Ways To Phase Out Sugar: Functional Sciatica Clinic

Male hand holding wooden spoon with sugar over cup of coffee or — Stop sugar. Campaign against diabetes, obesity, dental caries. Reduce sugar consumption. Healthy lifestyle concept.

Sugar is a highly addictive carbohydrate linked to obesity, diabetes, metabolic disorders, and mood disorders. Individuals ready to phase out sugar will improve overall health, regardless of age and health status, but the transition can be challenging. A sugar-free or low-sugar diet can help individuals with blood sugar or systemic inflammation, including pre-diabetes, diabetes, heart disease, PCOS, hormonal imbalances, and autoimmune diseases.

Table of Contents

Phase Out Sugar

Low-Sugar Diet

A low-sugar nutrition plan focuses on maintaining a low overall sugar intake that limits sugar to avoid blood sugar instability and general inflammation.

This means choosing food with natural sugars like fruit, certain dairy products, vegetables, and natural sugars.
Reducing and replacing packaged or prepared foods with added sugars, like store-bought tomato sauce, cured meats, or frozen meals.
Reducing and replacing processed foods like snack items and fast food.
Reducing restaurant food that can add sugar for flavor and appetite stimulation.

Recommended Ways

Consult a healthcare provider, dietician, or nutritionist before altering diet, physical activity, or supplement routine.

Eat More Healthy Fat

Healthy fat is more satisfying, making the body feel fuller for longer.
Eating more healthy fat decreases sugar cravings and reduces sugar withdrawal symptoms.

Healthy fats include:

Avocados
Nuts
Seeds
Coconut oil
Extra virgin olive oil
Salmon, mackerel, and sardines

More Sleep to Balance Hunger Hormones

Studies have shown that shorter sleep periods are associated with an elevated body mass index.
Not getting enough sleep negatively impacts the appetite-regulating hormones leptin and ghrelin, causing cravings for instant energy that typically comes from sugar snack products.
Individuals are recommended to get at least 7-9 hours per night. Enough sleep will balance the appetite hormones and decrease sugar cravings.

Manage Stress to Control Emotional Eating

Emotional eating is common when stressed out. Finding something to take the mind off sugar cravings is necessary when having a stressful day. This includes:

Talk with a friend
Learning meditation skills
Using breathing techniques
Take a walk, jog, bicycle ride, skate, etc.
Drink stress relief tea

If sugar cravings are more serious, then professional help is recommended.

Drink More Water

When school, work, and life is happening, individuals can think they’re hungry; however, it is not hunger but the body needing hydration.

Drink one to two glasses of water when cravings kick in to satisfy the craving.
Drinking water throughout the day helps keep cravings down and helps with sugar withdrawal symptoms.
Individuals who have difficulty drinking water should add slices of fruit, cucumber, or mint to make it more pleasing.
Try sparkling mineral water or naturally flavored carbonated waters.
Try healthy juices, like celery, beet, or carrot juice, instead of water.

Sugar-Free Substitutes

Sugar substitutes are available, but not all are considered healthy.

Individuals should be cautious about using sugar-free alternatives to phase out sugar.
A study found that zero-calorie sweeteners such as aspartame and sucralose were actually found to increase, not decrease, weight.
Stevia and monk fruit extract has been shown to be safe and has no negative side effects.
Consult a dietician or nutritionist to determine the healthiest for you.

What Happens To The Body

References

Azad, Meghan B et al. “Nonnutritive sweeteners and cardiometabolic health: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials and prospective cohort studies.” CMAJ : Canadian Medical Association journal = journal de l’Association medicale canadienne vol. 189,28 (2017): E929-E939. doi:10.1503/cmaj.161390

Bayon, Virginie et al. “Sleep debt and obesity.” Annals of medicine vol. 46,5 (2014): 264-72. doi:10.3109/07853890.2014.931103

DiNicolantonio, James J et al. “Sugar addiction: is it real? A narrative review.” British journal of sports medicine vol. 52,14 (2018): 910-913. doi:10.1136/bjsports-2017-097971

Franklin, Jane L et al. “Extended exposure to sugar and/or caffeine produces distinct behavioral and neurochemical profiles in the orbitofrontal cortex of rats: Implications for neural function.” Proteomics vol. 16,22 (2016): 2894-2910. doi:10.1002/pmic.201600032

Freeman, Clara R et al. “Impact of sugar on the body, brain, and behavior.” Frontiers in bioscience (Landmark edition) vol. 23,12 2255-2266. 1 Jun. 2018, doi:10.2741/4704

www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/the-sweet-danger-of-sugar

Myofascial Pain Syndrome Affecting The Supinator Muscles

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Table of Contents

Introduction

The elbows and the forearms have a casual relationship with each other as they provide flexion and retraction of the arms in the body. Each different muscle group in the body has the job of making the body functional. The arms help the body to carry items while the shoulders provide stability to the head and neck. The head and neck work together to allow rotation and movement. Finally, the legs and hips stabilize the body’s upper half and move from place to place. Traumatic events or injuries that affect the arms can lead to pain along the muscles in the forearms. This can lead to the muscles becoming inflamed and developing myofascial pain syndrome or trigger points along the affected muscles. One of the muscles in the forearms that can be affected by myofascial pain syndrome is the supinator muscles. Today’s article looks at the supinator muscles, how myofascial pain affects the supinator muscles, and how to manage myofascial pain syndrome along the supinator muscles. We refer patients to certified providers who specialize in elbow pain treatments to aid individuals suffering from myofascial pain syndrome associated with the supinator muscles near the elbow and forearm. We also guide and inform our patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their examination when appropriate. We established that education is a great solution to asking our providers profound questions the patient requests. Dr. Jimenez DC takes note of this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer

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What Is The Supinator Muscle?

Are you experiencing any pain along your forearm or elbow? What about feeling stiffness along your thumb? Do you feel any tenderness or soreness in your forearm muscle? People who have been experiencing these symptoms might be dealing with myofascial pain syndrome that is affecting their supinator muscles. According to Dr. Travell, M.D.’s book, “Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual,” the supinator muscle is a flat spiral muscle under the elbow joint and is located in the posterior compartment of the forearm. The supinator muscle function is to supinate or turn the forearm when the elbow is in a position of flexion or extension. The supinator muscle also works together with the bicep brachii muscles. Studies reveal that the biceps function provides stability and assists with internal rotation with the elbow joint by interacting with the supinator muscle. Both of these muscles provide supination and flexion strength to the elbow. However, the supinator muscle can also be affected by injuries in the elbows and forearms, causing referred pain along the forearms and parts of the hand, primarily the thumb.

Myofascial Pain Affecting The Supinator Muscle

When the supinator muscle is suffering from pain, various issues can cause the pain to occur near the elbow and forearm. Multiple factors can include:

Carrying a large, heavy bag.
Playing tennis.
Extreme movements cause the elbow to be hyperextended and lead to myofascial pain syndrome or trigger points along the supinator muscles.

Now tennis elbow is often associated with trigger points as it affects the lateral head of the triceps and the extensor muscles next to the supinator muscles. Studies reveal that tennis elbow usually occurs on the dominant arm and is regarded as an overuse injury that involves repetitive extension against resistance. To that point, the repetitive motions can lead to the development of trigger points along the supinator muscles.

Many people with active trigger points in the supinator muscles often complain about twinges of pain located in the front or back of the elbow, along with muscle tenderness in the supinator muscle. Myofascial pain syndrome can also mimic other chronic pain conditions in the arm that causes referred pain symptoms associated with the muscle. Myofascial pain syndrome causes the affected muscle to be hyperirritable and causes the surrounding nerves that are intertwined with the muscles to be compressed. This causes various symptoms in the forearms, like tingling sensations, numbness, and a decrease in grip strength. All is not lost as multiple ways to manage myofascial pain syndrome along the supinator muscles.

How To Release Supinator Trigger Points- Video

Trigger Point Class - How to Release Supinator

Are you experiencing twinges of pain near your elbow? What about radiating pain along your thumb? Do you feel tenderness or muscle weakness on your forearms or your elbow? Many of these symptoms are due to the development of myofascial pain syndrome or trigger points that are affecting the supinator muscles. Trigger points can mimic other chronic pain conditions that can cause referred pain to the rest of the body. The video above explains where trigger points are located in the supinator muscle and how to release the trigger points from that muscle. Various techniques can help manage myofascial pain syndrome that is affecting the supinator muscles and can help alleviate the pain-like symptoms that are along the muscle fibers.

Managing Myofascial Pain Syndrome Along The Supinator Muscles

When managing myofascial pain syndrome along the supinator muscles, many individuals can incorporate these techniques as part of their daily activities. Many individuals can go to a pain specialist that targets myofascial pain syndrome through palpations and massages. Studies reveal that incorporating a diagnosis of where the palpations have occurred and massaging the affected muscle can release the trigger points from the muscle and reduce pain. Another technique many people can utilize to manage myofascial pain syndrome is not overextending the elbow to cause trigger points to form. This is extremely important for tennis players to prevent tennis elbows from forming and reduce the chances of trigger points forming along the supinator muscles. And lastly, doing isotonic exercises can help strengthen and condition the supinator muscles to prevent injuries. These techniques allow the individual to be pain-free and continue with their daily lives.

Conclusion

The supinator muscles are located underneath the elbow, allowing forearm rotation when the elbow is flexed or extended. When the supinator muscle is affected by injuries or repetitive motions, it can develop trigger points or myofascial pain syndrome. This causes referred pain along the elbow to parts of the hand, primarily the thumb. Trigger points can even overlap and cause symptoms of “tennis elbow” to cause pain along the muscle and joints. Luckily, various techniques can prevent trigger points from developing further and reduce the pain in the elbows and forearms. To that point, the individual can continue doing their daily activities.

References

Bron, Carel, et al. “Interrater Reliability of Palpation of Myofascial Trigger Points in Three Shoulder Muscles.” The Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy, Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy, Inc., 2007, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2565638/.

Cutts, S, et al. “Tennis Elbow: A Clinical Review Article.” Journal of Orthopaedics, Elsevier, 10 Aug. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6926298/.

Güleçyüz, Mehmet F, et al. “Reference Values of Flexion and Supination in the Elbow Joint of a Cohort without Shoulder Pathologies.” BioMed Research International, Hindawi, 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5674724/.

Travell, J. G., et al. Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual: Vol. 1:Upper Half of Body. Vol. 1, Williams & Wilkins, 1999.

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Thoracic Herniated Disc Chiropractic Sciatica Clinic

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Man having myostimulation physiotherapy procedure in clinic — Female doctor placing myostimulation physical therapy equipment on male patient back

Middle back pain is usually caused by unhealthy posture, improper lifting or twisting, and minor injuries like muscle strains, sprains, and herniated discs. Thoracic herniated discs are less common than neck or low back herniations because of the thoracic vertebrae’s size and rigidity, but they do happen. Chiropractic care can treat thoracic herniated discs and prevent future episodes.

Table of Contents

Thoracic Herniated Disc

The 12 thoracic vertebrae between the neck and the lumbar spine make up the largest and least flexible area. The rib cage adds:

Protection
Support
Stabilization of the spine

Symptoms

Herniated discs happen when the soft, gel-like layer of the shock-absorbing intervertebral disc bulges into or leaks through the disc’s tough outer layer. Due to the location, a herniated disc can cause various issues to the middle back, chest wall, and/or abdominal areas around the injured vertebrae. This displacement can cause:

Inflammation
Compression to the spinal nerves or spinal cord
Tingling
Numbness
Pain
Weakness
If the lower thoracic region is herniated, symptoms can radiate to one or both lower extremities.

Radiculopathy

If the herniation compresses a thoracic spinal nerve, it can cause radiculopathy or pain that radiates down the nerve and out from the spine into the surrounding muscles. The symptoms can present around the rib cage or upper abdominal area. A large disc herniation can compress the spinal cord inside the spinal canal. This is a condition called myelopathy which can cause:

Numbness
Tingling
Weakness in one or both lower extremities
Sometimes bowel and bladder dysfunction
In severe cases, paralysis

Causes

Degenerative disc disease and trauma like vehicle collisions or falls are the most common causes of thoracic herniation.

Individuals between 30 and 50 are more likely to be affected.
As the body ages, the disc’s soft inner layer loses hydration, making it less effective as a shock absorber.
The tough outer layer loses elasticity, increasing the risk of disc tears.

Chiropractic Care

A chiropractor or neurologic physical therapist can personalize a herniated disc exercise treatment plan to reduce pain, improve strength and posture, and increase mobility.
Therapeutic massage can be useful in managing pain and decreasing inflammation.
Traction therapy
Spinal epidural injections can be used with physical therapy to help manage pain and allow the body to heal independently.

Recommendations

Avoid bending, lifting, reaching, and twisting.
Apply an ice pack or cold compress for 15- to 20-minute intervals every two hours.
Sit in chairs with a firm back to support the spine.
When sleeping, place a small pillow under the head and knees to keep the spine in a neutral position to prevent pressure on the herniated region.
Avoid too much rest, which can worsen the injury.
Gentle physical activity will maintain circulation and keep the muscles strong.

Surgery

Most cases of thoracic herniation do not require surgery. Surgery could be recommended if there is intolerable pain, neurological issues, and conservative treatments are not working. A spine specialist can determine if surgery is necessary based on the injury’s size, type, and location. Spinal surgery will remove all or part of the herniated disc compressing a nerve root. Common surgical procedures include:

Herniated Disc Rehabilitation

References

Barrow Neurological Institute. “Herniated Thoracic Disc.” Barrow Neurological Institute, August 3, 2022. www.barrowneuro.org/condition/thoracic-disc-herniation/.

Court, C., E. Mansour, and C. Bouthors. “Thoracic Disc Herniation: Surgical Treatment.” Orthopaedics & Traumatology: Surgery & Research 104, no. 1 (2018). doi.org/10.1016/j.otsr.2017.04.022.

Dydyk, Alexander M, Ruben Ngnitewe Massa, and Fassil B Mesfin. “Disc Herniation – Statpearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” National Library of Medicine, January 18, 2022. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441822/.

Yoon, Wai Weng, and Jonathan Koch. “Herniated Discs: When Is Surgery Necessary?” EFORT Open Reviews 6, no. 6 (2021): 526–30. doi.org/10.1302/2058-5241.6.210020.

Trigger Points Affecting The Fingers

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Table of Contents

Introduction

The fingers are in a close relationship with the hands and the body. Each finger digit is controlled by various muscles encompassing the wrist and forearms. The fingers allow the host to be expressive and point and manipulate objects while protecting the joints in each digit. When chronic conditions or injuries begin to affect each finger digit, it can lead to referred pain along the hand muscles, the wrists, and the forearms, causing the development of trigger points to overlap the affected muscles in the fingers. Today’s article looks at how the finger extensor muscles work, how trigger points affect the finger extensor muscles, and how to manage pain associated with trigger points along the fingers. We refer patients to certified providers who specialize in hand pain treatments to aid individuals suffering from trigger points related to pain affecting the finger extensor muscles along the hands. We also guide and inform our patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their examination when appropriate. We established that education is a great solution to asking our providers profound questions the patient requests. Dr. Jimenez DC takes note of this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer

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How Do The Finger Extensor Muscles Work?

Are you experiencing pain in your fingers? Does it seem difficult to hold onto items even for a short period? Or are you experiencing muscle pain from your thumb to your wrist? Numerous individuals experiencing pain in their fingers and hands risk developing trigger points or myofascial pain syndrome in their fingers and hands. The hand muscles have many intricated muscles and insert themselves as the origin points for the bones, ligaments, and fascia of the hands. The finger extensor muscles begin at the forearms as the point of origin and stretch past the wrist to each finger digit which includes:

Thumb
Index finger
Middle finger
Ring finger
Pinky finger

The three main fingers that provide motion for the hands are the index, ring, and middle finger, which allow the muscles to be held in flexion and extension while giving extra support for hand actions for gripping items. Studies reveal that even though the structural and functional complexities of the human fingers have been recognized, each finger recognized an effective function of precise coordination of multiple muscles. To that point, this results in constrained finger motion by exerted forces from the joint capsules, ligaments, and joint articular surfaces. However, the tendons and the extensor muscles of the fingers suffer from injuries and conditions that can affect the functionality of each finger’s grip strength.

How Trigger Points Affect The Finger Extensor Muscles?

When the hands, wrists, and forearms are injured from traumatic forces or through ordinary factors like pulling a muscle or feeling unexplainable pain in the forearms, it can lead to referred pain along the affected muscles. This then leads to the development of trigger points along the affected muscles affecting mobility function with the fingers. According to Dr. Travell, M.D., when patients complain about pain in their hands, they often identify it with arthritis on the fingers when it is caused by trigger points affecting the extensor muscles in the fingers. Studies reveal that trigger points along the finger extensor muscles could refer to mechanical impingement of the tendon being narrowed through repetitive movements. When this happens, it can lead to inflammation and resistance of the tendon, causing the finger digit to lock up in a flex pose. Sometimes trigger points can even inhibit muscular contraction without pain, causing symptoms of grip weakness on the fingers. When trigger points affect the extensor muscles of the fingers and hands, it can make many individuals feel frustrated that they cannot hold onto items while doing their daily activities.

Trigger Points On The Extensor Digitorum-Video

Are you noticing that your grip strength has weakened? Do you feel pain starting from your forearm and ending at your fingertips? Or do your fingers lock up from time to time? Many of these symptoms affecting the fingers could develop signs of trigger points affecting the finger extensor muscles, causing hand pain. Trigger points usually form when the muscle from each section of the body has been through trauma, injuries, or overuse. To that point, the affected muscle has small knots along the muscle fibers, thus causing referred pain in the affected area. The video above explains where the extensor muscles are located in the forearm and how they branch out to each finger digit. When trigger points affect the muscle fibers of the extensor muscles, it can lead to hyperirritability of the muscle fibers and invoke referred pain in the surrounding tendons. Studies reveal that factors that pertain to overusing the fingers may be due to work-related musculoskeletal disorders, which lead to the association with intracellular compartmentation during non-invasive activities. This shows that latent trigger points may potentially occur on the affected muscle with or without pain.

Managing Pain Associated With Trigger Points On The Fingers

When it comes to managing trigger points along the extensor fingers, there are various techniques that many people can use to relieve pain in their hands, strengthen their grip strength, and prevent future trigger points from forming along the forearms. When many people go to their primary physicians and complain about losing their grip strength or feeling symptoms of inflammation associated with arthritis, their doctors begin to do a full examination. They communicate with them about what they have been doing with their hands. Once the doctors have a full diagnosis, they will begin to advise their patients on various techniques to relieve pain in their hands and strengthen their fingers. Some of the ways to manage trigger points along the fingers include:

Hand stretches to relieve stress on the finger joints
Finger extension extends with a rubber band
Avoid gripping items tightly
Sleep with fingers in a flex position
Use an ice pack to reduce inflammation in the forearm muscles

Incorporating these various techniques can reduce pain-like symptoms along the forearms, wrists, and hands and help manage trigger points from causing more issues on the hands. These techniques allow the finger extensor muscles to regain their strength and enable the individual to restore grip strength.

Conclusion

The fingers provide a close working relationship with the hands and body. The fingers allow motions expressively with the host and provide flexion and extension to each digit through extensor muscles that are located in the forearms. When injuries or hyperextension issues affect the extensor muscle, it can develop trigger points that can affect grip strength on the hands and cause pain along the finger digits and wrist. This can cause misery to the individual. Fortunately, various techniques reduce the pain in the hands and increase grip strength on the fingers while managing trigger points associated with the extensor muscles. When individuals begin to utilize stretches for their hands and wrists, it allows them to have finger mobility back to their hands and reduces the effects of pain along their forearms.

References

Ali, Stephen R, and Hussein Mohamedbahi. “Acute Trigger Finger Presenting as an Extensor Lag.” Eplasty, Open Science Company, LLC, 5 Jan. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5765627/.

Hu, Dan, et al. “Biomechanical Analysis of the Human Finger Extensor Mechanism during Isometric Pressing.” PloS One, Public Library of Science, 14 Apr. 2014, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3986208/.

Moreno-Torres, Angel, et al. “Work-Related Pain in Extrinsic Finger Extensor Musculature of Instrumentalists Is Associated with Intracellular Ph Compartmentation during Exercise.” PloS One, Public Library of Science, 9 Feb. 2010, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2817730/.

Okwumabua, Ebubechi, et al. “Anatomy, Shoulder and Upper Limb, Hand Muscles.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 31 July 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537229/.

Disclaimer

Staying Active With Sciatica: Chiropractic Recommendations

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Female is having rehabilitation in the gym — Lady lying on brown couch and raises her leg and looking up, doctor standing near and helping her

Sciatica is one of the most common injuries, with as many as 40% of individuals experiencing the condition, and it becomes more frequent as the body ages. The pain originates with the sciatic nerves and can go on for several weeks, months, or years. Staying active is a major recommendation to relieve the pain and prevent future flare-ups. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic can decompress and release the nerve and educate individuals on an anti-inflammatory diet and staying active to expedite healing.

Table of Contents

Staying Active

Sciatica is most commonly caused by a slipped disc, which puts pressure or irritates the sciatic nerve, and causes discomfort and painful sensations. The most common factors for developing sciatica include the following:

As the body ages, the spinal discs wear out and break down, leading to the spine shifting out of alignment.
Job occupations that place added strain on the back, like sitting or standing for extended periods, repetitive heavy lifting, or bending, reaching, and twisting movements.
Practicing unhealthy postures.

Doctors and chiropractors have found that only resting with sciatica can worsen the injury.

This is because if it is a slipped/bulging/herniated disc, the disc remains in this state, the nerve stays compressed or irritated, and the muscles that control the low back become weak and unable to provide support.

Recommendations

Don’t Sit For Too Long

Prolonged periods of sitting place added pressure on the discs and ligaments in the low back.
Even when sitting doesn’t make it worse, the muscles can develop unhealthy muscle memory that causes partial contracting when there shouldn’t be any that tightens the gluteal muscles causing added strain.
Individuals with a job requiring a lot of sitting or standing are recommended to take frequent breaks to stretch out their muscles or use a standing desk to change positions.

Posture Adjustments

Slouching, hunching, and continuing to practice unhealthy postures will exacerbate sciatica.

Pay attention to the body’s position when standing or sitting.
To prevent slouching, pull the shoulders down and back.
Imagine the shoulder blades touching.
Individuals working at a desk or workstation should take frequent breaks.
Position the screen to see it without tilting the head down.

Increase Physical Activity and Exercise

Exercise is highly recommended to keep the muscles and nerves moving and circulation flowing.

Aerobics

Walking, light jogging, swimming, cycling, and dancing, increase heart rate without causing added strain or pain.

Strength Training

Exercises using free weights, weight machines, or isometric exercises strengthen the muscles and can help restore their position.

Stretching and Flexibility Training

Yoga, tai chi, and Pilates increase flexibility and strength.
The stretching will keep the nerves and muscles from spasms that can worsen the injury.

Strengthen The Core

A stronger core will improve spinal health. Actively engaging the abdominal muscles protects sciatic nerve roots by minimizing spinal pressure.

The back muscles can become increasingly stressed and tired when they have to do all the work without core muscle support.
A weak core can cause additional back pain and worsen sciatica symptoms.

Stand Up Straight

Keep the head and shoulders straight.

Focus On Breathing

Rhythmic breathing helps keep the mind focused and alert while engaged in an activity.

Core Muscles

The back, side, pelvis, and buttock muscles are also part of the core.
Strengthening all of these muscles helps to support the spine.
Exercises for core strengthening include yoga and Pilates, planks, and bridges.

Nerve Recovery

As the nerve recovers, the area the nerve supplies could experience tingling discomfort.

This could be accompanied by an electric sensation at the level of the healing nerve fibers.
The location of this sensation should move as the nerve heals.
With time the sensations should subside, and the area should begin to feel more normal.

Spinal Decompression Demonstration

References

Jensen, Rikke K et al. “Diagnosis and treatment of sciatica.” BMJ (Clinical research ed.) vol. 367 l6273. 19 Nov. 2019, doi:10.1136/bmj.l6273

Kuai, Shengzheng, et al. “Influences of lumbar disc herniation on the kinematics in multi-segmental spine, pelvis, and lower extremities during five activities of daily living.” BMC musculoskeletal disorders vol. 18,1 216. 25 May. 2017, doi:10.1186/s12891-017-1572-7

Ma, Xiao, et al. “The Effect of Diaphragmatic Breathing on Attention, Negative Affect and Stress in Healthy Adults.” Frontiers in psychology vol. 8 874. 6 Jun. 2017, doi:10.3389/fps.2017.00874

Ramaswami, Ramya, et al. “Management of Sciatica.” The New England journal of medicine vol. 376,12 (2017): 1175-1177. doi:10.1056/NEJMclde1701008

Manage Trigger Points in the Hands and Wrist

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Table of Contents

Introduction

The forearms have a casual relationship with the hands and the wrist as they are below the elbow and have very important motor functions. The hands and wrists help many individuals hold onto items, while the forearms provide support by carrying items without pain. The various muscles surrounding the forearms, hands, and wrist joints help provide mobility and flexibility to the arms. Injuries like muscle sprain, strains, or stiffness in the forearms, hands, or wrist can be due to trigger points along the brachioradialis muscles affecting the hands and wrist. Today’s article looks at the brachioradialis muscle functions on the hands and wrist, how trigger points affect the hands and wrist, and how to manage trigger points associated with the hands and wrist. We refer patients to certified providers who specialize in arm pain treatments to aid individuals suffering from trigger points associated with the brachioradialis muscles along the wrist and hands of the body. We also guide and inform our patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their examination when appropriate. We established that education is a great solution to asking our providers profound questions the patient requests. Dr. Jimenez DC takes note of this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer

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The Brachioradialis Function On The Hands & Wrist

Have you been experiencing stiffness in your wrist or forearms? Do you have trouble gripping items in your hands? Or do you experience radiating pain from your forearms to your wrist? Many people experiencing these pain-like symptoms are associated with trigger points along the brachioradialis muscle that affect the forearms, hands, and wrist. The brachioradialis is a superficial muscle that is located in the lateral forearm. The brachioradialis muscle works with different muscles attached to the upper arms to provide flexion to the elbow joints while working with various muscle tendons along the wrist and hands. Research studies reveal that the brachioradialis muscle works with the central nervous system by sending signals to the forearm and provides reflexes to the wrist and fingers by lightly tapping the muscle tendon of the brachioradialis. This light tapping motion sends the signal back to the brain and shows which muscle is activated. However, injuries along the brachioradialis muscle can invoke referred pain to the wrist and hands.

Trigger Points Affecting The Hands & Wrist

As stated in many research studies, trigger points or myofascial pain syndrome is a chronic musculoskeletal disorder that causes hard, discrete, tiny nodules along the taut muscle fiber bands of the affected muscle, causing pain. When the brachioradialis muscle has succumbed to pain-like symptoms from common factors or injuries, it can lead to the development of referred pain associated with trigger points affecting the hands and wrist of the body. So how would trigger points affect the hands and wrist? Well, trigger points can mimic other chronic conditions and cause pain to the affected muscles. So when trigger points affect the brachioradialis muscle, it also affects the hands and wrists.

Studies reveal that when trigger points affect the hands and the wrist, it can lead to symptoms of pain, stiffness, burning, or tingling sensations in the hands and wrist. To that point, a person can experience these pain symptoms even if they are not injured. Trigger points can form when the individual has made repetitive motions to the muscle that causes it to be overused and cause strain on the muscle, thus leading to trigger points associated with joint and muscle pain. Other studies reveal that non-specific shoulder pain associated with trigger points can increase pain intensity to the brachioradialis and affect hand grip strength. This can make many individuals unable to hold onto the items they carry.

Wrist & Hand Trigger Points- Video

Trigger Point Tutorial | Wrist Extensor Muscles

Are you having trouble making a fist in your hands? Do you experience a burning sensation on your forearm down to your wrist? What about feeling pain radiating down from your elbows to your hands? Many people experiencing these pain symptoms might risk developing trigger points along the brachioradialis muscle affecting the hands and wrist. The video above explains what happens when trigger points affect the wrist and hand extensors muscles that work together with the brachioradialis muscles. Trigger points along the brachioradialis can cause referred pain to the forearms and lead to chronic symptoms that affect the functionality of the wrist and hands. This can lead to a decrease in grip strength and cause hand mobility issues for many people. At last, all is not lost, as various treatments are available to manage trigger points associated with the hands and wrist.

Managing Trigger Points Associated With The Hands and Wrist

Various treatments can help many individuals dealing with trigger points associated with the hands and wrist. Many people would go to pain specialists like chiropractors, massage therapists, or physiotherapists to manage trigger points affecting the brachioradialis muscles along the hands and wrist. These pain specialists will incorporate various techniques to reduce the pain and address the trigger points along the affected muscle. Studies reveal that acupuncture on the hands and wrist can reduce pain intensity caused by trigger points and bring back mobility function to the hands and wrist. This can regain the grip strength of the individual and improve hand and wrist functionality without pain. Other studies also reveal that trigger point therapy can also be utilized to reduce pain-like symptoms affecting the hands and wrist. Combined with gentle massages can prevent trigger points from forming in the future and reduce pain symptoms affecting grip mobility on the hands.

Conclusion

The forearms have a casual relationship with the hands and wrist as the brachioradialis muscles help provide mobility functions. The hands and wrist help grip items a person carries, while the forearms offer support. When injuries or ordinary factors are causing pain-like symptoms on the forearm, it can lead to the development of trigger points affecting the mobility function of the hands and wrist. To that point, it can lead to a burning sensation or decreased grip strength on the hands. This can affect a person as they won’t be able to hold onto items and are dealing with a numbing sensation along the wrist and hands. Luckily there are pain specialists available that can utilize various techniques to help manage trigger points along the affected muscle and help bring back grip function and mobility to the hands and wrist. People who incorporate these treatments as part of their daily life schedule can begin to get their sense of belonging back without pain in their wrists and hands.

References

Calvo Lobo, Cesar, et al. “Comparison of Hand Grip Strength and Upper Limb Pressure Pain Threshold between Older Adults with or without Non-Specific Shoulder Pain.” PeerJ, PeerJ Inc., 9 Feb. 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5345821/.

Cao, Talia, and Prasanna Tadi. “Brachioradialis Reflex.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 26 Mar. 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554537/.

Hong, C Z. “Specific Sequential Myofascial Trigger Point Therapy in the Treatment of a Patient with Myofascial Pain Syndrome Associated with Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy.” Australasian Chiropractic & Osteopathy : Journal of the Chiropractic & Osteopathic College of Australasia, BioMed Central, Mar. 2000, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2050812/.

Lung, Brandon E, et al. “Anatomy, Shoulder and Upper Limb, Forearm Brachioradialis Muscle.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 31 July 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK526110/.

Oh, Sein, et al. “Causes of Hand Tingling in Visual Display Terminal Workers.” Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine, Korean Academy of Rehabilitation Medicine, Apr. 2013, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3660483/.

Trinh, Kien, et al. “The Effect of Acupuncture on Hand and Wrist Pain Intensity, Functional Status, and Quality of Life in Adults: A Systematic Review.” Medical Acupuncture, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 1 Feb. 2022, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35251436/.

Disclaimer

Headache Chiropractor: Sciatica Clinic

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Female orthopedist examining senior patient's neck in clinic

Headaches are a common condition that most experience and can differ greatly regarding type, severity, location, and frequency. Headaches range from mild discomfort to constant dull or sharp pressure and severe throbbing pain. A headache chiropractor, through therapeutic massage, decompression, and adjustments, alleviates the headaches, whether tension, migraine, or cluster, releasing the tension and restoring normal function.

Table of Contents

Headache Chiropractor

Ninety-five percent of headaches are primary headaches caused by overactivity, muscle tension, or problems with pain-sensitive structures in the head. These are not a symptom of an underlying disease and include tension, migraine, or cluster headaches. The other 5 percent of headaches are secondary and are caused by an underlying condition, infection, or physical issue. Headaches have various causes or triggers. These include:

Long hours driving
Stress
Insomnia
Blood sugar changes
Foods
Smells
Noises
Lights
Excessive exercise or physical activity

Individuals spend more hours in one fixed position or posture, like sitting in front of a computer or standing at a workstation. This can increase joint irritation and muscle tension in the upper back, neck, and scalp, causing achiness and discomfort that builds up to throbbing soreness. The headache’s location and the discomfort experienced can indicate the type of headache.

Chiropractic Care

Chiropractors are experts in the neuromusculoskeletal system. Research shows that a headache chiropractor can adjust the spine’s alignment to improve spinal function, release and relax the tense muscles, and alleviate nervous system stress helping decrease the intensity and frequency. Treatment includes:

Therapeutic massage
Chiropractic adjustments
Spinal decompression
Postural training
Electrical stimulation
Ultrasound
Physical rehabilitation
Body analysis
Professional nutritionist recommendations

The Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Team will develop a personalized treatment plan for the individual’s specific condition and needs.

Migraine Treatment

References

Biondi, David M. “Physical treatments for headache: a structured review.” Headache vol. 45,6 (2005): 738-46. doi:10.1111/j.1526-4610.2005.05141.x

Bronfort, G et al. “Efficacy of spinal manipulation for chronic headache: a systematic review.” Journal of manipulative and physiological therapeutics vol. 24,7 (2001): 457-66.

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

Côté, Pierre, et al. “Non-pharmacological management of persistent headaches associated with neck pain: A clinical practice guideline from the Ontario Protocol for traffic injury management (OPTIMa) collaboration.” European journal of pain (London, England) vol. 23,6 (2019): 1051-1070. doi:10.1002/ejp.1374

It Could Be More Than Triceps Muscle Pain

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Table of Contents

Introduction

One of the many muscles that help stabilize the shoulders and provide movement when the arms are in motion. The tricep muscles are one of the most underrated muscles that many people don’t seem to take care of when working out. The other muscles in the upper arms and shoulders are more likely to be worked on when it comes to being physically active. The deltoids, biceps, and brachialis muscles are some of the muscles that get much more attention when working on shoulder mobility. Still, the triceps provide the functionality to the shoulders as well. When the shoulders or the upper arms are injured and develop pain-like symptoms in the muscle groups, it can develop trigger points along the affected muscle. Today’s article looks at the tricep muscles, how trigger points affect them, and ways to manage trigger points along the tricep muscles. We refer patients to certified providers who specialize in arm pain treatments to aid individuals suffering from trigger points associated with the tricep muscles along the upper arms and elbows. We also guide and inform our patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their examination when appropriate. We established that education is a great solution to asking our providers profound questions the patient requests. Dr. Jimenez DC takes note of this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer

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What Do The Tricep Muscles Do?

Do you experience pain underneath your forearm? How about feeling a dull ache on your elbows? Or do you feel a numbing sensation on your ring and pinky fingers? Individuals experiencing these symptoms in their arms could potentially develop trigger points along their tricep muscles. The tricep muscles are located under the upper arm and are a large, thick horseshoe-shaped muscle at the end of the arm. As stated earlier, the tricep muscles are one of the most underrated muscles in the arm that no one tends to work on during a workout, so they can be easily overlooked. However, the tricep muscles help in providing stability to the shoulders and help strengthen the arms. One of the main functions the triceps offer is that they allow the extension of the elbow joints. Studies reveal that the three head tendons that make up the triceps can influence elbow extension torque. The three heads of the triceps have different patterns of force when it comes to various activities during different shoulder evaluations. To that point, multiple combinations of the shoulder and elbows at different angles can affect the tricep’s shoulder extensions. Since many individuals don’t work on their triceps often, it can potentially develop issues that can make this underrated muscle weak.

How Trigger Points Affect The Tricep Muscles?

When the triceps don’t get worked on during a workout, it can lead to muscle weakness when doing pushups or when someone suffers from an injury with direct trauma in the elbows. When the tricep muscles become affected, it can lead to chronic conditions that are associated with myofascial pain or trigger points. Trigger points in the triceps can be formed when there are restrictions in extending the elbow joints. Studies reveal that when the triceps become overloaded from overusing the forearms from normal activities, it could potentially lead to tricep tendon rupture. To that point, which leads to the development of trigger points to invoke pain in the triceps and elbow joint. According to Dr. Janet Travell, M.D., trigger points associated with the tricep muscles could potentially involve referred pain in the vicinity of the elbow joints. What this refers to is that trigger points can mimic other chronic conditions so in this case, referred pain caused by trigger points associated with the tricep muscles can be mistakenly attributed to arthritis on the elbow joints. All is not lost, as there are ways to manage trigger points affecting the tricep muscles.

Treating Trigger Points On The Triceps- Video

Have you been experiencing pain in your shoulders, elbows, and hands? Do you have limited mobility when extending your elbows? Or do you notice that your triceps are weaker than normal? If you have been dealing with any of these symptoms, it could be due to trigger points associated with the tricep muscles that are causing referred pain to the upper arms and elbows. The triceps in the upper arms is one of the most underrated muscles people tend to overlook. When individuals begin to succumb to injuries that affect their triceps, it can lead to the development of trigger points along the muscle fibers in the tricep muscles. Trigger points can occur in the tricep muscles due to overusing the forearm muscles, causing stress in the elbow joint and the muscle itself. When the trigger points become active, it can lead to limited mobility to the elbow joint, causing the individual thinks they are developing arthritis when it is the trigger points causing the referred pain. There are ways that many people can manage trigger points associated with the elbows along the triceps to relieve the pain from the muscle. The video above shows where the active trigger points are located and how to release them through palpations and massage. Treating the trigger points along the tricep muscles allows many individuals to regain mobility in their elbows and upper arms.

Managing Trigger Points Along The Triceps

As stated earlier, the triceps are the underrated muscle that people tend to forget. When the tricep muscles succumb to trigger points, it can lead to referred pain along the elbow joints, causing pain-like symptoms affecting the elbow’s mobility function. When this happens to the upper arms, there are various ways to strengthen the tricep muscles and manage trigger points from developing in the future. Incorporating exercises targeting the tricep muscles can help improve mobility to the elbows and shoulders. If a person is playing sports like tennis, they can opt for a lighter racket and have a more lightweight grip on the handle. Suppose a person is in pain from their triceps. In that case, however, studies reveal that upper limb rehabilitation can help reduce the pain along the triceps and improve the mobility range caused by pain associated with trigger points. People can continue their daily activities without pain when they utilize these various ways to enhance their triceps’ functionality.

Conclusion

As the most underrated muscle that people tend to forget to work out, the tricep muscle can be overlooked. This large, thick horseshoe-shaped muscle has a job that provides stability to the shoulders and allows an extension to the elbow joints. When individuals don’t work on their tricep muscles, it can lead to muscle weakness and pain-like symptoms that lead to the development of trigger points. Trigger points associated with the tricep muscles can cause referred pain to the elbow joint, making many individuals believe they have arthritis. However, many individuals can regain mobility to their elbows by incorporating exercises targeting the triceps and utilizing treatments to manage trigger points along the muscle fibers. They can do daily activities that require the triceps without pain.

References

Landin, Dennis, et al. “Functions of the Triceps Brachii in Humans: A Review.” Journal of Clinical Medicine Research, Elmer Press, Apr. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5827912/.

Lennon, Olive, et al. “Effect of the Triceps Brachii Facilitation Technique on Scapulohumeral Muscle Activation during Reach and Point in a Healthy Population.” Physiotherapy Canada. Physiotherapie Canada, University of Toronto Press, 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6855346/.

Mangano, Tony, et al. “Chronic Tendonopathy as a Unique Cause of Non Traumatic Triceps Tendon Rupture in a (Risk Factors Free) Bodybuilder: A Case Report.” Journal of Orthopaedic Case Reports, Indian Orthopaedic Research Group, 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4719357/.

Tiwana, Manpreet S, et al. “Anatomy, Shoulder and Upper Limb, Triceps Muscle.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 6 Aug. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK536996/.

Disclaimer

Fermented Foods and Gut Health: Functional Sciatica Clinic

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Couple choosing fermented milk products in market — Young couple choosing fermented milk products in market. Customers buying sour cream and kefir in food store

Fermentation is a process where bacteria and yeast are used to break down foods. The fermentation process has been around for centuries and was initially produced to preserve foods, improve flavor and eliminate toxins. Research has found that eating fermented foods can also increase the beneficial bacteria/probiotics in the gut. Functional medicine practitioners recommend these foods for their health benefits, including improved digestion, increased immunity, and weight loss and maintenance.

Table of Contents

Fermented Foods

Fermented foods and beverages undergo controlled microbial growth and fermentation in which microorganisms like yeast and bacteria break down food elements like sugars/glucose into other products like organic acids, gases, or alcohol. The process gives fermented foods unique taste, aroma, texture, and appearance. There are many different types of fermented foods, including:

Wine
Kombucha
Yogurt
Cultured milk
Cider
Sauerkraut
Fermented sausage
Kimchi
Miso

Whole foods like vegetables, fruits, cereals, dairy, meat, fish, eggs, legumes, nuts, and seeds can go through fermentation. These foods are nutritious in their original form, but through fermentation, they can provide probiotic and prebiotic health benefits.

Probiotics

Probiotics are live microorganisms that benefit the gut by creating a more favorable digestive environment. This helps:

Digest food easier.
Support a healthy immune system.
Support organ health – lungs, reproductive organs, skin.
Improves mood.

However, not all fermented foods contain probiotics, especially commercially produced foods that are pasteurized, killing bacteria and their associated health benefits.

Prebiotics

Prebiotics are food ingredients that the microorganisms like gut bacteria consume to grow and live, leading to improving the digestive environment. These include:

Milk
Honey
Tomato
Garlic
Onions
Asparagus
Wheat
Barley
Rye

However, most fruits, vegetables, and legumes contain prebiotics.

The Benefits of Fermented Foods

Fermented foods’ health benefits include reduced risk of:

Diabetes
Inflammation
High blood pressure
Cardiovascular disease
Obesity

They have also been linked to:

Better weight management
Improved brain activity
Increased bone health
Faster recovery after exercise and physical activity

There are currently no official guidelines regarding how often individuals should eat fermented foods. It is recommended to consult a nutritionist or dietician to figure out the best nutrition plan for the individual and their needs.

The Science

References

Aslam, Hajara, et al. “Fermented foods, the gut, and mental health: a mechanistic overview with implications for depression and anxiety.” Nutritional neuroscience vol. 23,9 (2020): 659-671. doi:10.1080/1028415X.2018.1544332

Dimidi, Eirini, et al. “Fermented Foods: Definitions and Characteristics, Impact on the Gut Microbiota and Effects on Gastrointestinal Health and Disease.” Nutrients vol. 11,8 1806. 5 Aug. 2019, doi:10.3390/nu11081806

King, Sarah, et al. “Effectiveness of probiotics on the duration of illness in healthy children and adults who develop common acute respiratory infectious conditions: a systematic review and meta-analysis.” The British journal of nutrition vol. 112,1 (2014): 41-54. doi:10.1017/S0007114514000075

Kok, Car Reen, and Robert Hutkins. “Yogurt and other fermented foods as sources of health-promoting bacteria.” Nutrition reviews vol. 76, Suppl 1 (2018): 4-15. doi:10.1093/nutrit/nuy056

Parker, Elizabeth A et al. “Probiotics and gastrointestinal conditions: An overview of evidence from the Cochrane Collaboration.” Nutrition (Burbank, Los Angeles County, Calif.) vol. 45 (2018): 125-134.e11. doi:10.1016/j.nut.2017.06.024

Şanlier, Nevin, et al. “Health benefits of fermented foods.” Critical reviews in food science and nutrition vol. 59,3 (2019): 506-527. doi:10.1080/10408398.2017.1383355

Trigger Points Affecting The Brachialis Muscles

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Table of Contents

Introduction

When it comes to the human body in motion, the arms can carry, lift, and move items from one place to another without pain. The arms have different muscles that work together to protect the arm and shoulder joints while providing mobility and movement. One of the muscles that help the arms carry items is the brachialis muscles, which work together with the bicep and tricep muscles. As part of the forearm, it can succumb to various injuries affecting the muscle, tendons, and ligaments. When this happens, referred pain can affect the arm and develop trigger points to overlap chronic conditions that can potentially cause more pain. Today’s article looks at the brachialis muscle’s function, how trigger points affect the muscle, and various ways to manage brachialis trigger points. We refer patients to certified providers who specialize in arm pain treatments to aid individuals suffering from trigger points associated with the brachialis muscles along the upper arms. We also guide and inform our patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their examination when appropriate. We established that education is a great solution to asking our providers profound questions the patient requests. Dr. Jimenez DC takes note of this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer

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What Is The Brachialis Muscle Function?

Have you been experiencing muscle strain in your forearms? What about stiffness in your wrist? Or do your arm muscles begin to spasm out of nowhere? Many people who have experienced these pain symptoms might be caused by trigger points associated with the brachialis muscle. The brachialis is an important muscle that flexes the forearm at the elbow. This muscle works with the biceps as it can carry heavy items, like the deltoid, and is the opposite of the tricep muscles. However, it can become overused and succumb to injuries that can invoke pain in the arm muscles, thus leading to the development of trigger points along the brachialis muscle.

How Does Trigger Points Affect The Brachialis Muscle?

When the brachialis muscle becomes injured, many people will experience pain when flexing their elbows inward or outward. According to Dr. Travell, M.D., these pain symptoms may be due to referred pain and tenderness from brachialis trigger points or radial nerve entrapment. During heaving lifting, the forearm flexion stress overload activates trigger points along the brachialis. Studies reveal that excessive sudden physical stress or repetitive activities may result from a muscle sprain or tear in the brachialis muscle. To that point, these symptoms associated with trigger points can cause overlapping risk profiles that can mask the condition. Some of the conditions that can overlap and activate trigger points include:

Carrying heavy groceries
Holding power tools
Tennis elbow
Playing a string instrument

Studies also reveal that active trigger points along the affected muscle can increase weight coefficients and alter motor control without co-contraction patterns. This is due to trigger points becoming tricky to diagnose and mimic other conditions affecting the arms’ muscle group. Many people with pain-like symptoms associated with trigger points often complain about numbness or deep pain in their arms and hands. To that point, trigger points can also be involved with nerve entrapment in the brachialis muscles.

The Brachialis Trigger Points Release-Video

How To Treat Trigger Points - Brachioradialis

Have you been experiencing stiffness in your hands and arms? What about muscle spasms near your elbow? Or does constant pain affect your forearm muscles when you bend your arm? Many of these symptoms are associated with trigger points affecting the brachialis muscle that is causing pain in the forearms. Trigger points or myofascial pain syndrome can affect a person’s well-being by impairing their mobility in the affected areas, causing pain, and even reducing their overall sense of life. Trigger points affecting the brachialis muscles can mimic chronic conditions like nerve entrapment that can affect the motor function of the forearm. Luckily, trigger points are treatable, and there are ways to reduce the pain-like symptoms from the affected brachialis muscles. The video above shows how to treat trigger points along the forearm. Incorporating non-invasive treatments to reduce future trigger points to form can reduce the pain symptoms and release the trapped nerves that are causing motor function problems in the arms.

Ways To Manage Brachialis Trigger Points

As stated earlier, trigger points are tricky to diagnose since they can mimic other chronic conditions along the affected muscles. When the affected muscle succumbs to injuries and is not treated, it can develop tiny knots along the taut muscle band fibers known as trigger points over time. To that point, it can cause referred pain-like symptoms along the muscle group. Luckily, treatments can help reduce pain-like symptoms and prevent trigger points from forming along the muscle fibers. Studies reveal that trigger point injections are one of the various treatments that can help reduce pain in the brachialis muscle. With gentle stretching and physical therapy, allow mobility back to the arm. One way to manage brachialis trigger points that many people can use is to place a pillow at the angle of the elbow to prevent the arms from tightening or use a hot pack to relax the forearm muscles to relieve muscle strain and aches. Another way is not to overuse their forearms when playing an instrument or carrying items on their forearms. This can prevent trigger points from forming in the future and reduce pain-like symptoms from affecting the forearms.

Conclusion

The brachialis is the main muscle that is important to the forearms. This large muscle works with the bicep and tricep muscles to help the host carry heavy objects while bending at the elbows. However, like all the muscles in the body, the brachialis muscles can succumb to injuries and develop trigger points along the brachialis muscle fiber bands. Trigger points along the brachialis muscle are associated with pain-like symptoms that can mimic conditions like tennis elbow or nerve entrapment in the forearms. Fortunately, various treatments are utilized by doctors to help many patients dealing with trigger points along the brachialis muscle and can help reduce pain in the forearms. This allows mobility back to the arms and prevents future trigger points from forming.

References

Geri, Tommaso, et al. “Myofascial Trigger Points Alter the Modular Control during the Execution of a Reaching Task: A Pilot Study.” Scientific Reports, Nature Publishing Group UK, 5 Nov. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6831581/.

Plantz, Mark A, and Bruno Bordoni. “Anatomy, Shoulder and Upper Limb, Brachialis Muscle.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 22 Feb. 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551630/.

Sharma, Pankaj, et al. “Isolated Traumatic Brachialis Muscle Tear: A Case Report and Review of Literature.” Bulletin of Emergency and Trauma, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Oct. 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5694606/.

Suh, Mi Ri, et al. “Ultrasound-Guided Myofascial Trigger Point Injection into Brachialis Muscle for Rotator Cuff Disease Patients with Upper Arm Pain: A Pilot Study.” Annals of Rehabilitation Medicine, Korean Academy of Rehabilitation Medicine, Oct. 2014, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4221396/.

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Spondylitis Types Injury Medical Chiropractic Sciatica Clinic

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Two doctors in uniform look and discuss an X-ray or MRI scan of the patient spine in clinic

Spondyloarthritis is a group of inflammatory, immune-mediated diseases that cause chronic low back pain, inflammation, irritating aches, and pains. The conditions mostly affect the spine but can affect joints in the arms, legs, hips, skin, eyes, and intestines. Spondylitis types can significantly affect daily function, physical activity and compromise bone health.

Table of Contents

Spondylitis Types

The main types include:

Ankylosing spondylitis
Psoriatic arthritis
Enteropathic arthritis
Reactive arthritis
Juvenile spondylitis
Undifferentiated spondylitis

Axial Spondylitis vs. Peripheral Spondylitis Types

Spondylitis conditions are classified as axial – axSpA or peripheral – pSpA.

Axial means relating to the body’s central region, as in the trunk and head.
Axial spondyloarthritis is arthritis and inflammation in the hips and spine.
The condition starts before age 45.
The pain typically starts in the low back but can begin in the neck or other regions.
Characterized by back pain, usually in the lower back and/or buttocks.
Morning back stiffness lasting 30 minutes or longer.
Sacroiliac joint inflammation can also present.
The back pain gradually progresses.
Lasts longer than three months.
Improves with physical movement, not with rest.
Peripheral spondyloarthritis is arthritis and inflammatory pain in the peripheral joints and tendons and does not include the spine.
Individuals can have peripheral and axial spondylitis symptoms simultaneously.
Diagnosis depends on whether symptoms are primarily peripheral or axial.

Spondylitis and Spondylosis

Spondylosis and spondylitis are similar in they cause pain and inflammation in the back and hips. The difference is in each condition’s triggers.

Spondylitis is a disease in which the body’s immune system degrades joints, causes inflammation, overproduces bone formation, and causes bone fusion.
Spondylosis is a category of arthritis that presents as the spine ages from normal wear and tear.
It happens during the degeneration of the spine’s discs and joints.
It also presents when bone spurs develop on the spine’s vertebrae.

Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis is the most common form of arthritis affecting the spine, other joints, and body regions. The condition causes spinal joint inflammation causing extreme discomfort and chronic pain. In some cases, the inflammation progresses to ankylosis, where spine sections fuse and become immobile. Other body areas that can trigger inflammation include:

The ribs
Heels
Shoulders
Hips
Small joints of the feet and hands.

Ankylosing spondylitis symptoms vary from person to person. Common early symptoms include:

There is general discomfort, appetite loss, and mild fever early in the condition.
Persistent stiffness and pain in the buttocks and low back, gradually progressing over a couple of weeks or months.
The pain and stiffness can travel into the neck and spine within months or years.
The pain is usually spread out and dull.
The stiffness and pain are worse in the morning and night and improve with light exercise or a warm shower.
The pain typically becomes chronic, lasts for a minimum of 3 months, and can be felt on both sides.
Tenderness and pain in the hips, thighs, shoulder blades, heels, and ribs may also occur.

Treatment approaches include applications of ice and heat to reduce swelling, increase circulation, and decrease joint pain, posture exercises, stretches, physical therapy, and medication.

Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis causes swelling, pain, and inflammation in the small joints of the hands and feet; however, the joints of the knees, ankles, and wrists can also be affected. Psoriasis is a rash that causes scaly skin patches.

Individuals can develop dactylitis when a finger or toe swells between the surrounding joints.
Spinal stiffness and pain can present.
Typically the ends of the finger joints are most affected and experience pain and inflammation.
The condition also includes fingernail and toenail symptoms.
Medications frequently utilized to treat ankylosing spondylitis can be used.
Exercise helps preserve the range of motion and maintain strength.
Isometric exercises work muscles without joint motion reducing the risk of further injury to inflamed joints.
Occupational and physical therapy can significantly assist in optimizing arthritic joint function.

Enteropathic Spondylitis

Enteropathic Arthritis is chronic inflammatory arthritis linked to inflammatory bowel disease. The most recognized are Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis.

The peripheral limb joints and sometimes the whole spine are the most prevalent body areas afflicted with enteropathic spondylitis.
The main symptom is intestine inflammation, including bowel and joint pain and/or inflammatory back pain.
Other symptoms can include weight loss, blood in the stool, abdominal pain, and/or chronic diarrhea.
Managing enteropathic arthritis typically means managing the underlying bowel disease.

Juvenile Spondyloarthritis

Juvenile spondyloarthritis is a group of childhood rheumatic diseases that cause arthritis before age 16 and can continue through adulthood. Juvenile spondyloarthritis encompasses:

Enteropathic arthritis
Enthesitis-related arthritis
Undifferentiated spondyloarthritis
Psoriatic arthritis
Reactive arthritis
Juvenile ankylosing spondylitis

Juvenile spondyloarthritis causes inflammation and pain in joints in the lower body, like the ankles, hips, knees, and pelvis. Other body areas that could be affected include:

The bowels
Eyes
Skin
Spine

Lethargy and fatigue can also present. The symptoms can be unpredictable and episodic, appearing and disappearing without a specific cause. The condition cycles between flare-ups and remission. Common treatment approaches include:

Medication
Exercise
Posture training
Physical therapy, medication
Ice and heat to decrease joint pain and relax muscles.
In severe cases, surgery could be recommended.

Reactive Arthritis or Reiter’s Syndrome

Reactive arthritis is arthritis that causes pain and inflammation in the mucous membranes, bladder, skin, joints, eyes, and genitals.

Reactive arthritis is believed to be a reaction to an infection, usually in the gastrointestinal or urinary tract.
Reactive arthritis does not affect the sacroiliac joints and spine in most cases.
Reactive arthritis is typically treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, steroids, and rheumatoid arthritis medications.
A physician could prescribe antibiotics if a bacterial infection brought on reactive arthritis.

Undifferentiated Spondyloarthritis

Undifferentiated spondyloarthritis is where the signs and symptoms of spondylitis don’t meet the criteria for a specific rheumatoid disorder. Individuals diagnosed with undifferentiated spondyloarthritis will have one or more of the symptoms that include:

Fatigue
Back inflammation
Back pain
Buttock pain that alternates or presents on both sides.
Swollen toes or fingers
Heel pain
Arthritis in the small joints.
Arthritis in the large limb joints.
Enthesitis or inflammation where the ligament or tendon connects to the bone.
Eye inflammation
Individuals can also present symptoms of other spondylitis types, like psoriatic or ankylosing.

Treatment approaches include:

Exercise
Physical therapy
Posture training
Ice and heat to decrease joint pain and loosen up muscles.

Spondylitis Types Diagnosis of Spondyloarthritis

References

Carron, Philippe, et al. “Peripheral spondyloarthritis: a neglected entity-state of the art.” RMD open vol. 6,1 (2020): e001136. doi:10.1136/rmdopen-2019-001136

Dougados, Maxime, and Dominique Baeten. “Spondyloarthritis.” Lancet (London, England) vol. 377,9783 (2011): 2127-37. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(11)60071-8

Gill, Tejpal, et al. “The intestinal microbiome in spondyloarthritis.” Current opinion in rheumatology vol. 27,4 (2015): 319-25. doi:10.1097/BOR.0000000000000187

Rosenbaum, James T. “The eye in spondyloarthritis✰.” Seminars in arthritis and rheumatism vol. 49,3S (2019): S29-S31. doi:10.1016/j.semarthrit.2019.09.014

Seo, Mi Ryoung et al. “Delayed diagnosis is linked to worse outcomes and unfavorable treatment responses in patients with axial spondyloarthritis.” Clinical rheumatology vol. 34,8 (2015): 1397-405. doi:10.1007/s10067-014-2768-y

Sharip, Aigul, and Jeannette Kunz. “Understanding the Pathogenesis of Spondyloarthritis.” Biomolecules vol. 10,10 1461. 20 Oct. 2020, doi:10.3390/biom10101461

The Biceps Being Affected By Trigger Points

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Table of Contents

Introduction

The upper arms allow the individual to move the arms, hands, and fingers, enabling them to do everyday activities without feeling pain or injuries. Different muscles in the upper arms allow precise movements, from threading a needle to throwing a ball across the field. These muscles also work with the shoulders, allowing a full range of motion and flexion. One of the muscles that help the upper arms is the bicep brachii, which provide flexion to the arm. However, like all the muscles in the body, they can succumb to pain caused by trigger points. Today’s article looks at the bicep muscles’ function, how trigger points affect the muscles, and how to manage trigger points associated with the bicep muscles. We refer patients to certified providers who specialize in arm pain treatments to aid individuals suffering from trigger points associated with the bicep brachii muscles along the upper arms. We also guide and inform our patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their examination when appropriate. We established that education is a great solution to asking our providers profound questions the patient requests. Dr. Jimenez DC takes note of this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer

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What Are The Bicep Muscles Function?

Have you been dealing with radiating pain down to your elbow? Do your upper arm muscle ache when carrying items from place to place? Or have you experienced muscle spasms in your arms and hands? Many people experiencing these symptoms might risk developing trigger points along their bicep muscles. The bicep brachii is a large, thick muscle that covers the joints and is located in the upper arms. The bicep muscle consists of two attachments: the short head (caput breve) and the ling head (caput longum). It works together with the coracobrachialis muscle to support stability to the shoulders.

Studies reveal that these two muscle bands work together to provide multiple actions between the shoulder and elbow joints by being in conjunction with the other muscles. The main function of the bicep muscles is that it is one of the three muscles that can flex the elbow and shoulders. The biceps also allow flexion and supination or outward rotation of the forearms at 90 degrees. This muscle is very important for athletes that require lifting, carrying, or throwing and can make the individual stronger. To that point, the bicep muscle can also succumb to injuries that can cause pain to the upper arms and shoulders.

How Does Trigger Points Affect The Bicep Muscles?

When the bicep muscles succumb to injuries, it can be due to overusing the long head of the bicep muscles and can lead to bicep tendon rupture. When the bicep muscle succumbs to a tendon rupture, it is due to excessive eccentric force that brings the arms to an extension rather than flexion. Other issues affecting the biceps can correlate to rotator cuff pathology and can be associated with being a common source of shoulder pain. Studies reveal that since the bicep is closely associated with the rotator cuff, tendinopathy can form due to repetitive traction, friction, and rotation of the shoulder joints. To that point, it can lead to the development of trigger points along the bicep muscles. Trigger point pain can be complicated to diagnose since it can mimic other chronic conditions. For trigger points to occur along the bicep muscles, pain-like symptoms are caused when the arm is above the shoulder. To that point, it causes symptoms of aches, stiffness, and muscle weakness in the bicep muscles.

Trigger Points Affecting The Bicep Brachii- Video

Trigger Point of the Week - Bicep Brachii

Have you experienced muscle aches and stiffness when lifting your arms above your shoulders? Do you find difficulty to bend your elbows? Or have you been experiencing radiating pain along the shoulders, arms, and hands? These pain-like symptoms are associated with trigger points along the bicep muscles and can evoke motor dysfunction in the upper arms. The video above gives an overview how trigger points affect the bicep brachii and cause symptoms like “frozen shoulder” to affect the entire arm. Studies reveal that trigger points are the most frequent causes of chronic musculoskeletal pain that causes the muscle tissue to become hyperirritable. Trigger points can also cause referred pain to the affected muscles, causing limited range of motion to the joints. When the bicep muscles are being affected by trigger points, it can cause stress on the muscle and cause hyper-extension to the arm. According to Dr. Travell, M.D., when trigger points affect the bicep brachii muscles and cause referred pain and tenderness on the ball-and-socket joint, the symptoms associated with trigger points are mistaken as a rheumatic joint disease unless the affected bicep is examined for trigger points. Thankfully, there are ways to manage trigger points associated with the bicep muscles to reduce pain in the upper arms.

Managing Trigger Points Associated With The Bicep Muscles

When individuals are suffering from pain along their bicep muscles, it can cause them to be miserable as they cannot participate in various activities that require their arms; when trigger points are formed along the taut muscle band of the bicep muscles, the radiating pain from the shoulder to the elbow, causing stiffness and muscle aches. Fortunately, various techniques can help manage trigger points associated with the bicep muscles. Studies reveal that many people can manage trigger points related to the bicep muscles to reduce shoulder pain by resting, modifying their activities, and seeking more non-invasive treatments to reduce the pain associated with the bicep muscles. Many people can do various arm and shoulder stretches to reduce the stiffness of the bicep muscles. This allows gentle stretching along the upper arm muscles and releases tension through slow, even breathing and prolonged shortening of the bicep muscles.

Conclusion

The bicep has two attachments that provide mobility and are a large thick muscle that covers the upper arm joints. The bicep muscles also work together with the coracobrachialis muscle to help support the shoulders by making them stable. When the bicep muscles become overused and succumb to injuries, they can develop trigger points along the bicep muscles, causing referred pain to the arms and shoulders. When this happens, the muscles become stiff and can become painful when doing simple actions like lifting their arms or playing a sport. When this happens, many individuals become miserable since they can’t participate. Fortunately, various techniques can help reduce the pain symptoms in the arms and prevent future injuries. Gentle stretching and muscle massages can release the trigger points from the bicep muscles and improve arm mobility to the biceps.

References

Akamatsu, Flávia Emi, et al. “Trigger Points: An Anatomical Substratum.” BioMed Research International, Hindawi Publishing Corporation, 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4355109/.

Landin, Dennis, et al. “Actions of the Biceps Brachii at the Shoulder: A Review.” Journal of Clinical Medicine Research, Elmer Press, Aug. 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5505302/.

McDevitt, Amy W, et al. “Physical Therapy Interventions for the Management of Biceps Tendinopathy: An International Delphi Study.” International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, NASMI, 1 June 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9159730/.

Raney, Elise B, et al. “Pain and the Pathogenesis of Biceps Tendinopathy.” American Journal of Translational Research, e-Century Publishing Corporation, 15 June 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5489872/.

Tiwana, Manpreet S, et al. “Anatomy, Shoulder and Upper Limb, Biceps Muscle.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 11 Aug. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519538/.

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Nerve Damage Symptoms Chiropractic Sciatica Clinic

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Orthopedist or neurologist shows the problem areas on the model of the spine to female patient and explains the cause of her pain

Nerve damage is also known as peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral nerves transmit information to and from the brain through the spinal cord to the rest of the body. Nerve damage symptoms are common in the neck, arms, hands, low back, legs, and feet. Communication becomes weakened, interrupted, or no longer transmits sensation signals. Nerve damage can be a complication from conditions like diabetes or present after an injury. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic recognize the symptoms and can treat the injuries rehabilitating the nerves back to functional health.

Table of Contents

Nerve Damage Symptoms

Nerve damage symptoms can happen to a single nerve or a group of nerves that can affect the rest of the body. Damage depends on the severity of the condition or injury.

Partially damaged nerves can heal on their own with minimal treatment to ensure they heal correctly.
Nerves are made up of fibers called axons.
The fibers are covered with tissues that are a type of insulation.
Sometimes only the fibers get damaged.
Sometimes a nerve gets stuck or jammed inside a tight space, causing irritation and, over time, scarring.
Severe nerve damage can involve the fibers and tissues and often require surgery.

Symptoms can range from mild to severe and depend on which nerve fibers are damaged. These could be the following:

Motor nerves

These nerves regulate all the muscles under conscious control.
These control motor functions like walking, talking, and grabbing and holding objects.
Damage to these nerves usually causes muscle weakness, cramps, and uncontrollable muscle twitching or spasms.

Sensory nerves

These nerves relay sensory information, including touch, taste, smell, vision, temperature, and pain.
Symptoms can include numbness or tingling.
There can also be difficulties:
Sensing pain
Sensing temperature changes.
Walking
Maintaining balance with your eyes closed.
Working with the hands.

Autonomic nerves

This group of nerves regulates unconscious actions, including breathing, heart and thyroid function, and digestion.
Symptoms include excessive sweating, blood pressure variations, inability to tolerate heat, and gastrointestinal issues.
Various symptoms can be experienced as many peripheral nerve injuries affect more than one type of nerve.

Signs

Improperly functioning nerves can cause uncomfortable or painful sensations because the nerves cannot carry the correct signals from the brain to the spinal cord. The signs of nerve damage include the following:

Feeling like you’re wearing an overly tight glove or sock constricting circulation and movement.
Numbness or tingling.
Pins and needles or what feels like mild electrical sensations.
Specific body/limb positions can cause or decrease numbness, tingling, or pins and needles.
Muscle weakness.
Dropping objects regularly.
Sharp pains in the hands, arms, low back, legs, or feet.

Restoring Function

Chiropractic treatments can help restore function and include:

Therapeutic Massage

Therapeutic massage will promote circulation to relieve numbness and tightness and help restore function and feeling.

Chiropractic

Chiropractic adjustments will realign the body and keep affected muscles and joints active.

Electrical Stimulation

Stimulators can activate injured nerves and muscles while the nerve regenerates and recovers.

Braces or Splints

These devices could be used to maintain the position of the affected limb, fingers, hand, or foot to improve muscle function and promote healing.

Exercise

Specifically, prescribed exercises will improve muscle strength, help to maintain range of motion, and reduce muscle cramps.

Diet

A nutritionist will develop a personalized anti-inflammatory diet to expedite healing.

Peripheral Therapy

References

Chen, Zhengrong. “Progress of peripheral nerve repair.” Chinese Journal of traumatology = Zhonghua Chuang Shang za Zhi vol. 5,6 (2002): 323-5.

Gordon, Tessa. “Electrical Stimulation to Enhance Axon Regeneration After Peripheral Nerve Injuries in Animal Models and Humans.” Neurotherapeutics: the journal of the American Society for Experimental NeuroTherapeutics vol. 13,2 (2016): 295-310. doi:10.1007/s13311-015-0415-1

www.ninds.nih.gov/peripheral-neuropathy-fact-sheet

WEBB, E M. “Peripheral nerve injuries; early surgical treatment.” California medicine vol. 80,3 (1954): 151-3.

Welch, J A. “Peripheral nerve injury.” Seminars in veterinary medicine and surgery (small animal) vol. 11,4 (1996): 273-84. doi:10.1016/s1096-2867(96)80020-x

Trigger Points Affecting The Upper Arm Muscles

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Table of Contents

Introduction

The upper extremities of the body, which include the head, neck, shoulders, chest, and arms, all have a specific job of keeping the body functioning and helping move from place to place. The head and neck work together to allow the host to have the mobility to turn, rotate from side to side, and lean from one side. The shoulders work with the arms to let the muscles have a full range of motion and even help stabilize the upper body. The shoulders have various muscles, tendons, and ligaments to protect the skeletal joints and even work to do everyday activities like carrying or lifting items. When injuries begin to affect the muscle groups of the upper body, it can lead to pain-like symptoms that can lead to chronic conditions developing over time if not treated right away. One of the muscles in the upper body is called the coracobrachialis muscle, which can be affected by injuries. Today’s article observes the coracobrachialis muscle, how trigger points affect the upper arm muscles, and how to manage trigger points associated with the coracobrachialis muscle. We refer patients to certified providers who specialize in shoulder pain treatments to aid individuals suffering from trigger points associated with the coracobrachialis muscles along the upper arms. We also guide and inform our patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their examination when appropriate. We established that education is a great solution to asking our providers profound questions the patient requests. Dr. Jimenez DC takes note of this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer

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What Is The Coracobrachialis Muscle?

Have you been dealing with pain from the upper arms to the hands? Do simple arm and shoulder stretches seem to be difficult to do? Or have you been dealing with symptoms of pain, stiffness, or tenderness in your upper arms? Experiencing these pain-like symptoms could overlap other conditions affecting the upper arms and develop trigger points along the muscles, including the coracobrachialis. The coracobrachialis is the smallest muscle located in the front of the upper arm’s anterior that originated in the shoulder coracoid process. This small muscle is connected to the tendon located at the short head of the bicep brachii, and according to Dr. Janet Travell, M.D., the coracobrachialis muscle function helps flex and adduct the arms at the shoulders while working together with the surrounding muscles of the upper arm and shoulders. This allows the arms to move forward slightly and inward. This means that the coracobrachialis muscle will enable individuals to place their arms behind their back without pain. However, like any muscle in the body, injuries can occur in the upper arms and lead to the development of trigger points along the upper arm muscles affecting the coracobrachialis muscle.

How Trigger Points Affect The Upper Arm Muscles?

When the upper arm and the coracobrachialis muscle suffer from pain, tiny nodules along the muscle fiber bands known as trigger points can cause referred pain to the upper arms. Now trigger points are tricky to diagnose due to mimicking overlapping conditions affecting the upper arms. Studies reveal that non-specific arm pain could potentially be one of the causes that trigger points mimic due to strenuous physical activities or work-related activities that can overuse the upper arm muscles.

Studies reveal that individuals with idiopathic arm pain deal with high variable upper-extremity dysfunction, which could play a factor in pain-like symptoms along the surrounding muscles of the arms and shoulders. Many people often experience pain when reaching behind their back for the coracobrachialis affected by trigger points. Since the coracobrachialis works with the surrounding muscles in the shoulders and upper arms, trigger points associated with the coracobrachialis correspond to those muscles causing overlapping risk profiles. Trigger points affecting the coracobrachialis muscle can also mimic nerve entrapment since the coracobrachialis helps the bicep muscles when flexing. Pain associated with trigger points could potentially irritate the surrounding nerves in the muscle fibers, which causes radiating pain along the arms.

Treating The Coracobrachialis Muscle-Video

Musculotaneous Nerve Entrapment - Treating Coracobrachialis

Does your arm feel stiff when trying to reach behind your back? Do your shoulders ache for no apparent reason? Or have you experienced sharp, shooting pain down your arm? Many people experience pain along their shoulders and arms, affecting their mobility to hold and carry items. They deal with overlapping symptoms associated with trigger points along the coracobrachialis muscle. Trigger points along the coracobrachialis muscle are developed when the upper arm muscles have been overused and irritate the surrounding nerves. This causes radiating referred pain down the arms and can affect a person’s ability to hold items. Thankfully there are ways to manage trigger points along the coracobrachialis and its surrounding muscles. The video above demonstrates a massage technique that works along the coracobrachialis muscle to release nerve entrapment and manage trigger points along the surrounding muscles.

Ways To Manage Trigger Points Affecting The Coracobrachialis

There are various techniques that many specialists, like chiropractors, massage therapists, and physiotherapists, can use to identify and manage trigger points in the body. Since trigger points are tricky to diagnose due to causing referred pain along the surrounding muscles, treatments like stretching, massages, acupuncture, and chiropractic adjustments can help alleviate the pain and reduce future trigger points from forming. Studies reveal that pain specialists could manage trigger points associated with shoulder pain along the coracobrachialis through treatments of manual compression and other various techniques. Once treatments have been incorporated to relieve trigger point pain along the affected muscle, many people can further prevent the symptoms from returning by not lifting or carrying heavy objects and not forcing their coracobrachialis to be a substitute for their bicep muscles.

Conclusion

The coracobrachialis is a short muscle that works with the bicep muscle and helps with mobility and motor functions for the arms and shoulders. This muscle allows the arms to move forward and can be placed in the back without pain. When muscle injuries affect the surrounding muscles that work with the coracobrachialis, it can develop trigger points associated with pain along the upper arms. When this happens, it can lead to symptoms of stiffness, pain, and tenderness in the upper arms, causing mobility issues. Pain specialists for trigger points can utilize various treatments to relieve the pain and reduce the effects that trigger points cause on the affected muscle. This allows the upper arms to gain mobility back and the host to do various activities without feeling pain.

References

Bron, Carel, et al. “Treatment of Myofascial Trigger Points in Patients with Chronic Shoulder Pain: A Randomized, Controlled Trial.” BMC Medicine, BioMed Central, 24 Jan. 2011, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3039607/.

Georgiev, Georgi P, et al. “Coracobrachialis Longus Muscle: Humeroepitrochlearis.” Cureus, Cureus, 13 May 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6044495/.

Moradi, Ali, et al. “Nonspecific Arm Pain.” The Archives of Bone and Joint Surgery, Archives of Bone and Joint Surgery Co., Dec. 2013, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4151410/.

Ring, David, et al. “Idiopathic Arm Pain.” The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. American Volume, U.S. National Library of Medicine, July 2004, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15252084/.

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Tendons and Ligaments Injuries Chiropractic Sciatica Clinic

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Male doctor shows model of human artificial knee joint in medical office

Tendons and Ligaments: A tendon is a fibrous flexible, strong tissue similar to a rope that attaches the muscles to the bones. Tendons allow for the movement of the body’s limbs and help prevent muscle injury by absorbing muscles’ impact when running, jumping, or performing other actions. Ligaments are bands of solid elastic tissue that connect bone to bone, hold structures together and keep them stable, support the joints and limit their movement.

Table of Contents

Tendons and Ligaments

Tendons are strong and non-flexible.
Ligaments are flexible and elastic.
Both comprise collagen and living cells, essential in joints and bones and integral to locomotion.
Tendons allow body movement by transmitting force from muscle to bone, allowing the body to stand, walk, and jump.
Ligaments work by allowing for the full range of motion.
Ligaments are around the knees, ankles, elbows, shoulders, and other joints.

Connective Tissue

The collagen connective tissue that makes up tendons and ligaments is the same; their patterns are different.
Tendon fibers are laid out in a parallel pattern.
Tendon connective tissue needs to have more elasticity to help move the muscles.
Ligament fibers are laid out in a crisscross pattern.
Ligament connective tissue stabilizes and strengthens the bones’ joint structure.

Tendon Injury

A tendon that gets overstretched or torn is known as a strain. Common areas affected by strains are the:

Leg
Foot
Back

Strains often result from repetitive work movements, intense physical activity, and sports. Individuals who overuse their bodies without proper rest and muscle repair recovery have an increased risk of injury. Symptoms include:

Inflammation
Swelling
Pain
Cramping
Weakness

Ligament Injury

A ligament that gets overstretched or torn results in a sprain. Sprains can happen suddenly from a fall, awkward movement, or trauma. Sprains commonly occur in the:

Ankle
Knee
Wrist

Examples include:

Misstep causing the ankle to twist in an awkward position, snapping a ligament and causing unstableness or wobbliness.
There could be a popping sensation or the feeling of a tear when the injury occurs.
Wrist sprains often happen when reaching out and extending the hands to break a fall, and the wrist hyperextending back.
The hyperextension overstretches the ligament.

Symptoms of a sprained ligament include:

Inflammation
Swelling
Bruising
Pain
The joint may feel loose or weak and unable to take on weight.

The intensity of symptoms varies depending on whether the ligament is overextended or torn. Sprains are classified by grade:

Grade 1 – a mild sprain with slight stretching of the ligament.
Grade 2 – a moderate ligament tear, but not a complete tear.
Grade 3 – a complete ligament tear, making the joint unstable.

Chiropractic Care

Tendons and ligaments do not receive full blood circulation like other soft tissues. Depending on the severity of the injury, and the slower transfer of oxygen and nutrients, ligament and tendon injuries can take six to twelve weeks to heal, and repeatedly stressing the injured area from overuse can extend recovery. Chiropractic adjustments, and massage therapy, combined with corrective exercises and stretches, will reduce inflammation, decrease pain, improve the range of motion, increase nerve and muscle function, and strengthen the muscles. Chiropractic treatment involves:

Soft tissue work
Percussive massage
Cross friction massage
Deep tissue massage
Trigger point therapy
Rest
Ice
Compression
Elevation
Ultrasound
Anti-inflammatory nutritional recommendations

Knee Injuries Adjustment

References

Childress, Marc A, and Anthony Beutler. “Management of chronic tendon injuries.” American family physician vol. 87,7 (2013): 486-90.

Fenwick, Steven A et al. “The vasculature and its role in the damaged and healing tendon.” Arthritis research vol. 4,4 (2002): 252-60. doi:10.1186/ar416

Leong, Natalie L et al. “Tendon and Ligament Healing and Current Approaches to Tendon and Ligament Regeneration.” Journal of orthopedic research: official publication of the Orthopaedic Research Society vol. 38,1 (2020): 7-12. doi:10.1002/jor.24475

orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/sprains-strains-and-other-soft-tissue-injuries

Scalcione, Luke R et al. “The athlete’s hand: ligament and tendon injury.” Seminars in musculoskeletal radiology vol. 16,4 (2012): 338-49. doi:10.1055/s-0032-1327007