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Healing Nutrients and Non-Surgical Decompression

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-
attractive young nutritionist in white coat writing in notebook

Nerve impingement, sciatica, disc herniation/degeneration, or spinal stenosis can cause sharp, debilitating nerve pain causing electric shocks, pins, needles, or burning sensations along the back or into the arms and legs. In combination with additional chiropractic treatment modalities, spinal decompression therapy effectively relieves the pain and disability resulting from disc injury and degeneration, repairs the damaged discs, and reverses nerve dystrophy. Part of the treatment involves a proper diet to deliver healing nutrients to the spine.

Non-Surgical Decompression Healing Nutrients

Healing Nutrients

The spine supports the entire body to perform motions and movements and needs the proper healing nutrients, especially after chiropractic and decompression therapy. There are vitamins and minerals that are critical for a healthy spine. These ensure that the bones, muscles, discs, and other tissues function correctly. There are nutrients that are essential to the immune system; if they are not present, the ability to heal and recover properly is reduced and takes longer. Nutrients commonly used in immunonutrition include:

  • Nucleotides
  • Antioxidants
  • Arginine
  • Glutamine
  • Omega-3

All are found naturally in certain foods and nutritional supplements and are essential in healing from injuries, like a herniated disc, sciatica, degenerative disc disease, and back or neck surgery.

Nucleotides

  • Every cell in the body contains nucleotides, which help make up and maintain DNA and RNA.
  • DNA and RNA production is necessary for cell repair and regrowth.
  • When the body is experiencing a stressful health issue like back or neck pain, it needs more nucleotides.
  • The body produces and recycles nucleotides and absorbs them through food.
  • All-natural plant- and animal-based food sources contain nucleotides.

Antioxidants

  • Antioxidants maintain and restore healthy tissues by reducing oxidative stress.
  • Oxidative stress is associated with chronic inflammation.
  • Antioxidants include:
  • Beta-carotene
  • Selenium
  • Vitamin A
  • Vitamin C boosts the immune system and acts as an anti-inflammatory
  • Antioxidant-rich foods include:
  • Leafy green vegetables
  • Fresh and frozen fruits
  • Nuts
  • Seeds
  • Whole grains

Arginine

  • Arginine is an amino acid produced in limited amounts during growth, illness, or injury.
  • Research has shown that taking arginine supplements can increase the body’s ability to fight infections.
  • Foods include:
  • Nuts
  • Seeds
  • Legumes
  • Meats, specifically turkey meat

Glutamine

  • Glutamine is an amino acid involved in the processes that control cell growth and repair.
  • Supplementation can help decrease the risk of infections and reduce the number of missed school or workdays.
  • Glutamine-rich foods include:
  • Eggs
  • White rice
  • Corn
  • Beef
  • Tofu

Omega-3s

  • Omega-3s naturally reduce the body’s inflammatory response.
  • Inflammation is necessary during healing, but chronic inflammation can be destructive.
  • Omega-3 supplementation can help decrease chronic inflammation.
  • Omega-3 foods include:
  • Salmon
  • Eggs
  • Walnuts
  • Flaxseed
  • Spinach

Spinal decompression gently stretches the spine, creating a vacuum inside the discs and joints. The negative pressure helps heal disc bulges and herniated discs. The lengthened spine allows healing nutrients and water to flow correctly, reducing swelling and inflammation and improving joint motion.

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DRX9000 Explicada En Español

References

Chen, Linlin, et al. “Inflammatory responses and inflammation-associated diseases in organs.” Oncotarget vol. 9,6 7204-7218. 14 Dec. 2017, doi:10.18632/oncotarget.23208

Daniel, Dwain M. “Non-surgical spinal decompression therapy: does the scientific literature support efficacy claims made in the advertising media?.” Chiropractic & osteopathy vol. 15 7. 18 May. 2007, doi:10.1186/1746-1340-15-7

Dionne, Clermont E et al. “Serum vitamin C and spinal pain: a nationwide study.” Pain vol. 157,11 (2016): 2527-2535. doi:10.1097/j.pain.0000000000000671

Napier, Zachary, et al. “Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation Reduce Intervertebral Disc Degeneration.” Medical science monitor: international medical journal of experimental and clinical research vol. 25 9531-9537. 14 Dec. 2019, doi:10.12659/MSM.918649

Zolfaghari, Farid, et al. “A Survey of Vitamin D Status in Patients with Degenerative Diseases of the Spine.” Asian spine journal vol. 10,5 (2016): 834-842. doi:10.4184/asj.2016.10.5.834

Chiropractic & Decompression Therapy For Back Pain

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-

Introduction

Throughout the entire world, everyone has back pain at some point. Since back pain is common for many individuals, it is considered the most expensive condition, causing many working individuals to call off work and see their primary physicians to find some relief. When back pain is not treated right away, it can turn into chronic back pain over time and hinder a person’s quality of life. Different kinds of treatments can help manage back pain and help alleviate the symptoms. Today’s article will focus on how chiropractic and decompression therapy can work together to help alleviate back pain. By referring patients to qualified and skilled providers specializing in spinal decompression therapy. To that end, and when appropriate, we advise our patients to refer to our associated medical providers based on their examination. We find that education is the key to asking valuable questions to our providers. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer

 

Can my insurance cover it? Yes, it may. If you are uncertain, here is the link to all the insurance providers we cover. If you have any questions, please call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900.

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How Chiropractic Therapy Helps With Back Pain

Since back pain is common for many individuals, the pain can range from a dull ache in the lower back to a sudden stinging pain that can radiate down to the legs causing sciatica to develop. Back pain can make many people feel miserable, and they try to find ways to alleviate the pain. Research studies have found that individuals with back pain will have lower productivity and quality of life while becoming a higher financial liability. Some people use medication to reduce the pain when this becomes an issue, while others use a hot and cold compress to lower the inflammation associated with back pain. Luckily chiropractic therapy can help alleviate back pain for many individuals. 

 

Research studies have stated that chiropractic therapy is a non-surgical treatment that utilizes spinal manipulation for the body, causing relief for individuals with back pain. Chiropractic therapy causes the spinal joints to “pop” or release the pressure that was causing the person to be in pain. Chiropractic therapy also helps realign the spine back to its original state through manipulation while causing instant relief to the individual. Other research studies have found that when people go for a chiropractic adjustment for their low back pain, it is more effective than the other treatments for alleviating back pain symptoms. 

 

How Decompression Therapy Helps With Back Pain

Like chiropractic therapy, decompression therapy is also a non-surgical treatment that can help individuals with back pain. Research studies have stated that decompression therapy can reduce chronic low back pain by increasing the spinal disc height. Decompression therapy can also vertically expand the intervertebral space through traction and alleviate other symptoms that are caused by back pain. Other research studies have also found that the effects of decompression therapy also help take the pressure off the nerve roots encompassing the spine by decompressing herniated disc material that causes low back pain. This will reduce the herniated discs are causing in the back and loosen up muscle tension.

Decompression Therapy & Back Pain-Video

Traction Table

Does your back constantly ache by doing simple things like bending, turning, and twisting? How about feeling sudden pain running down to your leg? If you have been experiencing back pain throughout your life, decompression might help you. The video above shows how decompression therapy can help individuals stretch their spine using gentle traction. This will allow the necessary nutrients to come back into the spine and take the pressure off the pinched nerve roots. When people utilize decompression therapy in their wellness journey, they can begin to feel much better without feeling any back pain that can hinder their quality of life. If you want to learn more about decompression therapy, this link will explain its benefits and how it can alleviate symptoms caused by back pain.

How Does Chiropractic & Decompression Therapy Work Together?

 

Since chiropractic and decompression therapy are non-surgical treatments for individuals suffering from back pain, they can work hand in hand to reduce the symptoms caused by back pain. Research studies have mentioned that chiropractic therapy can help reduce the stress and pressure on the posterior spinal discs by increasing the movements of the metabolites. In contrast, decompression therapy can create negative pressure in the spinal canal, allowing the spinal disc to supply nutritional substances and oxygen. The main goal for both of these treatments is to alleviate the back pain that the individual is suffering from. Other research studies have found that chiropractic and decompression therapy allows a flexion-distraction technique for individuals that helps broaden the distance of the spinal disc space and helps pull the bulging disc back to the spine. This allows the spine to realign itself and reduce back pain symptoms.

Conclusion

Overall, utilizing chiropractic and decompression therapy as part of a person’s wellness journey can help alleviate back pain and the symptoms that are causing pain to the back and the body. Chiropractic therapy can help realign the spine and release the trapped gases on the spinal joints. In contrast, decompression therapy utilizes traction to gently stretch the spine and provide nutritional supplements back to the spine. Incorporating these two types of treatments can cause many individuals to have instant relief from their back and any other symptoms that were the source of their pain. When they begin to feel their life coming back together, they can continue on their health journey being pain-free.

 

References

Apfel, Christian C, et al. “Restoration of Disk Height through Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Is Associated with Decreased Discogenic Low Back Pain: A Retrospective Cohort Study.” BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, BioMed Central, 8 July 2010, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2912793/.

Choi, Jioun, et al. “The Effects of Manual Therapy Using Joint Mobilization and Flexion-Distraction Techniques on Chronic Low Back Pain and Disc Heights.” Journal of Physical Therapy Science, The Society of Physical Therapy Science, Aug. 2014, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4155230/.

Kang, Jeong-Il, et al. “Effect of Spinal Decompression on the Lumbar Muscle Activity and Disk Height in Patients with Herniated Intervertebral Disk.” Journal of Physical Therapy Science, The Society of Physical Therapy Science, Nov. 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5140813/.

Khodakarami, Nima. “Treatment of Patients with Low Back Pain: A Comparison of Physical Therapy and Chiropractic Manipulation.” Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland), MDPI, 24 Feb. 2020, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7151187/.

Manga, Pran, et al. “Effective Management of Low Back Pain: It’s Time to Accept the Evidence.” The Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Dec. 1993, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2485083/.

Oh, Hyunju, et al. “Effects of the Flexion-Distraction Technique and Drop Technique on Straight Leg Raising Angle and Intervertebral Disc Height of Patients with an Intervertebral Disc Herniation.” Journal of Physical Therapy Science, The Society of Physical Therapy Science, Aug. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6698474/.

Yeomans, Steven. “Chiropractic Treatments for Lower Back Pain.” Spine, Spine-Health, 14 Mar. 2013, www.spine-health.com/treatment/chiropractic/chiropractic-treatments-lower-back-pain.

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Spinal Inflammation & Decompression Therapy

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-

Introduction

The body goes through many different scenarios when it can twist, turn, bend, and move without any pain that can affect it, while the spine ensures that the body stays upright. When a person has a pulled muscle or suffers from an injury, their back will suffer the most as back pain is considered standard for many individuals and the most expensive. Many individuals who suffer from back pain will go to their primary physicians to alleviate their back pain symptoms and get out of work to recover from their back injury. When the back gets injured from an accident or a pulled muscle, the spine also gets affected as it can lead to spinal inflammation. Luckily, some treatments can help alleviate back pain and spinal inflammation, and decompression therapy can be the answer. Today’s article will take a look at spinal inflammation, how it can affect the back, and how decompression therapy can help with spinal inflammation. By referring patients to qualified and skilled providers specializing in spinal decompression therapy. To that end, and when appropriate, we advise our patients to refer to our associated medical providers based on their examination. We find that education is the key to asking valuable questions to our providers. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer

 

Can my insurance cover it? Yes, it may. If you are uncertain, here is the link to all the insurance providers we cover. If you have any questions, please call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900.

Download

What Is Spinal Inflammation?

Have you ever felt your lower back become hot and tender to the touch in certain areas? How about the excruciating pain that feels better after switching positions to alleviate the pain? Or how about your spinal disc is compressed, and it causes you to be in constant pain? This is due to spinal inflammation, and it can cause a variety of back and spinal issues in the individual, causing them a type of pain. Inflammation in the body can be both beneficial and a significant problem for the body as it can come in two forms: acute and chronic. Acute inflammation can help heal the affected area, lasting a few minutes to a few hours. Chronic inflammation can cause various issues that can cause a person to be in constant pain. For the spine, inflammation is caused by back pain and can make a person’s life miserable. When degenerative and inflammatory diseases affect the spine, research studies have stated that chronic inflammation can contribute to intervertebral degeneration and cause the production of inflammatory mediators in the spine.

 

When the spinal cord gets injured, it can cause significant complications for the individual and affect their mobility. Research studies have found that the inflammatory process from a spinal cord injury can destroy neuronal and glial cells on the spine, cause damage to expand in the spine, and cause paralysis of the spine. The inflammatory cytokines from the immune system will cause toxic metabolites to cause further tissue damage to the spinal cord. Other research studies have also found that when the spinal cord has suffered from an injury, inflammation can cause the spinal cord to be provoked and changes within the spine.

 

How Does It Affect The Back?

Since spinal cord injuries cause spinal inflammation, they can affect the back. The spine’s main job is to make sure that the back can function when it is in motion with any injuries. When the spinal cord gets injured, it does affect the back causing chronic issues. Research studies have shown that pain usually occurs in the lumbar spine when a person suffers from back pain, and inflammation can be associated with ankylosing spondylitis. Inflammatory back pain is defined as inflammatory pain found on the axial spine and the sacroiliac joints, causing radiating pain from the lower back to the buttocks and causing muscle stiffness.

Low Back Decompression Therapy-Video

Lower Back Decompression Machine - Lumbar Mechanical Traction

Are you feeling any muscle tenderness in your lower back? How about radiating pain from the lower back to the buttocks? Or is chronic inflammation affecting your back? If you are experiencing any of these, why not try decompression therapy? Decompression therapy allows many individuals suffering from low back pain to feel instant relief. Decompression utilizes traction on the spine through gentle stretching and allows the beneficial nutrients to come and repair the compressed discs. This will allow the spine to relax and take the pressure off the nerve roots and increase the disc height. Decompression therapy can help alleviate back pain symptoms and reduce inflammation in the body. If you want to learn more about decompression therapy, this link will explain its benefits and how it can alleviate symptoms caused by spinal inflammation.

How Does Decompression Help With Spinal Inflammation?

 

Many non-surgical treatments help many individuals suffering from low back pain and joint inflammation. Some of these treatments include chiropractic adjustments, massages, and physical therapy. However, spinal decompression therapy is one non-surgical treatment that helps alleviate low back pain. Spinal decompression therapy is defined as a gentle stretching of the spine. Research studies have stated that adjusting the direction angle of the traction can provide negative pressure on the intervertebral discs, causing relief to the spine and lowering the inflammatory markers that are causing pain. Spinal decompression therapy allows the compressed spinal discs to decompress and increase their height in the spinal column. Other research studies have found that when herniated discs start to cause inflammatory responses to the low back, decompression therapy can stretch the herniated disc, causing them to release the pressure off the nerve root and reduce the inflammatory responses.

 

Conclusion

Overall, inflammation can affect the back in two ways. It can be beneficial in its acute form or harmful in its chronic condition. When inflammation is established, it can cause low back pain and spinal issues that hinder a person’s quality of life. Many individuals who suffer from inflammation become miserable and try to find ways to alleviate the pain. Luckily decompression therapy allows many suffering individuals to feel instant relief from inflammatory low back pain. Decompression therapy uses negative pressure on the spine, allowing it to be decompressed and taking the pressure off the nerve root that’s causing the person to be in pain. Incorporating decompression therapy as part of a person’s wellness journey can bring their sense of belonging back to their lives.

 

References

Choi, Jioun, et al. “Influences of Spinal Decompression Therapy and General Traction Therapy on the Pain, Disability, and Straight Leg Raising of Patients with Intervertebral Disc Herniation.” Journal of Physical Therapy Science, The Society of Physical Therapy Science, Feb. 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4339166/.

Fleming, Jennifer C, et al. “The Cellular Inflammatory Response in Human Spinal Cords after Injury.” Brain : a Journal of Neurology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Dec. 2006, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17071951/.

Kang, Jeong-Il, et al. “Effect of Spinal Decompression on the Lumbar Muscle Activity and Disk Height in Patients with Herniated Intervertebral Disk.” Journal of Physical Therapy Science, The Society of Physical Therapy Science, Nov. 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5140813/.

Lassiter, William, and Abdallah E Allam. “Inflammatory Back Pain – Statpearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 21 Nov. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539753/.

Molinos, Maria, et al. “Inflammation in Intervertebral Disc Degeneration and Regeneration.” Journal of the Royal Society, Interface, The Royal Society, 6 Mar. 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4345483/.

Zhang, Ning, et al. “Inflammation & Apoptosis in Spinal Cord Injury.” The Indian Journal of Medical Research, Medknow Publications & Media Pvt Ltd, Mar. 2012, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3361863/.

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Alleviating Chronic Spinal Stenosis With Decompression Therapy

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-

Introduction

The spine has the primary function where it makes sure that the entire body structure can stay upright, move around, bend and twist without feeling any sort of pain from these activities. The ligaments, soft tissues from the musculoskeletal system, the spinal cord, the nerve roots, and the spinal disc help protect the spine from an injury that a person has been into. When the body suffers from a back injury or a pulled muscle, it can cause stress on the spinal disc and nerve roots, causing a wide variety of symptoms that can aggravate the spine and cause the individual to be suffering in pain. Luckily many treatments can help alleviate painful symptoms from spinal and back injuries and even help reduce the symptoms from other chronic issues that the body is suffering. Today’s article will focus on chronic spinal stenosis and its symptoms and how decompression therapy can help alleviate chronic spinal stenosis for many individuals. By referring patients to qualified and skilled providers specializing in spinal decompression therapy. To that end, and when appropriate, we advise our patients to refer to our associated medical providers based on their examination. We find that education is the key to asking valuable questions to our providers. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer

 

Can my insurance cover it? Yes, it may. If you are uncertain, here is the link to all the insurance providers we cover. If you have any questions, please call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900.

Download

What Is Chronic Spinal Stenosis?

Have you ever felt any neck or back pain that seems to come and go throughout the entire day? Does your back or neck start to feel weird sensations that cause your arms and legs to feel numb? How about a radiating dull ache that feels better by leaning forward? If you are experiencing this, then it might be spinal stenosis. Research studies have stated that spinal stenosis is a condition that compresses the surrounding nerve roots from the cervical and lumbar areas of the spine. Spinal stenosis is a gradual condition that narrows the spinal canal causing painful symptoms. If left untreated, it can become chronic spinal stenosis and cause severe and permanent damage to the spine in both the cervical and lumbar areas.

 

Research studies have found that since spinal stenosis is a gradual condition on the spine, wear and tear from conditions like disc degeneration, osteoarthritis, or even herniated discs can narrow the spinal canals and compress the nerve roots. When the nerve roots are squeezed and irritated, it can radiate pain from the neck or the lower back. For the cervical spinal canal, research shows that chronic spinal stenosis can progress disc degeneration further with disc protrusion and cause the ligaments to be thick, thus resulting in chronic neck pain. Now for the lumbar spinal canal, other research studies have found that chronic lumbar spinal stenosis is responsible for being the source of leg and back pain. When lumbar spinal stenosis becomes severe when it starts to compress on the nerve roots, especially the sciatic nerve, it can cause individuals to develop sciatica.

 

The Symptoms

Now, since the spine has three parts: the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar, when spinal stenosis starts to narrow the spinal canal and cause issues to the spine over time, some of the symptoms will pop up. Research studies have found that when a person has spinal stenosis, they feel pain when walking for long distances causing them to lean forward to relieve the pain or even have numbness on their legs and arms. Spinal stenosis can cause one problem in one area of the spine but can cause other issues in the rest of the body. Other symptoms that spinal stenosis causes to the spine include:

Non-Surgical Decompression Therapy-Video

Neck, Back, and Sciatica Pain Relief with Spinal Decompression Therapy | St. Joseph, MI

Feeling random pains pop up on your back or neck? How about a dull ache that causes a numbness or tingling sensation that affects your arms or legs? Or how about sharp radiating pain on your sciatic nerve? You might be suffering from chronic spinal stenosis, and non-surgical decompression therapy might be the answer that you seek. The video above explains how decompression therapy can help alleviate pain in the neck, back, and spine through gently stretching using a traction machine. This allows herniated spinal discs to be taking their pressure off the compressed nerve root and alleviate the pain that the person is in. Decompression therapy allows the individual to get back their quality of life pain-free. If you want to learn more about decompression therapy, this link will explain its benefits and how it can alleviate symptoms caused by chronic spinal stenosis.

Decompression Therapy Helps Alleviate Chronic Spinal Stenosis

 

With many treatments beneficial to low back and neck pain, people can use a wide variety to lower the symptoms. Some people use medicine to reduce the inflammation of the injured area, others use ice and heat compresses to bring down the swelling, and some use non-surgical treatments like chiropractic and physical therapy to alleviate the tension. One of the non-surgical treatments that can help with chronic spinal stenosis is decompression therapy. Research studies have found that when individuals suffer from spinal stenosis and have herniated discs pressing the compressed nerve roots, decompression therapy can help reduce the pressure. Decompression therapy uses negative pressure on the spine, causing it to be gently stretched and relieving the nerve root. The intervertebral herniated disc is supplied with nutrients and increases its hydration through traction. Not only that, but the soft tissues, muscles, and ligaments are relaxed on both the lower back and the neck.

 

Conclusion

Overall, spinal stenosis is a gradually progressive condition that causes herniated discs to irritate and compress the spinal nerve roots on the cervical and lumbar areas of the spine. When spinal stenosis starts to become chronic over time, it can cause permanent severe damage and cause radiating pain to both the legs and arms of the body. Luckily, treatments like decompression therapy can help alleviate the painful symptoms caused by spinal stenosis and restore spinal discs’ health by increasing their disc height. Utilizing decompression therapy and physical therapy is beneficial for spinal health. Both can dampen the effects of many painful symptoms caused by spinal stenosis, and many individuals can continue on their wellness journey.

 

References

Choi, Jioun, et al. “Influences of Spinal Decompression Therapy and General Traction Therapy on the Pain, Disability, and Straight Leg Raising of Patients with Intervertebral Disc Herniation.” Journal of Physical Therapy Science, The Society of Physical Therapy Science, Feb. 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4339166/.

Medical Professionals, Johns Hopkins. “Lumbar Spinal Stenosis.” Johns Hopkins Medicine, 15 Feb. 2022, www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/lumbar-spinal-stenosis.

Meyer, Frerk, et al. “Degenerative Cervical Spinal Stenosis: Current Strategies in Diagnosis and Treatment.” Deutsches Arzteblatt International, Deutscher Arzte Verlag, May 2008, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2696878/.

Raja, Avais, et al. “Spinal Stenosis – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 19 Dec. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441989/.

Staff, Mayo Clinic. “Spinal Stenosis.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 24 Oct. 2020, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/spinal-stenosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20352961.

Wu, Lite, and Ricardo Cruz. “Lumbar Spinal Stenosis – Statpearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 25 Aug. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK531493/.

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Body Flexibleness: Decompression

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-
Male medical practitioner helping senior citizen with back rehabilitation exercise on black balance ball

Body Flexibleness: The body loses a small amount of flexibility during normal aging. Decreased body flexibility can negatively impact everyday life by preventing normal function. If the muscles are not taken through their full range of motion to maintain length, strength is lost, and decreased flexibility increases. This can happen from:

  • Water loss in the tissues and spine.
  • Increased stiffness in the joints.
  • Loss of elasticity throughout the muscle tendons and surrounding tissues.

Body Flexibleness: Decompression

Body Flexibleness

Individuals of all ages struggle with flexibility, but there is a difference in age stiffness. However, a sedentary lifestyle can make everyday activities feel more strenuous than before. Less flexibleness can also cause pain. For example, if the muscles in the front of the legs become tight, it can limit movement in the pelvis and hips, leading to low back pain.

Several problems can result from decreased flexibility, including:

  • Shorter steps while walking.
  • Slower walking speed.
  • Back pain.
  • Increased risk of falls.

Flexibleness improves overall movement and helps prevent simple strains and injuries, including:

  • Back injury.
  • Muscle strains.
  • Shoulder injury.
  • Hip injury.
  • Leg injury.

A stretching program for the hip muscles can improve walking speed and step length. This will result in improved walking function with improved and increased control, decreasing the risk of injury. Step length is also critical in preventing injuries. More distance while walking and longer steps mean better balance, making it essential to maintain flexibility in the leg muscles.

Chiropractic Decompression

Routine chiropractic adjustments and spinal decompression can slow the progression of joint degeneration, improve movement, and decrease the risk of injury. When the vertebrae are properly aligned, the entire body operates at its optimal level. There is proper lubrication of joints and muscles, improving mobility and function and removing stress on the nerves, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Chiropractic treats the joints, bones, and muscles to improve body flexibleness through manual and motorized decompression, adjustments, and massage, combined with health coaching, nutrition, stretching, and exercises to do at home.

Degeneration

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DRX Spinal Decompression

References

“American College of Sports Medicine Position Stand. The recommended quantity and quality of exercise for developing and maintaining cardiorespiratory and muscular fitness, and flexibility in healthy adults.” Medicine and science in sports and exercise vol. 30,6 (1998): 975-91. doi:10.1097/00005768-199806000-00032

Choi, Jioun, et al. “Influences of spinal decompression therapy and general traction therapy on the pain, disability, and straight leg raising of patients with intervertebral disc herniation.” Journal of physical therapy science vol. 27,2 (2015): 481-3. doi:10.1589/jpts.27.481

Giraud, Karine et al. “Raideur matinale” [Morning stiffness]. Presse medicale (Paris, France : 1983) vol. 33,12 Pt 1 (2004): 803-7; discussion 825. doi:10.1016/s0755-4982(04)98750-7

Tseng, Shiuan-Yu, et al. “Effect of Two Frequencies of Whole-Body Vibration Training on Balance and Flexibility of the Elderly: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” American journal of physical medicine & rehabilitation vol. 95,10 (2016): 730-7. doi:10.1097/PHM.0000000000000477

How To Alleviate Posterolateral Herniation With Decompression Therapy

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-

Introduction

All around the world, everybody suffers from low back pain at some point in their lives. Due to strenuous activities, injuries, or accidents that cause strain on the back, many individuals will feel a wide range of symptoms that are caused by low back pain. From a dull, mild ache to a sudden, sharp, throbbing pain can hinder a person’s quality of life. This is due to disc herniation on the spine and can cause painful symptoms to pop up over time if it is not treated. Luckily there are treatments for spinal disc herniation that can improve the quality of life for a person. In, today’s article, we will be taking a look at posterolateral herniation, its symptoms, and how prone decompression therapy can help alleviate posterolateral herniation for many suffering individuals. By referring patients to qualified and skilled providers specializing in spinal decompression therapy. To that end, and when appropriate, we advise our patients to refer to our associated medical providers based on their examination. We find that education is the key to asking valuable questions to our providers. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer

 

Can my insurance cover it? Yes, it may. If you are uncertain, here is the link to all the insurance providers we cover. If you have any questions, please call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900.

Download

What Is Posterolateral Herniation?

Do you ever feel discomfort in your back from staying in a position for too long? How about your lower back feeling tender to the touch when you are getting examined by your primary physician? Or how about feeling a wide variety of painful symptoms that can cause you to constantly lay down all day to get rid of the pain? You could be suffering from posterolateral herniation. Research studies have stated that when the inside of the spinal disc known as the nucleus pulposus is injured, it can protrude out to where the spinal nerve roots and the spinal cord are and compress them to cause the individual to be in pain. This will cause the spinal disc to be herniated, which usually happens during a spinal injury. It compresses the lowest spinal nerve root for posterolateral herniation to occur.

 

Posterolateral herniation usually occurs around the lumbar and cervical spine more than the thoracic spine. Other research studies have found that when posterolateral herniation occurs, it is due to the annulus fibrosis, which is the outer layer of the spinal disc, losing its integrity, causing the nucleus pulposus to protrude out compress the spinal nerve. Since the pressure is on the lumbar spinal nerve, research studies have also found that when the annulus fibrosis becomes thin on the posterolateral, it causes the nucleus pulposus to compress the nearest nerve root and causes the lack of support to the posterior ligaments on the spine.

 

The Symptoms Of Posterolateral Herniation

The symptoms of posterolateral herniation usually vary on how severe the pain is on the person, and where it is located plays a factor. For the lumbar spine, research studies have stated that the signs and symptoms of posterolateral herniation on the lumbar spine can cause sensory abnormalities, weakness in the lumbosacral nerve roots, and restricted flexion. When this happens, the person suffers from lower levels of disability, leg pain, and pain in the posterior knee. For the cervical spine, more research studies have stated that posterolateral cervical herniation on the cervical spine can cause ipsilateral pain to the neck, which can be dull or sharp. While also causes direct compression of the spinal cord and causes inflammation of the cervical nerve root creating numbness or tingling sensation down the arms and fingers.

Prone Decompression Therapy-Video

Spinal Decompression Machine Low Back

Feeling discomfort in your back after staying in a position for too long? How about feeling pain in your lower back, legs, and neck? Is the pain a dull, mild ache or a sudden, sharp nuisance? If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, then decompression therapy might be the answer you are looking for. The video above explains how decompression therapy can help alleviate the symptoms caused by posterolateral herniation on the spine. Decompression therapy utilizes traction to gently stretch the spine to take the pressure off the nerve root and decompress the herniated discs. This will allow the spinal disc to increase its height on the spine and allow the inner walls of the discs that are herniated to return to their original form. If you want to learn more about decompression therapy, this link will explain its benefits and how it can alleviate posterolateral herniation symptoms.

How Prone Decompression Therapy Alleviates Posterolateral Herniation

 

Since posterolateral herniation is primarily located in the lumbar spine, studies have stated that the loss of hydration and collapse of discs causes a strain on the fibers of the annulus fibrosis, making them become herniated and causing tears and fissures. When there are protrusions and herniations on the spine, prone decompression therapy can help alleviate those symptoms and help restore the spine. Research studies have found that prone decompression therapy allows more of a noticeable separation on the intervertebral discs and causes a decrease in muscle tension as well. With prone decompression, the posterolateral herniation will decrease since it takes the pressure off the nerve roots, causing the person to be in pain. 

 

Conclusion

Overall, everybody has dealt with low back pain at some point. With a wide range of symptoms associated with low back pain, posterolateral herniation on the spine can cause many problems like pain, numbness, and tension on the nerve roots, ligaments, and muscles encompassing the spine. With prone decompression therapy, it can help relieve the herniated disc by taking it off the nerve root and alleviating the painful symptoms. Prone decompression therapy gently stretches the spine to return nutrients and oxygen to the compressed herniated discs. This allows many individuals suffering from herniated discs to feel instant relief and get back their quality of life.

 

References

De Cicco, Franco L, and Gaston O Camino Willhuber. “Nucleus Pulposus Herniation – Statpearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 11 Aug. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK542307/.

Al Qaraghi, Mustafa I, and Orlando De Jesus. “Lumbar Disc Herniation- StatPearls- NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 30 Aug. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560878/.

Amin, Raj M, et al. “Lumbar Disc Herniation.” Current Reviews in Musculoskeletal Medicine, Springer US, Dec. 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5685963/.

Dydyk, Alexander M, et al. “Disc Herniation – Statpearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing, 18 Jan. 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441822/.

Khan, Rehan Ramzan, et al. “Effectiveness of Mechanical Traction in Supine versus Prone Lying Position for Lumbosacral Radiculopathy.” Pakistan Journal of Medical Sciences, Professional Medical Publications, 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8377889/.

Schoenfeld, Andrew J, and Bradley K Weiner. “Treatment of Lumbar Disc Herniation: Evidence-Based Practice.” International Journal of General Medicine, Dove Medical Press, 21 July 2010, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2915533/.

Yeung, Jacky T, et al. “Cervical Disc Herniation Presenting with Neck Pain and Contralateral Symptoms: A Case Report.” Journal of Medical Case Reports, BioMed Central, 28 June 2012, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3411405/.

Disclaimer

Spinal Decompression and Digestion

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-
Doctor visited the patient while using tablet explaining about the patient stomach pain in the living room at home.

Spinal decompression and Digestion. No one wants to worry about stomach issues. A rich and unhealthy diet can cause digestive issues, stomach pain, and back pain. This can turn into a severe chronic condition; studies have found links between spinal problems and gastrointestinal tract symptoms, which include:

  • Abdominal pain that radiates.
  • Constipation.
  • Difficulty controlling bowel movements.
  • Diarrhea.
  • Nausea.
  • Vomiting.

Spinal Decompression and Digestion

Chiropractic treats the spine that is essential to the function of the central nervous system, which is responsible for digestion. When the nervous system is not functioning correctly, the other systems begin to malfunction. Chiropractic manual and motorized spinal decompression can help with digestion by releasing trapped gas from joints while improving blood circulation that is natural and non-invasive.

Spinal Decompression and Digestion

Spinal alignment and digestion are closely connected. The nerves in the thoracic and lumbar regions affect digestion. When the spine is out of alignment, it stresses the nerves. Nerves that are pinched or constricted are inhibited/disrupted from sending the proper signals to the digestive system. This can lead to new or worsening digestive problems. Spinal conditions that can cause digestive issues:

  • Herniated discs
  • Ankylosing spondylosis
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Tumors

Studies have found that digestive issues, including discomfort, heartburn, and bloating, have decreased with regular chiropractic and spinal decompression and decreased constipation and irregular bowel movements. This comes from chiropractic reactivating the body’s natural ability to heal itself.

Increased Circulation

  • When the spine gets decompressed, it opens up the spine to circulate fluids throughout the body.
  • This flushes the lymphatic system, increasing the immune system’s function.
  • Increasing the circulation also provides additional oxygen and nutrients to the brain, improving signaling, memory, and concentration.

Improved Digestion

  • Poor posture compresses the abdomen and cramps the space the gastrointestinal tract needs to process food properly.
  • Decompressing the spine and correcting posture allows room for the muscles to contract, expand, and properly circulate waste.

Bowel Program

Treatment focuses on preventing further injuries and helping improve the individual’s quality of life. A doctor, chiropractor, health coach, or nutritionist can recommend a bowel program to help retrain the body to maintain regular bowel movements. These programs are personalized to the individual’s specific condition that takes into account:

  • Level of the spine injury or condition
  • Food and drink intake
  • Bowel movement pattern
  • Digestive problems
  • General health
  • Individual preferences

A bowel program sets up the timing of food intake, fluid intake, medications, and techniques to help bowel movements. The objective is to prevent spontaneous bowel movements, help pass stools regularly, and empty the rectum daily.

 Spinal Decompression Reduced Disc Herniation UP To 90%

DRX9000 Decompression Treatment

References

Browning, Kirsteen N, and R Alberto Travagli. “Central nervous system control of gastrointestinal motility and secretion and modulation of gastrointestinal functions.” Comprehensive Physiology vol. 4,4 (2014): 1339-68. doi:10.1002/cphy.c130055

Holmes, Gregory M, and Emily N Blanke. “Gastrointestinal dysfunction after spinal cord injury.” Experimental neurology vol. 320 (2019): 113009. doi:10.1016/j.expneurol.2019.113009

Kehl, Amy S et al. “Relationship between the gut and the spine: a pilot study of first-degree relatives of patients with ankylosing spondylitis.” RMD open vol. 3,2 e000437. 16 Aug. 2017, doi:10.1136/rmdopen-2017-000437

Lara, Francisco Javier Pérez et al. “Chronic abdominal syndrome due to nervous compression. Study of 100 cases and proposed diagnostic-therapeutic algorithm.” Journal of gastrointestinal surgery: official journal of the Society for Surgery of the Alimentary Tract vol. 19,6 (2015): 1059-71. doi:10.1007/s11605-015-2801-8

How Decompression Therapy Can Alleviate Tension Headaches

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-

Introduction

All around the world, most everyone has some form of headache that can affect their mood. Headaches can range from a dull ache on the forehead like cluster headaches to sudden excruciating headaches like migraines. Headaches can also be associated with neck pain as they can cause a person to have a limited range of motion when turning their heads, as well as causing stiff neck muscles and compressed cervical spinal discs that can lead to herniation. Having these issues in the neck can dampen a person’s quality of life; however, treatments like cervical decompression therapy can help alleviate headaches and neck pain from a person giving them instant relief. In today’s article, we will be looking at what causes tension headaches and how cervical decompression traction can help alleviate tension headaches for many people. By referring patients to qualified and skilled providers specializing in spinal decompression therapy. To that end, and when appropriate, we advise our patients to refer to our associated medical providers based on their examination. We find that education is the key to asking valuable questions to our providers. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer

 

Can my insurance cover it? Yes, it may. If you are uncertain, here is the link to all the insurance providers we cover. If you have any questions, please call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900.

Download

What Causes Tension Headaches?

Have you ever wondered why your neck muscles feel tense after a stressful day, or there is a constant dull aching pain that throbbing on the neck or the side of your head? How about getting some relief after taking a break after a stressful day? This is a tension headache, and research studies have stated that tension headaches are common and can range from mild to moderate depending on the pain. Unlike migraines, tension headaches are bilateral and don’t worsen when a person is exercising. Another thing that tension headaches can do to a person is that even though they are common for many people, they can become frequent or even chronic and cause significant health issues if it is not treated right away. 

 

Other research studies have found that tension headaches can be caused by many factors impacting a person’s life. Environmental and muscular factors like stress and posture can cause the neck muscles to strain themselves, causing the person to be hunched over. This will cause the neck muscles to become stiff and tender to the touch as the neck muscles have a limited range of motion for the head to turn. When the neck has a limited range of motion, it can cause a person to have muscle tightness around the neck area, and if it is not treated soon, it can develop into chronic issues over time.

 

Chronic Tension Headaches

Since tension headaches usually last between 30 minutes to 7 days, the pain can last for more than a month when it turns into chronic tension headaches. Research studies have found that since tension headaches are common when chronic tension headaches, the pain severity will cause a bilateral pressure sensation that can last for days, even months. Chronic tension headaches also have severe muscle tightness around the headband of the person’s head. Individuals suffering from chronic tension headaches would continue to function with their daily activities but have severely impaired performance when this happens. Luckily there are ways to treat both tension and chronic tension headaches, and that is through cervical decompression therapy.

Neck Decompression Therapy- Video

Neck Decompression Machine - Cervical Mechanical Traction

Having tightness around the neck muscles can be difficult when affecting a person’s daily activity. How about tension headaches that won’t go away and cause you to feel miserable. Then maybe cervical decompression can be the answer to all your cervical issues. The video above shows how cervical traction can help alleviate neck issues that are causing problems to the cervical spine. What traction does is that it gently stretches the cervical spine, causing instant relief to the compressed disc and getting the pressure off the cervical nerve root. Any headaches like migraines and tension headaches will be gone from the person’s head when this happens. Utilizing cervical decompression can help alleviate the pain caused by tension headaches and restore a person’s quality of life. If you want to learn more about cervical decompression therapy, this link will explain the benefits of decompression and how it can alleviate cervical pain symptoms.

How Cervical Decompression Traction Alleviates Tension Headaches

 

So there are ways to alleviate chronic tension headaches. Many people have used ice/heat packs to ease the tension from the affected area; some take medication to get rid of the headaches to continue to go about their day. At the same time, others incorporate daily physical activities to release all the tension they were holding in. However, one form of treatment has been making its way to help ease the symptoms of tension headaches and alleviate other issues affecting the neck and cervical spine, including cervical decompression traction therapy. Research studies have found that cervical traction is a non-surgical treatment used to provide relief by reducing cervical-related injuries while also widening the intervertebral foramen. Cervical traction also helps eliminate the pressure on the cervical nerve root and even alleviates cervical radiculopathy. Other research studies have found that cervical traction is a conservative method to increase the cervical blood vessels’ circulation by stretching the muscles and causing them to relax. Cervical traction also allows pain relief, increases cervical range of motion, and relieves headaches caused by neck pain.

 

Conclusion

Overall, headaches are a nuisance to many people and can impact a person’s quality of life. Since headaches range from a dull ache to excruciating throbbing pain, the pain can vary, and where it is located can affect the body. Since there are many forms of headaches, there are many treatments that can help alleviate the symptoms of chronic headaches. Cervical decompression therapy can help alleviate chronic headaches and reduce neck pain symptoms that are affecting the cervical spine. Cervical decompression therapy allows traction to gently pull on the cervical spine causing the compressed spinal discs to be taking the pressure off the cervical nerve root and instantly causing the relief to the neck. When people utilize decompression therapy as part of their wellness journey, they can regain their lives.

 

References

Abi-Aad, Karl R, and Armen Derian. “Cervical Traction – Statpearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing, 13 Aug. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470412/.

Chowdhury, Debashish. “Tension-Type Headache.” Annals of Indian Academy of Neurology, Medknow Publications & Media Pvt Ltd, Aug. 2012, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3444224/.

Lee, Chang-Hyung, et al. “The Functional and Morphological Changes of the Cervical Intervertebral Disc after Applying Lordotic Curve Controlled Traction: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Study.” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, MDPI, 19 June 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6617374/.

Loder, Elizabeth, and Paul Rizzoli. “Tension-Type Headache.” BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.), BMJ Publishing Group Ltd., 12 Jan. 2008, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2190284/.

Shah, Nihir, and Sajid Hameed. “Muscle Contraction Tension Headache – Statpearls – NCBI …” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing, 7 Nov. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562274/.

Disclaimer

Relieving Migraine Headaches With Decompression Therapy

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-

Introduction

Everybody all over the world suffers from some headache. It can come in various forms, and the pain can range from a dull ache that can go away in a few hours to an excruciating throbbing pain that can make a person stay in bed all day and last for weeks. Headaches can also cause muscle tension on the neck and can dampen a person’s daily life if it is not treated right away. Luckily the use of cervical decompression therapy can help alleviate any pain that the cervical spine is suffering from and can cause instant relief to many individuals suffering from headaches. This article looks at different types of headaches, including migraines, and how cervical decompression therapy can help relieve migraine headaches for many individuals. By referring patients to qualified and skilled providers specializing in spinal decompression therapy. To that end, and when appropriate, we advise our patients to refer to our associated medical providers based on their examination. We find that education is the key to asking valuable questions to our providers. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer

 

Can my insurance cover it? Yes, it may. If you are uncertain, here is the link to all the insurance providers we cover. If you have any questions, please call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900.

Download

Different Forms Of Headaches

Have you ever felt excruciating throbbing pain from the forehead that becomes a nuisance throughout the day? How about tension and pain on either side of the face that constantly pounds that laying in a dark, quiet room can only be the cure? Or turning your head causes muscle restriction on the neck and limits the range of motion? These are the many forms of headaches that can affect anybody on any given day. Research studies have defined headaches as pain from various disorders that usually affect the cervical spine. These disorders can range from muscle tension around the neck, being overly stressed, having an inadequate sleep, to wearing something tight around the head. Having headaches in their acute form can last for a few hours until they dissipate, but their chronic condition can cause severe neck and cervical spine issues.

 

When a person starts to feel pain in their neck, it can cause them to have a limited range of motion and cause reoccurring headaches known as cervicogenic headaches. Research studies have shown that cervicogenic headaches are mainly caused when the cervical root is compressed on the lower parts of the cervical spine, causing cervical radiculopathy. When this happens, it can cause many individuals to have neck pain and headaches from the neck to the head. Cervicogenic headaches can limit a person’s range of motion when they turn their head and irritate the cervical nerve root spread out from the neck to the shoulders.

 

Migraine Headaches

Have you ever felt a severe headache that makes you feel nauseated and become sensitive to light and that you only feel relief by just laying down in a dark, quiet room? This type of headache is known as a migraine, and research studies classified migraines as headaches with moderate to severe episodes considered unilateral. Having migraines can affect a person’s quality of life as they can last from a few days to a few weeks, depending on how severe the migraine is. Other research studies have shown that since migraines are the commonest causes of severe headaches, the pain is accompanied by a constellation of symptoms that can affect the body and the neck. Some of the common symptoms that are accompanied by migraines are:

Non-surgical Decompression Therapy For Cervical Spine- Video

Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Therapy for the Cervical Spine / Pro Physio

Still feeling excruciating pain from the neck, and it is causing you headaches? How about a limited range of motion when turning your head? Well, cervical decompression therapy could be the answer to alleviating headaches and neck pain. The video above shows what cervical decompression therapy does by using the DRX9000. Cervical decompression allows the individual to lay on a traction table, strapping their head. In contrast, the traction table gently stretches the cervical spine to enable the compressed spinal discs to return to their original form and relieve the pressure on the cervical nerve root. This will alleviate neck pain symptoms like muscle stiffness and help treat severe headaches like migraines. If you want to learn more about spinal decompression therapy, this link will explain the benefits of spinal decompression and how it can alleviate cervical pain symptoms.

Cervical Decompression Therapy For Relieving Migraines

Finding any kind of relief for migraines usually involves a quiet, dark room to minimize the associated symptoms that can dampen a person’s day. Since research studies have stated that when the greater occipital nerve is being entrapped and compressed, it can actually cause the posterior part of the head excruciating pain. This can affect the upper parts of the cervical spine and cause migraines to become much worst. The best way to get the pressure off the greater occipital nerve and the cervical spine nerve root is through cervical decompression therapy.

 

Research studies have shown that cervical decompression has often been used to help treat many individuals suffering from neck pain. What cervical decompression does, is that it allows traction to be utilized on the cervical spine causing the muscles, tendons, and ligaments that encompass the cervical spine to be gently stretched. This will cause them to relax and reduce the sensory fibers’ pain transmission, causing instant relief. This gentle stretching from cervical decompression takes the compressed disc from the cervical spine and releases the pressure of the cervical nerve root, thus alleviating severe headaches like migraines.

 

Conclusion

When a person has a headache and neck pain, it can affect a person’s quality of life. Having headaches can dampen a person’s quality of life, depending on the severity. Headaches can range from a dull ache like a cluster headache to excruciating throbbing pain like a migraine. Luckily cervical decompression therapy allows the individual to have their cervical spine be gently stretched and takes the pressure off the cervical nerve root. This will cause the cervical spinal discs to be decompressed and allow an increase in disc height, alleviating the symptoms that are causing a person to have migraines and headaches. Incorporating cervical decompression therapy as part of your wellness journey will give you the relief you need to get by with your daily activities.

 

References

Bogduk, Nikolai. “The Neck and Headaches.” Neurologic Clinics, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Feb. 2004, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15062532/.

Eskilsson, Anja, et al. “Decompression of the Greater Occipital Nerve Improves Outcome in Patients with Chronic Headache and Neck Pain – a Retrospective Cohort Study.” Acta Neurochirurgica, Springer Vienna, Sept. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8357752/.

Lee, Chang-Hyung, et al. “The Functional and Morphological Changes of the Cervical Intervertebral Disc after Applying Lordotic Curve Controlled Traction: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Study.” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, MDPI, 19 June 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6617374/.

Persson, Liselott C G, et al. “Headache in Patients with Cervical Radiculopathy: A Prospective Study with Selective Nerve Root Blocks in 275 Patients.” European Spine Journal: Official Publication of the European Spine Society, the European Spinal Deformity Society, and the European Section of the Cervical Spine Research Society, Springer-Verlag, July 2007, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2219654/.

Pescador Ruschel, Marco A, and Orlando De Jesus. “Migraine Headache – Statpearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing, 30 Aug. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560787/.

Weatherall, Mark W. “The Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Migraine.” Therapeutic Advances in Chronic Disease, SAGE Publications, May 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4416971/.

Disclaimer

Health Consequences From Poor Posture

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-
Young female worker of car repair service bending over open engine compartment and looking for the reason of breakdown in workshop

Posture is the positioning of the body. There are two types of posture. Dynamic posture is how individuals position themselves when moving, like walking, running, or bending to lift an object. And static posture is how individuals position themselves when not in motion, like standing, sitting, or sleeping. Minimal stress is applied to the muscles and joints when practicing healthy posture. High-stress work and school combined with unhealthy body positions can cause health consequences to the spine, extremities, and musculoskeletal imbalances.

Health Consequences From Poor Posture

Health Consequences

Poor postures do not always present with spine or extremity pain right away. This is because individuals will feel discomfort and have the strength and mobility to correct unhealthy/awkward positions and minimize stress. However, eventually, the pain will begin to present as the muscles and joints can only take so much that the ability to correct poor positioning does not matter as there is a developing injury taking place, causing inflammation, letting the body know there is something not right. This often leads to chronic stress and the unnecessary wearing down of the joints to compensate for the unhealthy positions.

Early Signs

Early signs of postural problems can include:

  • Inability to sit or stand for a long time.
  • Stiffness when rising from a chair.
  • Feeling of added physical exhaustion.

Leaving the condition untreated often leads to:

  • Muscle imbalances.
  • Loss of normal flexibility.
  • Discomfort and pain present for no apparent reason.

Unhealthy Posture Symptoms

Symptoms can include:

  • Slouching
  • Rounded shoulders.
  • Potbelly.
  • Bent knees when standing or walking.
  • Muscle fatigue.
  • Aches and pains.
  • Back pain.
  • Headache.

Postural Structure

Poor posture interferes and disrupts several of the body’s posture structures. These include:

  • Nervous system feedback.
  • Muscle strength and length.
  • The static slow-twitch muscle fibers help maintain posture without exerting too much energy and contribute to balance by sensing the body’s position.
  • Static muscle fibers burn energy slowly and can work for a long time without tiring.
  • The fast-twitch or phasic muscle fibers are used for movement and activity. These fibers quickly use up their energy.

Because the phasic fibers have to work overtime instead of the static fibers to maintain the body’s position, muscle fatigue, weakness, and pain begin to set in.

Health

Health consequences can include:

  • Misaligned musculoskeletal system.
  • The advanced wearing of the spine making it fragile and prone to injury.
  • Chronic pain.
  • Decreased flexibility.
  • Joint mobility is affected.
  • Balance issues.
  • Increased risk of falling.
  • Difficulty digesting food.
  • Difficulty breathing.

Chiropractic and Physical Therapy

Chiropractors and physical therapists specialize in evaluating and treating musculoskeletal dysfunctions and disorders, identifying and screening for postural dysfunction. Chiropractic adjustments can be highly effective combined with other treatment modalities like massaging the soft tissues to improve circulation, reduce swelling inflammation, and promote healing. Spinal decompression therapy can help stretch and realign the spine to relieve back and/or leg pain. A customized exercise program will stretch and strengthen the body to maintain a healthy posture. Health coaching combined with dietary management can help with pain and inflammation and strengthen muscles and bones.

DRX9000 Spinal Decompression

References

American Chiropractic Association. Maintaining good posture. acatoday.org/content/posture-power-how-to-correct-your-body-alignment. Accessed Jan. 28, 2019.

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Spine basics. orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/spine-basics/. Accessed Jan. 30, 2019.

Bauer BA. Chiropractic or osteopathic manipulation. In: Mayo Clinic Guide to Integrative Medicine. Rochester, Minn.: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; 2017.

Muscolino JE. Posture and the gait cycle. In: Kinesiology: The Skeletal System and Muscle Function. 3rd ed. Elsevier; 2017.

Wang G. Powered traction devices for intervertebral decompression: Health technology assessment update. Washington Department of Labor and Industries, June 14, 2004.

Waters, Thomas R, and Robert B Dick. “Evidence of health risks associated with prolonged standing at work and intervention effectiveness.” Rehabilitation nursing: the official journal of the Association of Rehabilitation Nurses vol. 40,3 (2015): 148-65. doi:10.1002/rnj.166

Neck Pain & Decompression Therapy

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-

Introduction

Do you ever get that stiff feeling just by turning your head, or do your shoulders start to feel tense after a stressful day at work? How about feeling a headache coming on for no apparent reason? This is due to neck pain, and many factors can cause a person to have neck pain. Even though neck pain can be a nuisance to many individuals, there are therapeutic ways to alleviate neck pain: one of them is cervical decompression therapy. This article will look at what neck pain is, its symptoms, and how decompression therapy can help alleviate neck pain for many individuals. By referring patients to qualified and skilled providers specializing in spinal decompression therapy. To that end, and when appropriate, we advise our patients to refer to our associated medical providers based on their examination. We find that education is the key to asking valuable questions to our providers. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer

 

Can my insurance cover it? Yes, it may. If you are uncertain, here is the link to all the insurance providers we cover. If you have any questions, please call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900.

Download

What Is Neck Pain?

 

As part of the cervical spine, the neck supports the head while surrounding and protecting the spinal cord and allows a wide range of motion. Research studies have found that the neck has a coordinated network of nerves, bones, joints, and muscles that have an essential job but have several problems that can cause pain. Neck pain is a common complaint among many individuals, as the neck muscles are strained for long periods due to poor posture. Other research studies have found any injuries or conditions affecting the neck, causing a restricted range of motion. This can be scary for many individuals due to being hunched over by looking at their phones, being on the computer, even minor things like reading a book or suffering from an auto accident, and having rheumatoid arthritis can affect the neck.

 

The Symptoms For Dealing With Neck Pain

Pain can come in two types of forms, which are acute and chronic. Acute pain can become a dull, mild ache that can last from a few hours to a few days, depending on where the person is injured. Chronic pain, however, can become a nuisance as it can send constant radiating pain that can cause a hindrance to any part of the body. As research has shown, the pain can vary for neck pain as it can become mild and uncomfortable to excruciating, where excess movement can make it worst. Some of the most common neck pain symptoms usually involve:

Even though neck pain can become a nuisance for many individuals, there are ways to alleviate the symptoms of neck pain and provide relief.

Cervical Decompression Therapy-Video

Cervical Decompression Therapy at CORE Chiropractic

Research studies have found that manipulation, stretching, and strengthening of the neck muscle can reduce the chronic pain symptoms that it has caused. The video above shows what cervical decompression does for many individuals suffering from cervical pain and neck pain. Cervical decompression therapy lets individuals lay their heads on the traction table and are strapped in. The traction machine gently stretches the cervical spine to release the compressed spinal disc. Cervical decompression therapy allows the compressed spinal nerve roots to be alleviated from the cervical spine. It will enable the beneficial oxygen to come back into the spinal disc and increase the disc height for the neck. If you want to learn more about spinal decompression therapy, this link will explain the benefits of spinal decompression and how it can alleviate low back pain symptoms.

How Can Decompression Therapy Help With Neck Pain

 

As stated earlier in the article, feeling stiffness when turning your head, feeling the tension in the shoulders, and having headaches pop up out of nowhere is scary when you don’t know how they happened. When these symptoms start to turn into chronic issues, it can be hard to find relief to get rid of the pain. Luckily there is a solution for alleviating neck pain, and cervical decompression therapy could help get rid of the pain. Cervical decompression therapy allows individuals to lay their heads on the traction table and be strapped in, causing the traction machine to stretch the neck to alleviate the painful symptoms gently. Research studies have found that cervical decompression therapy can relieve tension headaches and improve the range of motion. This will cause the spinal disc to be stretched and alleviate symptoms caused by cervical herniated discs. Combined with light stretching, cervical decompression therapy can also improve cervical disc herniation symptoms. Research shows that this combination of treatments promotes neuromuscular tissue edema and inflammatory absorption from the cervical herniated disc. This will allow the restoration of the curvature of the cervical vertebrae and reduce disc pressure by improving it.

 

Conclusion

Having any neck pain is a nuisance, and if it is not treated right away, it can become an issue over time. Neck pain can cause stiffness to the neck muscles and disrupt the range of motion, making it unbearable for the individual to turn their heads from left to right and up and down. Luckily treatments like cervical decompression therapy allow individuals to feel relief from neck pain. Cervical decompression therapy provides traction to the individual by stretching the neck ligament gently to release the compressed cervical spinal discs and will enable the reduction of pain that is causing discomfort to the neck. When this happens, many individuals suffering from neck pain will feel instant relief and an improvement in their range of motion from their necks.

 

References

Binder, Allan I. “Neck Pain.” BMJ Clinical Evidence, BMJ Publishing Group, 4 Aug. 2008, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2907992/.

Curtis, Scott. “All about Neck Pain.” Spine, Spine-Health, 9 Dec. 2019, www.spine-health.com/conditions/neck-pain/all-about-neck-pain.

Curtis, Scott. “Neck Pain Symptoms.” Spine, Spine-Health, 9 Dec. 2019, www.spine-health.com/conditions/neck-pain/neck-pain-symptoms.

Landers, Merrill R, et al. “Anterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion on Neck Range of Motion, Pain, and Function: A Prospective Analysis.” The Spine Journal: Official Journal of the North American Spine Society, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Nov. 2013, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24041918/.

Staff, Mayo Clinic. “Neck Pain.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 31 July 2020, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/neck-pain/symptoms-causes/syc-20375581.

Xu, Qing, et al. “Nonsurgical Spinal Decompression System Traction Combined with Electroacupuncture in the Treatment of Multi-Segmental Cervical Disc Herniation: A Case Report.” Medicine, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 21 Jan. 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8772752/.

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How Decompression Therapy Can Help With Leg Pain

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-

Introduction

The body can bend, twist, turn, and move without pain, while the spine allows the body to be held upright. When the body gets injured, and the spine starts to feel pain from the ligaments, the nerve root, the spinal discs, and the spinal cord, it can cause either leg pain, back pain, or both depending on the severity. The pain can range from a dull, mild ache to a sudden, sharp shooting pain that can radiate from the leg to the feet. Luckily there are many treatments to help alleviate lumbar pain and can bring back a person’s quality of life. In this article, we will be looking at what leg pain is, its factors, and its symptoms, as well as how decompression can relieve leg pain for many individuals. By referring patients to qualified and skilled providers specializing in spinal decompression therapy. To that end, and when appropriate, we advise our patients to refer to our associated medical providers based on their examination. We find that education is the key to asking valuable questions to our providers. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer

 

Can my insurance cover it? Yes, it may. If you are uncertain, here is the link to all the insurance providers we cover. If you have any questions, please call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900.

Download

What Is Leg Pain?

 

Ever wonder, “why are my legs aching so much?” or “my legs can’t stop twitching even when I am sitting down?” How about feeling a sharp pain from the buttock down to the back of the leg to the feet. This is known as leg pain, and research shows that leg pain can be intermittent or constant in the body. Not only that, but leg pain can have a range of sensations, from a dull ache to a throbbing, burning sensation that travels the leg itself. Now many causes can contribute to leg pain, and it usually starts in the lower back, the pelvis, or even the leg itself. Some of the common causes include:

 

The Symptoms & Factors Of Leg Pain

As stated earlier, one of the causes contributing to leg pain is low back pain. Research studies have noted that around 60% of individuals with low back pain have also suffered leg pain. When leg pain is associated with low back pain, it is known as radicular pain. Leg pain can also affect the spinal nerve root involvement, and other research studies have found that low back-related leg pain is one of the most common variations of low back pain and can contribute to sciatica. Some of the symptoms that individuals are experiencing with leg pain include:

Decompression Therapy For The Lumbar Spine-Video

Non-Surgical Lumbar Spinal Decompression using the DRS Protocol™ at Auth Chiropractic

The video above shows how non-surgical decompression is used for the lumbar spine and can help alleviate a wide variety of issues that are not only affecting the back but can also alleviate other symptoms that are associated with low back pain like sciatica, herniated discs, and leg pain to name a few. What decompression therapy does to the individual is that it utilizes traction by gently stretching the spine allowing the compressed spinal discs to relieve themselves and stop touching the nerve roots spread out from the spine. This causes relief to many individuals that are suffering from sciatica and leg pain that is associated with low back pain. When the spine is being decompressed, the beneficial nutrients rehydrate the spinal discs and increase their disc height, allowing a person to get back their quality of life. If you want to learn more about spinal decompression therapy, this link will explain the benefits of spinal decompression and how it can alleviate low back pain symptoms.

Decompression Therapy Can Relieve Leg Pain

As stated earlier, the questions of “Why are my legs aching so much?” or “Why can’t my legs stop twitching when I am sitting down?” or even feeling a sudden sharp pain that runs from the lower back down to the leg have been searched all over the internet. The search results have stated that this is due to leg pain. How about treatments for leg pain? Most of the results show that light stretches, leg surgery, or taking pain medication can help; however, non-surgical treatments can help alleviate leg pain, and that is by utilizing decompression therapy. 

 

Research studies have found that low back pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders and that leg pain is associated with low back pain causing radicular symptoms. The lumbar spinal nerve roots are compressed when this happens, causing a burning, electric sharp pain that affects the back and legs. With decompression therapy, it allows the individual to feel the gentle stretch on their spine, causing a reduction in the intra-disc pressure and disc protrusion while also increasing the disc space and improving leg mobility. Other research studies have also found that the combination of both manual and spinal decompression therapy can help decrease the internal pressure of the intervertebral disc while increasing its height and taking pressure off the nerve root that is causing pain to the lower back and the leg. Decompression therapy also helps rehydrate the spinal discs and extend the annulus fibrosis and posterior ligaments to alleviate nerve root adhesion and disc herniation.

 

Conclusion

When the body is suffering from an injury that starts to affect the back and leg, it can cause severe issues for the individual. The pain ranges from a mild, dull ache to a sharp, sudden pain that can radiate down the lower back to the leg. Therefore, leg pain is associated with low back pain as the compressed spinal discs affect the nerve roots that are spread throughout the entire body. When a nerve root is irritated or compressed on the legs, it can cause symptoms like sciatica to initiate a sharp pain running down the leg itself. Luckily treatments like decompression therapy can help alleviate leg pain in a non-surgical way by utilizing traction to gently stretch the spinal disc off the compressed nerve root to alleviate symptoms causing low back and leg pain. Incorporating decompression therapy as part of your wellness journey can provide tremendous benefits to becoming pain-free.

 

References

Amjad, Fareeha, et al. “Effects of Non-Surgical Decompression Therapy in Addition to Routine Physical Therapy on Pain, Range of Motion, Endurance, Functional Disability and Quality of Life versus Routine Physical Therapy Alone in Patients with Lumbar Radiculopathy; a Randomized Controlled Trial.” BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, BioMed Central, 16 Mar. 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8924735/.

Cooper, Grant. “Leg Pain and Numbness: What Might These Symptoms Mean?” Spine, Spine-Health, 30 Sept. 2019, www.spine-health.com/conditions/leg-pain/leg-pain-and-numbness-what-might-these-symptoms-mean.

Konstantinou, Kika, et al. “Characteristics of Patients with Low Back and Leg Pain Seeking Treatment in Primary Care: Baseline Results from the Atlas Cohort Study.” BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, BioMed Central, 4 Nov. 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4634730/.

Oh, Hyunju, et al. “Effects of the Flexion-Distraction Technique and Drop Technique on Straight Leg Raising Angle and Intervertebral Disc Height of Patients with an Intervertebral Disc Herniation.” Journal of Physical Therapy Science, The Society of Physical Therapy Science, Aug. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6698474/.

Stynes, Siobhán, et al. “Classification of Patients with Low Back-Related Leg Pain: A Systematic Review.” BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, BioMed Central, 23 May 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4877814/.

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Leg Injuries Car Accidents and Crashes

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-
Physiotherapist massaging leg of patient lying on Massage Table in hospital

Individuals drive to jobs, to school, run errands, take road trips, spending a lot of time on the road. Accidents and crashes happen more frequently with all kinds of injuries. The National Highway Traffic Safety Commission has found that 37% of car accidents and crashes involve leg injuries and damage. Chiropractic physical rehabilitation and functional medicine can help heal injuries getting the individual back to everyday life.

Leg Injuries Car Accidents and Crashes

Leg Injuries

Common leg injuries include:

Bruising and Cuts

Bruising and cuts are typical from the impact and the body getting slammed around. Lacerations can be noticed right away, but bruising comes from blood pooling underneath the skin and can take time to present, possibly 24 to 48 hours. Most bruises and cuts heal independently from home first aid care. A standard recovery used to take care of bruising is R.I.C.E or rest, ice, compression, and elevation. This helps the healing process; however, if the injury/s are more severe, chiropractic can help with therapeutic massage to relieve pain and strengthen the injured muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

ACL Injuries

The femur or thigh bone has several bands of tissue connecting it to the patella or kneecap and tibia or shin bone. One of the bands is the anterior cruciate ligament or ACL. Injuries to this band of tissue are common in sports. Car accidents and crashes are another common cause, specifically tearing the ligament. Individuals experiencing a tear may notice some or all of the following symptoms:

  • A cracking or popping sound when the accident or crash took place.
  • Swelling in and around the knee.
  • Severe pain in and around the knee.
  • Unstable and unsteady when walking or standing.
  • Reduced range of motion that makes walking or moving difficult.

A chiropractor can help treat the injury and help correct any muscular imbalances.

Meniscus Tears

Tears to the meniscus are also common in car accidents and crashes. The meniscus is a part of the knee. Two wedge-shaped pieces of cartilage provide a cushion where the femur and tibia meet to absorb shock. The wedges are called menisci.

  • When the meniscus tears, individuals might feel or hear a pop and could feel the leg suddenly give out.
  • Swelling in the knee.
  • Some pain but still be able to walk.
  • The knee will be stiff for the next few days.
  • More difficulty bearing weight or walking.

The RICE method is a recommended method of self-care. Many meniscus tears do not require surgery to improve knee function. Mild to moderate meniscus tears can be successfully treated with chiropractic techniques like soft tissue work, corrective stretches, and exercises. Surgery could eventually be necessary for severe cases to repair the meniscus to prevent long-term complications.

Broken Crushed Bones

From the hips to the toes, the bottom half of the body bones are vulnerable to fractures. Physical trauma from prolonged pressure on the body can cause bones to get shattered from a crush injury. Crush injuries affect the bones, soft tissues, and other leg areas. Different forms of fractures range in severity. There are partial fractures that do not cause the bone to separate and complete fractures that break apart and open fractures that pierce the skin. Some fractures are hard to detect for up to several days.

Chiropractic care can help the body heal and recover from a bone fracture. A patient’s bone density is evaluated and tested with an individualized treatment plan to help regain and maintain optimal bone strength. The treatments strengthen the muscles, reduce stiffness, improve nutrition, and relieve pain. Manipulation adjustments, rehabilitation, relaxation techniques, and dietary health coaching help individuals heal faster and strengthen their bones. The objective is to help regain increased mobility and range of motion.

Sciatica

Car accidents and crashes are one instance where the spine can be damaged enough to bring on sciatic pain where no back problems were present before. The impact from a car accident can cause the discs to be knocked out of place, damaged, and/or rupture around the surrounding tissue. Any of these results can pinch the sciatic nerve, leading to pain and other sciatica symptoms. Chiropractic can realign the spine and relieve pressure from the nerve/s.

DOC Spinal Decompression Table

Non-Surgical Path To Pain-Free Living

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References

Atkinson, T, and P Atkinson. “Knee injuries in motor vehicle collisions: a study of the National Accident Sampling System database for the years 1979-1995.” Accident; analysis and prevention vol. 32,6 (2000): 779-86. doi:10.1016/s0001-4575(99)00131-1

Foulk, David M, and Brian H Mullis. “Hip dislocation: evaluation and management.” The Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons vol. 18,4 (2010): 199-209. doi:10.5435/00124635-201004000-00003

Reynolds, April. “The fractured femur.” Radiologic technology vol. 84,3 (2013): 273-91; quiz p.292-4.

Wilson, L S Jr et al. “Foot and ankle injuries in motor vehicle accidents.” Foot & ankle international vol. 22,8 (2001): 649-52. doi:10.1177/107110070102200806

The Effects Of Decompression Therapy For Musculoskeletal Disorders

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-

Introduction

The body utilizes the spine to make sure that everything is moving, bending, twisting, and turning without feeling any pain from the back. The spine is an S-shaped curve protected by ligaments, soft tissue from the musculoskeletal system, the spinal cord, and spinal discs. When the back suffers from an injury or has pulled a muscle, it can cause chronic issues to the back and make a person’s life miserable. Luckily there are therapeutic ways to relieve chronic back issues and can alleviate the symptoms it has caused to the individual. In this article, we will be looking at musculoskeletal disorders and their symptoms and how decompression therapy has an effect on alleviating musculoskeletal disorders from the back. By referring patients to qualified and skilled providers specializing in spinal decompression therapy. To that end, and when appropriate, we advise our patients to refer to our associated medical providers based on their examination. We find that education is the key to asking valuable questions to our providers. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer

 

Can my insurance cover it? Yes, it may. If you are uncertain, here is the link to all the insurance providers we cover. If you have any questions, please call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900.

Download

What Are Musculoskeletal Disorders?

As research studies have stated, the musculoskeletal system combines bone, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and soft tissues that work together to support the body’s weight and help individuals move. The spine is located at the back of the body, where it connects to the musculoskeletal tissues and keeps it upright. Many individuals must keep their musculoskeletal system healthy and functional; however, a wide range of disorders and conditions can affect the musculoskeletal system making the body succumb to diseases and injuries that can limit its movement. This is known as musculoskeletal disorders.

 

Research studies have found that musculoskeletal pain and disorders affect the bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons throughout the entire body. Sometimes the pain can become acute, and it can become sudden and severe or chronic, which can hinder a person’s ability to do any daily activities. Some of the most common types of musculoskeletal disorders that can affect the body include:

  • Bone pain: Fractures or musculoskeletal injuries
  • Joint pain: Stiffness and inflammation
  • Muscle pain: Muscle spasms and cramps
  • Tendon and ligament pain: Sprains, strains, and overused tissues

 

The Symptoms

Research studies have shown that musculoskeletal disorders are the leading source of pain and disability worldwide. With a variety of back and neck disorders, arthritic conditions, and soft tissue syndromes that involve the tendons, ligaments, muscles, and cartilages that make up the main bulk of musculoskeletal disorders, it can cause many people to go to their primary physician and get time off work. Other research studies have shown that the symptoms that are caused by musculoskeletal disorders include:

  • Stiffness
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle spasms 
  • Joint aches
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Swelling
  • Low Back Pain

 

The Chattanooga Triton Traction Table-Video

Chattanooga Triton DTS

The video above shows how the Chattanooga Triton is being used to alleviate back issues that have been affected by musculoskeletal disorders. Traction therapy is a form of spinal decompression therapy that utilizes traction on a person’s spine, gently stretching it. This will cause the beneficial nutrients and oxygen to go back into the spine and alleviate pain in the back. Since back pain is one of the most common types of musculoskeletal pain that can make a person miserable, decompression therapy can help with low back pain and make a person get back their quality of life. If you want to learn more about spinal decompression therapy, this link will explain the benefits of spinal decompression and how it can alleviate low back pain symptoms.

How Does Decompression Therapy Help Musculoskeletal Disorders?

 

Decompression therapy is a non-surgical treatment that allows for individuals who have musculoskeletal disorders like low back pain. Decompression therapy allows the individual to lie down on the traction table, be strapped in, and the traction machine gently pulls on the spine to cause instant relief. Research studies have found that utilizing decompression therapy and even physical therapy can help improve the lumbar range of motion, back muscle endurance, and functional disability that musculoskeletal disorders have caused. Other research studies have also shown that non-surgical spinal decompression therapy can reduce pain in the back and promote an increase in the spinal disc height and restore it. When individuals start to feel relief from their back, they can continue with their wellness journey.

Conclusion

All in all, musculoskeletal disorders are a wide variety of disorders that affects the bones, ligaments, tissues, and muscles all over the body. Low back pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders that causes the individual to have pain and stiffness in the back muscles. Luckily treatments like spinal decompression therapy allow individuals who are suffering from feel relief from chronic back issues and gently stretch the spine to allow the beneficial nutrients to re-hydrate the spinal disc. With the combination of physical therapy, many individuals won’t have to suffer any longer, knowing that decompression may be their relief.

 

References

Amjad, Fareeha, et al. “Effects of Non-Surgical Decompression Therapy in Addition to Routine Physical Therapy on Pain, Range of Motion, Endurance, Functional Disability and Quality of Life versus Routine Physical Therapy Alone in Patients with Lumbar Radiculopathy; a Randomized Controlled Trial.” BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, BioMed Central, 16 Mar. 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8924735/.

Apfel, Christian C, et al. “Restoration of Disk Height through Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Is Associated with Decreased Discogenic Low Back Pain: A Retrospective Cohort Study.” BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, BioMed Central, 8 July 2010, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2912793/.

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/.

Medical Professionals, Cleveland Clinic. “Musculoskeletal Pain: Types, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment.” Cleveland Clinic, 10 Mar. 2021, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14526-musculoskeletal-pain.

Medical Professionals, Cleveland Clinic. “Musculoskeletal System: Arthritis, Lower Back Pain, Bones, Muscles.” Cleveland Clinic, 11 Dec. 2020, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/12254-musculoskeletal-system-normal-structure–function.

Watson, Stephanie, and Cathy Lovering. “Musculoskeletal Pain: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment.” Healthline, Healthline Media, 22 Oct. 2021, www.healthline.com/health/tgct/musculoskeletal-pain.

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How Spinal Decompression Therapy Relieves DDD

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-

Introduction

Inside the body, the spine allows it to move around and do all sorts of things without pain. The spine is protected by ligaments, soft tissue from the musculoskeletal system, spinal discs, and the spinal cord in an S-shaped curve that holds the body together. When the back gets injured or pulls a muscle, it can cause unwanted back issues that can cause a person to be in pain. When this happens, the individual suffering from back pain will be hindered from their daily activities and be miserable if it is not treated right away. Luckily, treatments like spinal decompression therapy can help alleviate back pains and other issues that affect the body’s back and spine. In this article, we will be looking at what DDD is, its symptoms, and how spinal decompression can help relieve DDD. By referring patients to qualified and skilled providers specializing in spinal decompression therapy. To that end, and when appropriate, we advise our patients to refer to our associated medical providers based on their examination. We find that education is the key to asking valuable questions to our providers. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer

 

Can my insurance cover it? Yes, it may. If you are uncertain, here is the link to all the insurance providers we cover. If you have any questions, please call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900.

Download

What Is DDD?

Since low back pain is common for many individuals worldwide, some of the causes of low back pain are DDD or degenerative disc disease. Research studies show that DDD (degenerative disc disease) usually happens when the spinal discs start to wear down naturally due to age. The spinal disc is a rubbery cushion between the spine’s vertebrae, and they help people move comfortably. When the spinal disc starts to wear and tear naturally through age, it can cause the vertebrae to rub against each other and cause pain.

 

Other research studies have found that DDD is often misunderstood since the symptoms affect either the neck or the back, causing sudden shooting pain in the arms or legs. DDD can also progress over time if it is not treated right away, causing the individual to be in pain and can make them unstable. Research studies have found that the two main factors of DDD are inflammation and abnormal micro-motion instability. How inflammation plays in DDD is that the inflammatory proteins from the spinal disc interiors are leaked when degeneration affects the spinal disc and causes swelling around the spinal structure. Abnormal micro-motion instability starts to affect the spinal discs’ outer layer by causing small, unnatural motions in-between the vertebrae, thus causing irritation and tension to the surrounding muscles, joints, and nerve roots, making the person become unstable and be in more pain.

 

The Symptoms Of DDD

Research studies have shown that when DDD affects the spine, it also affects the nervous system surrounding the spinal disc. DDD also causes structural failure, a radial tear in the annulus fibrosis, herniated disc, and calcification to the endplate of the spine. Since flare-up pains and abnormal stress on the spine can be due to recent activities or suddenly come up for no apparent reason, research studies have shown that pain episodes from DDD can last between a few days to several weeks before going back to be low-level back pain. Some of the common symptoms of DDD can include:

  • Increased pain from lifting heavy objects, bending or twisting the spine
  • A “give out” sensation on the spine
  • Muscle tension
  • Sudden sharp, radiating pain from the cervical or lumbar parts of the spine
  • Increased pain from holding a position for too long

 

Spinal Decompression Therapy & DDD-Video

YouTube player

The video above shows how spinal decompression can help alleviate DDD (degenerative disc disease). Spinal decompression therapy is utilized for many individuals suffering from chronic back issues like DDD, herniated disc, and low back pain. What spinal decompression therapy does is that it allows the individual to lay on a traction table and start to gently stretch their spine to relieve any issues that were causing back pain. The beneficial nutrients are reabsorbed into the spinal disc when the spine is gently pulled. The individual will begin to feel instant relief after a couple of sessions. If you want to learn more about spinal decompression therapy, this link will explain the benefits of spinal decompression and how it can alleviate low back pain symptoms.

How Spinal Decompression Therapy Relieves DDD

 

Many treatments help alleviate DDD symptoms and chronic low back pain as they provide relief to many individuals. One of the treatments that have been getting attention is spinal decompression therapy. Research studies have shown that many individuals suffering from DDD utilize non-surgical spinal decompression therapy to reduce pain and cause an increase in spinal disc height. This will allow the compressed spinal disc to be decompressed and improve disc health. Other research studies have also shown that since the degenerative process and mechanical effects of DDD can affect the spine, spinal decompression therapy allows traction to reduce the pressure off the spinal disc by gravity and soft tissue, enabling sufficient tension to extend spinal separation and the intervertebral disc. Spinal decompression also allows negative pressure within the intervertebral disc by increasing its hydration and reducing pressure off the nerve root. 

 

Conclusion

The spine is an S-shaped curve protected by ligaments, soft tissue from the musculoskeletal system, the spinal discs, and the spinal cord allowing it to hold the body together. The body is home to the spine, where it can move around without feeling any sort of pain. When a person injures their back or pulls a muscle, it can cause unwanted back issues to hinder them from doing various daily activities. Sometimes the spinal disc wear and tear naturally causes symptoms like a herniated disc or DDD (degenerative disc disease) to affect the spine and the back by causing sharp, shooting radiate pain to affect the body. Luckily, treatments like spinal decompression therapy alleviate these symptoms by gently stretching the spine and causing instant relief to the individual.

 

References

Apfel, Christian C, et al. “DRX9000 BMC Study.” DRX9000® & DRX9000c® Global Trusted Suppliers Excite Medical, 18 Apr. 2022, excitemedical.com/drx9000-research/drx9000-bmc-study/#section-tab|0.

Choi, Jioun, et al. “Influences of Spinal Decompression Therapy and General Traction Therapy on the Pain, Disability, and Straight Leg Raising of Patients with Intervertebral Disc Herniation.” Journal of Physical Therapy Science, The Society of Physical Therapy Science, Feb. 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4339166/.

Choi, Yong-Soo. “Pathophysiology of Degenerative Disc Disease.” Asian Spine Journal, Korean Society of Spine Surgery, June 2009, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2852042/.

McHugh, Brian. “Causes of Degenerative Disc Disease Pain.” Spine, Spine-Health, 13 Dec. 2017, www.spine-health.com/conditions/degenerative-disc-disease/causes-degenerative-disc-disease-pain.

McHugh, Brian. “Common Symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease.” Spine, Spine-Health, 13 Dec. 2017, www.spine-health.com/conditions/degenerative-disc-disease/common-symptoms-degenerative-disc-disease.

McHugh, Brian. “What Is Degenerative Disc Disease?” Spine, Spine-Health, 13 Dec. 2017, www.spine-health.com/conditions/degenerative-disc-disease/what-degenerative-disc-disease.

Medical Professionals, Cleveland Clinic. “Degenerative Disk Disease: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment.” Cleveland Clinic, 27 May 2021, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16912-degenerative-disk-disease.

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Sciatica Specialist
STOP SUFFERING! We specialize in advanced non-surgical approaches in treating sciatica. Our focus is to stop the pain, remove the cause and prevent chronic recurrence of complex sciatica pain syndromes. We treat with advanced protocols and supportive care plans. Blessings - Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, IFMCP, CIFM, ATN
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