be used manually or mechanically to increase intervertebral disc space, decrease mechanical stress, and reduce muscle spasms. (Wegner et al., 2013) When many individuals feel relief from their pain and strengthen their trunk muscles gradually, they will notice a difference in their routine and continue to be pain-free after a few session treatments.

 

References

Adams, M. A., Dolan, P., Hutton, W. C., & Porter, R. W. (1990). Diurnal changes in spinal mechanics and their clinical significance. J Bone Joint Surg Br, 72(2), 266-270. doi.org/10.1302/0301-620X.72B2.2138156

 

Allen, M. E. (1988). Clinical kinesiology: measurement techniques for spinal disorders. Orthop Rev, 17(11), 1097-1104. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3205587

 

Cholewicki, J. (2004). The effects of lumbosacral orthoses on spine stability: what changes in EMG can be expected? J Orthop Res, 22(5), 1150-1155. doi.org/10.1016/j.orthres.2004.01.009

 

Li, L. C., & Bombardier, C. (2001). Physical therapy management of low back pain: an exploratory survey of therapist approaches. Phys Ther, 81(4), 1018-1028. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11276184

 

Van Dieën, J. H., Cholewicki, J., & Radebold, A. (2003). Trunk Muscle Recruitment Patterns in Patients With Low Back Pain Enhance the Stability of the Lumbar Spine. Spine, 28(8), 834-841. doi.org/10.1097/01.brs.0000058939.51147.55

 

Wegner, I., Widyahening, I. S., van Tulder, M. W., Blomberg, S. E., de Vet, H. C., Bronfort, G., Bouter, L. M., & van der Heijden, G. J. (2013). Traction for low-back pain with or without sciatica. Cochrane Database Syst Rev, 2013(8), CD003010. doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD003010.pub5

Disclaimer

Peanut Butter Sandwich Alternatives

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
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Various kind of bread, such as wholegrain, rice crakers, crispbreads and different nut butter, such as peanut, crunchy cashew and almond butter

For individuals with peanut allergies, can finding a peanut alternative be as satisfying as a real creamy or crunchy peanut butter sandwich?

Peanut Butter Sandwich Alternatives

Peanut Butter Sandwich Alternatives

For individuals who are unable to have a peanut butter sandwich due to an allergy, there are healthy satisfying alternatives. Tree nut butter, seed butter, and deli meats can all satisfy sandwich cravings and provide nutrition. Here are a few healthy, nutritious alternatives to try out:

Sunflower Seed Butter and Jam, Jelly, or Preserves

Ham and Cheese, Grainy Mustard on Rye Bread

  • Getting ham and cheese from the deli can potentially have cross-contamination with allergens during slicing and packaging.
  • Prepackaged and sliced ham and cheese is a safer bet in terms of allergens.
  • It is recommended to read the ingredient label for potential allergens, as processing in facilities can have cross-contamination issues. (William J. Sheehan, et al., 2018)

Turkey, Tomato, Lettuce, and Hummus on Whole Grain Bread

  • The same is true for turkey and is recommended to buy prepackaged and sliced.
  • Check the ingredients for possible allergens.
  • Hummus is made from chickpeas/garbanzo beans and tahini/ground sesame seeds.
  • Hummus comes in a variety of flavors that can be used as a dip or spread.
  • Although chick peas’ are a member of the legume family, hummus can be tolerated with peanut allergies. (Mathias Cousin, et al., 2017)
  • Check with a healthcare provider if unsure.

Pita Pocket with Salad and Hummus

  • Pita pockets are great with hummus stuffed with vegetables.
  • This is a delicious crunchy pocket sandwich loaded with protein, fiber vitamins, and minerals.

Soy Butter and Banana Slices on Whole Wheat Bread

  • Soy butter is a popular alternative to peanut butter. (Kalyani Gorrepati, et al., 2014)
  • Made from soybeans, the butter is full of fiber, protein, and healthy fats.
  • The butter can be spread on whole wheat bread and topped with banana slices for breakfast or lunch.

Tahini Sesame Seed Butter On A Roll with Shredded Broccoli and Carrots

  • Tahini is made from sesame seeds.
  • It can be spread on a roll with shredded broccoli and carrots for a healthy crunchy, fiber-rich, protein-filled sandwich.

Almond Butter and Sliced Apples

  • Try a non-sandwich option for lunch or as a snack.
  • This butter is made from almonds, which are tree nuts.
  • Almond butter is rich in fiber, vitamin E, and healthy fats.
  • Almonds contain the most nutrients per calorie of tree nuts. (Almond Board of California. 2015)

Cashew Butter on an English Muffin with Raisins

  • This butter is made from cashews, a tree nut, so it is safe for individuals with peanut allergies but not for individuals with nut allergies. (American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. 2020)
  • Cashew butter on a hot English muffin with raisins on top for a boost of iron is reminiscent of a cinnamon roll.

Pumpkin Seed Butter and Honey Sandwich

  • Pumpkin butter is made from the orange flesh of the pumpkin.
  • Pumpkin seed butter is made by roasting pumpkin seeds and grinding them to a butter consistency.
  • The seed butter can be spread on bread and drizzled with some honey on top for a nutritious and delicious snack.

There are tasty healthy peanut butter alternatives that can be mixed, matched, and reinvented into various satisfying sandwiches. Individuals are recommended to consult their healthcare provider or a dietician or nutritionist to find what works for them.

Smart Choices, Better Health

References

Lavine, E., & Ben-Shoshan, M. (2015). Allergy to sunflower seed and sunflower butter as a proposed vehicle for sensitization. Allergy, asthma, and clinical immunology: Official Journal of the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 11(1), 2. doi.org/10.1186/s13223-014-0065-6

U.S. Department of Agriculture: FoodData Central. Seeds, sunflower seed butter, with salt added (Includes foods for USDA’s Food Distribution Program).

Sheehan, W. J., Taylor, S. L., Phipatanakul, W., & Brough, H. A. (2018). Environmental Food Exposure: What Is the Risk of Clinical Reactivity From Cross-Contact and What Is the Risk of Sensitization. The journal of allergy and clinical immunology. In practice, 6(6), 1825–1832. doi.org/10.1016/j.jaip.2018.08.001

Gorrepati, K., Balasubramanian, S., & Chandra, P. (2015). Plant-based butters. Journal of food science and technology, 52(7), 3965–3976. doi.org/10.1007/s13197-014-1572-7

Cousin, M., Verdun, S., Seynave, M., Vilain, A. C., Lansiaux, A., Decoster, A., & Sauvage, C. (2017). Phenotypical characterization of peanut-allergic children with differences in cross-allergy to tree nuts and other legumes. Pediatric allergy and immunology: Official publication of the European Society of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, 28(3), 245–250. doi.org/10.1111/pai.12698

Almond Board of California. Nutrient comparison chart for tree nuts.

American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Everything you need to know about a tree nut allergy.

Innovated Non-Surgical Treatment For Cervical Spinal Pain

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
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How does innovated non-surgical treatment help assist individuals with cervical spinal pain to reduce headaches?

Introduction

Do you or your loved ones often experience headaches that don’t disappear? Do you often feel your shoulder and neck muscles ache after looking down at your cell phone? Or do you feel aches after being slouched for an extended period? Many of these scenarios correlate with referred pain in the cervical spinal region, which can develop into neck pain. The neck region is located in the upper body portion and provides mobility for the head without pain and discomfort. The neck region also has surrounding muscles and ligaments that support the spine and protects the thyroid and spinal cord. However, just like the back region, it is susceptible to pain as many individuals can overstretch the neck muscles, and it can cause referred pain to the shoulders and head, leading to pain-like symptoms that can lead to a life of disability. However, non-surgical treatments can minimize the pain and help strengthen the surrounding muscles in the neck region. Today’s article focuses on how cervical spinal pain connects with headaches and how decompression can reduce headaches while relieving neck pain. Additionally, we communicate with certified medical providers who incorporate our patients’ information to reduce cervical spinal pain associated with headaches, causing many musculoskeletal issues in the upper body portion. We also inform them that non-surgical treatments can help relieve headaches and provide relief to the neck region. We encourage our patients to ask amazing educational questions for our associated medical providers about their symptoms correlating with cervical spinal pain. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., incorporates this information as an academic service. Disclaimer

 

Cervical Spinal Pain & Headache Connection

Throughout the world, neck pain (cervical spinal pain) is the second most common problem that can affect many individuals throughout their lives. It can lead to a life of disability and pain if not treated immediately. Many individuals often experience non-specific neck pain, as it can be through a postural or mechanical basis that can cause muscle strain in the surrounding muscles or compress the spinal canal to cause headaches that can last throughout the entire day. (Binder, 2008) Additionally, neck pain, like back pain, is a multifactorial disease with common risk factors like lack of physical activity, duration of computer usage, and perceived stress. (Kazeminasab et al., 2022) Many of these risk factors are normal as they can also affect the surrounding muscles in the lower back region and shoulder region, as many people often do repetitive motions that can naturally be overstretched and cause pain-like issues to the neck region. With neck pain connected with headaches, it can cause overlapping risk profiles and be costly. Neck pain associated with headaches can be a frequent and expensive occupational health problem as symptoms of pain, disability, reduced life quality, and, for adults, time lost for work. (Ben Ayed et al., 2019)

 

 

The correlation between headaches and neck pain is that the spinal canal is compressed from traumatic forces that can lead to cervicogenic headaches. Cervicogenic headaches usually aggravate neck mobility, thus reducing the ROM of the neck. (Verma, Tripathi, & Chandra, 2021) This can lead to many individuals suffering from migraine-like headaches and muscle stiffness in the upper regions of the body. When many individuals are dealing with headaches associated with cervical spinal pain, many will find treatments to mitigate the pain-like symptoms affecting the upper body region.

 

The Benefits Of Stretching-Video

The Benefits of Stretching | El Paso, Tx (2023)

When it comes to neck pain, it can be either acute or chronic depending the factors that cause it or the severity of the pain. Many individuals sought treatment that can alleviate the pain in the upper regions that are non-surgical and beneficial to their health and well-being. Non-surgical treatments can help stretch the tight and short muscles in the neck region and can reduce headaches affecting the person. Additionally, having the neck muscles professionally stretched by a massage therapist can relieve the neck and reduce headaches. The video above explains the benefits of stretching and describes how many people don’t stretch their bodies often to prevent pain-like issues from reoccurring in the future.

Spinal Decompression For Cervical Pain

 

Non-surgical treatments are excellent when it comes to reducing neck pain. When relieving neck pain, healthcare professionals must use the best available evidence to enhance clinical decision-making and improve the quality of care for people with neck pain. (Misailidou et al., 2010) Spinal decompression can help many people with neck pain by reducing the issues through gentle spinal traction. What spinal decompression does for the cervical spine is that it can realign the disc that is aggravating the neck region and causing headaches by stretching the surrounding muscles. This causes muscle improvement for the neck as it can change the patient’s pain outcome. (Youssef et al., 2019) Additionally, spinal decompression is safe, cost-effective, and gentle on the spine as it can be combined with other therapies to mitigate any residual pain that can relieve the neck and back. (Flynn, 2020) Many people who incorporate spinal decompression as part of their routine can benefit from their outcome as they return to their routine.

 

References

Ben Ayed, H., Yaich, S., Trigui, M., Ben Hmida, M., Ben Jemaa, M., Ammar, A., Jedidi, J., Karray, R., Feki, H., Mejdoub, Y., Kassis, M., & Damak, J. (2019). Prevalence, Risk Factors and Outcomes of Neck, Shoulders and Low-Back Pain in Secondary-School Children. J Res Health Sci, 19(1), e00440. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31133629

www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6941626/pdf/jrhs-19-e00440.pdf

 

Binder, A. I. (2008). Neck pain. BMJ Clin Evid, 2008. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19445809

www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2907992/pdf/2008-1103.pdf

 

Flynn, D. M. (2020). Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain: Nonpharmacologic, Noninvasive Treatments. American Family Physician, 102(8), 465-477. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/33064421

www.aafp.org/dam/brand/aafp/pubs/afp/issues/2020/1015/p465.pdf

 

Kazeminasab, S., Nejadghaderi, S. A., Amiri, P., Pourfathi, H., Araj-Khodaei, M., Sullman, M. J. M., Kolahi, A. A., & Safiri, S. (2022). Neck pain: global epidemiology, trends and risk factors. BMC Musculoskelet Disord, 23(1), 26. doi.org/10.1186/s12891-021-04957-4

 

Misailidou, V., Malliou, P., Beneka, A., Karagiannidis, A., & Godolias, G. (2010). Assessment of patients with neck pain: a review of definitions, selection criteria, and measurement tools. J Chiropr Med, 9(2), 49-59. doi.org/10.1016/j.jcm.2010.03.002

 

Verma, S., Tripathi, M., & Chandra, P. S. (2021). Cervicogenic Headache: Current Perspectives. Neurol India, 69(Supplement), S194-S198. doi.org/10.4103/0028-3886.315992

 

Youssef, J. A., Heiner, A. D., Montgomery, J. R., Tender, G. C., Lorio, M. P., Morreale, J. M., & Phillips, F. M. (2019). Outcomes of posterior cervical fusion and decompression: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Spine J, 19(10), 1714-1729. doi.org/10.1016/j.spinee.2019.04.019

 

Disclaimer

Q/Quadriceps Angle Knee Injuries In Women Athletes

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
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Electromagnetic therapy of the knee joints, physiotherapist doctor uses medical equipment for highly effective pain treatment and inflammation, the magnetic field, rehabilitation.

The Q or quadriceps angle is a measurement of pelvic width that is believed to contribute to the risk of sports injuries in women athletes. Can non-surgical therapies and exercises help rehabilitate injuries?

Q/Quadriceps Angle Knee Injuries In Women Athletes

Quadriceps Q – Angle Injuries

The Q angle is the angle where the femur/upper leg bone meets the tibia/lower leg bone. It is measured by two intersecting lines:

  • One from the center of the patella/kneecap to the anterior superior iliac spine of the pelvis.
  • The other is from the patella to the tibial tubercle.
  • On average the angle is three degrees higher in women than men.
  • Average 17 degrees for women and 14 degrees for men. (Ramada R Khasawneh, et al., 2019)
  • Sports medicine experts have linked a wider pelvis to a larger Q-angle. (Ramada R Khasawneh, et al., 2019)

Women have biomechanical differences that include a wider pelvis, making it easier to give birth. However, this difference can contribute to knee injuries when playing sports, as an increased Q angle generates more stress on the knee joint, as well as leading to increased foot pronation.

Injuries

Various factors can increase the risk of injury, but a wider Q angle has been linked to the following conditions.

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

  • An increased Q angle can cause the quadriceps to pull on the kneecap, shifting it out of place and causing dysfunctional patellar tracking.
  • With time, this can cause knee pain (under and around the kneecap), and muscle imbalance.
  • Foot orthotics and arch supports could be recommended.
  • Some researchers have found a link, while others have not found the same association. (Wolf Petersen, et al., 2014)

Chondromalacia of the Knee

  • This is the wearing down of the cartilage on the underside of the kneecap.
  • This leads to degeneration of the articular surfaces of the knee. (Enrico Vaienti, et al., 2017)
  • The common symptom is pain under and around the kneecap.

ACL Injuries

  • Women have higher rates of ACL injuries than men. (Yasuhiro Mitani. 2017)
  • An increased Q angle can be a factor that increases stress and causes the knee to lose its stability.
  • However, this remains controversial, as some studies have found no association between the Q angle and knee injuries.

Chiropractic Treatment

Strengthening Exercises

  • ACL injury prevention programs designed for women have resulted in reduced injuries. (Trent Nessler, et al., 2017)
  • The vastus medialis obliquus or VMO is a teardrop-shaped muscle that helps move the knee joint and stabilize the kneecap.
  • Strengthening the muscle can increase the stability of the knee joint.
  • Strengthening may require a specific focus on muscle contraction timing.
  • Closed-chain exercises like wall squats are recommended.
  • Glute strengthening will improve stability.

Stretching Exercises

  • Stretching tight muscles will help relax the injured area, increase circulation, and restore range of motion and function.
  • Muscles commonly found to be tight include the quadriceps, hamstrings, iliotibial band, and gastrocnemius.

Foot Orthotics

  • Custom-made, flexible orthotics decrease the Q angle and reduce pronation, relieving the added stress on the knee.
  • A custom orthotic ensures that the foot and leg dynamics are accounted for and corrected.
  • Motion-control shoes can also help correct overpronation.

Knee Rehabilitation

References

Khasawneh, R. R., Allouh, M. Z., & Abu-El-Rub, E. (2019). Measurement of the quadriceps (Q) angle with respect to various body parameters in young Arab population. PloS one, 14(6), e0218387. doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0218387

Petersen, W., Ellermann, A., Gösele-Koppenburg, A., Best, R., Rembitzki, I. V., Brüggemann, G. P., & Liebau, C. (2014). Patellofemoral pain syndrome. Knee surgery, sports traumatology, arthroscopy: Official journal of the ESSKA, 22(10), 2264–2274. doi.org/10.1007/s00167-013-2759-6

Vaienti, E., Scita, G., Ceccarelli, F., & Pogliacomi, F. (2017). Understanding the human knee and its relationship to total knee replacement. Acta bio-medica : Atenei Parmensis, 88(2S), 6–16. doi.org/10.23750/abm.v88i2-S.6507

Mitani Y. (2017). Gender-related differences in lower limb alignment, range of joint motion, and the incidence of sports injuries in Japanese university athletes. Journal of Physical Therapy Science, 29(1), 12–15. doi.org/10.1589/jpts.29.12

Nessler, T., Denney, L., & Sampley, J. (2017). ACL Injury Prevention: What Does Research Tell Us? Current reviews in musculoskeletal medicine, 10(3), 281–288. doi.org/10.1007/s12178-017-9416-5

What Not To Do With Temporomandibular Joint Disorder

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
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Sensitive Teeth. Young arab woman drinking water with ice and touching her cheek, sick middle eastern female frowning and rubbing inflamed area, suffering dental pain, emotionally reacting to cold

Temporomandibular joint disorder causes pain and jaw locking that can be worsened with certain activities. How individuals can manage and prevent flare-ups by learning what not to do to worsen the condition?

What Not To Do With Temporomandibular Joint Disorder

What Not To Do Temporomandibular Joint Disorder

Tenderness, aching, pain, and jaw locking are symptoms of temporomandibular joint disorder or TMJ. The temporomandibular joint connects the jaw to the skull. It is used daily for eating, drinking, and talking. It is a small disc in the joint that allows the jaw bones to slip and slide correctly. With TMJ, the disc shifts out of place, leading to clicking, snapping, and limited jaw movement. It can also cause pain in the jaw and face, neck pain, and headaches, and the muscles around the jaw and neck can become sore and/or go into spasm. Any type of activity that stresses or overworks the joint can trigger a flare-up and worsen TMJ symptoms. (Schiffman E, et al. 2014) This article looks at avoiding activities that make TMJ worse and what not to do to help keep TMJ symptoms in check.

Chewing Gum

  • Gum chewing is not recommended for individuals with TMJ.
  • The jaw is one of the most used joints in the body.
  • Limiting excessive use alleviates pressure allowing the joints and muscles to rest.
  • Resting sore muscles and joints is the first step in injury recovery.

Eating Chewy and Hard Foods

  • Chewy and hard foods make the jaw have to work overtime.
  • Avoid eating hard foods like chewy candies, hard and chewy breads, and vegetables like corn on the cob, and fruits like apples.
  • These foods can place excessive stress on the jaw,  and prevent the joint from properly resting and healing.

Chewing Only On One Side

  • Many individuals chew their food on only one side of the mouth.
  • This can stress out one side of the temporomandibular joint and surrounding muscles, leading to pain and dysfunction. (Urbano Santana-Mora, et al., 2013)
  • Stay aware of chewing habits and make sure to utilize both sides of the mouth.
  • Individuals with dental issues or tooth pain are recommended to see a dentist.

Non-Functional Jaw Activities

  • Going through each day, individuals tend to do things unconsciously or out of habit.
  • For example, individuals:
  • Reading or writing might chew on a pen or pencil.
  • Bite their nails or chew on the inside of their mouth while watching TV or internet browsing.
  • These activities can place stress on the joint, worsen the condition, and extend the healing process.

Resting on The Chin

  • Individuals will rest their jaw in their hands while studying, on social media, or watching TV.
  • This position can be comfortable, but it can affect the jaw.
  • This position can build pressure against the side of the jaw and push against the joint, causing the disc to shift out of place affecting how the jaw opens and closes.
  • Breaking the chin resting habit can allow the joint to relax and heal correctly.

Teeth Clenching

  • Bruxism is the medical term for clenching the teeth.
  • This can occur during the day or during sleep.
  • Teeth clenching is often brought on by stress and can place incredible pressure on the jaw’s muscles and worsen TMJ.
  • A dentist can prescribe a mouth guard to be worn while sleeping to protect the teeth from excessive clenching. (Miriam Garrigós-Pedrón, et al., 2019)

Slouching

  • The function of the jaw is closely related to body posture.
  • The jaw operates optimally when the head is above the cervical spine and the posture is upright.
  • Slouching can change how the jaw muscles work and the way the jaw opens and closes.
  • Part of physical therapy for TMJ is working on posture adjustments and training.
  • This can involve strengthening the back and shoulder muscles and setting up posture reminders.
  • Sitting and standing correctly can keep the jaw operating properly.

Postponing Treatment

  • Many with musculoskeletal issues and symptoms wait for the pain to go away.
  • Individuals having problems with their jaw should not wait to get treatment.
  • TMJ has a positive rate of recovery with conservative treatment, which is all the more reason to seek treatment. (G Dimitroulis. 2018)
  • A dentist or healthcare provider can provide an accurate diagnosis if TMJ is suspected.
  • Individuals can benefit from visiting a physical therapist to learn exercises and strategies to self-treat the condition. (Yasser Khaled, et al., 2017)

Treatment

Treatment can involve:

  • Initial treatment focuses on pain relief and jaw function opens and closes improvement.
  • Exercises to get the jaw moving normally.
  • Joint mobilizations.
  • Treatments to maintain proper muscle function. (Amira Mokhtar Abouelhuda, et al., 2018)
  • A guard can help with night teeth grinding/bruxism.
  • Anti-inflammatory treatments.
  • In severe cases, surgery may be recommended to correct the problem, as a last resort. (Meghan K Murphy, et al., 2013)
  • Follow recommendations on what not to do and avoid certain activities.

Quick Patient Initiation

References

Schiffman, E., Ohrbach, R., Truelove, E., Look, J., Anderson, G., Goulet, J. P., List, T., Svensson, P., Gonzalez, Y., Lobbezoo, F., Michelotti, A., Brooks, S. L., Ceusters, W., Drangsholt, M., Ettlin, D., Gaul, C., Goldberg, L. J., Haythornthwaite, J. A., Hollender, L., Jensen, R., … Orofacial Pain Special Interest Group, International Association for the Study of Pain (2014). Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD) for Clinical and Research Applications: recommendations of the International RDC/TMD Consortium Network* and Orofacial Pain Special Interest Group†. Journal of oral & facial pain and headache, 28(1), 6–27. doi.org/10.11607/jop.1151

Santana-Mora, U., López-Cedrún, J., Mora, M. J., Otero, X. L., & Santana-Penín, U. (2013). Temporomandibular disorders: the habitual chewing side syndrome. PloS one, 8(4), e59980. doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0059980

Garrigós-Pedrón, M., Elizagaray-García, I., Domínguez-Gordillo, A. A., Del-Castillo-Pardo-de-Vera, J. L., & Gil-Martínez, A. (2019). Temporomandibular disorders: improving outcomes using a multidisciplinary approach. Journal of multidisciplinary healthcare, 12, 733–747. doi.org/10.2147/JMDH.S178507

Dimitroulis G. (2018). Management of temporomandibular joint disorders: A surgeon’s perspective. Australian Dental Journal, 63 Suppl 1, S79–S90. doi.org/10.1111/adj.12593

Khaled Y, Quach JK, Brennan MT, NapeÑas JJ. Outcomes after physical therapy for the treatment of temporomandibular disorders. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol, 2017;124(3: e190. doi:10.1016/j.oooo.2017.05.477

Abouelhuda, A. M., Khalifa, A. K., Kim, Y. K., & Hegazy, S. A. (2018). Non-invasive different modalities of treatment for temporomandibular disorders: a review of the literature. Journal of the Korean Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, 44(2), 43–51. doi.org/10.5125/jkaoms.2018.44.2.43

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