Neck Injuries | El Paso, Tx (2023)

In this video, we explore the common causes and symptoms of neck injuries, as well as the ways in which chiropractic care can provide relief and promote healing. First, we discuss some of the most frequent causes of neck injuries, including whiplash, poor posture, and repetitive strain. We also highlight some of the symptoms of neck injuries, such as pain, stiffness, and limited range of motion.

Our care plans are based on Functional Medicine as a systems approach based on biology that focuses on identifying and addressing the root cause of disease. We focus on the paradigm that symptom or differential diagnosis may be one of many contributing factors to an individual’s illness.

This approach shifts from the traditional disease-centered focus of most medical practices to a more holistic person-centered approach.

Our discussions team includes Integrative Doctors, Functional Medicine Experts, Nutritionists, Health Coaches, Chiropractors, Physical Medicine Doctors, Therapists, and Exercise Performance Specialists.
We provide clinical insights, treatment options, and methods to achieve clinically sound, specific measured goals.*

Functional & Integrative Health Live Events *

✅ Stress Hormones & Health
✅ Gut Health, Inflammation & Auto-Immunity*
✅ Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation
✅ Fibromyalgia & Inflammation
✅ Diabetes & Autoimmunity*
✅ Weight Loss
✅ Body Composition Analysis
✅ Thyroid Dysfunction*
✅ Autoimmune Disorder*
✅ Heart Disease & Inflammation*
✅ Agility & Mobility
✅ Injury Recovery Programs
✅ Complex Lower Back Pain Recovery Plans
✅ Severe Sciatica Syndromes
✅ Other Complex Health Challenges
✅ Neutraceutical Recommendations
✅ Advanced Translational Nutrigenomics*
✅ Nutrigenomics, Proteomics, Metabalomics
✅ Care Plans (Advanced Clinical Practice)

We present, bridge, and connect these various health programs, functional medicine protocols, fitness methods, injury recovery programs, and offer complete wellness packages.

To that end, we shed light and offer treatment options and bring a deep understanding of the real underlying causes of those suffering from acute and interconnected chronic degenerative disorders.

Ultimately, we empower you to achieve and maintain your personalized, healthy way of living by understanding the root causes of disorders.

It is all about.

LIVING, LOVING & MATTERING

Join us in improving your health.

Blessings,

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, CTG*
email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com phone:
phone: 915-850-0900

Licensed in Texas & New Mexico*

Notice: Our information scope is limited to musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present talks and clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist in our events is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure.

The information in these events is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice.

Our presentations are designed to share knowledge and information from Dr. Jimenez’s research, experience, and collaborative functional medicine community. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified health care professional.
We use and discuss functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support the musculoskeletal system’s care for injuries or disorders. Our events, webinars, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and issues that relate and support, directly or indirectly, our clinical scope of practice.*

Subscribe: bit.ly/drjyt

Facebook Clinical Page: www.facebook.com/dralexjimenez/
Facebook Injuries Page: www.facebook.com/elpasochiropractor/
Facebook Neuropathy Page: www.facebook.com/ElPasoNeuropathyCenter/

Yelp: El Paso Rehabilitation Center: goo.gl/pwY2n2
Yelp: El Paso Clinical Center: Treatment: goo.gl/r2QPuZ

Clinical Testimonies: www.dralexjimenez.com/category/testimonies/

Information:
Clinical Site: www.dralexjimenez.com
Injury Site: personalinjurydoctorgroup.com
Sports Injury Site: chiropracticscientist.com
Back Injury Site: www.elpasobackclinic.com
Functional Medicine: wellnessdoctorrx.com

Twitter: twitter.com/dralexjimenez
Twitter: twitter.com/crossfitdoctor

DISCLAIMER: dralexjimenez.com/legal-disclaimer/

Pregnancy Posture Health: EP Functional Wellness Team

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Physiotherapist helping pregnant for doing exercises with ball p — Shot of beautiful young physiotherapist helping to beautiful pregnant woman for doing pilates exercises with ball preparing for childbirth at home.

Healthy posture and movement are essential for everyone, but especially for mothers-to-be. Practicing healthy posture is one of the most important contributions to a healthy pregnancy. Proper body alignment decreases low back and neck discomfort symptoms and muscle fatigue. A chiropractic therapy team can educate on maintaining a healthy posture when standing, sitting, and lying down throughout pregnancy, alleviate any subluxations, maintain optimal alignment, and keep the muscles relaxed through massage techniques.

Table of Contents

Pregnancy Posture

Many changes occur in the musculoskeletal system during pregnancy for the growing fetus. This impacts posture, balance, and gait. Pregnancy posture can significantly influence the comfort and/or pain levels in the pregnant and postnatal body. This includes:

Sleeping in the best position while pregnant.
Sitting in the best position during pregnancy.
These little changes and adjustments impact the health of the mother and baby.

Postural Changes During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, several factors work against maintaining correct and healthy alignment. For one, the baby’s weight causes the lower back to sway as the center of gravity shifts forward.

Increased Lumbar Lordosis

The concave curvature in the spine can become more pronounced because of the forward pull of the growing fetus.
This can result in a swayback position – lordosis.
The sacrum tilts backward.
The legs grow wider apart when standing.

Increased Cervical Lordosis

The normal slight forward curvature of the spine in the neck or cervical area is called cervical lordosis.
The growing fetus aggravates the forward pull on the neck.
During pregnancy, the breasts grow, adding more weight to the thoracic or mid back, causing the neck curvature to get pulled forward and down.
Both shoulders also move forward and inward.

These changes can lead to back problem symptoms/pain, sciatica, and other musculoskeletal disorders and conditions if left untreated.

Unhealthy Posture Happens Naturally

The abdominal muscles become stretched as the baby grows.
Hormone levels increase and cause joints and ligaments to loosen.
The muscles cannot contract fully and keep the lower back in alignment.

Healthy Posture Requires Practice

Standing

Proper posture when standing. From top to bottom:

Maintain a neutral gaze that looks straight ahead.
Don’t bend the head too much forward or backward.
Avoid twisting/bending movements whenever possible, or keep them to a minimum.
The chest should be up, the core braced, and the shoulders back.
The body weight is distributed evenly along the lower extremities.
Contract abdominal and pelvic floor muscles during movements, as they support the stability of the pelvis and the trunk.
When standing and having to hold the position for an extended period, use a box or stool to prop up one foot.
For example, when washing dishes, the cabinet under the sink can rest the foot on the ledge.
Switch position every 20 to 30 minutes.

Chiropractic

Whether in the planning stages or the second or third trimester, it’s essential to keep postural health in mind. A chiropractor trained in the needs of pregnant women will use tables that adjust for a pregnant woman’s body, and they will use techniques that avoid unneeded pressure on the abdomen and provide safe exercises and stretches. Benefits of chiropractic include:

Helps maintain a healthier pregnancy.
Helps regulate symptoms of nausea.
Relieves back, neck, discomfort symptoms, and pain.
Relieves and reduces excess strain on muscles, ligaments, and joints.
Spinal curvature exaggeration is corrected.
The normal spine curvatures are restored and maintained.

As more women seek the benefits of chiropractic for pregnancy, more healthcare providers seek trained doctors of chiropractic to refer their pregnant patients. Discuss these options with your healthcare provider, and schedule a visit to Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic to check posture and biomechanics.

Chiropractic Pregnancy Treatment

References

Bauer, A W. “NEUE GESICHTSPUNKTE UEBER HALTUNG UND ERNAEHRUNG WAEHREND DER SCHWANGERSCHAFT” [NEW VIEWPOINTS ON POSTURE AND NUTRITION DURING PREGNANCY]. Wiener medizinische Wochenschrift (1946) vol. 113 (1963): 875-6.

Fitzhugh, M L, and M NEWTON. “Posture in pregnancy.” American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology vol. 85 (1963): 1091-5. doi:10.1016/s0002-9378(16)35644-7

Gutke A, Ostgaard HC, Oberg B Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2006 Mar 1; 31(5):E149-55. Pelvic girdle pain and lumbar pain in pregnancy: a cohort study of the consequences in terms of health and functioning.

Schröder, Guido et al. “Impact of pregnancy on back pain and body posture in women.” Journal of physical therapy science vol. 28,4 (2016): 1199-207. doi:10.1589/jpts.28.1199

Yoo, Hyunju, et al. “Changes in the spinal curvature, degree of pain, balance ability, and gait ability according to pregnancy period in pregnant and nonpregnant women.” Journal of physical therapy science vol. 27,1 (2015): 279-84. doi:10.1589/jpts.27.279

Variations Of The MET Technique For Muscle Pain

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Table of Contents

Introduction

The various muscle groups in the body allow the host to move around and function through many actions without feeling any discomfort or pain. The body has two sections: upper and lower portions that have different functions, from turning the neck from side to side to allowing the legs to enable the body to move around. When various issues or factors begin to affect the body over time, like muscle injuries or normal factors like poor posture and prolonged sitting, it causes overlapping risk profiles that can lead to chronic musculoskeletal conditions. When musculoskeletal disorders affect the body, it can lead to muscle and joint pain that can cause misalignment in the spine and cause the muscle fibers to become short and tense. Luckily there are available treatments that allow the body to realign itself and stretch those short muscles. Today’s article looks at how muscle pain affects the body and how different variations of the MET technique are used to reduce and stretch muscle pain. We mention and provide valuable information about our patients to certified medical providers who use techniques like the MET and therapy for individuals with muscle strain associated with body pain. We give encouragement to patients by referring them to associated medical providers based on their diagnostic findings. We support that education is a marvelous way to ask our providers the most interesting questions at the patient’s acknowledgment. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., incorporates this information as an educational service. Disclaimer

How Does Muscle Pain Affect The Body?

Have you been dealing with muscle strain or pain in different body areas? Are you experiencing any referred pain in other body locations? Or are your muscles feeling extremely tight that it is causing you pain? When the body is dealing with various issues that are causing the muscle fibers to be tensed, it can lead to muscle pain and cause many people to suffer. Studies reveal that muscle pain is caused when painful conditions like mechanical forces, ischemia, and inflammation stimulate the body’s free nerve endings. Many of these factors also correlate with musculoskeletal disorders like fibromyalgia and myofascial pain that can develop trigger points (palpable, small nodules) in the muscle fibers to cause the muscles to become stiff and contract. Additional studies also reveal that when the muscles begin to cramp up, especially the calves, it can become extremely painful and involuntary as it affects the entire muscle group, the muscle itself, or any selected muscle fibers. This causes the individual to be in pain in an acute setting as the muscle relaxes; however, if the muscle fibers are still in constant contraction, it can lead to chronic issues that affect the muscle group.

Overcoming Pain With Chiropractic Care-Video

From Pain to Gain: A Chiropractic Success Story | El Paso, Tx (2023)

Regarding muscle pain in the body, studies reveal that the nociceptive nerve endings in the muscles and tissue fibers can cause the neuron signals from the central nervous system to become hyperexcitable, and hyperactivity can lead to muscle pain. This causes the muscle group and the surrounding muscles to tense and invokes pain when in motion. To that point, it can cause the individual dealing with muscle pain to try and find various treatments to alleviate the pain and continue their lives. When it comes to pain can be relieved through treatments like chiropractic care and massage therapy to reduce the effects of the muscle pain associated with musculoskeletal disorders. The video above explains how treatments like chiropractic care incorporate different techniques to realign the body from subluxation and help stretch the tight, short muscles using manual manipulation and the MET technique.

Variations Of The MET Technique

When the muscles in the musculoskeletal system are dealing with pain in different locations or one location in the body, it can cause the individual to be in constant pain. Luckily treatments like chiropractic care are non-invasive and therapeutic as they utilize different techniques to realign the spine and stretch the tight muscle groups. In “Clinical Applications of Neuromuscular Techniques,” written by, Leon Chaitow, N.D., D.O., and Judith Walker DeLany, L.M.T., stated that when muscle pain affects tone muscle or causes structural changes to the joint’s ROM (range of motion) can lead to shortness and stress to the muscle group. Studies reveal that MET is a stretching technique therapists use to contract the affected muscle in a precisely controlled direction voluntarily. Many stretch variations of the MET technique allow the muscles to be stretched, strengthening and improving local circulation while mobilizing joint restriction. Down below are some of the variations of stretching techniques with MET.

Isometric Contraction: Reciprocal Inhibition In Acute Setting

The isometric contraction technique is used for reciprocal inhibition in an acute setting where the affected muscles are dealing with symptoms of muscle spasms. The isometric contraction allows the therapist to help relax acute muscular spasms and mobilize restricted joints while preparing the joints for manipulation.

Starting point: When acute muscles or joint problems affect the body’s functionality, therapists must commence an easy restriction barrier.
Modus Operandi: The affected muscles are used in an isometric contraction, allowing the short muscle to relax.
Forces: The therapist and individual forces are matched and involve 20% of the individual’s strength to increase no more than 50%.
Duration: Initially7-10 seconds while increasing up to 20 seconds.
Action following contraction: The area of the muscle and joint are taken to a new restricted barrier without stretching after complete relaxation. Therapists should perform the movement to a new restricted barrier on exhalation.
Repetitions: Repeat three to five times until no further gain in the range of motion is possible.

Isometric Contraction: Post-isometric Relaxation In Chronic Setting

The isometric contraction technique is used for post-isometric relaxation in a chronic setting where the muscles are severely contracted. The isometric contraction technique is known as post-facilitation stretching, where therapists stretch chronic or subacute restricted, fibrotic, contracted soft tissues or muscle tissues affected by myofascial trigger point pain.

Starting point: Short of resistance barrier
Modus Operandi: The affected muscles are used in the isometric contraction that allows the shortened muscles to relax and let an easier stretch.
Forces: Both the therapist and individual forces match and increase about 30% of the patient’s strength and increase to 50% of contractions up to 20 seconds.
Duration: Initially 7-10 seconds and increasing up to 20 seconds.
Action following contraction: The rest period is 5 seconds so the body can relax completely before being stretched, and during exhalation, the muscle goes through a painless, new restriction barrier position that is held for at least 10-60 seconds.
Repetitions: Repeat three to five times.

Isotonic Eccentric Contraction

The isotonic eccentric contraction is an isolytic technique to strengthen weak postural muscles that are tensed or tight from prolonged sitting or poor posture.

Starting point: At the restriction barrier
Modus Operandi: When the muscle is contracted and prevented, the therapist uses this technique to slowly overcome and reverse the contracting muscle so it can be stretched to full resting length.
Forces: Therapists use greater forces on the individual and build up subsequent contractions for the affected muscle (*Utilize this stretch on individuals who are not dealing with osteoporotic issues in their muscles and joints)
Duration: Five to seven seconds
Repetitions: Repeat three to five times if discomfort is not excessive.

Isokinetic

The isokinetic technique is a combination of isotonic and isometric contractions that many pain specialists like chiropractors and massage therapists use to tone weakened musculature, build strength in all the surrounding muscles that are involved in a particular joint function, and help train and balance the effects on the body’s muscle fibers.

Starting point: Easy mid-range position
Modus Operandi: The individual uses moderate resistance as the therapist puts the joint through a rapidly full range of movement as this technique is different than simple isotonic exercises, and resistance varies from each person. This technique progressively increases as the procedure progress.
Forces: The therapist uses moderate forces to prevent movement from the individual and then progresses to full forces.
Duration of contraction: Up to four seconds.

Conclusion

Different stretching techniques in MET therapy allow the affected muscles to be stretched and lengthened while reducing muscle pain affecting a body’s location. It is important to be mindful of the movements that can cause the muscles to be overstretched or cramped up, which can cause pain. Treatments incorporating these various stretching techniques allow the affected muscles to relax and restore naturally.

References

Bordoni, Bruno, et al. “Muscle Cramps – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 4 Sept. 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499895/.

Chaitow, Leon, and Judith Walker DeLany. Clinical Applications of Neuromuscular Techniques. Churchill Livingstone, 2003.

Faqih, Anood I, et al. “Effects of Muscle Energy Technique on Pain, Range of Motion and Function in Patients with Post-Surgical Elbow Stiffness: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” Hong Kong Physiotherapy Journal : Official Publication of the Hong Kong Physiotherapy Association Limited = Wu Li Chih Liao, U.S. National Library of Medicine, June 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6467834/.

Gregory, Nicholas S, and Kathleen A Sluka. “Anatomical and Physiological Factors Contributing to Chronic Muscle Pain.” Current Topics in Behavioral Neurosciences, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2014, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4294469/.

Mense, Siegfried. “The Pathogenesis of Muscle Pain.” Current Pain and Headache Reports, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Dec. 2003, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14604500/.

Disclaimer

Shoulder Nerve Pain: EP Functional Health Clinic

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Shoulder Blade or Scapula Bone Physical Therapy — Shoulder blade or scapula pone physical therapy. Physiotherapist massaging patient’s shoulder. Sports injury treatment.

An acute injury or changes to the upper body over time can cause a compressed/pinched nerve in the shoulder. A pinched nerve in the shoulder happens when a muscle, ligament, tendon, or bone irritates or presses on a nerve exiting the neck. Shoulder nerve pain can develop from various sources, such as overuse work injuries, sports injuries, household chores, tendinitis, arthritis, torn cartilage, and other medical conditions, and injuries can contribute to symptoms. Chiropractors are highly qualified to treat pinched nerves. They are trained in whole-body realignment and rehabilitation techniques that find the root source and relieve pressure on compressed nerves.

Table of Contents

Shoulder Nerve Pain

The shoulder joint is one of the most complex joints because of its wide range of motion. It is used so frequently that repetitive motion strain is common, often leading to injury. It is usually because of the continued use combined with an unhealed strain/injury that leads to shoulder nerve injury or when surrounding tissues like cartilage or tendons irritate or compress the nerves.

Pinched nerves also occur when a nerve root in the neck is damaged through wear and tear or an acute injury.
Individuals 50 years and older are likely to experience pinched nerves because of degeneration in the cervical spine and/or arthritis.
A nerve can become pinched when bone spurs form around the spinal discs.
Bone spurs are formations of bone that grow when discs weaken with age.
Bone spurs grow around the discs putting pressure on the nerve root.

Symptoms

Compressed Pinched Nerve/Cervical Radiculopathy

Pain sensations in the shoulder.
Tingling and/or pins and needles in fingers or hand.
Weakness in shoulder and arm muscles.

Symptoms have been known to overlap with shoulder arthritis, frozen shoulder, swimmer’s shoulder, or rotator cuff tears, so it’s always best to consult a chiropractor to understand possible causes. Other conditions with symptoms to compare:

Shoulder Arthritis

Stiffness in the joint.
Aching inside the shoulder.
Grinding when moving the joint.

Frozen Shoulder/Adhesive Capsulitis

Stiffness in the joint.
Pain in one shoulder.
Decreased range of motion and movement.

Swimmer’s Shoulder/Impingement

Pain and discomfort in the shoulder.
Weakness in the surrounding area.
Stiffness or tightness in the joint.
Impeded range of motion.

Rotator Cuff Tears

Pain and discomfort symptoms when moving the shoulder.
Weakness in the arm.
Deep aching sensations along the top and side of the joint.

Chiropractic Treatment

Chiropractors are experts on the neuromusculoskeletal system. First, a thorough medical examination will be conducted, including health history and regular activities, to understand the nature of the symptoms. Depending on the type of injury, tests, and exams may be needed to help diagnose and pinpoint the cause. Then the chiropractor will develop a personalized treatment plan. The objective is to relieve pressure and tension on the nerves and relax the muscles. In addition to adjusting the joint or other impacted areas, the therapy team will provide at-home exercises and stretches to maintain the adjustments and expedite healing.

Chiropractic Rehab

References

Kokkalis, Zinon T et al. “Nerve Injuries around the Shoulder.” Journal of long-term effects of medical implants vol. 27,1 (2017): 13-20. doi:10.1615/JLongTermEffMedImplants.2017019545

Leider, Joseph D et al. “Treatment of suprascapular nerve entrapment syndrome.” Orthopedic reviews vol. 13,2 25554. 11 Jul. 2021, doi:10.52965/001c.25554

Matzkin, Elizabeth, et al. “Swimmer’s Shoulder: Painful Shoulder in the Competitive Swimmer.” The Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons vol. 24,8 (2016): 527-36. doi:10.5435/JAAOS-D-15-00313

Neviaser, Andrew S, and Jo A Hannafin. “Adhesive capsulitis: a review of current treatment.” The American Journal of sports medicine vol. 38,11 (2010): 2346-56. doi:10.1177/0363546509348048

Safran, Marc R. “Nerve injury about the shoulder in athletes, part 1: suprascapular nerve and axillary nerve.” The American Journal of sports medicine vol. 32,3 (2004): 803-19. doi:10.1177/0363546504264582

Strakowski, Jeffrey A, and Christopher J Visco. “Diagnostic and therapeutic musculoskeletal ultrasound applications of the shoulder.” Muscle & Nerve vol. 60,1 (2019): 1-6. doi:10.1002/mus.26505

Vision Problems Could Be Cause of Neck Pain and Headaches

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Woman with vision problems using laptop at home — Young woman with vision problems using laptop while sitting near comfortable sofa, home interior

Shoulder and neck discomfort, pain, and headaches could be caused by vision problems and eye strain that require corrective glasses, contact lenses, or an updated prescription. Spending long periods of activity involving eye usage, like driving, reading/writing reports, studying plans, instructions, reviewing charts, orders, etc., on mobile devices and computer screens fatigues the eyes. Individuals with tired eyes try to reduce eye strain by tilting their head or neck and hunching forward, which results in an unhealthy posture. And for individuals that need glasses squinting and straining the eyes also leads to unhealthy postures, directly contributing to neck and shoulder pain and headaches. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic can repair and heal musculoskeletal injuries and refer patients to the proper specialist, in this case, an eye care professional.

Table of Contents

Vision Problems

Like any muscle, the eyes can be overworked, causing unconscious tensing of the neck, upper back, and shoulder muscles, leading to muscle tension in the back of the skull. The tense muscles can cause blood flow and circulation restriction. Individuals compensate by tilting the head towards one shoulder, craning the neck, or leaning/hunching. This can help for a little while but does not relieve muscle soreness, headaches, or migraines, as well as the throbbing around the temples or the fact that it will keep happening. Individuals learn to live with the pain and push through it. This is unhealthy and can lead to serious, chronic musculoskeletal conditions that can cascade into other health problems. For individuals, the symptoms they are experiencing are common in conditions they may have been previously or currently diagnosed with, including:

Neck Strain

The risk of neck strain or injury comes with the overuse of the neck muscles and tendons.
This results in neck pain, tenderness, and a decreased range of motion.
With vision problems, individuals have additional stress on their neck muscles as they tilt their heads to relieve the discomfort.

Neck Muscle Spasms

When the muscles in the neck involuntarily tighten, it can cause sharp or sudden pain; this is referred to as a muscle spasm.
Individuals can experience muscle spasms for minutes, hours, or even days.
Constantly tilting the head to one side to realign vision can cause overuse and strain on the neck muscles, resulting in muscle spasms.

Torticollis/Wry Neck

With torticollis, individuals will likely have a head tilt and experience neck muscle tenderness, stiffness, and pain.

Chiropractic Treatment

Chiropractors are experts in relieving discomfort symptoms and restoring the neuromusculoskeletal system to optimal function. They help reduce inflammation and muscle spasms through heat, cold, stretches and exercises, and electrical stimulation to expedite healing. They also retrain individuals on posture training eliminating the need to tilt the head and being more aware of body positioning.

As primary care doctors, chiropractors can refer their patients to specialists.
Chiropractors work with a wide range of medical professionals, depending on the needs of their patients.
When neck and shoulder discomfort and headaches become chronic and do not heal or improve, they could be vision problems.
By treating the vision misalignment, pressure can be relieved in the neck and shoulders, reducing and eliminating spasms.

Beyond Medicine

References

Bryans, Roland, et al. “Evidence-based guidelines for the chiropractic treatment of adults with headache.” Journal of manipulative and physiological therapeutics vol. 34,5 (2011): 274-89. doi:10.1016/j.jmpt.2011.04.008

Gowrisankaran, Sowjanya, and James E Sheedy. “Computer vision syndrome: A review.” Work (Reading, Mass.) vol. 52,2 (2015): 303-14. doi:10.3233/WOR-152162

Kaur, Kirandeep, et al. “Digital Eye Strain- A Comprehensive Review.” Ophthalmology and therapy vol. 11,5 (2022): 1655-1680. doi:10.1007/s40123-022-00540-9

Lodin, Camilla, et al. “Eye- and neck/shoulder-discomfort during visually demanding experimental near work.” Work (Reading, Mass.) vol. 41 Suppl 1 (2012): 3388-92. doi:10.3233/WOR-2012-0613-3388

Richter, Hans O. “Neck pain brought into focus.” Work (Reading, Mass.) vol. 47,3 (2014): 413-8. doi:10.3233/WOR-131776

Zetterberg, Camilla et al. “Neck/shoulder discomfort due to visually demanding experimental near work is influenced by previous neck pain, task duration, astigmatism, internal eye discomfort, and accommodation.” PloS one vol. 12,8 e0182439. 23 Aug. 2017, doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0182439

Lumbar Spine Injuries in Athletes | El Paso, Tx (2023)

Dr. Alex Jimenez

In this video, we discuss the common lumbar spine injuries that athletes can experience and how chiropractic care can aid in their recovery. Lumbar spine injuries can be debilitating, and for athletes, they can mean the end of a season or even a career. We’ll cover how chiropractic care can help athletes recover from these injuries, including spinal adjustments and other therapies that can help reduce pain, increase range of motion, and promote healing. If you’re an athlete looking to prevent or recover from lumbar spine injuries, or a coach or trainer looking to better understand how to support your athletes’ health, this video is for you.

Our care plans are based on Functional Medicine as a systems approach based on biology that focuses on identifying and addressing the root cause of disease. We focus on the paradigm that symptom or differential diagnosis may be one of many contributing factors to an individual’s illness.

This approach shifts from the traditional disease-centered focus of most medical practices to a more holistic person-centered approach.

Our discussions team includes Integrative Doctors, Functional Medicine Experts, Nutritionists, Health Coaches, Chiropractors, Physical Medicine Doctors, Therapists, and Exercise Performance Specialists.
We provide clinical insights, treatment options, and methods to achieve clinically sound, specific measured goals.*

Functional & Integrative Health Live Events *

✅ Stress Hormones & Health
✅ Gut Health, Inflammation & Auto-Immunity*
✅ Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation
✅ Fibromyalgia & Inflammation
✅ Diabetes & Autoimmunity*
✅ Weight Loss
✅ Body Composition Analysis
✅ Thyroid Dysfunction*
✅ Autoimmune Disorder*
✅ Heart Disease & Inflammation*
✅ Agility & Mobility
✅ Injury Recovery Programs
✅ Complex Lower Back Pain Recovery Plans
✅ Severe Sciatica Syndromes
✅ Other Complex Health Challenges
✅ Neutraceutical Recommendations
✅ Advanced Translational Nutrigenomics*
✅ Nutrigenomics, Proteomics, Metabalomics
✅ Care Plans (Advanced Clinical Practice)

We present, bridge, and connect these various health programs, functional medicine protocols, fitness methods, injury recovery programs, and offer complete wellness packages.

To that end, we shed light and offer treatment options and bring a deep understanding of the real underlying causes of those suffering from acute and interconnected chronic degenerative disorders.

Ultimately, we empower you to achieve and maintain your personalized, healthy way of living by understanding the root causes of disorders.

It is all about.

LIVING, LOVING & MATTERING

Join us in improving your health.

Blessings,

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, CTG*
email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com phone:
phone: 915-850-0900

Licensed in Texas & New Mexico*

Notice: Our information scope is limited to musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present talks and clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist in our events is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure.

The information in these events is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice.

Our presentations are designed to share knowledge and information from Dr. Jimenez’s research, experience, and collaborative functional medicine community. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified health care professional.
We use and discuss functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support the musculoskeletal system’s care for injuries or disorders. Our events, webinars, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and issues that relate and support, directly or indirectly, our clinical scope of practice.*

Subscribe: bit.ly/drjyt

Facebook Clinical Page: www.facebook.com/dralexjimenez/
Facebook Injuries Page: www.facebook.com/elpasochiropractor/
Facebook Neuropathy Page: www.facebook.com/ElPasoNeuropathyCenter/

Yelp: El Paso Rehabilitation Center: goo.gl/pwY2n2
Yelp: El Paso Clinical Center: Treatment: goo.gl/r2QPuZ

Clinical Testimonies: www.dralexjimenez.com/category/testimonies/

Information:
Clinical Site: www.dralexjimenez.com
Injury Site: personalinjurydoctorgroup.com
Sports Injury Site: chiropracticscientist.com
Back Injury Site: www.elpasobackclinic.com
Functional Medicine: wellnessdoctorrx.com

Twitter: twitter.com/dralexjimenez
Twitter: twitter.com/crossfitdoctor

DISCLAIMER: dralexjimenez.com/legal-disclaimer/

Motorcycle Crash Injury Rehab: EP Functional Wellness Clinic

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Eye-level shot of a biker driving a motorcycle during the sunset — An eye-level shot of a biker driving a motorcycle during the sunset

Injuries after a motorcycle crash include contusions, skin abrasions, soft tissue injuries to tendons, ligaments, and muscles, sprains, strains and tears, facial and jaw fractures, traumatic brain injury, broken bones, misalignment, neck and back injuries, and biker’s arm. The Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Team can develop a comprehensive view of the sustained injuries to create a personalized treatment plan to reduce inflammation, increase flexibility, correct misalignments, rehabilitate the body, relax, stretch, and strengthen the musculoskeletal system, and restore mobility and function.

Table of Contents

Motorcycle Crash Injuries

Motorcycle crash injuries are not easy to recover from. Acute soft tissue injuries caused by sudden trauma are common, as well as herniated discs, pelvis, and spinal misalignments that can have a cascading effect on the rest of the body.

Pelvic Misalignment

The pelvis comprises the pubic joint in the front and two sacroiliac joints in the back.
The sacroiliac joints work to connect the pelvis to the spine.
The pelvis also connects various muscles, including the pelvic floor and hip.

When the hip sustains a crash/collision impact or the impact causes the individual to fall on their hip, the hip or pelvis can become misaligned. Pelvic misalignment is one of the leading causes of severe back problems and pain. To realign the pelvis, a chiropractor will develop a physical therapy program that will include the following:

Therapeutic massage to relax the muscles and increase blood circulation.
Directed stretching of tight and overactive muscles.
Strengthening or reactivating weak and inhibited muscles.
Exercises to train proper pelvis positioning awareness.

Neck Injuries

In addition to whiplash, spinal misalignment to the vertebrae in the neck can occur. A chiropractor can help restore the range of motion. The treatment team will develop a therapy program in addition to chiropractic. The primary focus is to improve the flexibility and strength of the neck. The common types of physical therapy include:

Massage.
Neck stretches.
Back strengthening.
Core strengthening.

Leg and Foot Injuries

Extremity injuries frequently occur, particularly to the feet and legs, and include:

Sprains.
Strains.
Muscle tears.
Road Rash.
Bone fractures.

The therapy team will build a treatment plan that works through each system up the foot, knee, and hip. This plan will help heal soft tissue injuries by applying techniques like massage therapy and at-home exercises.

Rider’s Arm

Motorcyclists may extend their hands out to protect themselves from the impact when falling. This position can lead to injuries that affect the shoulders, arms, wrists, and hands. The physical therapy team can help heal soft tissue injuries and increase mobility using mobilization. Chiropractic can restrengthen damaged shoulder muscles, support torn ligaments, and treat tissue damage.

This hands-on technique involves easing a joint or muscle through normal movement patterns to release and relax stiffness and increase mobility.
Manual adjustments, deep tissue massage, exercise, and hot/cold therapy help restore health and mobility and expedite recovery.

Injury Rehabilitation

References

Dischinger, Patricia C et al. “Injury patterns and severity among hospitalized motorcyclists: a comparison of younger and older riders.” Annual proceedings. Association for the Advancement of Automotive Medicine vol. 50 (2006): 237-49.

Mirza, M A, and K E Korber. “Isolated rupture of the anterior tibialis tendon associated with a fracture of the tibial shaft: a case report.” Orthopedics vol. 7,8 (1984): 1329-32. doi:10.3928/0147-7447-19840801-16

Petit, Logan, et al. “A review of common motorcycle collision mechanisms of injury.” EFORT open reviews vol. 5,9 544-548. 30 Sep. 2020, doi:10.1302/2058-5241.5.190090

Sander, A L et al. “Mediokarpale Instabilitäten der Handwurzel” [Mediocarpal instability of the wrist]. Der Unfallchirurg vol. 121,5 (2018): 365-372. doi:10.1007/s00113-018-0476-9

Tyler, Timothy F et al. “Rehabilitation of soft tissue injuries of the hip and pelvis.” International journal of sports physical therapy vol. 9,6 (2014): 785-97.

Vera Ching, Claudia, et al. “Traumatic tracheal injury after a motorcycle accident.” BMJ case reports vol. 13,9 e238895. 14 Sep. 2020, doi:10.1136/bcr-2020-238895

Injury Rehabilitation | El Paso, Tx (2023)

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Personal injury can have a lasting impact on a person’s well-being, affecting their ability to work, exercise, and enjoy life. In this video, we explore how chiropractic care can help individuals recover from personal injury and prevent long-term effects. We’ll hear from experts in the field who will discuss the benefits of chiropractic care for injury rehabilitation, including pain relief and improved mobility. If you’re interested in learning how chiropractic care can support long-term injury recovery, this video is for you.

Our care plans are based on Functional Medicine as a systems approach based on biology that focuses on identifying and addressing the root cause of disease. We focus on the paradigm that symptom or differential diagnosis may be one of many contributing factors to an individual’s illness.

This approach shifts from the traditional disease-centered focus of most medical practices to a more holistic person-centered approach.

Our discussions team includes Integrative Doctors, Functional Medicine Experts, Nutritionists, Health Coaches, Chiropractors, Physical Medicine Doctors, Therapists, and Exercise Performance Specialists.
We provide clinical insights, treatment options, and methods to achieve clinically sound, specific measured goals.*

Functional & Integrative Health Live Events *

✅ Stress Hormones & Health
✅ Gut Health, Inflammation & Auto-Immunity*
✅ Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation
✅ Fibromyalgia & Inflammation
✅ Diabetes & Autoimmunity*
✅ Weight Loss
✅ Body Composition Analysis
✅ Thyroid Dysfunction*
✅ Autoimmune Disorder*
✅ Heart Disease & Inflammation*
✅ Agility & Mobility
✅ Injury Recovery Programs
✅ Complex Lower Back Pain Recovery Plans
✅ Severe Sciatica Syndromes
✅ Other Complex Health Challenges
✅ Neutraceutical Recommendations
✅ Advanced Translational Nutrigenomics*
✅ Nutrigenomics, Proteomics, Metabalomics
✅ Care Plans (Advanced Clinical Practice)

We present, bridge, and connect these various health programs, functional medicine protocols, fitness methods, injury recovery programs, and offer complete wellness packages.

To that end, we shed light and offer treatment options and bring a deep understanding of the real underlying causes of those suffering from acute and interconnected chronic degenerative disorders.

Ultimately, we empower you to achieve and maintain your personalized, healthy way of living by understanding the root causes of disorders.

It is all about.

LIVING, LOVING & MATTERING

Join us in improving your health.

Blessings,

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, CTG*
email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com phone:
phone: 915-850-0900

Licensed in Texas & New Mexico*

Notice: Our information scope is limited to musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present talks and clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist in our events is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure.

The information in these events is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice.

Our presentations are designed to share knowledge and information from Dr. Jimenez’s research, experience, and collaborative functional medicine community. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified health care professional.
We use and discuss functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support the musculoskeletal system’s care for injuries or disorders. Our events, webinars, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and issues that relate and support, directly or indirectly, our clinical scope of practice.*

Subscribe: bit.ly/drjyt

Facebook Clinical Page: www.facebook.com/dralexjimenez/
Facebook Injuries Page: www.facebook.com/elpasochiropractor/
Facebook Neuropathy Page: www.facebook.com/ElPasoNeuropathyCenter/

Yelp: El Paso Rehabilitation Center: goo.gl/pwY2n2
Yelp: El Paso Clinical Center: Treatment: goo.gl/r2QPuZ

Clinical Testimonies: www.dralexjimenez.com/category/testimonies/

Information:
Clinical Site: www.dralexjimenez.com
Injury Site: personalinjurydoctorgroup.com
Sports Injury Site: chiropracticscientist.com
Back Injury Site: www.elpasobackclinic.com
Functional Medicine: wellnessdoctorrx.com

Twitter: twitter.com/dralexjimenez
Twitter: twitter.com/crossfitdoctor

DISCLAIMER: dralexjimenez.com/legal-disclaimer/

Beyond Medicine: The Power of Chiropractic Care | El Paso, Tx (2023)

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Full podcast episode here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=WeJp61vaBHE

Discover the unique power of chiropractic care in this video. Unlike other sciences that focus on managing symptoms, chiropractic takes a holistic approach by addressing imbalances and misalignments in the body. Explore the many benefits of chiropractic, from pain relief to improved mobility and overall wellness. Join us as we explore the science and philosophy behind this powerful healing practice.

Our care plans are based on Functional Medicine as a systems approach based on biology that focuses on identifying and addressing the root cause of disease. We focus on the paradigm that symptom or differential diagnosis may be one of many contributing factors to an individual’s illness.

This approach shifts from the traditional disease-centered focus of most medical practices to a more holistic person-centered approach.

Our discussions team includes Integrative Doctors, Functional Medicine Experts, Nutritionists, Health Coaches, Chiropractors, Physical Medicine Doctors, Therapists, and Exercise Performance Specialists.
We provide clinical insights, treatment options, and methods to achieve clinically sound, specific measured goals.*

Functional & Integrative Health Live Events *

✅ Stress Hormones & Health
✅ Gut Health, Inflammation & Auto-Immunity*
✅ Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation
✅ Fibromyalgia & Inflammation
✅ Diabetes & Autoimmunity*
✅ Weight Loss
✅ Body Composition Analysis
✅ Thyroid Dysfunction*
✅ Autoimmune Disorder*
✅ Heart Disease & Inflammation*
✅ Agility & Mobility
✅ Injury Recovery Programs
✅ Complex Lower Back Pain Recovery Plans
✅ Severe Sciatica Syndromes
✅ Other Complex Health Challenges
✅ Neutraceutical Recommendations
✅ Advanced Translational Nutrigenomics*
✅ Nutrigenomics, Proteomics, Metabalomics
✅ Care Plans (Advanced Clinical Practice)

We present, bridge, and connect these various health programs, functional medicine protocols, fitness methods, injury recovery programs, and offer complete wellness packages.

To that end, we shed light and offer treatment options and bring a deep understanding of the real underlying causes of those suffering from acute and interconnected chronic degenerative disorders.

Ultimately, we empower you to achieve and maintain your personalized, healthy way of living by understanding the root causes of disorders.

It is all about.

LIVING, LOVING & MATTERING

Join us in improving your health.

Blessings,

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, CTG*
email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com phone:
phone: 915-850-0900

Licensed in Texas & New Mexico*

Notice: Our information scope is limited to musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present talks and clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist in our events is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure.

The information in these events is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice.

Our presentations are designed to share knowledge and information from Dr. Jimenez’s research, experience, and collaborative functional medicine community. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified health care professional.
We use and discuss functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support the musculoskeletal system’s care for injuries or disorders. Our events, webinars, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and issues that relate and support, directly or indirectly, our clinical scope of practice.*

Subscribe: bit.ly/drjyt

Facebook Clinical Page: www.facebook.com/dralexjimenez/
Facebook Injuries Page: www.facebook.com/elpasochiropractor/
Facebook Neuropathy Page: www.facebook.com/ElPasoNeuropathyCenter/

Yelp: El Paso Rehabilitation Center: goo.gl/pwY2n2
Yelp: El Paso Clinical Center: Treatment: goo.gl/r2QPuZ

Clinical Testimonies: www.dralexjimenez.com/category/testimonies/

Information:
Clinical Site: www.dralexjimenez.com
Injury Site: personalinjurydoctorgroup.com
Sports Injury Site: chiropracticscientist.com
Back Injury Site: www.elpasobackclinic.com
Functional Medicine: wellnessdoctorrx.com

Twitter: twitter.com/dralexjimenez
Twitter: twitter.com/crossfitdoctor

DISCLAIMER: dralexjimenez.com/legal-disclaimer/

Sleep Affects Gut Health: EP Functional Health Clinic

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Doctor and patient sitting and talking at medical examination at hospital office, close-up. Therapist filling up medication history records. Medicine and healthcare concept.

Viruses, bacteria, fungi, and protozoa are the microorganisms that naturally live in the digestive tract. Sleep affects gut health and vice versa. A healthy gut microbiota consists of all kinds of microorganisms that produce thousands of compounds and coexist harmoniously. A healthy diet and lifestyle are the biggest factors influencing bacteria variety, and maintaining a varied diet preserves microbiota diversity. Everybody’s gut microbiome is different; the more diverse the gut microbiome, the healthier sleep will be. The Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic Team can develop a personalized nutritional plan to improve gut health and sleep patterns.

Table of Contents

Sleep Affects Gut Health

Not having a diverse gut microbiome has been linked to autoimmune diseases, Parkinson’s disease, and mental health issues like anxiety and depression. Not getting healthy sleep is associated with many diseases and disorders, including:

Gastrointestinal disorders
Infections
Diabetes
Cardiovascular disease
Neurological disorders
Anxiety
Depression
Cancer

Changes in sleep patterns influence the central nervous system and the immune system, which affect different organ systems. For example, studies have shown some gastrointestinal disorders, like irritable bowel syndrome – IBS could be associated with increased REM sleep or the fourth part of the sleep cycle when vivid dreaming occurs. In Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, long-term immune response activation can result in poor sleep, insufficient quality sleep, or other sleep problems. The deepest stages of sleep are when the brain and gut communicate to repair the body, restore nutrients, and remove and release toxins.

Sleep Cycle

During sleep, the immune system produces proteins called cytokines that perform functions during the inflammatory response, either by increasing or blocking inflammation, depending on the body’s needs. Cytokines help promote sleep, fight infection, or stop inflammation in chronic inflammatory diseases like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.

Insufficient sleep significantly alters cytokine production, and infection-fighting cells decrease in numbers when sleep deprived, making it harder for the body to fight infections and lessening protection. This increases the inflammatory response and keeps the immune system on.
Chronic or long-term immune response activation can result in sleep disturbances or disorders.
Some disorders include small intestinal bacterial overgrowth and inflammation caused by microbiome abnormalities or dysbiosis.
The gut barrier function begins to malfunction, leading to bacteria and pathogens leaking into blood circulation/leaky gut, triggering immune responses.

Ways to Improve Sleep

One of the main ways to improve sleep quality and gut microbiome health is to practice healthy sleep hygiene. According to the National Sleep Foundation, individuals should:

Nap Smart

Naps can be a great way to refresh the mind and body and replenish energy levels during the day.
Naps don’t make up for little sleep at night.
Keep naps to 20-30 minutes for optimal benefits without disrupting nighttime sleep.

Optimal Sleep Environment

Comfortable ergonomic mattress and pillows.
Blackout curtains.
Temperature between 60 and 67 degrees.

Quit Electronics Before Bed

The bright lights from phones and screens can make it difficult to fall asleep fully.
Use an alarm clock with a soft night light and keep the bedroom tech-free.

Create Sleep Routine

Take a warm shower, read a book, or do light stretches.
Create a wind-down routine to relax before bed to signal the body that it’s time for sleep.

Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol Before Bed

These substances make it harder for the mind and body to fall or stay asleep.

Food As Medicine

References

Chabé, Magali et al. “Gut Protozoa: Friends or Foes of the Human Gut Microbiota?.” Trends in parasitology vol. 33,12 (2017): 925-934. doi:10.1016/j.pt.2017.08.005

Deng, Feilong, et al. “The gut microbiome of healthy long-living people.” Aging vol. 11,2 (2019): 289-290. doi:10.18632/aging.101771

Gut Bacteria Research: Physicians’ Committee for Responsible Medicine. (2019). “Gut Bacteria: Optimize Gut Health With a Plant-Based Diet,”

Ianiro, Gianluca, et al. “How the gut parasitome affects human health.” Therapeutic advances in gastroenterology vol. 15 17562848221091524. 30 Apr. 2022, doi:10.1177/17562848221091524

Lozupone, Catherine A et al. “Diversity, stability and resilience of the human gut microbiota.” Nature vol. 489,7415 (2012): 220-30. doi:10.1038/nature11550

Sleep and Gut Microbiome Study: PLoS One. (2019). “Gut microbiome diversity is associated with sleep physiology in humans.

Sleep Hygiene Information: National Sleep Foundation. (2019). “Sleep Hygiene.”

Vaishnavi, C. “Translocation of gut flora and its role in sepsis.” Indian journal of medical microbiology vol. 31,4 (2013): 334-42. doi:10.4103/0255-0857.118870

Groin Strain & The MET Technique

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Table of Contents

Introduction

The muscles surrounding the hips in the lower extremities provide stability to the lumbar spine and pelvis while allowing mobility, flexibility, and rotation to the groin, legs, and thighs. The muscles surrounding the groin consist of three large muscle groups: the abdominals, iliopsoas, and adductors, which have a casual relationship with the various ligaments and soft tissues that can be succumbed to injuries or other symptoms that can lead to pain and misalignment to the body. This happens to many individuals who participate in sports or frequently exercise, which can cause strain near the groin and the surrounding muscles. Today’s article focuses on the causes of a groin strain, how it affects the hips and pelvis, and how available treatments can help reduce groin strain. We mention and provide valuable information about our patients to certified medical providers who use techniques like the MET and therapy for individuals with a groin strain and causing mobility issues when functioning. We give encouragement to patients by referring them to associated medical providers based on their diagnostic findings. We support that education is a marvelous way to ask our providers the most interesting questions at the patient’s acknowledgment. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., incorporates this information as an educational service. Disclaimer

The Causes Of Groin Strain

Have you experienced any mobility issues when walking? Do you feel pain near your hips or groin? Or do you feel muscle weakness in your thighs when exercising? Many of these issues are associated with a muscle strain near the groin affecting your lower body. The muscles surrounding the groin allow the legs and thighs to move around in flexion, rotation, and extension without feeling pain. However, when a person starts to feel pain radiating around their groin, it can become an issue if not taken care of. Studies reveal that some of the causes, like adductor strain or injuries from physical activities, can cause the muscle fibers in the three muscle groups of the groin to be in pain. In “Clinical Applications of Neuromuscular Techniques,” authors Leon Chaitow and Judith Walker DeLany, stated that chronic joint and soft tissue conditions predate presenting acute symptoms to the groin muscle regions. To that point, if a person has predisposed injuries in the groin muscles, it can affect how a person walks and functions when in motion, potentially leading to issues affecting the hips and pelvis.

How Groin Strain Affect The Hips & Pelvis

Studies reveal multiple pathologies that can coexist in the hips and pelvis that could cause similar symptoms to the hips and pelvis that can correlate with several organ systems like the gut and reproductive system that causes referred pain to the groin. Additional studies also mentioned that groin pain is widely known as an issue among professional and amateur athletes. They could experience different symptoms and injuries from groin pain associated with the hips and pelvis. An example would be if an individual is participating in a sports event, they could be experiencing myofascial trigger points related to the groin, affecting the pelvis and hips. Some of the symptoms associated with groin strain include:

Stiffness
Swelling
Muscle weakness
Groin discomfort
Bruising around the area
Leg discomfort when flexing
Walking issues
Lower stomach or back symptoms

Many of these symptoms that affect the hips and pelvis can lead to many issues that cause people to be in constant pain or discomfort until they find relief.

Chiropractic Care: The Ancient Healing Art for Modern Life- Video

Chiropractic Care: The Ancient Healing Art for Modern Life | El Paso, Tx (2023)

Have you been experiencing mobility issues? What about pain in your hips, pelvis, or groin? Or do you often feel discomfort when stretching? Many of these issues are associated with groin strain along the hips and pelvic region. Groin strain occurs in the three large muscle groups: the abdominals, iliopsoas, and adductors, when they are overstretched and cause referred pain to the hips and pelvis. This causes many individuals to have instability and mobility issues. Some of the present symptoms that occur to these muscles include:

Pain in active movement
Pain during palpation
Localized swelling
Pain while stretching the muscle-tendon

When pain is causing issues in the groin, many individuals will go to available treatments to help reduce the pain and regain mobility when exercising. One of the available treatments is chiropractic care. The video above shows how chiropractic care is incorporated into modern life as it uses non-invasive hands-on treatment to realign the body and help lengthen the affected muscles.

Available Treatments To Reduce Groin Strain

Numerous treatments can help reduce groin strain from affecting the lower extremities and help bring mobility back to the surrounding muscles. Many individuals would utilize ice packs, resting and elevating the leg to prevent future injuries from re-occurring. However, if left untreated, it can worsen and lead to chronic conditions. Luckily treatments like chiropractic care combined with soft tissue stretching techniques like MET (muscle energy techniques) can help to mobilize restricted joints and relax acute muscular spasms or contractions while preparing the joint for manipulation. A chiropractor will utilize these techniques to realign the spine from subluxation and loosen stiff joints and surrounding muscles that have been affected. Chiropractors will also inform their patients to incorporate various exercises and stretches to help strengthen the affected muscle group and become more aware of their bodies.

Conclusion

Overall, the various muscles, tendons, and ligaments surrounding the lower extremities, like the thighs, legs, and groin, allow mobility, flexibility, and rotation to the lower portion of the body. When injuries begin to affect these extremities, it can lead to referred pain to the hips and pelvis, causing groin strain and invoking pain. If not treated right away, it can develop into chronic conditions that cause mobility and stability issues in the lower body. The upper body would have to compensate for the pain causing subluxation to the spine. Luckily, treatments like chiropractic care combined with stretching techniques like MET can help reduce the pain in the groin muscles while lengthening the short muscles. These techniques allow mobility back to the lower extremities and realign the body so the individuals can be pain-free.

References

Bisciotti, Gian Nicola, et al. “Groin Pain Syndrome: An Association of Different Pathologies and a Case Presentation.” Muscles, Ligaments and Tendons Journal, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 20 Oct. 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4617224/.

Chaitow, Leon, and Judith Walker DeLany. Clinical Applications of Neuromuscular Techniques. Churchill Livingstone, 2003.

Kiel, John, and Kimberly Kaiser. “Adductor Strain.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 21 June 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK493166/.

Tyler, Timothy F, et al. “Groin Injuries in Sports Medicine.” Sports Health, U.S. National Library of Medicine, May 2010, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3445110/.

Disclaimer

Peroneal Nerve Injury: EP Sciatica Clinic

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Close-up of athletic woman injured her foot during workout at the gym. — Close-up of female athlete holding her ankle in pain after exercising in health club.

A peroneal nerve injury/peroneal neuropathy can be caused by direct trauma to the outer knee with symptoms and sensations of numbness, tingling, pins-and-needles sensations, pain, or weakness in the foot that can cause a condition known as foot drop. Chiropractic can perform spinal manipulation, realignment, and decompression to restore the nerve’s function. They can also help with walking and mobility by providing muscle strengthening and stretching exercises to correct abnormal gait caused by foot drop and increase the range of motion in the ankle.

Table of Contents

Peroneal Nerve Injury

The peroneal nerve begins near the sciatic nerve at the glutes/hip and buttocks. It travels down the back of the thigh to the knee, which wraps around the front of the leg and extends into the feet to the toes. It provides sensory input from the lateral aspect of the lower leg and the top of the foot. It also provides motor input to the muscles responsible for lifting the foot off the ground lifting the toes and ankles and turning the foot outwards.

Causes

Structural problems in the spine or misalignment can affect the functionality of the nervous system and lead to peroneal neuropathy. Traumatic nerve injury causes include musculoskeletal injury, peroneal nerve paralysis, compression, or laceration. Injuries by trauma and nerve compression include:

Compression of the nerve in the leg.
Knee dislocation.
Knee or hip replacement surgery.
Knee or leg fracture. Fractures of the tibia or fibula, especially in the areas closer to the knee, can injure the nerve.
Ankle fracture.
Blood clot.
Compression by a nerve sheath tumor or cyst.

Certain underlying medical conditions can cause symptoms of peroneal nerve injury. It is recommended to be evaluated by a medical professional who can diagnose and offer appropriate treatment options. Neurologic disorders that can cause similar symptoms:

Herniated lumbar disc
Multiple sclerosis
Parkinson’s disease
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis – ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease.
Metabolic syndromes – diabetes, alcohol abuse, exposure to toxins.

Symptoms

Nerve injury symptoms include:

Numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation in the top of the foot or outer part of the lower leg.
Inability to flex toes or ankles upward/dorsiflexion.
Inability to flex the ankle to take a step forward.
Inability to move the foot.
Weakness in foot eversion/rotating outward.
Flopping or slapping sounds when walking.
Gait changes – dragging the toes or lifting the knee higher than the other to raise the foot off the ground.
Tripping often.
Pain in the foot or lower leg.

Diagnosis

In diagnosing a peroneal nerve injury, a healthcare provider examines the leg and analyzes symptoms. Tests can include:

Imaging tests – CT scan, ultrasound, or MRI.
Magnetic resonance – MR – neurography is a specialized high-resolution MRI of the nerves.
An electromyogram measures how muscles react to nerve stimulation.
Nerve conduction studies measure how electrical impulses run through the nerves.

Treatment

Treatment for a peroneal nerve injury depends on the severity and can be surgical or non-surgical. Non-surgical options include orthotic footwear, chiropractic care, and physical therapy. A physical therapy program could consist of the following:

Icing
Massage
Manual manipulation
Stretching
Strengthening exercises
Mobilization exercises
Balancing exercises
Ankle bracing
Ankle taping
Shoe inserts – splints, braces, or orthotics can improve gait.
Gait training to walk without the drop.

Ankle Sprain Chiropractor

References

Longo, Diego, et al. “The Muscle Shortening Maneuver: a noninvasive approach to treating peroneal nerve injury. A case report.” Physiotherapy theory and practice, 1-8. 31 Jul. 2022, doi:10.1080/09593985.2022.2106915

Milenković, S S, and M M Mitković. “Common peroneal nerve schwannoma.” Hippokratia vol. 22,2 (2018): 91.

Radić, Borislav et al. “PERIPHERAL NERVE INJURY IN SPORTS.” Acta clinica Croatica vol. 57,3 (2018): 561-569. doi:10.20471/acc.2018.57.03.20

Thatte H et al. (2022). Electrodiagnostic evaluation of peroneal neuropathy. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK563251/

T Francio, Vinicius. “Chiropractic care for foot drop due to peroneal nerve neuropathy.” Journal of bodywork and movement therapies vol. 18,2 (2014): 200-3. doi:10.1016/j.jbmt.2013.08.004

Chiropractic Care: The Ancient Healing Art for Modern Life | El Paso, Tx (2023)

Dr. Alex Jimenez

In this video, we explore the ancient healing art of chiropractic and its importance in modern life. Through a journey from ancient cultures to modern science, we uncover the roots of chiropractic care and why it matters for our overall health and wellness. From its earliest use in traditional medicine to its modern-day practice, we reveal the power of chiropractic care to alleviate pain, reduce stress, and promote overall well-being. Join us on a journey through history to discover the secrets of chiropractic care and how it can benefit your life today.

Full podcast episode here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=WeJp61vaBHE

Our care plans are based on Functional Medicine as a systems approach based on biology that focuses on identifying and addressing the root cause of disease. We focus on the paradigm that symptom or differential diagnosis may be one of many contributing factors to an individual’s illness.

This approach shifts from the traditional disease-centered focus of most medical practices to a more holistic person-centered approach.

Our discussions team includes Integrative Doctors, Functional Medicine Experts, Nutritionists, Health Coaches, Chiropractors, Physical Medicine Doctors, Therapists, and Exercise Performance Specialists.
We provide clinical insights, treatment options, and methods to achieve clinically sound, specific measured goals.*

Functional & Integrative Health Live Events *

✅ Stress Hormones & Health
✅ Gut Health, Inflammation & Auto-Immunity*
✅ Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation
✅ Fibromyalgia & Inflammation
✅ Diabetes & Autoimmunity*
✅ Weight Loss
✅ Body Composition Analysis
✅ Thyroid Dysfunction*
✅ Autoimmune Disorder*
✅ Heart Disease & Inflammation*
✅ Agility & Mobility
✅ Injury Recovery Programs
✅ Complex Lower Back Pain Recovery Plans
✅ Severe Sciatica Syndromes
✅ Other Complex Health Challenges
✅ Neutraceutical Recommendations
✅ Advanced Translational Nutrigenomics*
✅ Nutrigenomics, Proteomics, Metabalomics
✅ Care Plans (Advanced Clinical Practice)

We present, bridge, and connect these various health programs, functional medicine protocols, fitness methods, injury recovery programs, and offer complete wellness packages.

To that end, we shed light and offer treatment options and bring a deep understanding of the real underlying causes of those suffering from acute and interconnected chronic degenerative disorders.

Ultimately, we empower you to achieve and maintain your personalized, healthy way of living by understanding the root causes of disorders.

It is all about.

LIVING, LOVING & MATTERING

Join us in improving your health.

Blessings,

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, CTG*
email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com phone:
phone: 915-850-0900

Licensed in Texas & New Mexico*

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Increased Temperature and Circulation: EP’s Sciatica Clinic

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Back Sports Massage Therapy — Physiotherapist massaging male patient with injured back muscle. Sports injury treatment.

Massage is part of integrative medicine and can be used for various medical conditions. In massage therapy, a therapist rubs and kneads the body’s soft tissues, including muscle, connective tissue, tendons, ligaments, and skin. The therapist varies the amount of pressure and movement. Individuals often start feeling the effects right away. One of the benefits is increased temperature. Increased temperature amplifies blood flow and circulation, enabling muscular and connective tissues to release restriction, and muscle tightness, relieve tension, and improve movement. A massage therapist will use different techniques to increase the temperature to treat various conditions.

Table of Contents

Increased Temperature

Some patients want to know why their muscles heat up or burn during a massage. Muscles burn because of the accumulation of waste in the cells. The waste products are released as a result of massage. The muscles release lactate, a byproduct of glucose. The effects of deep tissue massage are almost the same as the effects of exercise. During the massage:

The demand for oxygen in the tissues increases.
Because of this, blood flow circulation to these tissues increases.
This is necessary to supply oxygen and glucose.
It excretes waste substances and toxins.

Muscle heat or burn during massage differs for everybody. Some individuals don’t feel it at all. The session can be so intense that the muscles can’t clear the lactate/toxins fast enough, causing the burning sensation.

Fascia Circulation

The temperature of the fascia can also be increased. Fascia is the thick, fibrous layer of connective tissues beneath the skin that can often become restrictive. Increased temperature in the superficial and deep tissues releases, relaxes, and loosens tight, tense, shortened, and/or injured areas, allowing muscular tissues to increase in elasticity, flexibility, and relaxation. Heart rate is raised, improving circulation and increasing the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the affected areas and the rest of the body.

Myofascial release involves slowly applying pressure to the area using flattened hands and fingers.
The slow, soft pressure increases the temperature of the fascia.
As the hands and fingers get deeper within, they slowly move around, spreading the fascia.
This releases the tightness and relieves the pain.
An individual’s posture can improve when the temperature is increased. Muscular tension and tightness can cause increased pain symptoms, not allowing healthy posture.

Muscle Burn Relief

Rehydrate

Drink plenty of water after the session is over.
Water maintains proper circulation for excreting waste products and nourishes the muscle cells with fresh nutrients and oxygen.
Avoid coffee and alcohol as they increase urination and blood osmolality and dehydrate the body.

Stretching

Stretching before and after a session can relieve muscle soreness.
Stretching exercises increase blood flow.
Stimulates the release of synovial fluid around the joints.

Sleep

Get plenty of rest after a session.
The body knows how to restore itself; during sleep, it reduces cortisol secretion.
It increases the stimulation of antioxidative hormones to go after free radicals.

Herbal Remedies

Herbal remedies like ginger, garlic, cloves, and cinnamon increase blood circulation, reducing pain and swelling.

Essential Oils

Essential oils like peppermint oil can help relax the mind.
They have anti-inflammatory properties that help with muscle burn and soreness.
After a session, a little peppermint or CBD oil can relieve the sore parts.

Chiropractic Success Story

References

Dion LJ, et al. Development of a hospital-based massage therapy course at an academic medical center. International Journal of Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork. 2015; doi:10.3822/ijtmb.v8i1.249.

Massage therapy: What you need to know. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. www.nccih.nih.gov/health/massage-therapy-what-you-need-to-know. Accessed Jan. 5, 2021.

Rodgers NJ, et al. A decade of building massage therapy services at an academic medical center as part of a healing enhancement program. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice. 2015; doi:10.1016/j.ctcp.2015.07.004.

Spring Allergy Tips: EP Functional Health Wellness Clinic

Dr. Alex Jimenez

It is hard to work with this annoying allergy! — Young businesswoman having an allergy and using facial tissue while working on a computer in the office.

Spring allergies are reactions by an individual’s immune system to flowering buds, blooming trees, pet dander, weeds, etc. When coming into contact with the allergen, the immune system’s reaction can inflame the skin, sinuses, airways, or digestive system. The severity of allergies varies from person to person. The spine and brain communicate with various body parts, including those that affect the immune system and how the body reacts to allergens. Chiropractic adjustments for allergy treatment can help regulate histamine and cortisol levels and offer spring allergy tips for prevention.

Table of Contents

Spring Allergy Tips

An allergy occurs when the body’s immune system sees a substance as harmful and overreacts (inflammation). The immune system produces substances known as antibodies. A lack of communication between the spine, brain, and other parts of the body can lead to lower immunity meaning the body has a harder time reacting to stressors.

Symptoms

Symptoms vary, but the most common include:

Itchy, red, and watery eyes
Nasal congestion
Sneezing
Runny nose
Itching nose
Post-nasal drip
Coughing

The recommended way to determine whether or not seasonal allergies are causing symptoms is to visit a primary care physician and undergo allergy testing. A physician may recommend an allergist for further evaluation to identify specific allergies.

Prevention

Reduce exposure to triggers

Try to stay indoors on windy days.
Wind and dry air can make allergy symptoms worse.
Closing windows can help keep pollen from blowing inside.
Remove clothes worn outside and shower to rinse pollen from your skin and hair.
Wear a dust mask when lawn mowing, weed pulling, and doing other chores.
Don’t hang laundry outside; pollen can stick to clothes, sheets, and towels.

Seasonal allergy signs and symptoms can flare up with a high pollen count. Certain steps can help reduce the exposure:

Check local TV, radio, or the internet for pollen forecasts and levels.
If high pollen is forecasted, take allergy medications before symptoms begin.
Close doors and windows when pollen counts are high.
Try to avoid outdoor activity when pollen counts are highest.

Indoor Air Quality

Various products can help remove allergens from the air in the home:

Use air conditioning in the house and car when applicable.
Use high-efficiency filters and follow regular maintenance schedules for heating and air conditioning.
Keep indoor air dry with a dehumidifier.
Use a portable HEPA filter in bedrooms.
Vacuum all floors regularly with a cleaner that has a HEPA filter.

Chiropractic

Chiropractic treatment is highly effective in relieving allergy symptoms and even stopping allergies at their source. The treatments restore balance, so the body is ready to combat allergies. When the spine is out of alignment (which can occur from the coughing and sneezing), it impacts the nervous system, leading to various problems, including allergies and immune system malfunction. A chiropractor can relieve the stress on the nervous system by realigning the spine, taking the pressure off nerves, and allowing the immune system to function at optimal levels. And it makes it easier for the body to fight off infections while recognizing allergens as harmless.

Food Allergies, Hypersensitivity, and Intolerances

References

Balon, Jeffrey W, and Silvano A Mior. “Chiropractic care in asthma and allergy.” Annals of allergy, asthma & immunology: official publication of the American College of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology vol. 93,2 Suppl 1 (2004): S55-60. doi:10.1016/s1081-1206(10)61487-1

Bruton, Anne, et al. “Physiotherapy breathing retraining for asthma: a randomized controlled trial.” The Lancet. Respiratory medicine vol. 6,1 (2018): 19-28. doi:10.1016/S2213-2600(17)30474-5

Bruurs, Marjolein L J et al. “The effectiveness of physiotherapy in patients with asthma: a systematic review of the literature.” Respiratory medicine vol. 107,4 (2013): 483-94. doi:10.1016/j.rmed.2012.12.017

Common seasonal allergy triggers. American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. acaai.org/allergies/allergic-conditions/seasonal-allergies. Accessed March 10, 2022.

Jaber, Raja. “Respiratory and allergic diseases: from upper respiratory tract infections to asthma.” Primary care vol. 29,2 (2002): 231-61. doi:10.1016/s0095-4543(01)00008-2

Wu, Shan Shan et al. “Rhinitis: The Osteopathic Modular Approach.” The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association vol. 120,5 (2020): 351-358. doi:10.7556/jaoa.2020.054

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