Sacroiliac Dysfunction Causes More Than Back Issues

Table of Contents

Introduction

Maintaining healthy joints is crucial to preventing injuries from affecting the body. Incorporating physical activities, eating healthy foods, staying hydrated, and getting a routine check-up are ways to ensure that the body is functional, including the joints. The joints in the body act like shock absorbers that soften the impact of any injuries that the body has sustained. However, as the body ages, so do the joints, causing them to become hardened and cause problems in the body. In today’s article, we will look at sacroiliac dysfunction, what issues it affects besides back pain, and how chiropractic care manages sacroiliac dysfunction. We refer patients to certified providers specializing in musculoskeletal therapies to help those with sacroiliac dysfunction. We also guide our patients by referring to our associated medical providers based on their examination when it’s appropriate. We find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer

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What Is Sacroiliac Dysfunction?

Are you experiencing pain in the pelvis? Do your hips seem tighter than usual? Do you feel muscle stiffness when you twist from side to side? Some of these issues are signs that you might be experiencing sacroiliac dysfunction. Around the pelvic region lies the sacroiliac joint, a weight-bearing solid joint connecting the pelvis to the sacrum. It is surrounded by tough ligaments that support the body as it distributes the weight from the upper body to the lower body. However, like all the other joints in the body, any injury or condition can cause this joint to be unstable and succumb to the pain, causing sacroiliac dysfunction. Sacroiliac dysfunction or sacroiliac joint pain is defined as one of the potential causes of axial low back pain. When there are issues affecting the sacroiliac joints, it’s associated with about a quarter of most low back pain cases. This is due to the problems that overlap with pain associated with the low back. Studies reveal that dysfunction in the sacroiliac joint can relate to leg or back pain, making diagnosing the problem difficult. Back pain associated with sacroiliac dysfunction causes the pelvis to be hypermobile, causing the risk of developing radiating groin pain. Leg pain associated with sacroiliac dysfunction causes muscle tension and stiffness to the low back, legs, or buttock region, mimicking sciatica-like symptoms.

What Other Issues Does It Affect?

Many individuals may not realize that when they are experiencing sacroiliac dysfunction, symptoms show that they overlap with lumbar spine pathologies. However, sacroiliac dysfunction can also affect the pelvic region of the body. Studies reveal that when the muscles around the body’s pelvic area become inflamed or irritated, it can cause stiffness in the sacroiliac joints, thus developing the risk of pelvic pain. Pelvic pain is usually defined as non-menstrual pain that causes functional disability to the lower extremities. Around the pelvic region, the lower sacral nerves provide extensive neurologic connections to the structures throughout the pelvic area that maintain normal pelvic organ function. When issues like sacroiliac dysfunction become the risk of pelvic pain, it may potentially involve pelvic symptoms like constipation. Studies reveal that constipation is significantly associated with a high prevalence of pelvic organ prolapse and low urinary tract symptoms. Other issues that sacroiliac dysfunction correlates with are:

Ankylosing spondylitis
Rheumatoid arthritis
Inflammatory issues
Hip pain
Pelvic pain
Low back pain
Piriformis syndrome

An Overview Of Sacroiliac Joint Pain- Video

Are you experiencing radiating from your lower back down to your leg? How about stiffness in your hips? Are you feeling constipated or have a sense of fullness in your bladder? You may suffer from sacroiliac dysfunction in your pelvic region if you notice these symptoms. The video above explains how to understand sacroiliac joint pain. The sacroiliac joint connects the pelvis and sacrum, surrounded by tough ligaments and muscles that help support the body by distributing weight from the upper body to the lower body. When issues affect the sacroiliac joints can overlap other risk profiles like low back pain, leg pain, and pelvic pain. This can make diagnosing sacroiliac dysfunction difficult because the symptoms are similar to other issues. For example, hip pain is associated with piriformis syndrome while potentially being involved with sciatica. How would hip pain be correlated with piriformis syndrome? The piriformis muscle can become overused and injured and can entrap the sciatic nerve (which runs from the lumbar spine, through the hips, and down to the leg), causing radiating, throbbing pain. Other times referred pain in the low back can affect different areas in the body due to sacroiliac dysfunction. Luckily, there are treatments available to manage sacroiliac dysfunction.

How Chiropractic Care Manages Sacroiliac Dysfunction

When issues of sacroiliac dysfunction become associated with leg or back pain, physicians often misdiagnose it as a soft tissue issue rather than a joint issue. Many doctors might rule out various medical conditions before including sacroiliac dysfunction as part of the diagnosis. Some treatments like massage therapy can help loosen up the tight muscles surrounding the joints relieving the pain and discomfort. At the same time, chiropractic care utilizes spinal manipulation and mobilization to the affected spinal area. Since the sacroiliac joint is an essential part of the musculoskeletal system, chiropractors specialize in this area. Through practical, non-invasive methods, chiropractic care has proven to not only relieve pain in the spine but can also help rehabilitate the spine. Chiropractors are specially trained to guide the individual through several phases of care that help loosen the stiff muscles and strengthen the joints. Chiropractic care will help decrease the pain from returning to the body and let the individual return to their health and wellness journey.

Conclusion

Maintaining healthy joints is crucial to prevent injuries from affecting the body. The sacroiliac joints are part of the musculoskeletal system that connects the pelvic bone to the sacrum. This joint is surrounded by tough ligaments and muscles that support the upper and lower half of the body through weight distribution. When the sacroiliac joint becomes unstable, it can succumb to pain, thus becoming sacroiliac dysfunction. Sacroiliac dysfunction sometimes mimics low back and leg pain, making it difficult to diagnose. Co-morbidities like pelvic pain correlate to sacroiliac dysfunction, causing somato-visceral pain in different body areas. Treatments like chiropractic care can help strengthen the stiff muscles and joints in the body through spinal manipulation and mobilization in practical, non-invasive treatment. Chiropractic care can help rehabilitate the spine while decreasing the pain from returning to the body.

References

Jonely, Holly, et al. “Chronic Sacroiliac Joint and Pelvic Girdle Dysfunction in a 35-Year-Old Nulliparous Woman Successfully Managed with Multimodal and Multidisciplinary Approach.” The Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy, Maney Publishing, Feb. 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4459139/.

Raj, Marc A, et al. “Sacroiliac Joint Pain.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 12 Feb. 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470299/.

Singh, Prashant, et al. “Pelvic Floor Symptom Related Distress in Chronic Constipation Correlates with a Diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation and Constipation Severity but Not Pelvic Floor Dyssynergia.” Journal of Neurogastroenterology and Motility, Korean Society of Neurogastroenterology and Motility, 31 Jan. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6326213/.

Yeomans, Steven. “Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction (SI Joint Pain).” Spine, Spine-Health, 7 Feb. 2018, www.spine-health.com/conditions/sacroiliac-joint-dysfunction/sacroiliac-joint-dysfunction-si-joint-pain.

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Hydrating Foods, Body Heat, and Health

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Different summer fruits and berries — Summer fruits and berries. Watermelon, strawberry, raspberry, cherry and apricots

Medical experts advise that maintaining body hydration is one of the most important things to do in extreme heat. Individuals out in the heat lose electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and chloride and need added electrolytes to prevent cramping and excessive sweating that can strain the body. Dehydration can be dangerous, leading to heat exhaustion and possible heat stroke. If gulping water all day seems like a lot, remember that not all hydration must come from drinking water; there are hydrating foods that contain enough water that can be incorporated.

Table of Contents

H2O

The body needs H20 to:

Deliver nutrients to the cells
Regulate body temperature
Prevent infection
Lubricate the joints
Maintain organ function
Help with mood
Help with Sleep
Help with Cognition

Electrolytes

Sweating is vital for maintaining body temperature, and electrolytes are essential in maintaining the body’s homeostasis. Electrolytes help coordinate muscle contractions, heart function, and the conductivity of electric signals transmitting to and from the nervous system. The kidneys regulate fluid absorption and excretion to maintain electrolyte balance, but an imbalance can occur when electrolyte levels spike or drop. An electrolyte imbalance is caused by a change in the number of electrolytes in the body. Sodium, potassium, and calcium are the common elements most likely to be affected by an electrolyte imbalance. Other reasons why electrolyte levels can change include:

Unhealthy diet
Medications
Kidney problems

It is recommended that instead of focusing on how many glasses of water have been drunk, concentrate on two biomarkers:

How often do you urinate?
What color is the urine?

When the body is thoroughly hydrated, an individual should go to the bathroom every two to three hours, and the urine should be a pale yellow. If it looks orange, it indicates that the body is trying to conserve water and needs further hydration.

Hydrating Foods

Consulting a doctor or nutritionist is recommended to help determine what foods are safe for the individual if there are underlying conditions or other health concerns. Here are a few hydrating foods that contain at least 80 percent water that can be eaten throughout the hot day to maintain body hydration.

Apples

Best known for their fiber content (up to 5 grams), they are also more than 80 percent water.
A quick crunchy snack with potassium, vitamin B6, C, and magnesium.

Watermelon

These can be up to 92 percent water.
Contain vitamin A, B6, and C, plus lycopene and antioxidants.
Watermelon can be cubed by itself or with feta cheese, olive oil, salt, pepper, and basil for a sweet-savory salad.

Peaches

These can contain up to 88 percent water, fiber, protein, and vitamin C.
Peaches can be added to salsas or incorporated into a salad.

Carrots

Carrots are around 90 percent water.
Rich in beta carotene, which the body uses to make vitamin A.
Vitamin A helps the eyes convert light into a signal sent to the brain, allowing for better sight in dim to dark light.
Vitamin K
Potassium
Fiber

Cucumbers

Cucumbers have more than 96 percent water.
They also contain potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, and some calcium.
They contain nutrients known as cucurbitacins, which can have an anti-diabetic effect.
Fisetin is an anti-inflammatory substance that helps brain health.

Potatoes

The waxy variety contains more water, as much as 80 percent.
They contain potassium, vitamin C, fiber, and minerals.
Have them baked or roasted with skins to keep as much potassium as possible.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are almost 95 percent water.
They contain cancer-fighting carotenoid lycopene, vitamin A and C, and potassium.
Sliced onto sandwiches, sauteed into pasta, or blended into a gazpacho.

Cantaloupe

90 percent water.
Contains beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamin C.
It can be eaten by itself, chopped into salads or smoothies.

Plain yogurt

One cup of plain yogurt is around 88 percent water.
It contains protein, gut probiotics, calcium, zinc, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus.
Top with some berries for extra hydration.

These are a few hydrating foods that can help with the intense heat. Others include zucchini, iceberg lettuce, strawberries, blueberries, celery, broccoli, and cauliflower. Healthy H2O levels benefits include:

Decreased appetite.
Improved physical performance during exercise.
Increased energy levels.
Optimal brain function.

What Are The Most Hydrating Foods?

References

Bergeron, Michael F. “Hydration and thermal strain during tennis in the heat.” British journal of sports medicine vol. 48 Suppl 1, Suppl 1 (2014): i12-7. doi:10.1136/bjsports-2013-093256

Gauer, Robert, and Bryce K Meyers. “Heat-Related Illnesses.” American family physician vol. 99,8 (2019): 482-489.

Karppanen, H et al. “Why and how to implement sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium changes in food items and diets?.” Journal of human hypertension vol. 19 Suppl 3 (2005): S10-9. doi:10.1038/sj.jhh.1001955

Schiefermeier-Mach, Natalia, et al. “Electrolyte Intake and Major Food Sources of Sodium, Potassium, Calcium, and Magnesium among a Population in Western Austria.” Nutrients vol. 12,7 1956. 30 Jun. 2020, doi:10.3390/nu12071956

Strimbu, Kyle, and Jorge A Tavel. “What are biomarkers?.” Current opinion in HIV and AIDS vol. 5,6 (2010): 463-6. doi:10.1097/COH.0b013e32833ed177

Piriformis Syndrome May Cause More Than Hip Pain

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Table of Contents

Introduction

The muscles in our body help us be active when we want to be, rest and repair after activities, and continue to provide everyday movements that help keep the body functioning correctly. For athletes and the general population, physical training and eating healthy foods help deliver fuel to not only the internal organs but also help support the muscles, ligaments, and skeletal joints from injuries. As many individuals start to think about their health and wellness, many factors tend to pop up that can cause them to halt their health and wellness journey. Issues like stress, accidents, traumatic events, and lifestyle habits can affect the body and, over time, can become the risk of developing into chronic problems. An example would be where a person is experiencing hip pain associated with piriformis syndrome. Today’s article looks at piriformis syndrome, how it can cause more than hip pain, and how there are available treatments for piriformis syndrome. We refer patients to certified providers specializing in musculoskeletal therapies to help those with piriformis syndrome. We also guide our patients by referring to our associated medical providers based on their examination when it’s appropriate. We find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer

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What Is Piriformis Syndrome?

Have you been experiencing pain radiating from the buttock down to your legs? Does it hurt when you are sitting down? Or are you feeling tingling sensations and numbness on your butt and thighs? Some of these symptoms might be signs that you might be experiencing piriformis syndrome. Research studies have defined piriformis syndrome as a clinical condition where everyday stress affecting the body causes the piriformis muscle (the small muscle deep in the buttock region) to become tight and irritates the sciatic nerve. When that sciatic nerve becomes aggravated, it can become the risk of developing into sciatica. Many individuals don’t realize that the sciatic nerve also gets affected when their piriformis muscles in the buttock region become overused and tight through strenuous activities. This is due to the belief that any unusual traumatic abnormality in the piriformis muscle will be associated with sciatica symptoms. However, when a person is experiencing buttock pain that travels down the leg caused by the affected piriformis muscle, many will rule out some of the more common causes of sciatica like nerve root impingement triggered by disc herniation.

Surprisingly, three primary causing factors can be associated with piriformis syndrome. The first causing factor is myofascial trigger points may be the results of referred pain (pain or discomfort from another body location). The second causing factor is nerve entrapment against the greater sciatic foramen passing through the various piriformis muscles. And finally, the third causing factor is sacroiliac joint dysfunction due to piriformis muscle spasm. Studies reveal that the piriformis muscle helps stabilize the sacroiliac joint; when the small muscle starts to become irritated, it causes pain in the buttock region. But how does sacroiliac dysfunction relates to piriformis syndrome? Well, since low back pain is associated with sacroiliac dysfunction, the pain will often radiate down to the knee and the groin muscles while becoming a risk of developing piriformis syndrome.

Piriformis Syndrome Causes More Than Hip Pain?

Due to its broad size in the greater sciatic foramen, the piriformis muscle can become overused and tight, thus becoming piriformis syndrome. Piriformis syndrome can also become a risk to the numerous vessels and nerves that exit out in the pelvis region and may become compressed, causing more than just hip pain. Studies reveal that piriformis syndrome may be masquerading as ischiofemoral impingement triggering extra-articular hip pain by entrapping the quadratus femoris muscle causing groin pain. Another cause that piriformis syndrome is associated with is chronic pelvic pain. How does chronic pelvic pain correlate with piriformis syndrome? Chronic pelvic pain is a non-cyclic pain localized in the pelvis, potentially involving the surrounding muscles like the piriformis muscle supporting the irritated hip joint and pelvis region. Piriformis syndrome could also be an overlapping condition risk of developing other health issues like fibromyalgia in many people. Some conditions have common symptoms associated with piriformis syndrome, including:

Tingling sensations
Numbness
Muscle tenderness
Pain while sitting
Discomfort while exercising

The Difference Between Sciatica & Piriformis Syndrome-Video

Piriformis Syndrome Or True Sciatica - Everything You Need To Know - Dr. Nabil Ebraheim

Have you found it challenging to be comfortable while sitting down doing leisure activities? How about radiating pain that travels down your leg? Or do your hips feel tight and stiff? Experiencing these symptoms means that you might suffer from piriformis syndrome. The video above explains the difference between piriformis syndrome and sciatica. Studies reveal that piriformis syndrome is classically defined as sciatic pain; however, it is not sciatica. Sciatica is caused by compressed sciatic nerve due to herniated disc in the lumbar spine. In contrast, piriformis syndrome is caused when a traumatic injury or an underlying condition causes the piriformis muscle to spasm and aggravate the sciatic nerve. Various factors like prolonged sitting, repetitive movements that involve the legs, and even extensive stair climbing can cause the piriformis muscle to be easily damaged or injured, causing piriformis syndrome. Fortunately, there are ways to alleviate sciatic nerve pain and improve piriformis syndrome.

Treatments Available For Piriformis Syndrome

Many treatments are accessible to manage the pain and discomfort caused by piriformis syndrome for suffering individuals. Some people take over-the-counter medicine to decrease the pain, while others utilize a hot/cold pack on the affected area to relieve discomfort. The symptoms associated with piriformis syndrome usually go away without any additional treatment; however, if the pain or discomfort is still there, many people might benefit from alternative options for treatment, like chiropractic care, physical therapy, or even spinal decompression. Whether it is through gentle stretching, spinal manipulation, or decompression, these treatments are for anyone dealing with piriformis syndrome and its associated symptoms. Physical therapy can help decrease the painful symptoms associated with piriformis syndrome through gentle stretches that help return a person’s range of motion. Chiropractic care incorporates spinal adjustments and manual manipulations to treat various injuries or conditions. Spinal decompression uses traction to gently pull on the spine to release the aggravated nerve from causing pain. The relief can gradually restore a person’s natural health while managing its associated symptoms with various treatments available for individuals with piriformis syndrome.

Conclusion

Piriformis syndrome is a condition where everyday stress affects the piriformis muscle in the buttock region to become irritated and tight while aggravating the sciatic nerve. Many think traumatic abnormalities affecting their piriformis muscle will be associated with sciatica symptoms. However, sciatica is due to nerve root compression triggered by disc herniation. Piriformis syndrome is where that small muscle is overused from various factors that cause more than hip and butt pain. Some overlapping conditions associated with piriformis syndrome can become mediators for groin and pelvic pain. Fortunately, chiropractic care, physical therapy, and decompression can help restore the body gradually by managing piriformis syndrome and its associated symptoms.

References

Hicks, Brandon L., et al. “Piriformis Syndrome.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 21 Apr. 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448172/.

Newman, David P, and Liang Zhou. “Piriformis Syndrome Masquerading as an Ischiofemoral Impingement.” Cureus, Cureus, 16 Sept. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8520408/.

Professionals, Northwest Medical. “Piriformis Syndrome/Sacroiliac Dysfunction.” Northwest Medical Center, 2021, nw-mc.com/piriformis-syndromesacroiliac-dysfunction/.

Ro, Tae Hoon, and Lance Edmonds. “Diagnosis and Management of Piriformis Syndrome: A Rare Anatomic Variant Analyzed by Magnetic Resonance Imaging.” Journal of Clinical Imaging Science, Medknow Publications & Media Pvt Ltd, 21 Feb. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5843966/.

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Rib Misalignment Pain Chiropractic

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Close up of backbone of an anatomical human skeleton standing in empty hospital office with nobody in it during medical consultation. Examination room equipped with professional instrument. Back shot

The ribs are designed to protect the lungs and heart and assist breathing. Twenty-four ribs start at the shoulders in the thoracic spine region and run down the mid-back covering the front, back, and side of the chest. Almost all ribs are attached in two places, including the spine in the back and the sternum in the front of the chest, by cartilage joints. Trauma, poor posture, intense coughing, sneezing, and heaving are a few factors that can cause mechanical rib dysfunction or rib misalignment.

Rib dysfunction and misalignment are typically caused by unhealthy postures like slumped back and rounded shoulders, weakened posterior muscles, and repetitive stress from work, sports, and intense physical activity. Any ribs can become misaligned, causing dysfunction and stress on the body. A chiropractor can adjust and reset the rib as they do for misaligned and compressed spinal joints.

Table of Contents

Rib Cage Design

The ribcage is flexible and expands when inhaling. Each rib is attached to the spine by three joints in the back and the breastbone in the front. Breathing is an involuntary reflex that is impossible to avoid movement in these joints. The joints are small but allow flexing, so the ribs rise and fall with each breath. These rib joints can become inflamed from rib misalignment causing movement problems that can restrict breathing.

Rib Misalignment

Rib misalignment symptoms can include:

Difficulty breathing.
Difficulty when trying to sit up.
Dull, achy, deep pain next to the spine or under the shoulder blade.
Unexplained back pain.
Pain when moving or walking.
Painful sneezing and/or coughing.
Tenderness and pain in the front of the chest.
The formation of a lump over the affected rib.
Swelling and/or bruising in the region.
Numbness in nearby or surrounding ribs.
Radiating pain from the back to the front and vice versa.
Improvement when pressure is applied to the affected rib.

Rib Dysfunction

Up to 50% of emergency room visits for chest pain symptoms result from non-cardiac factors, with the majority being rib misalignment and the muscles and joints around the rib cage becoming irritated/inflamed.

Causes

There can be several reasons for a misaligned rib. The more common causes include:

Unhealthy Postures

Unhealthy postures stress the body that can place pressure on the posterior portion of the ribcage.
With time, the ribs can start to shift out of alignment.

Physical Activity, Exercise, and Sports

Working out intensely can cause the ribs to shift out of position.
Weight lifting improperly can cause the body to shift along with the muscles involved not being strong enough to handle the added weight and movement, causing rib misalignment.

Pregnancy

As a woman’s body changes, the weight shifts to the front.
This can create a downward pull on the rib cage, increasing misalignment risk.

Intense Coughing or Sneezing

Excessive or severe coughing, associated with asthma, bronchitis, or pneumonia, can significantly strain the ribcage.
Coughing from a common cold can generate stress to cause a rib to dislocate.
Sneezing hard can also cause a rib to shift out of place.
Illnesses associated with constant coughing and sneezing can increase an individual’s susceptibility to rib misalignment because of the weakened state of the muscles.

Intense Vomiting

Vomiting intensely or heaving can cause the condition.
Vomiting does not necessarily involve the lungs, but the convulsive action can cause a rib shift/pop out.

Chiropractic Treatment

Chiropractic can diagnose and treat rib misalignment/dysfunction by using various stretching or massage techniques to loosen the area, making the muscles more flexible, then applying firm pressure to realign the rib back. The treatment plan will include specific stretches, postural exercises, diet, and other recommendations to prevent rib problems.

Spinal Decompression In 90 Seconds

References

Flodine TE, Thomas M. Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment: Inhaled Rib Dysfunction. [Updated 2021 Aug 15]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. Available from: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560751/

Jawed, Muzamil. and Bruno Bordoni. “Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment: Muscle Energy Procedure – Exhaled Ribs.” StatPearls, StatPearls Publishing, 19 February 2022.

Rib somatic dysfunction (417242001); Costal somatic dysfunction (417242001); Somatic dysfunction of rib (417242001) www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/medgen/736159

Vemuri, Adithi. and Kiyomi K. Goto. “Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment: Counterstrain/FPR Procedure – Thoracic Vertebrae.” StatPearls, StatPearls Publishing, 15 November 2021.

Fibromyalgia Could Cause Something More In The Body

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Table of Contents

Introduction

Everyone has dealt with acute or chronic pain at some point in their lives. The body’s response tells many of us where the pain is located and can leave the body sore as the immune system begins to heal the affected area. When disorders like autoimmune diseases start to attack the body for no reason, then that is when chronic issues and disorders begin to overlap in risk profiles on other various problems that affect both the muscles and organs. Autoimmune diseases like fibromyalgia can affect a person’s body; however, they could be associated with different issues affecting the body. Today’s article looks at fibromyalgia, how it affects the musculoskeletal system, and how chiropractic care helps manage fibromyalgia in the body. We refer patients to certified providers specializing in musculoskeletal treatments to help those with fibromyalgia. We also guide our patients by referring to our associated medical providers based on their examination when it’s appropriate. We find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer

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What Is Fibromyalgia?

Have you experienced excruciating pain that is spread all over your body? Do you have trouble sleeping and feel exhausted every day? Do you experience brain fog or other cognitive disturbances? Many of these issues are signs and conditions of fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia is defined as a chronic condition that is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain. Symptoms like fatigue, cognitive disturbances, and multiple somatic symptoms often overlap and accompany this disorder. Around two to eight percent of the world population suffers from fibromyalgia, and it affects women more than men. Sadly though, fibromyalgia is a challenge to diagnose, and the pain can last several months to years. Some of the main symptoms that fibromyalgia does to the body include:

Muscle and joint stiffness
General sensitivity
Insomnia
Cognitive dysfunction
Mood disorders

Fibromyalgia could also potentially be associated with specific diseases like diabetes, lupus, rheumatic diseases, and musculoskeletal disorders.

How Does It Affect The Musculoskeletal System?

The musculoskeletal system in the body has three muscle groups: skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscles that provide different functions correlating how the body moves. Individuals with fibromyalgia will experience amplified painful sensations affecting their brain and spinal cord to process pain and nonpainful signals potentially associated with musculoskeletal disorders. The neural structures from the brain become hyper-reactive to any soft tissues close to the spine, known as segmental facilitation. These changes that occur to the soft tissues are called trigger points, and if situated in the muscles, they are referred to as “myofascial” trigger points. Studies reveal that the pathophysiology of musculoskeletal dysfunction can be considered secondary to central abnormalities of pain modulation associated with fibromyalgia.

An Overview Of Fibromyalgia-Video

Fibromyalgia | Symptoms, Associated Conditions, Diagnosis, Treatment

Have you been experiencing excruciating pain in different areas of your body? Have you been constantly tired throughout the entire day? Or has your mood been dampened all of a sudden? These are the signs that you have fibromyalgia, and the video above gives an overview of what fibromyalgia is. Fibromyalgia is defined as a chronic disorder that is difficult to diagnose. Studies reveal that fibromyalgia is possible to be described as a cognitive disorder that triggers painful amplifications and sensory nociceptors that become hypersensitive. So what does this mean, and how is the nervous system affected by fibromyalgia? The nervous system has the central and peripheral systems. The peripheral system has a component known as the autonomic nervous system that regulates involuntary bodily functions. The autonomic system consists of two subsystems: the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems. For individuals with fibromyalgia, the sympathetic nervous system, which provides the “fight or flight” response, is constantly active, causing the parasympathetic nervous system, which provides the “rest and digest” response, to be inactive in the body. The good news is that individuals with fibromyalgia and its associated symptoms can find relief through treatment.

Chiropractic Care & Fibromyalgia

Even though there hasn’t been a cure for fibromyalgia yet, treatments are available to manage and improve the symptoms associated with fibromyalgia with chiropractic care. Chiropractic care can help relieve fibromyalgia pain by carefully correcting spinal misalignments or subluxations through spinal adjustments and manual manipulations of the body. Studies reveal that the effectiveness of chiropractic care for fibromyalgia patients helps improve their range of motion to the cervical and lumbar areas of the spine. Chiropractic care can help improve their flexibility, decrease their pain levels, and have better sleep quality. People diagnosed with fibromyalgia need to understand that many options for pain management don’t rely on medicines. Chiropractic care is gentle and non-invasive. It can be helpful for individuals that want to take control of their circumstances and have chiropractic therapy as a vital part of managing their well-being.

Conclusion

Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder that affects the musculoskeletal system by causing stiffness in the muscles and joints, general sensitivity, and other chronic issues associated with this disorder. Individuals with fibromyalgia will describe their pain as unbearable due to the nerves in the sympathetic system being hyperactive and tender to the touch. Fortunately, treatments like chiropractic care can help relieve fibromyalgia pain through spinal adjustments and manual manipulations. Chiropractic care for individuals with fibromyalgia can help improve their range of motion and flexibility and decrease their pain levels without using medicines. Incorporating chiropractic care as a treatment for fibromyalgia can be vital in managing a person’s well-being.

References

Bhargava, Juhi, and John A Hurley. “Fibromyalgia – Statpearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 1 May 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK540974/.

Blunt, K L, et al. “The Effectiveness of Chiropractic Management of Fibromyalgia Patients: A Pilot Study.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 1997, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9272472/.

Geel, S E. “The Fibromyalgia Syndrome: Musculoskeletal Pathophysiology.” Seminars in Arthritis and Rheumatism, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Apr. 1994, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8036524/.

Maugars, Yves, et al. “Fibromyalgia and Associated Disorders: From Pain to Chronic Suffering, from Subjective Hypersensitivity to Hypersensitivity Syndrome.” Frontiers, Frontiers, 1 July 2021, www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmed.2021.666914/full.

Siracusa, Rosalba, et al. “Fibromyalgia: Pathogenesis, Mechanisms, Diagnosis and Treatment Options Update.” International Journal of Molecular Sciences, MDPI, 9 Apr. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8068842/.

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Diarrhea and Low Back Pain: Chiropractic Medical Care

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Experiencing low back pain and diarrhea can be a symptom of a viscerosomatic reflex, somatovisceral reflex, or a combination. A reflex is an involuntary response to nervous system stimulation. A doctor tapping below the knee causes the foot to kick forward is a basic example of a reflex. This is a somatovisceral or body organ reflex. Back pain could be from awkward posture, repetitive motions like bending or twisting, or injury that affects the spinal column. The effects could cause nerve compression and damage that can cause firing misinterpreted signals impacting/damaging internal organ function, causing pain and other symptoms.

However, the damage caused to the compressed/injured organ nerves can also cause back pain symptoms. This is a viscerosomatic or organ body reflex. One study found that a group of chiropractic patients dealing with low back pain also had increased bowel problems, even though there was no specific cause, link, or association between the two. Lower back pain and diarrhea may be completely unrelated, but if symptoms are recurring, there is an increased chance of an underlying medical issue.

Table of Contents

Chiropractic Medicine

Chiropractic medicine is founded on the nervous system’s control of the body’s organ systems, whose impulse signals travel through the spinal cord. Body systems include the muscles, bones, and all organs. Any problems with the spine and/or nerve changes from normal wear and tear, injury, or infection can affect signal transmissions that can alter system functions. Altered nerve conduction can impact overall health and is referred to as reflex pathways in the nervous system. A somatovisceral reflex is where the musculoskeletal system causes altered nerve conduction creating organ system dysfunction and/or illness. Diarrhea brought on by back pain is an example.

Causes Of Back Pain and Diarrhea

Appendicitis

The appendix extends from the colon in the lower right abdomen. Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix. The pain usually appears near the belly button and spreads to the right side of the stomach. Some individuals’ appendix extends behind the colon, which can also cause low back pain. Symptoms include:

Loss of appetite
Inability to relieve gas
Constipation
Abdominal pain – Moderate to severe
Diarrhea
Fever
Nausea
Vomiting

Appendicitis can be life-threatening and requires immediate treatment; if left untreated, the condition can worsen within hours, causing a rupture that can leak through the abdominal cavity.

Fecal impaction

Fecal impaction is stools that have become hard, dry, and stuck in the rectum and can cause abdominal and low back pressure and pain. It is commonly caused by chronic constipation, which can be associated with dehydration, lack of fiber, physical inactivity, medication side effects, or long-term use of laxatives. Taking laxatives for a long time can cause the intestines to shut off automatic evacuation of the bowels. Although the condition is common in older individuals, it can happen to individuals of any age who experience chronic constipation. Symptoms can include:

Bloating
Cramping
Bladder pressure
Bladder incontinence
Leakage or sudden diarrhea after long-term constipation.
Rectal bleeding

Enteropathic arthritis

Enteropathic arthritis is a chronic inflammatory arthritis associated with inflammatory bowel disease or IBD. Types include:

Ulcerative colitis
Crohn’s disease

Different arthritic diseases like ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis can cause symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain or be associated with developing inflammatory bowel disease. Varying symptoms depend on the bowel disease and arthritis type and include:

Fatigue
Cramping
Joint pain
Joint stiffness
Loss of appetite
Bloody diarrhea

Pancreatic Cancer

The symptoms of pancreatic cancer vary depending on the type, location, and cancer stage. Pancreatic cancers in the early stages usually don’t cause signs or symptoms. Possible symptoms can include:

Abdominal pain
Back pain
Poor appetite
Weight loss
Dark urine
Diarrhea
Nausea
Vomiting
Jaundice

Chiropractic is ideal for addressing reflex issues. A doctor of chiropractic adjusts the spine to improve alignment, joint motion, and nerve energy transmission, improving nerve circulation/signal flow, which can help with unrelated health conditions. A chiropractor will locate any areas of spinal misalignment; once identified, a personalized treatment plan will return the correct alignment to the spine, enabling the nervous system to return to optimal function.

Decompression Spinal Non-Surgical

References

www.arthritis.org/diseases/inflammatory-bowel-disease

www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pancreatitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20360227

www.thieme-connect.de/products/ejournals/abstract/10.1055/s-0032-1301760

Sengupta, Jyoti N. “Visceral pain: the neurophysiological mechanism.” Handbook of experimental pharmacology,194 (2009): 31-74. doi:10.1007/978-3-540-79090-7_2

Walden, Anna L et al. “Bladder and bowel symptoms among adults presenting with low back pain to an academic chiropractic clinic: results of a preliminary study.” Journal of chiropractic medicine vol. 13,3 (2014): 178-87. doi:10.1016/j.jcm.2014.07.006

Wood, Jackie D. “Neuropathophysiology of functional gastrointestinal disorders.” World journal of gastroenterology vol. 13,9 (2007): 1313-32. doi:10.3748/wjg.v13.i9.1313

Swimming Might Improve Your Musculoskeletal System

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Table of Contents

Introduction

When the weather becomes hot, and everyone begins to plan fun activities to enjoy, one of the many activities that come to mind is hanging out in the pool. Swimming is an excellent way to combat the summer heat, but it can provide much more for the body. For athletes, it provides another form of cardio exercise to improve their quality performance when they are competing. While for individuals looking for an affordable exercise regime or just some fun activity to do, swimming can become a form of therapy and be beneficial for them if they were previously injured. Today’s article looks at how swimming causes an impact on the musculoskeletal system, its beneficial properties to the heart, and how aqua therapy combined with chiropractic care helps optimize full-body health. We refer patients to certified providers specializing in musculoskeletal treatments and hydrotherapy to help those with musculoskeletal disorders. We also guide our patients by referring to our associated medical providers based on their examination when it’s appropriate. We find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer

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Swimming & Its Impact On The Musculoskeletal System

Water exercises or swimming can benefit those looking for different cardio exercises to build muscle endurance or have a clear sense of mind. Swimming is fantastic for all body sizes, and when it is done correctly, it can be highly recognized as a form of rehabilitation and injury recovery known as aquatic therapy. Research studies reveal that aquatic treatments and exercises can significantly reduce pain in individuals that suffer from low back pain while increasing physical function. Some of the impacts that swimming/aquatic therapy provides on the musculoskeletal system include:

Builds muscle strength
Improves endurance
Stabilizes joints
Improves poor posture

Swimming/ hydrotherapy is an excellent low-impact exercise that is easy on the back and spine, especially for individuals suffering from low back pain or spinal misalignments. Studies reveal that the efficacy of aquatic activities helps strengthen the abdominals and legs and stretch the back while managing musculoskeletal issues.

When individuals suffer from back pain associated with chronic issues can become concerning for the vital organs that have a causal relationship with the muscle as they are affected as well. When spinal joints and muscles begin to suffer from abnormal weight increases, the muscles and ligaments become misaligned. Misalignment or subluxation is defined as spinal vertebrates that are out of place and cause pressure on the surrounding nerves exiting the spinal cord. These spinal issues then become a risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders in the body. Unlike many aerobic exercises like running or cycling that may be hard on the spine, swimming has little to no impact on the spinal structures. So when individuals begin to take up swimming, they realize that the water buoyancy helps support their body weight while relieving stress on all joints and decompressing the spine. This gives the individual a greater range of motion, while the water gives off a sense of purification as it helps the body relax. Hence, hydrotherapy helps relax people who suffer from obesity or muscle injuries associated with muscle and joint pain as the water provides gentle resistance while relaxing the muscles to promote longer exercise sessions.

The Benefits Of Swimming For The Heart

Swimming or any form of water aerobics is not only beneficial to the musculoskeletal system but can help improve cardiac function in the heart and even the lungs. Studies reveal that swimming is an effective option for maintaining and enhancing cardiovascular fitness. Some of the benefits swimming provides for the cardiovascular system include:

Lowers blood pressure
Improve circulation
Reduces heart rate

But how does swimming improve cardiovascular function in the body? Individuals submerge themselves underwater; they hold their breath until the air is needed. Being submerged underwater may help lung capacity while gaining control of how a person breathes. Breathing exercises associated with aqua therapy help promote stronger lungs and heart while increasing their capacity for blood and airflow to the heart and lungs. Say, for example, a person is having trouble breathing due to restrictive blood and air flow associated with cardiopulmonary issues, which potentially be involved in experiencing an asthma attack associated with obesity.

The Benefits Of Swimming-Video

Have you wanted to try a different form of cardio exercise? Have you been experiencing a limited range of motion in your arms, shoulders, back, and neck? Do you feel tightness across your chest? The video above gives an overview explanation of the health benefits of swimming. Swimming or aquatic therapy allows the individual experiencing chronic pain issues to do cardio activities without increasing or worsening pain, which is very therapeutic for the body. Many people are either training for an athletic event or finding a leisure activity that will benefit them in the long run. Swimming is considered an important factor in a person’s quality of life as it helps them become motivated to make small changes to better their health. Additionally, regular cardiovascular exercises/activities like swimming benefit pain reduction in a therapeutic sense. When individuals are trying to figure out and determine the proper training or therapy that can help alleviate their specific ailments, their goal is to see how those exercises should be done in a certain amount of time without causing fatigue or increased pain as the primary objective.

Aqua Therapy & Chiropractic Care

When looking for the proper exercise regime or treatment for pain issues, it can be challenging to see what works and doesn’t. For those with musculoskeletal disorders related to chronic issues, aqua therapy and chiropractic care go hand in hand in alleviating pain. Aqua therapy exercises can range from simple routines in shallow waters to high-tech equipment like underwater treadmills for muscle conditioning. Active water therapy exercises that are diverse in relieving musculoskeletal pain should be tailored to the person and the specific conditions that are ailing them.

But how does chiropractic care work hand in hand with aqua therapy? Well, chiropractic care and exercise have a casual relationship when it comes to treating musculoskeletal disorders. Many individuals do suffer from spinal misalignment, which becomes a risk of developing musculoskeletal issues that cause discomfort. Since many individuals associate chiropractic care with back issues, the reality shows that chiropractic care not only helps with back issues but various issues that affect the muscles, joints, and organs related to each other. An example would be an individual with low back problems who cannot do any activities for long periods while triggering gut issues. This is defined as somato-visceral pain where affected muscles associated with internal organs trigger pain. So for a chiropractor to adjust an individual dealing with back pain associated with gut or heart issues can slowly restore the person’s natural alignment by reducing the irritated nerve roots between the vertebrae and strengthening the surrounding muscles and tissues. Afterward, a chiropractor may recommend exercises like aquatic therapy to speed up the rehabilitation process, as studies reveal that physical activities are perceived to have a positive impact on health while being associated with perceived symptom reductions in musculoskeletal and injuries, as well as cardiovascular and blood conditions. Once a chiropractic regimen and exercise routine are in place, injury prevention kicks in, keeping the individual moving pain-free.

Conclusion

Whether it is having fun in the sun or finding a new exercise, swimming is not only for just playing but can be therapeutic for individuals dealing with chronic issues. Any aquatic exercise provides little to no impact on the body as it helps strengthen the musculoskeletal and cardiovascular systems with gentle force. Combined with chiropractic care, many individuals that are dealing with musculoskeletal issues associated with chronic organ issues will begin to become motivated to better themselves in the long run.

References

Ariyoshi, Mamoru, et al. “Efficacy of Aquatic Exercises for Patients with Low-Back Pain.” The Kurume Medical Journal, Kurume University School of Medicine, 11 Aug. 2009, www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/kurumemedj1954/46/2/46_2_91/_article.

Lazar, Jason M, et al. “Swimming and the Heart.” International Journal of Cardiology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 18 Apr. 2013, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23602872/.

Massey, Heather, et al. “Perceived Impact of Outdoor Swimming on Health: Web-Based Survey.” Interactive Journal of Medical Research, JMIR Publications, 4 Jan. 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8767464/.

Shi, Zhongju, et al. “Aquatic Exercises in the Treatment of Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review of the Literature and Meta-Analysis of Eight Studies.” American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Feb. 2018, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28759476/.

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Connective Tissue Tightness and Pain: Chiropractic Care

Dr. Alex Jimenez

A female physiotherapist giving diathermy treatment on the patient's back.

Muscle tension happens when the muscles stay contracted after working, sports, exercise, and stress, presenting with stiffness and achiness that progresses to chronic myofascial pain. Myofascial is used to describe the connective tissues throughout the body. Myo refers to the muscles, and fascia refers to the body tissues. Myofascial pain syndrome describes muscle pain in various forms. Most individuals have experienced chronic muscle tension in muscle pain or tension headaches. Myofascial pain can vary, ranging from mild to severe. Chiropractic can provide treatment and post-prevention plans to eliminate the pain and strengthen the body.

Table of Contents

Connective Tissue

Myofascial pain syndrome is a complex condition that could be repetitive stress injuries on the muscles or nervous system malfunction and is often characterized by symptoms like:

Muscle tenderness, soreness, and aches.
Sensitive areas all over the body – trigger points.
Fatigue
Sleep problems

Each symptom is not a sign of the condition, but it could be myofascial pain syndrome when combined and does not resolve with some time. This chronic pain disorder is associated with referred pain that appears in one part of the body but the root cause in another region.

Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic medicine will get to the root of the problem with a thorough diagnosis. This will be done through physical examination, medical history, and symptom review. The chiropractor will perform a detailed exam of the affected muscles, including a range of motion test, strength test, and palpations of suspected trigger points to see how the muscles respond, twitch, and/or cause pain in a specific pattern or region. Sometimes blood tests are ordered to look for other causes, like vitamin D deficiency or hypothyroidism. Chiropractic can combine treatment therapies that include:

Massage therapy

Therapeutic massage will loosen the tight, knotted muscles and relieve cramping and/or spasms.

Physical Therapy

Includes stretching, postural, and strengthening exercises.

Medication

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications or NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen can help manage inflammation.

Injections

Pain medications are directly injected into the trigger points.

Chiropractic physicians work on the whole body and not just the hurting areas. Chiropractors are trained to incorporate treatment with primary care and specialists. Patients receive education in exercise programs, corrective exercises, nutritional recommendations, and health coaching.

Spine Decompression

References

American Chronic Pain Association. Resource Guide to Chronic Pain Management. (www.theacpa.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/ACPA_Resource_Guide_2018-Final_Feb.pdf) Accessed 4/17/2019.

Lavelle, Elizabeth Demers, et al. “Myofascial trigger points.” Anesthesiology clinics vol. 25,4 (2007): 841-51, vii-iii. doi:10.1016/j.anclin.2007.07.003

Stults-Kolehmainen, Matthew A et al. “Chronic psychological stress impairs recovery of muscular function and somatic sensations over a 96-hour period.” Journal of strength and conditioning research vol. 28,7 (2014): 2007-17. doi:10.1519/JSC.0000000000000335

Tantanatip A, Chang KV. Myofascial Pain Syndrome. [Updated 2021 Aug 14]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. Available from: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499882/

Vernon, Howard, and Michael Schneider. “Chiropractic management of myofascial trigger points and myofascial pain syndrome: a systematic review of the literature.” Journal of manipulative and physiological therapeutics vol. 32,1 (2009): 14-24. doi:10.1016/j.jmpt.2008.06.012

Ways To Improve Musculoskeletal System For Optimal Health

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Table of Contents

Introduction

Everyone wants to be healthier at some point in their lives. Some individuals train to be athletes and must follow procedures to maintain their health. In comparison, others want to get healthier by eating the right food, exercising for at least 30 minutes to an hour, meditating or doing yoga to relieve stress, and maintaining a healthy weight. However, many environmental factors do affect the human body. They can alter how a person looks, weight, levels of physical activity, and how different foods affect the body’s metabolism. When environmental factors start to take hold of a person’s health, it can trigger unwanted issues that affect not only the muscles in the body but the associated internal organs that help provide the functionality to the body. Today’s article focuses on the musculoskeletal system, how different issues affect the musculoskeletal system and associate with other problems in the body, and various treatments to improve musculoskeletal health. We refer patients to certified providers specializing in musculoskeletal therapies that help those with musculoskeletal disorders. We also guide our patients by referring to our associated medical providers based on their examination when it’s appropriate. We find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer

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The Musculoskeletal System & Its Function

How does the musculoskeletal system play its role in the human body? The body is considered a complex being that consists of various organs, muscles, tissues, ligaments, and joints that help move a person from one place to another, resting while needed, and doing multiple activities in a casual relationship. Studies reveal that the musculoskeletal system is controlled by the central nervous system that interconnects the motor-sensory function for the body’s ability to move and rest.

The three main muscle groups that make up the musculoskeletal system are:

Skeletal muscle- Muscle tendons that are connected to the bones
Cardiac muscle- Muscles associated with the heart
Smooth muscle- Muscles that line with blood vessels and specific organs (ex. intestines)

Each muscle group provides different functions that correlate to how the body moves. Skeletal muscles make the legs and arms move. Cardiac muscles help the heart pump blood to the various muscles, organs, and tissues. Smooth muscles help specific organs (intestines, stomach, and urinary tract) digest, collect nutrients, and eliminate toxins in the body.

Issues That Affect The Musculoskeletal System

These factors are related to different issues that can not only disrupt the musculoskeletal system but can be an overlap of profiles affecting the cardiovascular system, spinal health, and gut system. The different factors that are associated with the musculoskeletal system are:

Obesity
Lack of physical activity
Poor Posture
Inflammation
Unhealthy Diet

How would various factors implicate musculoskeletal issues while triggering different bodily problems? Well, let’s use obesity as an example. Obesity is associated with issues like back and joint pain as studies reveal that these musculoskeletal issues make up pain and disability as a dominant source. A poor diet of processed foods high in fats and sugars can be associated with the risk of developing obesity.

Not only that, but obesity could potentially be involved in the thoracic spine and upper back pain due to the result of physical inactivity and poor dieting. The weight on the body can strain the muscles and ligaments in the back, causing the spinal vertebrae to become misaligned and pressure the nerves exiting the spinal cord. The misalignment of the vertebrae is called a subluxation. When a person is suffering from upper back pain, it can overlap with chest pain, which can be a concerning issue to vital organs like the heart, which potentially involved in the risk of cardiovascular disease. It is related to subluxation that may affect the heart contraction rate, rhythm, and power through the sympathetic efferent pathways originating from the thoracic region.

An Overview Of The Musculoskeletal System-Video

How your muscular system works - Emma Bryce

Are you experiencing pain in your upper back or chest? How about cardiac issues associated with shouldering and arming pain? Many of these issues are related to factors that affect the musculoskeletal system that might potentially be involved with chronic issues. The video above summarizes the musculoskeletal system’s role in the body. When environmental factors become a risk of developing musculoskeletal disorders that can potentially be involved in different bodily problems, studies reveal that musculoskeletal disorders associated with abnormal functions may cause a significant impact on regular performances. An example would be a person dealing with bad hip pain and cannot do any exercises triggering heart issues. This is defined as somato-visceral pain where the affected muscle is associated with an internal organ being a pain mediator.

Treatments For Improving Musculoskeletal System

In most treatments, many individuals utilize the following to improve not only the musculoskeletal system but other issues that affect the body:

Exercise
Healthy Diet
Stress Management Treatments
Chiropractic Therapy

No matter what affliction or health problem a person is dealing with, having the best treatment solution possible is a start on a person’s health and wellness journey. The first step is to have a precise diagnosis to the doctor while giving as much information as possible is critical. Providing them with a complete health history is an essential first step. After a manual examination of the issues causing them pain, the primary physician could refer the individual for chiropractic care to relieve issues affecting their musculoskeletal system.

Many people usually only associate chiropractic care with back problems. Still, the reality is that chiropractic therapy can be helpful for the musculoskeletal system and various issues related to the muscles and organs. A chiropractor can provide therapeutic stretches and recommend exercises to individuals to help them avoid the same problems later on. Many chiropractors offer recommendations and nutrition that individuals can utilize to help improve their condition. For the musculoskeletal system, a healthy diet may help achieve and maintain a healthy body weight while reducing the risk of chronic disease. Eating the right amount of healthy greens, fruits, beneficial carbs, and healthy fats can help reduce the risk of developing chronic issues in the body like cardiovascular diseases. However, if primary cardiac problems affect the body, it is best to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Conclusion

The body is considered a complex being that consists of various organs, muscles, tissues, ligaments, and joints that provide various activities to the host. The musculoskeletal system has three muscle groups: skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscles provide different functions that correlate to how the body moves. When various factors begin to cause issues to the musculoskeletal system, they can potentially be involved with pain issues that affect more than the body. Treatments like chiropractic care, a healthy diet, exercise, and stress management may be the stepping stones to alleviating various issues that are affecting the musculoskeletal system and a great start in achieving health and wellness.

References

Kennel, Peter J, et al. “Skeletal Muscle Changes in Chronic Cardiac Disease and Failure.” Comprehensive Physiology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 20 Sept. 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6752037/.

Malik, Khalid M, et al. “Musculoskeletal Disorders a Universal Source of Pain and Disability Misunderstood and Mismanaged: A Critical Analysis Based on the U.S. Model of Care.” Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Kowsar, 15 Dec. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6348332/.

Murphy, Andrew C, et al. “Structure, Function, and Control of the Human Musculoskeletal Network.” PLoS Biology, Public Library of Science, 18 Jan. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5773011/.

Stochkendahl, Mette J, et al. “Diagnosis and Treatment of Musculoskeletal Chest Pain: Design of a Multi-Purpose Trial.” BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, BioMed Central, 31 Mar. 2008, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2315652/.

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Risk Issues Associated With Coronary Heart Disease

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Table of Contents

Introduction

The heart is a fantastic muscle in the body that allows hormones, oxygenated blood, and nutrients to travel and transport to all the muscles, tissues, and organs, providing functionality to the body. As one of the main components of the cardiovascular system, the heart works together with the lungs to help carry the deoxygenated blood to the pulmonary system to dispose of waste from the body. The human body needs the heart to stay healthy; however, factors like stress, obesity, autoimmune diseases, and unhealthy habits can affect the heart, causing cardiac issues associated with various body problems. Today’s article focuses on coronary heart disease, what are the risks associated with coronary heart disease, and ways to prevent coronary heart disease from progressively getting worse. We refer patients to certified providers specializing in cardiology treatments that help those with issues of coronary heart disease. We also guide our patients by referring to our associated medical providers based on their examination when it’s appropriate. We find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer

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What Is Coronary Heart Disease?

Have you been experiencing hypertension in your body or near your heart? How about unexplained chest pains that randomly showed up? Have you experienced pain running down your shoulders and arms? Many of these are signs that you could be experiencing coronary heart disease. Research studies have defined coronary heart disease as a common heart condition with plaque formation in the heart vessels that cuts off the supply of oxygenated blood to the heart and the rest of the body. As part of cardiovascular diseases, coronary heart disease can cause overlapping profile issues over time if it is not treated right away. Many disruptive factors can affect the heart muscle like:

Age and gender
Oxidative stress
Inflammation
Vascular immune dysfunction
Lack of physical activities

These disruptive factors can increase cardiovascular disease mortality that can affect the heart and be co-morbidities associated with different issues affecting the body. Studies reveal that the mechanisms of cardiac pain are associated with the chest and upper left arm pain. This is defined as referred pain where the sensory input from visceral organs mimics cardiac distress, and the corresponding muscles are affected. But how does this correlate to the heart muscle, and why does the chest experience pain? Visceral pain is a bit trickier to diagnose when cardiovascular disorders overlap the risk profiles associated with other issues affecting the body. For example, you could be experiencing pain in your chest and upper back, but your brain is telling you something is affecting your heart.

An Overview Of CAD-Video

Mayo Clinic Explains Coronary Artery Disease

Have you experienced shortness of breath? How about pain located in your chest or radiating from your shoulders and arms? Have you noticed inflammation occurring in your body? Many of these are signs and symptoms of you experiencing coronary artery disease in your body. The video above explains what coronary artery disease is and the risk factors associated with the progression of this common heart disease. Studies reveal that the risk factors can overlap in profiles that contribute to the development of coronary heart disease:

Environmental factors
Lifestyle habits
Diabetes mellitus
Obesity
Symptomatic angina
Smoking

When a person has these risk profiles overlapping different associated issues, their body becomes dysfunctional. Sometimes the symptoms affect other areas of the body, while the brain might be signaled that something is wrong with the heart. Since coronary artery disease progresses slowly over time, many individuals don’t experience the symptoms affecting their heart muscles.

Risk Issues Associated With CHD

Some of these symptoms that overlap in risk profiles may seem like heart issues but may refer to different problems affecting the body. This is defined as viscero-somatic pain, where the pain in the internal organs is associated with the corresponding muscles that share the same nerve. Chest pain associated with heart issues is a perfect example. Studies reveal that chest pains can become indistinguishable from angina, which may result from abnormalities in the thoracic viscera that overlap in profiles with heart issues. So what does it mean? It implies that sensory neurons from different visceral organs might mimic cardiac pain-causing risk-associated problems that affect the thoracic region of the spine triggering neck and upper back issues. Everything is connected as chest pains, dyspnea, and dyspepsia are intertwined with the thoracic anteriority becoming a mediator for cardiovascular diseases.

Ways To Prevent CHD

So let’s visualize a person going to their primary physician due to them experiencing heart issues associated with chest pains after the doctor goes through a manual examination on checking the individual’s heart and chest to see what problems are affecting the body. What does this implicates, and how do chest and back pains correlate with each other if there are heart issues? Studies reveal that the peripheral tissues in the body might be damaged from traumatic events that cause an inflammatory swelling in the cervical and thoracic region of the spine, causing muscle stiffness. Chiropractic care might be the answer to relieving pain and swelling triggering cervical and thoracic pain. Chiropractors use chiropractic adjustments to deliver a non-invasive, gentle treatment that reduces spinal misalignments to enhance the functionality of the musculoskeletal system. This will improve spinal health in the cervical and thoracic regions of the body by decreasing inflammatory swelling associated with heart issues. Chiropractic care, a healthy diet, and exercise also work hand in hand by positively impacting co-morbidities of coronary heart disease and other body problems like obesity to reduce cholesterol, help strengthen the weak muscles along the neck and upper back, and promote blood flow to the heart.

Conclusion

As part of the cardiovascular system, the heart supplies hormones, oxygenated blood, and nutrients throughout the entire body by ensuring that the muscles, tissues, and organs are functioning. When factors like stress, obesity, and unhealthy habits begin to affect the heart, it can develop cardiac issues like coronary heart disease associated with various body problems. Chest pains associated with heart issues that trigger neck and back pain in the body are known as viscero-somatic pain. Available treatments like chiropractic care and changing unhealthy habits work hand in hand to positively impact co-morbidities of coronary heart disease and reduce muscle stiffness along the neck and back muscles of the cervical and thoracic spine.

References

Börjesson, M. “Visceral Chest Pain in Unstable Angina Pectoris and Effects of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. (TENS). A Review.” Herz, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Apr. 1999, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10372297/.

Foreman, Robert D, et al. “Mechanisms of Cardiac Pain.” Comprehensive Physiology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Apr. 2015, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25880519/.

Malakar, Arup Kr, et al. “A Review on Coronary Artery Disease, Its Risk Factors, and Therapeutics.” Journal of Cellular Physiology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Aug. 2019, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30790284/.

Shahjehan, Rai Dilawar, and Beenish S Bhutta. “Coronary Artery Disease – Statpearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 9 Feb. 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK564304/.

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Chiropractor Recommendations Neck Problems and Cervical Stenosis

Dr. Alex Jimenez

handsome sportsman having pain in neck and talking with friends in gym

Cervical spinal stenosis is a condition that causes narrowing of the neck region of the spine. This narrowing can compress the nerves causing pain and discomfort. The symptoms are caused by the misalignment/subluxation of the neck, which is usually the c1 and c2 vertebrae. Misalignments can be caused by daily wear and tear; injuries and tumors can cause or worsen the condition. Cervical spinal stenosis is a severe condition that worsens as time progresses and can cause permanent damage and paralysis. Chiropractor recommendations and non-invasive techniques can alleviate the symptoms, along with therapeutic stretches and exercises, and diet is all part of a personalized treatment plan.

Table of Contents

Stenosis Symptoms

The most common symptom is neck pain. Doctors recommend avoiding all activities that worsen the pain; however, chiropractors suggest remaining as active as possible to keep the muscles strong. This is because inactivity over time can lead to muscular deterioration around the neck. Other symptoms besides neck pain include:

Neck discomfort and pain
Headaches
Numbness, tingling in the shoulder, arm, hand
Difficulty maintaining balance
Walking problems

Chiropractor Recommendations

Pain Or Stiffness In The Neck Should Not Be Ignored

Pain or stiffness in the neck that worsens rapidly or does not ease up or go away after two weeks requires medical attention.
Ignoring or dismissing the pain or stiffness can worsen the condition.

Looking Down At A Phone Too Long

Looking down too long increases the strain on the neck.
Keeping the head forward for extended periods increases the chances of pinching/compressing nerves and causing radiculopathy.

Exercises That Roll The Neck Around

Exercises that roll or pull the neck are not advised as they can exacerbate the condition.
A chiropractor will recommend specific neck stretches and exercises on a case-by-case basis.

Heavy Bag, Purse, BackPack On One Shoulder

It is recommended to carry a backpack with both shoulders to distribute the weight evenly.
Over time, a backpack, bag, or purse on the same shoulder will disrupt the walk cycle and pull down on one side of the neck, exacerbating cervical spinal stenosis.
For bags and purses with one strap, it is recommended to alternate shoulders or use a crossbody strap.

Sleeping On The Stomach

Sleeping on the stomach means having to turn the neck to one side.
This stresses and aggravates cervical stenosis.
It is recommended to sleep on the side or back.

Treatment, Therapy, and Rehabilitation

Chiropractic is recommended for spinal stenosis because it corrects and re-aligns dislocated and herniated discs and decompresses the spine.
Treatment reduces pressure on the spinal cord and its joints and nerve networks.
Various techniques include physiotherapeutic massage, spinal adjustments, cervical traction, spinal decompression, and flexion-distraction, which will address stenosis symptoms, treat pain, reduce inflammation, numbness, and restore muscle function.

Non-Surgical Cervical Decompression

References

Clark, Aaron J et al. “Cervical spinal stenosis and sports-related cervical cord neurapraxia.” Neurosurgical focus vol. 31,5 (2011): E7. doi:10.3171/2011.7.FOCUS11173

Kukurin, George W. “The amelioration of symptoms in cervical spinal stenosis with spinal cord deformation through specific chiropractic manipulation: a case report with long-term follow-up.” Journal of manipulative and physiological therapeutics vol. 27,5 (2004): e7. doi:10.1016/j.jmpt.2004.04.009

Isaac Z. Evaluation of the patient with neck pain and cervical spine disorders. UpToDate. www.uptodate.com/contents/evaluation-of-the-patient-with-neck-pain-and-cervical-spine-disorders. Last updated May 2, 2016. Accessed February 25, 2018.

The Gut-Brain Axis Affected By Somatovisceral Pain

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Table of Contents

Introduction

The gut-brain axis is fundamental to the body as it communicates bi-directional with the brain and the gut. Separately they provide different functions that are required of the body. The brain, part of the central nervous system, allows the neurons to travel to each overlapping nerve root while having a causal relationship with different muscles and organs connected to the spinal cord. While the gut, which is part of the gastrointestinal and digestive system, helps modulate the body’s homeostasis and regulates the immune system. The nerves, muscles, and organs correspond as the nerve pathways interconnect to the spinal cord. When injuries or traumatic events affect the body, it can lead the individual to suffer from pain affecting their body while increasing the risk associated within different locations. For example, chronic stress causing gut inflammation is associated with headaches or neck and back pain. Today’s article focuses on the gut-brain axis, what happens when chronic issues affect the gut-brain axis, and how somatovisceral pain affects the gut-brain axis. We refer patients to certified providers specializing in gastroenterology treatments that help those with issues that affect the gut-brain axis and overlapping problems impacting the body. We also guide our patients by referring to our associated medical providers based on their examination when it’s appropriate. We find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer

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How Does The Gut & Brain Work Together?

The way the gut and brain correlate together is quite remarkable. The gut allows food to be digested in the stomach to be bio-transformed into nutrients the body needs to function. While the brain sends neuron signals through the spinal cord, those signals help provide the sensory-motor functions to make the body move. Now, how do the brain and gut work together in the body? Well, studies reveal that the gut-brain axis correlates to the various systems like the autonomic nervous system, the HPA axis, and the nerves surrounding the gastrointestinal tract help the brain influence intestinal activity and regulate cognitive function. Each of these vital organs has a causal relationship where they:

Help with sleep regulation
Improve memory functionality
Helps coordinate physical and emotional well-being
Regulating inflammatory responses

When chronic issues affect the gut-brain axis, it can cause an overlap in risk profiles that rise in the body and not just in the brain or the gut. Studies reveal that issues that begin to affect the gut-brain axis can cause alteration within the bi-directional pathway and trigger other problems that correlate to the body.

Chronic Issues Affecting The Gut-Brain Axis

Have you been suffering from fatigue? How about reoccurring headaches that never seem to go away? Do digestive complaints like IBS, GERD, or gut inflammation affect more than your gut? These chronic issues can be various factors that impact the bi-directional connection of the gut-brain axis. Stress, gut inflammation, traumatic events, food allergens, autoimmunity, and metainflammation are some overlapping risk profiles associated with neck and back pain. Studies reveal that chronic stress in the brain can affect the gut’s composition and functionality by alternating intestinal permeability. When the gut microbiome is being affected, the harmful bacteria begin to overproduce and trigger the sympathetic branch of the nervous system to cause an imbalance of hormones to be released and be associated with stress-related muscle dysfunction in the body. So what does this implicates to the body? Let’s say, for example, that you have been experiencing pain in the cervical region of the spine, but your brain is telling the body that it is a headache. This is known as somato-visceral pain.

An Overview Of Somatosensory Tract-Video

Somatosensory tracts | Organ Systems | MCAT | Khan Academy

Have you been suffering from cognitive and memory dysfunction? How about experiencing gastrointestinal issues that are affecting your gut? Or have you experienced any cramping, gnawing, or sharp pain that seems to be triggered by movement and appears in one area of the body? This is known as somato-visceral pain and is defined as soft tissues and muscles experiencing pain that can affect the internal organs. Somato-visceral pain is much easier to identify than viscero-somatic pain because visceral pain is caused by damaged internal organs associated with distress in different body locations. At the same time, somato-visceral pain is often associated with musculoskeletal pain. The video above explains the somatosensory tract that is in the body and how the body responds to the somatosensory system. The somatosensory system is located within the peripheral and central nervous systems. It is responsible for modulating the body’s sense of touch, vibration, temperature, and pain receptors that are located in the body. When traumatic events affect the somatic nerves, they can trigger changes in the gut-brain axis and cause alterations to the affected organs.

Somatovisceral Pain Affecting The Gut-Brain Axis

When dealing with chronic stress, the effects cause a dysfunctional gut-brain axis and cause issues affecting the two organs. Studies reveal that when chronic stress becomes an associated mediator for gut disturbances and dysregulation of the gut-brain axis, it can cause an overlap in risk profiles in the body. So what does this mean, and how is the body affected by somato-visceral pain? First, let’s look at what happens when the body is affected by chronic stress. When stress affects the gut and the brain, it can cause issues like IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) or headaches. Studies reveal that IBS is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders that trigger visceral and somatic hypersensitivity on the sensory nerves. So the body experiencing sharp pain in the back or neck may be associated with IBS.

Now looking at headaches and their causes on the body, it is one example of somato-visceral pain. When a person is dealing with neck trauma due to an auto accident that causes whiplash can trigger cervicogenic headache. How do the two correlate with somato-visceral pain? Well, somato-visceral pain is when soft muscles and tissues are affected and can cause an impact on the internal organs. For cervicogenic headaches may trigger mechanical pain along the cervical spine to be aggravated by movement and be associated with musculoskeletal issues like rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, or muscle strain on the upper cervical spine. Many individuals go to available treatments that can help them better understand the issue that is causing them to be in pain and how to alleviate them.

Conclusion

The gut-brain axis is fundamental in the body as it communicates bi-directional with the brain and the gut. These two organs help keep the body functioning as the brain provides neuron signals while the gut regulates homeostasis. The gut-brain axis helps the body by correlating with the various systems that help influence intestinal activity and control cognitive function. When traumatic factors affect the body’s soft tissues and muscles and trigger organ issues, this is known as somato-visceral pain. Somato-visceral pain is when the muscles are affecting the organs, and an example is cervical muscle strain associated with headaches. Providing much-needed information on available treatments can help many individuals when being examined by their physicians.

References

Appleton, Jeremy. “The Gut-Brain Axis: Influence of Microbiota on Mood and Mental Health.” Integrative Medicine (Encinitas, Calif.), InnoVision Health Media Inc., Aug. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6469458/.

Carabotti, Marilia, et al. “The Gut-Brain Axis: Interactions between Enteric Microbiota, Central and Enteric Nervous Systems.” Annals of Gastroenterology, Hellenic Society of Gastroenterology, 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4367209/.

Martin, Clair R, et al. “The Brain-Gut-Microbiome Axis.” Cellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Elsevier, 12 Apr. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6047317/.

Suslov, Andrey V, et al. “The Neuroimmune Role of Intestinal Microbiota in the Pathogenesis of Cardiovascular Disease.” Journal of Clinical Medicine, MDPI, 6 May 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8124579/.

Yuan, Yao-Zong, et al. “Functional Brain Imaging in Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Rectal Balloon-Distention by Using Fmri.” World Journal of Gastroenterology, Baishideng Publishing Group Inc, June 2003, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4611816/.

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Sports Performance Competitive Anxiety: Tension Release Chiropractor

Dr. Alex Jimenez

The sportsman during difficult exercise, sports gymnastics — The sportsman performing difficult exercise, sports gymnastics indoor. The exercise, gymnast, sportsman, health, gymnastics, training, athlete concept Caucasian fit model

Athletes train and practice constantly to prepare their mind and bodies for the big games, matches, etc. When the game is on, it is normal/natural to feel anxious and nervous, especially at the beginning, but then the athlete settles in and relaxes, letting their training take over. However, for some athletes, the anxiousness and nervousness don’t go away but intensify, the heart starts racing, and the individual can’t stop thinking about choking, failing, and losing. This is known as sports performance anxiety, or competitive anxiety, and is common.

Competitive Anxiety

Research shows that 30 to 60 percent of athletes experience the disorder. Doctors divide the signs and symptoms into mental and physical categories.

Physical Symptoms

Rapid Heartbeat

The stress can cause overproduction of adrenaline and cortisol, making the heart beat rapidly.

Muscle Tension

The muscles can tighten up, become painful, and cause tension and pain in the head.

Trembling

The hands could shake while holding the ball, bat, racket, or foot twitching could present.

Hyperventilation

Individuals report a sensation of choking or being unable to catch their breath.

Digestion Issues

The stress can cause foods to be quickly digested, causing cramping and/or the sudden urge to use the bathroom.

Mental Symptoms

Fear of Failing

The athlete imagines themselves losing all the time.
Worrying about letting the coach and team down or the audience or other athletes criticizing and laughing at your performance.

Unable to Focus

The athlete may have concentration issues and become absorbed in how others react to their performance.

Overthinking

The athlete can temporarily forget how to perform specific actions that are typically automatic.

Self-confidence issues

The athlete can start doubting their abilities.

Stress and Anxiety

The Yerkes-Dodson law explains how stress, anxiety, and arousal levels affect performance and how stress levels must be maintained within a range to perform well.

Low Arousal

It could be the athlete is not as into the sport as when they began, so they do not put forth the total effort.

High Arousal

This means the sport could be causing so much stress that the athlete panics or freezes up.
Competitive anxiety sets in.

Optimal Arousal

This means the athlete is fully engaged in pushing themselves to the fullest.
This can be applied to any performing task like play rehearsals to a tennis match.
Individuals have different optimal levels of stress.

Recommended Steps

Some recommended steps can be taken to handle and prevent sports competitive anxiety when trying to overcome those overwhelming feelings of nervousness and tension.

Positive self-talk

Self-talk is having a positive conversation with yourself.

Athletes who practiced positive self-talk reported:

Improved self-confidence
Reduced physical anxiety symptoms
Improved sports performance

Listen to Music

When anxious before a meet, game, match, etc., consider listening to some favorite or relaxing music.

Meditation

Meditation has been found to reduce all types of anxiety, including sports.

Chiropractic

Chiropractic treatment specializes in the musculoskeletal system and can realign the body and release any muscle tension and restriction through hands-on manipulation techniques and mechanical decompression. Treatment involves manipulating the muscles, ligaments, tendons, fascia, and soft tissues to relieve pain through therapeutic muscle therapies that include:

Massage
Myofascial release
Trigger point therapy
Chiropractic adjustments
Spinal decompression

One or a combination of therapies can alleviate symptoms related to muscle spasms, delayed onset muscle soreness, fascia restrictions, soft tissue injuries, and pain and dysfunction throughout the body, restoring function, movement, and strength.

Using The DRX9000 For Spinal Decompression

References

Elliott, Dave, et al. “The effects of relaxing music for anxiety control on competitive sport anxiety.” European journal of sports science vol. 14 Suppl 1 (2014): S296-301. doi:10.1080/17461391.2012.693952

Ford, Jessica L et al. “Sport-related anxiety: current insights.” Open access journal of sports medicine vol. 8 205-212. 27 Oct. 2017, doi:10.2147/OAJSM.S125845

Rice, Simon M et al. “Determinants of anxiety in elite athletes: a systematic review and meta-analysis.” British journal of sports medicine vol. 53,11 (2019): 722-730. doi:10.1136/bjsports-2019-100620

Rowland, David L, and Jacques J D M van Lankveld. “Anxiety and Performance in Sex, Sport, and Stage: Identifying Common Ground.” Frontiers in psychology vol. 10 1615. 16 Jul. 2019, doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2019.01615

Walter N, et al. (2019). Effects of self-talk training on competitive anxiety, self-efficacy, volitional skills, and performance: An intervention study with junior sub-elite athletes. mdpi.com/2075-4663/7/6/148

PTSD Physical Pain Symptoms Post Car Accident

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Stressed woman driver sitting on street side shocked after car accident. Road safety and insurance concept.

Motor vehicle crashes and accidents cause significant trauma in a few seconds changing an individual’s life completely. Severe injuries include traumatic brain injury, spinal cord damage, fractures, and amputations. Many individuals experience post-traumatic stress disorder – PTSD after a vehicle collision; even a minor accident can cause emotional trauma symptoms. PTSD commonly presents with other symptoms that range from depression to heart disease, and the most frequent symptom is physical pain. Chiropractic decompression, physical therapy, and therapeutic massage can help alleviate physical pain.

Table of Contents

PTSD Physical Pain

Physical trauma can cause immediate physical effects and injury, as well as physical symptoms that present later on.

Symptoms

Flashbacks or reliving the collision incident.
Sleep disturbances.
Nightmares about the wreck.
Fatigue.
Memory and concentration problems.
Hyperarousal.
Fear.
Anxiety.
Irritability or anger.
Avoiding driving or riding in a vehicle.
Trying not to talk or think about the crash or accident with friends, family, places, or anything associated with the trauma.
Avoiding activities.
Emotional numbness.
Detachment.

All can generate physical muscle tension and chronic stress, leading to headaches, migraines, back pain, stomach pain, and body aches. Long-term physical pain symptoms can turn chronic pain and medication dependency into a vicious cycle.

Chiropractic Therapy

Chiropractic care diagnoses and treats disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Chiropractic treatment is recommended to help alleviate the physical symptoms of PTSD. Trauma causes individuals to store intense emotions in their bodies. Chiropractic manipulation and decompression release the tension in the muscles caused by the trauma and the emotional stress. Adjustments restore the body’s alignment and open the nervous system circulation, allowing signals to flow freely, leading to a healthier mind-body connection.

Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Therapy

References

Beck, J Gayle, and Scott F Coffey. “Assessment and treatment of PTSD after a motor vehicle collision: Empirical findings and clinical observations.” Professional psychology, research, and practice vol. 38,6 (2007): 629-639. doi:10.1037/0735-7028.38.6.629

Elder, Charles et al. “Comparative Effectiveness of Usual Care With or Without Chiropractic Care in Patients with Recurrent Musculoskeletal Back and Neck Pain.” Journal of general internal medicine vol. 33,9 (2018): 1469-1477. doi:10.1007/s11606-018-4539-y

www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd

Hu, JunMei, et al. “Chronic widespread pain after motor vehicle collision typically occurs through immediate development and nonrecovery: results of an emergency department-based cohort study.” Pain vol. 157,2 (2016): 438-444. doi:10.1097/j.pain.0000000000000388

Muscle Memory – Low Back Pain and Sciatica

Dr. Alex Jimenez

girl with pain in back after moving heavy boxes

The lower back core muscles initiate and control movement and posture. Total body movements start at the pelvis and are carried out by the low back and abdominal muscles. These core muscles provide control and stability when moving. When the body is not moving, standing and sitting posture habits (healthy and unhealthy) develop based on how an individual controls/holds their pelvis posture. The lower back muscles are in constant demand for performing repetitive motions or forceful actions. The muscles become chronically tight and sore, joints and nerves get compressed, and bones and connective tissue stay in a stressed state, causing intense pain and damage to the body’s structure. These problems can result from muscle memory, the nervous system’s operating procedure to make movements automatic.

Table of Contents

Muscle Memory

The nervous system controls the movement and contraction in the muscles and constantly reinforces and learns new movement patterns to become more efficient through muscle memory. However, this learning process allows for the development of healthy muscle habits and unhealthy muscular habits. An example is sitting using a slouching posture. The nervous system will store that posture data and subconsciously contract the abdominal and pectoral muscles, so the slouched posture takes over. Because of the continual usage and compromised postures, various muscles start to tighten up. Individuals are typically not aware of the gradual tightening until stiffness, soreness, and pain sets in. Tight muscles pull the skeleton in awkward ways that cause body misalignments, causing:

Posture problems
Limited movement
Functional leg length discrepancy
Idiopathic scoliosis
Repetitive strain injuries
Joint degeneration
Nerve impingement – sciatica

Individuals develop unique muscle patterns and tension levels throughout the body due to repetitive daily activities, stress responses, injuries sustained, and physical activities. Muscle memory issues can contribute to chronic back pain and sciatica. Unhealthy muscle memory causes the muscles not to return to their natural state but to the awkward position and makes that the natural state. Healthy muscle memory leads to instant reflexes that make movements smooth and effortless.

Chiropractic will relieve back and sciatica pain by inducing deep muscle relaxation that releases endorphins. The soreness and tension will be massaged, and mechanical decompression if necessary. Massage and stretching will help retrain muscle and movement memory, along with exercises to reinforce the retraining.

Spinal Decompression Therapy

References

Campbell, James N, and Richard A Meyer. “Mechanisms of neuropathic pain.” Neuron vol. 52,1 (2006): 77-92. doi:10.1016/j.neuron.2006.09.021

Wilder, David G et al. “Effect of spinal manipulation on sensorimotor functions in back pain patients: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.” Trials vol. 12 161. 28 Jun. 2011, doi:10.1186/1745-6215-12-161