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Gender Expression: LGBTQ+ Inclusive Healthcare

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-
Physiotherapy, rehabilitation and healthcare with a man and woman in discussion about treatment in .

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

Gender Expression: LGBTQ+ Inclusive Healthcare

Gender Expression

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

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

Health Care

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

Better Training

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

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

Revolutionizing Healthcare

References

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

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

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

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

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

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

Golfing Wrist Injuries

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-
Beautiful young woman is holding a golf club, looking at camera and smiling while standing on golf course

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

Golfing Wrist Injuries

Golfing Wrist Injuries

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

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

Wrist Tendonitis

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

Wrist Sprains

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

Hamate Bone Fractures

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

Ulnar Tunnel Syndrome

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

de Quervain’s Tenosynovitis

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

Chiropractic Treatment

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

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

Peripheral Neuropathy Successful Recovery

References

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Cost-Effective Treatment For Lumbosacral Pain

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-

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

Introduction

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

 

Lumbosacral Pain Associated Factors

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

 

 

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

Can Core Exercises Erase Back Pain?-Video

YouTube player

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

Cost-Effective Treatments Relieve Lumbosacral Pain

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

 

Traction vs. Spinal Decompression

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

References

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

Disclaimer

Creating El Paso’s Inclusive Health Care For LGTBQ+

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-

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

Introduction

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

 

What Is Inclusive Health Care?

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

 

How Does Inclusive Health Care Benefits The LGTBQ+ Community?

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

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

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

How Can Chiropractic Care Transform Pain To Relief-Video

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

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

Utilizing Beneficial Treatments For Inclusive Health Care

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

 

References

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

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

Disclaimer

Cranberry Juice Health Benefits

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-
Cold Refreshing Organic Cranberry Juice Cocktail with Ice

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

Cranberry Juice Health Benefits

Cranberry Juice

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

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

Digestive Health

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

Heart Health

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

Immune Health

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

Skin Health

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

Infection Prevention

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

Urinary Tract Infection Prevention

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

Daily Amount

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

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

Smart Choices Better Health

References

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

USDA. Cranberry juice, unsweetened.

USDA. Cranberry juice can boost heart health.

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

Joint Manipulation Health Benefits

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-
Helpful female doctor assisting senior patient with getting up from the chair

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

Joint Manipulation Health Benefits

Joint Manipulation Health Benefits

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

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

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

Joint Popping

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

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

Causes

Non-medical

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

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

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

Medical

Joint problems can occur from medical conditions that can include:

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

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

Benefits

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

Pain Relief

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

Improved Muscle Activation

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

Improved Range of Motion

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

Improved Functional Mobility

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

Candidates

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

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

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

Osteoporosis

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

Joint fractures

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

Post Spinal Fusion Surgery

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

Individuals with Arterial Insufficiency In Their Neck

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

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

Arthritis Explained

References

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Inversion Therapy, Back Pain & Spinal Decompression

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-

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

Introduction

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

 

How Does Inversion Therapy Reduce Back Pain

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

 

 

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

 

Back Pain & Nerve Entrapment Reduced

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

 

Enhance Your Lifestyle-Video

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

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

How Spinal Decompression & Inversion Therapy Reduce Back Pain

 

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

References

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

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

Disclaimer

Recommended Nutrition For Constipation

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-
Greek yogurt with figs and granola in a glass close up

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

Recommended Nutrition For Constipation

Recommended Nutrition For Constipation

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

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

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

Avocados

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

Figs

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

Plums

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

Kefir

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

Oat Bran

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

Incorporating Gut-Beneficial Foods

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

Smoothie

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

Snacks

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

Oatmeal

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

Parfait

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

Grain Bowl

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

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

Balancing Body and Metabolism

References

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Advanced Oscillation Protocols For Spinal Decompression

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-

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

Introduction

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

 

Spinal Stenosis Causing Muscle Strength Issues

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

 

 

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

 

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

 

Discovering The Benefits Of Chiropractic Care-Video

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

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

Advanced Oscillation For Spinal Stenosis

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

 

Spinal Decompression To Restore Muscle Strength

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

 

References

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

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

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

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

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

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

Disclaimer

Hiking Training Tips and Preparation

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-
Two unidentifiable female hikers walking down a desert trail in Scottsdale, Arizona at sunrise.

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

Hiking Training Tips and Preparation

Hiking Training

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

Walk/Run Through Sand

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

Increase Range of Motion

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

Crunches

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

Squats and Lunges

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

Push-ups

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

Cardiovascular

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

Step-ups

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

Strength Hiking Training for Backpacking

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

Shoulder and Neck

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

Shoulder and Arm

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

Upper Back

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

Lower Back

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

Abdominal Muscles

Legs

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

Hiking Training: Preparing For A Weekend Hike

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

Take The Essentials

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

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

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

Hikers Strength Training

References

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Radial Nerve: Peripheral Upper Extremity

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-
Young woman getting her arm and elbow examined by male orthopedist medical appointment at clinic.

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

Radial Nerve: Peripheral Upper Extremity

Radial Nerve

One of the major nerves of the upper extremity.

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

Motor Function

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

Conditions

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

Nerve Contusion

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

Nerve Lacerations

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

Fractures

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

Crutch Palsy

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

Saturday Night Palsy

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

Treatment

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

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

Avoid Surgery

References

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chiropractic: Realigning the Spine for Better Health

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-
Female physical therapist helping her patient

Chiropractors are neuromusculoskeletal system specialists who rehabilitate injuries, retrain healthy body posture, massage and relax the muscles to detoxify and rejuvenate tissue health, and realign the spine to restore the nervous system to optimal function. It is a form of complementary medicine that focuses on the relationship between the body’s neuromusculoskeletal structures, addressing injuries, conditions, and ailments that cause the systems to malfunction and restoring them into harmony.

Chiropractic: Realigning the Spine for Better Health

Chiropractic Therapeutic Neuromusculoskeletal Treatment

Chiropractors are licensed healthcare professionals who use various forms – hands, special instruments, or combination – of pressure to manipulate the body to relieve pain and discomfort symptoms from various injuries and conditions and improve overall health. Chiropractic is often used in conjunction with traditional medical care to treat health conditions that affect nerves, muscles, and bones. Chiropractic clinics often have a team of specialists that work and counsel patients on:

  • Developing healthy movement habits.
  • Diet and nutrition adjustments like an anti-inflammatory diet to reduce inflammation flare-ups.
  • Exercise and stretches to maintain chiropractic adjustments, retrain, and strengthen the body.
  • Modifications to home, school, and work behaviors to prevent worsening injuries or causing new injuries.

Conditions Treated

Chiropractic therapeutic medicine treats any kind of muscle, bone, or joint pain or dysfunction and conditions affecting the nervous and musculoskeletal systems. The most common reasons for seeing a chiropractor include:

  • Musculoskeletal pain anywhere in the body – the head and jaws, shoulders, elbows and wrists, hips, pelvis, and the knees and ankles.
  • Trigger points.
  • Compressed, injured, and/or damaged nerves.
  • Neck pain.
  • Headaches.
  • Lower back pain.
  • Herniated discs.
  • Sciatica.
  • Joint pain and dysfunction.
  • Arthritis.
  • Rehabilitation after vehicle, work, and sports accidents and collisions.

Effective Treatment

Chiropractic therapeutic adjustments are the most common alternative treatment option in the United States and are considered an effective treatment option for all ages, including both children and adults.

  • It’s important to inform a primary care physician about any pain being experienced, whether recent or chronic that lasts more than three months.
  • Individuals should receive a screening before chiropractic treatment to ensure that their injury or condition will benefit from chiropractic adjustments.
  • If chiropractic care is not appropriate for the injury or condition, the chiropractor will refer the individual to another healthcare specialist.
  • Many individuals feel almost immediate relief from symptoms after a treatment session as well as soreness for 24 hours.
  • The goal of chiropractic is to restore health over the long term, rather than to relieve symptoms short term.

Benefits

  • Increased Blood and Nerve Circulation.
  • Improved Blood Pressure.
  • Range of Motion Improved.
  • Improved Balance.
  • Increased Sleep.
  • Reduced Headaches.
  • Increased Energy.
  • Improved Digestion.
  • Improved Immune Function.
  • Enhanced Physical/Athletic Performance.
  • Allergy Symptoms Reduced.
  • Improved Asthma Management.
  • Healthier Pregnancy.

Scapular Winging

References

Hadler, N M. “Chiropractic.” Rheumatic diseases clinics of North America vol. 26,1 (2000): 97-102, ix. doi:10.1016/s0889-857x(05)70123-x

Lefebvre R, Peterson D, Haas M. Evidence-Based Practice and Chiropractic Care. (www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3716373/) J Evid Based Complementary Altern Med. 2012;18(1):75-79. Accessed 4/25/2022.

Margach, Russell W. “Chiropractic Functional Neurology: An Introduction.” Integrative medicine (Encinitas, Calif.) vol. 16,2 (2017): 44-45.

Moore, Craig, et al. “The management of common recurrent headaches by chiropractors: a descriptive analysis of a nationally representative survey.” BMC neurology vol. 18,1 171. 17 Oct. 2018, doi:10.1186/s12883-018-1173-6

Nahin, Richard L et al. “Insurance Coverage for Complementary Health Approaches Among Adult Users: United States, 2002 and 2012.” NCHS data brief ,235 (2016): 1-8.

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Chiropractic: In Depth. (www.nccih.nih.gov/health/chiropractic-in-depth) Accessed 4/25/2022.

Vertical Jump Increase and Improvement

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-
Athlete performing a long jump during a competition

For athletes, the vertical jump is a skill that can be increased and improved with proper training. To improve jumping abilities for sports like basketball, tennis, volleyball, or track and field events such as the high jump it is necessary to do both strength and power training. Research has found certain key components can help athletes become better at jumping. There are different ways to improve an individual’s vertical jump. Here we go over some of the most effective exercises including plyometrics, and exercises that build strength and power.

Vertical Jump Increase and Improvement

Vertical Jump Increase and Improvement

Jumping is an explosive movement.

  • To jump well, an individual needs a consistent powerful spring.
  • This is achieved by training the explosive/fast-twitch muscle fibers with the ability to shorten and stretch dynamically.
  • Upper body strength is important for creating upward momentum.
  1. Strength exercises involve slow, controlled movements like squats, lunges, and step-ups with weights.
  2. Power exercises involve explosive, quick movements.
  3. Plyometrics involve explosive hopping, bounding, and jumping drills that combine strength and speed.

Exercises

Plyometrics

  • Common plyometric exercises include hops, jumps, and bounding movements.
  • A popular exercise is jumping off a box and rebounding off the floor then jumping onto another, higher box.
  • Box jumps provide practice for jumping.

Single-Leg Squats

  • Single-leg squats can be done almost anywhere, without equipment.
  • They work the hips, hamstrings, quadriceps, gluteus maximus, and calves.
  • They strengthen the core and increase flexibility.

Full Squats

  • This is a barbell exercise to build strength and power.
  • It is considered one of the best total body exercises.

Weighted Step-Ups

  • The step-up is a recommended all-around exercise that can be done almost anywhere.
  • Not only will it build strength in your quadriceps, but you can also use it as part of a cardio workout.
  • It has a low risk of injury.

Overhead Walking Lunges

  • All that is needed is a weight and room to walk.
  • This exercise builds power, strength, and speed in the legs.
  • Improves core strength.

Stair Running

  • This is a high-intensity workout that builds speed, power, and cardiovascular fitness.
  • It targets the glutes, quads, and calves.

Agility Drills

  • Agility drills can include jumping to improve coordination, speed, power, and specific skills.

Sprints

  • Sprints are quick intense exercises to build muscle and increase performance.
  • Sprints use more muscle groups.

Practice

  • Build strength by performing basic weight training exercises using slow, controlled movements.
  • Build power with faster dynamic movements.
  • Improve movement speed to create power with explosive, quick exercises.
  • Work on form, by incorporating the lead-up to the jump, arm motion, and safe landing technique.
  1. Include time to practice maximum jumping and bring it all together.
  2. Always warm up before jumping or performing drills to keep the joints and body safe.
  3. Athletes jump rope to get the blood circulating and warm up their muscles.
  4. Do several slow, controlled toe raises to prepare the feet and ankles for jumping and landing.
  5. Gradually work up to a full vertical jump, by doing box and squat jumps.

Jumping

  • When finally working on the vertical jump, start with the feet hips-distance apart.
  • If measuring jump height, stand about a foot away from the measuring tape or measuring bar on the side.
  • Start with arms overhead.
  • As you drop into a squat position swing the arms behind the hips.
  • Swing back up to the starting position before going for the full jump.
  • The pre-swing helps build momentum.
  • Land with the knees bent to minimize the impact.

Jumping is a high-impact activity that can take a toll on the knees, hips, ankles, and feet. Be sure to rest the body between hard workouts so the muscles have time to recover, repair, and build up.

Improving Athletic Performance

References

Barnes, Jacque L et al. “Relationship of jumping and agility performance in female volleyball athletes.” Journal of Strength and conditioning research vol. 21,4 (2007): 1192-6. doi:10.1519/R-22416.1

Bezerra, Ewertton DE S et al. “Influence of Trunk Position during Three Lunge Exercises on Muscular Activation in Trained Women.” International journal of exercise science vol. 14,1 202-210. 1 Apr. 2021

Hedlund, Sofia, et al. “Effect of chiropractic manipulation on vertical jump height in young female athletes with talocrural joint dysfunction: a single-blind randomized clinical pilot trial.” Journal of Manipulative and physiological therapeutics vol. 37,2 (2014): 116-23. doi:10.1016/j.jmpt.2013.11.004

Hernández, Sebastian, et al. “Effects of Plyometric Training on Neuromuscular Performance in Youth Basketball Players: A Pilot Study on the Influence of Drill Randomization.” Journal of sports science & medicine vol. 17,3 372-378. 14 Aug. 2018

Karatrantou, Konstantina, et al. “Can sport-specific training affect vertical jumping ability during puberty?.” Biology of sport vol. 36,3 (2019): 217-224. doi:10.5114/biolsport.2019.85455

Markovic, Goran. “Does plyometric training improve vertical jump height? A meta-analytical review.” British Journal of sports medicine vol. 41,6 (2007): 349-55; discussion 355. doi:10.1136/bjsm.2007.035113

McLellan, Christopher P et al. “The role of rate of force development on vertical jump performance.” Journal of Strength and conditioning research vol. 25,2 (2011): 379-85. doi:10.1519/JSC.0b013e3181be305c

Rodríguez-Rosell, David, et al. “Traditional vs. Sport-Specific Vertical Jump Tests: Reliability, Validity, and Relationship With the Legs Strength and Sprint Performance in Adult and Teen Soccer and Basketball Players.” Journal of Strength and conditioning research vol. 31,1 (2017): 196-206. doi:10.1519/JSC.0000000000001476

Vanezis, Athanasios, and Adrian Lees. “A biomechanical analysis of good and poor performers of the vertical jump.” Ergonomics vol. 48,11-14 (2005): 1594-603. doi:10.1080/00140130500101262

What Causes Poor Posture: Clinical Explanation and Solutions

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-
Call center, back pain and a black man consultant in his office, standing while holding is spine. I.

Factors that cause poor unhealthy posture can be caused by the day-to-day effects of gravity on the body, personal, work, or sports injuries, illness, genetics, or a combination of these factors is also common. This leads to neck and back pain that leads to various musculoskeletal health issues. Achieving consistent healthy posture requires technique and practice. Chiropractic treatment with massage and/or physical therapy can restore muscles to optimal mobility and function.

What Causes Poor Posture: Clinical Explanation and Solutions

Factors That Cause Unhealthy Posture

Factors that cause posture problems, like back pain, are often caused by issues with the strength and flexibility ratio between the body’s muscle groups that hold the body upright.

Injury

  • After sustaining an injury, muscles can spasm to protect the injured and the surrounding area.
  • Muscle spasms can help keep injuries stable and protect them from worsening, but they can also limit movements and cause pain symptoms.
  • Prolonged muscle spasms can lead to weakened/vulnerable muscles creating an imbalance between the muscles guarding against the injury and those still working normally.
  • This can cause the body posture to shift to compensate.

Muscle Tension/Weakness

  • Muscle weakness or tension can develop when holding a prolonged position day after day or when doing daily tasks/chores in a way that places added tension on the body.
  • When certain muscle groups are weak or tense, posture will be affected.
  • Aches and pains begin to develop from the awkward positioning and the other muscles that must work overtime.

Daily Habits

  • Compensation is when the body can still achieve its movement goal but with compromised and unhealthy alignment.
  • As the body compensates and accommodates muscle spasms, weakness, tension, and/or imbalance begin to present.
  • When this happens, the body may be forced to use alternate and less efficient patterns of muscle contraction and flexion.

Technology

  • Using technology or working with several combined devices can slowly shift the body from the correct alignment.
  • Incessant texting can cause text neck to develop, a condition in which the neck is held in too much flexion, or forward bending, for a prolonged time.
  • Discomfort, trigger points, and pain symptoms will start to develop, which leads to further posture problems.

Mental Health

  • Individuals who experience stress regularly and easily are factors that cause posture problems.
  • Stress can contribute to shallow breathing or overly-contracted muscles, causing the body to shift out of alignment.
  • Adjusting posture can help counter the stress effects.

Shoes

  • Footwear affects posture.
  • Heels extend the body’s weight forward, which can cause hip and spinal misalignment.
  • Individuals can wear down the outside or inside of their shoes faster because of things like:
  • Weight-bearing habits.
  • Imbalanced kinetic forces will be translated up the ankle, knee, hip, and lower back.
  • This can lead to pain and discomfort in any of these joints.

Genetics

  • Sometimes factors that cause unhealthy posture are hereditary.
  • For example, Scheuermann’s disease – a condition in which adolescent boys develop pronounced kyphosis in their thoracic spines.
  • It is recommended to work with the individual’s primary/specialist healthcare provider in conjunction with a chiropractic specialist team for treatment and management.

Chiropractic treatment can help individuals achieve and maintain proper posture through various massage therapies to release tightness and relax the muscles, decompression to realign the spine, adjustments to realign the body, and postural training through exercises and stretches to develop healthy postural habits.

Quick Patient Intake

References

In, Tae-Sung et al., “Spinal and Pelvic Alignment of Sitting Posture Associated with Smartphone Use in Adolescents with Low Back Pain.” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health vol. 18,16 8369. 7 Aug. 2021, doi:10.3390/ijerph18168369

Korakakis, Vasileios, et al. “Physiotherapist perceptions of optimal sitting and standing posture.” Musculoskeletal Science & Practice vol. 39 (2019): 24-31. doi:10.1016/j.msksp.2018.11.004

Mansfield JT, Bennett M. Scheuermann Disease. [Updated 2022 Aug 21]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499966/

Mingels, Sarah, et al. “Is There Support for the Paradigm ‘Spinal Posture as a Trigger for Episodic Headache’? A Comprehensive Review.” Current pain and headache reports vol. 23,3 17. 4 Mar. 2019, doi:10.1007/s11916-019-0756-2

Mork, Paul Jarle, and Rolf H Westgaard. “Back posture and low back muscle activity in female computer workers: a field study.” Clinical biomechanics (Bristol, Avon) vol. 24,2 (2009): 169-75. doi:10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2008.11.001

Pope, Malcolm H et al. “Spine ergonomics.” Annual review of Biomedical Engineering vol. 4 (2002): 49-68. doi:10.1146/annurev.bioeng.4.092101.122107

Shaghayegh Fard, B et al. “Evaluation of forward head posture in sitting and standing positions.” The European Spine Journal: official publication of the European Spine Society, the European Spinal Deformity Society, and the European Section of the Cervical Spine Research Society vol. 25,11 (2016): 3577-3582. doi:10.1007/s00586-015-4254-x

Tinitali, Sarah, et al. “Sitting Posture During Occupational Driving Causes Low Back Pain; Evidence-Based Position or Dogma? A Systematic Review.” Human Factors vol. 63,1 (2021): 111-123. doi:10.1177/0018720819871730

Wernli, Kevin, et al. “Movement, posture and low back pain. How do they relate? A replicated single-case design in 12 people with persistent, disabling low back pain.” European Journal of Pain (London, England) vol. 24,9 (2020): 1831-1849. doi:10.1002/ejp.1631

Easily Digestible Foods

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-
Cooked white rice garnished with mint in a ceramic bowl

With the summer heatwave blasting through, some individuals can experience digestive health problems. The relationship between the temperature outside and the temperature in the body translates to the digestive system. As the heat rises, it can make the digestive system slow down and become weakened feeling bloated, nauseated, and tired. The body’s balance may feel off because the body lowers its internal temperature to protect itself. Individuals must be careful not to overload themselves with the wrong foods. One way to avoid problems and maintain digestion working smoothly is to eat lighter, eat smaller portions for each meal, and eat easily digestible foods. Doing this will allow the body will feel cooler, and maintain alertness and energy throughout the hot day.

Easily Digestible Foods

Easily Digestible Foods

Heat-related health issues can include:

  • Loss of appetite
  • Heartburn
  • Acid buildup
  • Abdominal pain
  • Constipation
  • Gastroenteritis
  • Diarrhea
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  • Dehydration
  • Heat exhaustion
  • Stroke

The objective is not to skip meals but to eat regular meals, just smaller and easily digestible ones. Foods low in fiber tend to be easy to digest and can help the body feel better.

White Rice

  • White rice is low in fat and fiber, making it easy on the stomach and easy to digest.
  • It is not associated with any gastrointestinal issues and is considered a safe starch because it is an easy source of carbohydrates that provides instant energy.
  • To digest rice even more easily, eat it by itself or pair it with foods low in fat.
  • Certain foods that are high in fat, like vegetable oils, can take longer to digest and could cause discomfort.
  • A 1/2 cup of cooked white rice:
  • 210 calories
  • 4g protein
  • 0g fat
  • 49g carbohydrates
  • 1g fiber

Bananas

  • Ripe bananas are an easily digestible fruit that only contains a moderate amount of fiber.
  • They are associated with improvements in both constipation and diarrhea,
  • Individuals with a variety of digestive issues may experience relief when incorporating bananas into their diets.
  • Cooking bananas makes them even easier to digest as it makes certain nutrients easier to absorb.
  • Make sure the bananas are ripe enough.
  • Unripe bananas can be more difficult to digest.
  • 1 medium raw/ripe banana:
  • 105 calories
  • 1.3g protein
  • 0.4g fat
  • 27g carbohydrates
  • 3g fiber

Applesauce

  • Although made from apples, applesauce is low in fiber and a great source of vitamin C.
  • Cooked, canned, or processed fruits tend to be lower in fiber and easier to digest.
  • Applesauce is recommended to calm a variety of stomach-related ailments like constipation, diarrhea, and gastroparesis.
  • A 4-ounce serving of applesauce:
  • 90 calories
  • 0g protein
  • 0g fat
  • 22g carbohydrates
  • 2g fiber

White Bread

  • Plain white bread is low in fiber and easier to digest than bread made with whole-grain wheat bread.
  • It is often fortified with nutrients including folic acid, B vitamins, vitamin D3, and more.
  • Try plain toast for breakfast
  • Use low-fat fillings for an easily digestible sandwich for lunch or dinner.
  • 2 slices of plain white bread:
  • 150 calories
  • 4g protein
  • 28g carbohydrates
  • 2g fat
  • 1g fiber

Chicken and Turkey

  • Lean proteins low in fat like chicken breast and turkey are easy to digest.
  • Individuals experiencing digestive problems are recommended to consume lean protein over fattier red meats.
  • A 3-ounce serving of skinless, boneless chicken breast:
  • 128 calories
  • 26g protein
  • 2.7g fat
  • 0g carbohydrates
  • 0g fiber

Sweet Potatoes

  • Cooked potatoes of all varieties are examples of easily digestible foods.
  • Sweet potatoes are gentle on the digestive tract because they are mostly insoluble fiber, which speeds up digestion and increases regularity.
  • To make potatoes easier to digest, remove the skins and mash the inside.
  • Removing the skins decreases the fiber content, and mashing them makes digestion easier.
  • 1 medium sweet potato that is cooked and peeled:
  • 135 calories
  • 3g protein
  • 0.2g fat
  • 31g carbohydrates
  • 5g fiber

Other recommendations that could help stimulate digestion include drinking more water, getting more sleep, reducing stress levels, and exercising.

The Healing Diet

References

Howard, Sally, and Geetanjali Krishna. “How hot weather kills: the rising public health dangers of extreme heat.” BMJ (Clinical research ed.) vol. 378 o1741. 14 Jul. 2022, doi:10.1136/bmj.o1741

Kong, Fanbin, et al. “Physical changes in white and brown rice during simulated gastric digestion.” Journal of food science vol. 76,6 (2011): E450-7. doi:10.1111/j.1750-3841.2011.02271.x

Nguyen, Hoang Chinh et al. “Bioactive Compounds, Antioxidants, and Health Benefits of Sweet Potato Leaves.” Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 26,7 1820. 24 Mar. 2021, doi:10.3390/molecules26071820

Remes-Troche, José María. “Too hot” or “too cold”: effects of meal temperature on gastric function.” Digestive diseases and sciences vol. 58,9 (2013): 2439-40. doi:10.1007/s10620-013-2789-4

Salfi, Salvatore F, and Karyn Holt. “The role of probiotics in diarrheal management.” Holistic nursing practice vol. 26,3 (2012): 142-9. doi:10.1097/HNP.0b013e31824ef5a3

Singh, Balwinder, et al. “Bioactive compounds in banana and their associated health benefits – A review.” Food Chemistry vol. 206 (2016): 1-11. doi:10.1016/j.foodchem.2016.03.033

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