Microbial Involvement In Neurodegeneration | Part 1

Table of Contents

Introduction

The central nervous system is home to the brain and spinal cord as they help send out trillions of neuro signals all throughout the entire body. These neuron signals make sure that the body is moving properly, the gut is digesting the foods that a person is consuming, and that the endocrine system is releasing the hormones out to all of the organs systems. The neuron signals have a bidirectional connection from the brain to the body, however, when there are unwanted pathogens that start to enter the body and attach themselves to the neuron signals, they can travel to the brain and cause neurodegenerative disorders to the brain. In this 2 part series, we will be taking a look at how different microbial infections are involved in neurodegeneration to the brain. In Part 2, we will take a look at how light therapy can be beneficial for individuals that are suffering from neurodegenerative diseases. By referring patients to qualified and skilled providers who specialized in neurological services. 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. Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer

Can my insurance cover it? Yes, in case 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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Microbial Involvement In Neurodegeneration

Since there are many individuals that have been exposed to numerous amounts of pathogens that respond to environmental stresses by entry into a novel physiological state as spores or biofilms where the cells remain viable but are no longer culturable. These microorganisms can cause the brain to the development of neurodegeneration. Studies have shown that since neurodegeneration is referring to the loss of neuronal cells, microorganisms that are derived from infections that are involved in chronic inflammation can be induced into central nervous system dysfunction and neurodegeneration. The assessment of whether microorganisms cause a particular disease have to show that:

The microorganism must be found in diseased but not healthy individuals
The microorganism must be cultured from the deceased individual
The microorganism must recapitulate the disease
The microorganism must be re-isolated from the diseased individual and matched to the original microorganism.

However, The issue is that microbial pathogens can lie dormant and resist being positively culture is due to neurodegeneration since it is a re-activation of microbes from this ‘viable but nonculturable’ state to cause infection.

Altered Immunity

Research studies have found that the immune system actually plays a key role in the central nervous system since the immune system is the first line of defense against pathogens that can cause the alternation of the central nervous system to be damaged by the elevated cytokines including IL-6 in early-stage disease. Other studies have shown that when age-related neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s can be characterized by the selective vulnerability of the brain regions and the immune responses. In the later stages of age-related neurological diseases, the characteristic findings include:

T-cell dysregulation
Reduced Treg function
Lymphopenia
Reduced CNS iron metabolism

HCTP Therapy

Tony Robbins finds secret to eliminating back pain

Stem cells* or HCTP (human cellular tissue products) are a form of regenerative medicine that is used in both international and nationally affiliated clinics and distribution organizations to help boost the body’s own natural healing process back to its original function. HCTPs have beneficial factors as they help with repairing and regenerating damaged cells, diseased organs, and tissue back to their original function. As there is more upcoming research about the beneficial uses of HCTP, many individuals that are dealing with chronic pain can be utilized with HCTP as part of their therapy treatment, they can begin to feel pain-free and be on their wellness journey.

Viral Infections In Neurodegenerative Disorders

Since neurodegenerative and neurobehavioral diseases can be caused by infections, studies have shown that systemic viral infections can occur in neurodegenerative diseases causing the loss of neurons and axons in the central nervous system to increase with age. When this happens, the toxins bind to subunits of GM1 gangliosides which may account for elevated GM1 antibodies in ALS. The virus attaches and fuses to the host by breaking down phospholipids to produce inclusion bodies (as seen in ALS, AD, etc.) These toxins are the result in defects in ADP-ribosyltransferase (mRNA proteins) and when there is an overactivation disrupts actin cytoskeleton dynamics and nitric oxide production causing critical enzymes to be affected by Rho Kinase (ROCK). Other research studies show that when there are virus-induced alterations and neuron degenerations can be both directly and indirectly since they have the ability to attack the immune system and different regions of the nervous tissue by interfering with the same pathways that are involved with neurological diseases. These virus-induced alternations have lipid-containing membrane envelopes derived from modified cell membranes borrowed from the host via serine proteases and the primary pathology for kidnapping host DNA and RNA involves specific viral polymerases that affect host mRNA including Rho Kinase.

Fungal Pathogens Affecting Brain Health

Research studies have found that when the central nervous system is being invaded by fungal infections, it can cause an increase in morbidity in immunocompromised hosts and can lead to fatal consequences depending on the immune status and the virulence of the fungal strain. Since the fungal pathogens are airborne with hematogenous spread, fungal toxins including fumonisins alter sphingolipid metabolism which affects phospholipid metabolism, thus an increased production of excitatory neurotransmitters (ex: glutamate in ALS).

Other research studies have found that for fungal infections to occur is that they have to be “arrested” in the brain microvasculature and be transmigrated across the blood-brain barrier. When this happens, they share toxin-based homology through plasmid-mediated transfer central nervous system infections diseases must break down the blood-brain barrier via MMP-9 in a manner similar to leaky gut. The pathogenic processes begin with penetration in lipid-rich host cells and then the fungal infections will kidnap the host RNA metabolism leading to protein aggregation.

Conclusion

All in all, the central nervous system is home to the brain and spinal cord and their job are to send out trillions of neuron signals all throughout the entire body. These neuron signals make sure that everything from the gut to the body itself is functioning properly. When exposed pathogens like fungal, bacterial, and viral infections enter the body, they can attach themselves to the neuron signals and travel all the way up to the brain causing neurodegenerative diseases to develop. Incorporating antibiotics, nutritional foods, and changing a lifestyle, a person can prevent these pathogens from entering their bodies and continue on their wellness journey.

References

Dehhaghi, Mona, et al. “Microorganisms’ Footprint in Neurodegenerative Diseases.” Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience, Frontiers Media S.A., 4 Dec. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6288487/.

Góralska, Katarzyna, et al. “Neuroinfections Caused by Fungi.” Infection, Springer Berlin Heidelberg, Aug. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6096918/.

Karim, Sajjad, et al. “The Role of Viruses in Neurodegenerative and Neurobehavioral Diseases.” CNS & Neurological Disorders Drug Targets, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2014, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25230220.

Mayne, Katie, et al. “Aging and Neurodegenerative Disease: Is the Adaptive Immune System a Friend or Foe?” Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, Frontiers Media S.A., 23 Sept. 2020, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7538701/.

Shi, Meiqing, and Christopher H Mody. “Fungal Infection in the Brain: What We Learned from Intravital Imaging.” Frontiers in Immunology, Frontiers Media S.A., 2 Aug. 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4969284/.

Zhou, Li, et al. “Viruses and Neurodegeneration.” Virology Journal, BioMed Central, 31 May 2013, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3679988/.

Disclaimer

Dehydrated

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Thirsty woman drinking water to recuperate after jogging

Anybody can become dehydrated if they don’t take care of themselves and drink plenty of water. Being dehydrated happens when there is insufficient water in the body or increased water loss through sweating, vomiting, and/or diarrhea, along with certain medications, can increase urination and dehydration. Older adults have an increased risk of dehydrating because their body’s fluid reserves decrease, and their body’s ability to signal that they are thirsty does not work as effectively, especially those with memory problems.

Table of Contents

Dehydrated Symptoms

Signs of dehydration include:

Muscle cramps.
Dry mouth
Dry cough.
Tiredness/fatigue.
Flushed red skin.
Swollen feet.
High heart rate but low blood pressure.
Dizziness, weakness, light-headedness.
Headache, delirium, confusion.
Loss of appetite with a sugar craving.
Heat intolerance or chills.
Constipation.
Dark-colored urine. Urine should be a pale clear color.

Dehydration Levels

Dehydration is categorized as:

Mild

The body needs more fluids to be taken in.
Drink water
Drinks containing electrolytes are recommended if experiencing significant sweating or fluid losses from vomiting and diarrhea.
The body should feel better after five or ten minutes.

Moderate

Moderate dehydration requires intravenous hydration.
This is done in urgent care, emergency room, or a hospital.

Severe

If symptoms of dehydration are severe, call 911 or go to an emergency clinic.

Brain Health

Severe hydration shrinks the blood vessels in the brain.
When fluid levels in the brain are low, this affects memory and coordination.

Diagnosis

Laboratory tests can diagnose dehydration and include:

Low urine sodium.
Elevated plasma serum osmolality measures particle concentration in blood plasma.
Elevated creatinine tests kidney function.
Elevated blood urea nitrogen is also related to kidney function.

The amount of water needed daily is different for all individuals; therefore, it is recommended to check in with a healthcare provider to determine how much is required to maintain health.

Body Composition

Enjoy Drinking Water

Carry a water bottle, keep it filled, and get used to taking sips throughout the day to start a healthy habit.
Add flavor like a wedge of lemon/lime, lime or lemon juice, or a healthy water additive.
Choose water or healthy hot or iced tea instead of sugary drinks, including at meals.
Eat foods high in water content, like fruits and vegetables.

References

Bhave, Gautam, and Eric G Neilson. “Volume depletion versus dehydration: how understanding the difference can guide therapy.” American journal of kidney diseases: the official journal of the National Kidney Foundation vol. 58,2 (2011): 302-9. doi:10.1053/j.ajkd.2011.02.395

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Drinking-Water. (www.cdc.gov/healthywater/drinking/nutrition/index.html)

HealthFirst. What Happens to Your Body When You’re Dehydrated? (healthyliving.healthfirst.org/happens-body-youre-dehydrated/)

Kenefick, Robert W, and Michael N Sawka. “Hydration at the worksite.” Journal of the American College of Nutrition vol. 26,5 Suppl (2007): 597S-603S. doi:10.1080/07315724.2007.10719665

Thomas, David R et al. “Understanding clinical dehydration and its treatment.” Journal of the American Medical Directors Association vol. 9,5 (2008): 292-301. doi:10.1016/j.jamda.2008.03.006

The Reversal of Cognitive Decline In the Brain

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Table of Contents

Introduction

In the central nervous system, the brain’s primary function is to make sure that the neuron signals it’s producing are being transmitted all throughout the body. These neuron signals help with motor function, digestion function, and immune function by making sure that the entire systems inside the body are working properly. When there are neurodegenerative factors that enter the body and attach to the neuron signals, they can be disruptive and cause the brain to develop chronic issues that can make the body be dysfunctional. This is known as cognitive decline and it can range from being mild to severe over time. In this article, we will be taking a look at what is cognitive decline, its symptoms, and ways to reverse cognitive decline from progressing further in the brain. By referring patients to qualified and skilled providers who specialized in neurological services. 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, in case 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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What Is Cognitive Decline?

In a normal functioning brain, it does naturally decline with age while still retaining all of its functions that make the body move, see, digest, and remember events that it went through. However, when there are disruptors that attach themselves to the neuron signals and travel through the brain, it can cause a person to momentarily forget or not retain new information. This is known as cognitive decline and research studies have found that cognitive decline can make a person frequently forget important information or conversations. This will also lead to symptoms of dementia or even Alzheimer’s disease if the cognitive decline continues to progress over time.

The Symptoms

Research shows that the many symptoms and risk factors of cognitive decline if it is not treated, can further progress cognitive degeneration until it turns chronic. As stated, the brain ages naturally causing shrinkage while maintaining information, but for a mild cognitive impairment, the brain will shrink as well but will not retain the information. Some of the symptoms and risk factors that cognitive decline cause to the brain are:

High blood pressure
Physical inactivity
Depression
Lose train of thought
Forget things more often

HCTP Therapy

HCTP (human cellular tissue products) or stem cells* are a form of regenerative medicine that is used in both international and nationally affiliated clinics and distribution organizations. The beneficial properties of HCTP provide individuals a boost in their own body’s natural healing process. HCTP’S function is to repair and regenerate damaged cells, diseased organs, and tissues back to their original functioning state in the body. With more and upcoming research discussing about the beneficial properties of HCTP, individuals can begin to get their lives back without the chronic symptoms that they are feeling.

Ways To Reverse Cognitive Decline

Since cognitive decline has become a major concern for older adults and the aging population, studies have found that cognitive decline was driven by a large part of metabolic processes that individuals were facing. By finding therapeutic ways to reverse cognitive decline from progressing further can benefit many individuals to improve their brain function and live longer as they get older. Some of the beneficial ways to reverse cognitive decline include:

Eating nutritional food
Getting an adequate amount of sleep
Exercising regularly
Meditating
Find a new hobby

Social Engagement

Research studies have found that when older adults don’t have enough social engagement, it can cause them to feel lonely and their cognitive function begins to decline. By going out and being social, many individuals will have their cognitive health be protected from pre-dementia symptoms and create new memories. Other studies have shown that older adults who are more socially engaged tend to have a high cognitive function than older adults who don’t socially engage with other people. Meeting new people and having a conversation with them is a great way to reverse cognitive decline.

Eating Nutritious Food

Incorporating nutritional brain food can help boost the brain’s neuron signals and even dampen the effects of cognitive decline as well as many other symptoms that may cause the body harm. Research studies have shown that low glycemic index foods can help improve the attention, memory, and functional capacity of the brain. By incorporating nutritional foods that can give the brain boosted energy, many individuals can begin to eat healthier and dampen unwanted pathogens that they didn’t know that they had. Other studies have found that the Mediterranean diet can correlate with improving cognitive function. The Mediterranean diet has many beneficial properties as it is consist of whole fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, legumes, fish, and olive oil and can even help lower inflammatory responses that are affecting the joints, the gut, and the brain as well.

Mental & Physical Exercise

Studies have found that any type of exercise whether it is physical or mental can help exert effects on cognitive function by affecting the molecular events in the brain’s management of energy metabolism and synaptic plasticity. By exercising the body, the brain will start to remember how each rep works and the motor function will start to remember the repetitive motions that a person is doing as they are working out. Now by mentally working out the brain is another way to reverse the effects of cognitive decline provides the same results. Research has found that by intellectually engaging the brain can help reduce oxidative stress and help improve memory for older adults. This can be numerous of activities like, reading a new book, learning a new skill, taking a class, dancing, or learning to play music can help improve the quality of life for many individuals.

Conclusion

All in all, by finding ways to reverse the effects of cognitive decline from the brain can help many individuals. Whether it is eating the right food, exercising both mentally and physically, being engaging in a social gathering can help improve brain function and a person’s quality of life. Since the brain is part of the central nervous system, many individuals can make these small changes in their lifestyle and begin to see a change in themselves in a more positive way.

References

Bredesen, Dale E. “Reversal of Cognitive Decline: A Novel Therapeutic Program.” Aging, Impact Journals LLC, Sept. 2014, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4221920/.

Gomez-Pinilla, Fernando, and Charles Hillman. “The Influence of Exercise on Cognitive Abilities.” Comprehensive Physiology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Jan. 2013, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3951958/.

Krueger, Kristin R, et al. “Social Engagement and Cognitive Function in Old Age.” Experimental Aging Research, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2009, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2758920/.

Martínez García, Rosa María, et al. “[Nutrition Strategies That Improve Cognitive Function].” Nutricion Hospitalaria, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 7 Sept. 2018, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30351155/.

Medical Professionals, Cleveland Clinic. “Mild Cognitive Impairment: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments & Tests.” Cleveland Clinic, 18 Mar. 2019, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17990-mild-cognitive-impairment.

Medical Professionals, NIA. “Cognitive Health and Older Adults.” National Institute on Aging, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 1 Oct. 2020, www.nia.nih.gov/health/cognitive-health-and-older-adults.

Medical Professionals, NIH. “Diet May Help Preserve Cognitive Function.” National Institutes of Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 14 Apr. 2020, www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/diet-may-help-preserve-cognitive-function.

National Research Council (US) Committee on Aging Frontiers in SocialPsychology, et al. “Social Engagement and Cognition.” When I’m 64., U.S. National Library of Medicine, 1 Jan. 1970, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK83766/.

Staff, Mayo Clinic. “Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI).” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 2 Sept. 2020, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mild-cognitive-impairment/symptoms-causes/syc-20354578.

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Functional Neurology and ALS | Part 2

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Table of Contents

Introduction

The central nervous system consists of the brain and the spinal cord that makes sure that neuron signals are being transmitted all over the body and making sure that it’s working properly. These neuron signals make sure that the gut system, the cardiovascular system, the immune system, and even the endocrine system are working properly and that the neuron signals are being transferred back to the brain with the information. When there are unwanted pathogens that start to attach themselves to the neuron signal, it can cause a disruption to the brain causing neurological disorders to develop over time and wreak havoc on the brain. In this 2 part series, we will be taking a look at what ALS is and how functional neurology diagnoses ALS. Part 1 took a look at what is functional neurology, its relationship with functional medicine, and how functional neurology can help dampen the effects of neurological disorders. By referring patients to qualified and skilled providers who specialized in neurological services. 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, in case 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 ALS?

ALS(Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) or as it is commonly known as “Lou Gehrig’s” disease is a progressive nervous system disease that affects the nerve cells in both the brain and spinal cord, as research shows. Since amyotrophic come from Greece, it means that there is “no muscle nourishment” while lateral identifies the area of the spinal cord where portions of the nerve cells that signal and control muscles, called motor neurons are located and sclerosis refers to scarring or hardening in the region of the lateral spinal cord.

By putting the entire words together, ALS means that there is no nourishment to the motor neurons that are located in the spinal cord. Research also shows that ALS actually belongs to a wide group known as motor neuron diseases that causes gradual degeneration and eventually death to the motor neuron signals and over time cause the brain to lose the ability to control voluntary movements to the body.

The Symptoms

Research has found that ALS affects both the upper and lower motor neurons causing them to decline gradually until they can’t send signals to the muscles. The lower limbs will begin to cause a person to trip, stumble, make them feel really awkward when they are running. When this happens to the lower limbs, the foot will drop or cause a slapping gait. While the upper limbs will cause reduced finger dexterity, cramping, stiffness, and weakness of the intrinsic hand muscles. This will cause a person to have difficulty doing everyday tasks like buttoning clothes, picking up small objects, or turning a key. Other symptoms that ALS causes on the body include:

Muscle weakness
Difficulty with speech and swallowing
Unsteadiness
Spastic tone
Brisk or depressed deep tendon reflexes (maybe a mixture of both)
Muscle atrophy
Fasciculations

ALS & Cell Death

So caspases are a family of protein‐cutting enzymes that plays a key role in apoptosis, which is the removal of unwanted or damaged cells. Studies have shown that apoptosis occurs naturally and is normal during the development, aging, and homeostatic mechanism to maintain the body’s cellular population in the muscle tissue. Apoptosis is also a defense mechanism for the immune system when cells are being damaged by diseases or toxins. When apoptosis is activated, caspases initiate “death” programs (apoptosis) by destroying key components of the cellular infrastructure and activating factors that mediate damage to the cells. The caspases then let the upstream initiators (activated by the cell‐death signal, e.g., TNF‐alpha) and downstream executioners (directly mediate the events that lead to the demise of the cell). Once that is done, then the executioner caspases activate the machinery that degrades DNA – one example is caspase‐3.

HCTP Therapy

Stem cells* or HCTP (human cellular tissue products) have been used in affiliated clinics and distribution organizations (both international and national) in regenerative cellular treatment. What HCTP does is that it helps boost the body’s own natural healing process by regenerating and repairing damaged cells, diseased organs, and tissues back to their original state and function. With more and upcoming research on the beneficial uses of HCTP, many individuals will begin to feel pain-free and continue on their wellness journey.

Functional Neurology & ALS

In part 1, it discussed what functional neurology is and how it is used to diagnose many neurological disorders that are affecting the brain and the body. Since ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that causes muscle failure, research shows that the use of functional neurology can provide both the patients and medical professionals many opportunities to improve the diagnosis and even establish candidate biomarkers for future therapeutic strategies to dampen the progression of ALS.

Nutrition & ALS

When individuals are suffering from ALS, research shows that ALS increases the high risk of malnutrition causing symptoms of dysphagia, depression, cognitive impairment, difficulty with self‐feeding and meal preparation, hypermetabolism, anxiety, respiratory insufficiency, and fatigue with meals to individuals. However, incorporating nutritional foods that are higher in antioxidants and fiber‐rich foods such as fruit and vegetables can reduce the risk of ALS. Even consuming foods high in ω‐3 PUFAs may help prevent or delay the onset of ALS.

Exercise & ALS

Moderate exercise has been shown to improve strength and prolong survival in animal models of ALS and should not be avoided. Studies have found that proper exercise is highly important for preventing atrophy of the muscles, particularly in the early stages of ALS. Sedentary behavior leads to deconditioning and weakness caused by the disease itself, thus contributing to muscle and joint tightness, contractures, and pain. Some of the benefits of moderate exercise can help increase appetite, digestion, mood, sleep, positive impact on hormones/trophic factors (including BDNF and IGF‐1), and inflammatory markers. However, if a person has fatigue or pain that lasts longer than 30 minutes after exercise, the program needs to be reduced and modified but still, give beneficial results.

Conclusion

All in all, ALS is a progressive neurological disease that causes muscle failure in the body. By utilizing functional neurology and creating a treatment plan on dampening the progressive effects, many individuals can be pain-free and feel great. Even though ALS is chronic and there is no cure yet, by making small changes in the food a person eats and incorporating moderate exercises, the body has a chance to live longer.

References

de Almeida, J P Lopes, et al. “Exercise and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.” Neurological Sciences: Official Journal of the Italian Neurological Society and of the Italian Society of Clinical Neurophysiology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Feb. 2012, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22228269/.

Dharmadasa, Thanuja, et al. “Implications of Structural and Functional Brain Changes in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.” Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 19 Apr. 2018, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29667443/.

Elmore, Susan. “Apoptosis: A Review of Programmed Cell Death.” Toxicologic Pathology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, June 2007, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2117903/.

Medical Professional, NINDS. “Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Fact Sheet.” National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 26 Apr. 2021, www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Amyotrophic-Lateral-Sclerosis-ALS-Fact-Sheet.

Medical Professionals, Cleveland Clinic. “Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: What Is It, Symptoms & Management.” Cleveland Clinic, 15 June 2021, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16729-amyotrophic-lateral-sclerosis-als.

Nieves, Jeri W, et al. “Association between Dietary Intake and Function in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.” JAMA Neurology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 1 Dec. 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5370581/.

Staff, Mayo Clinic. “Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 22 Feb. 2022, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/amyotrophic-lateral-sclerosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354022.

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An Insight View On Functional Neurology | Part 1

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Table of Contents

Introduction

The brain is part of the central nervous system where its main function is to send out neuron signals all throughout the body in a bidirectional connection as it sends the information back. When there are unwanted pathogens that disrupt the neuron signals, it can cause the entire body to be dysfunctional and cause unwanted problems to the brain, gut, musculoskeletal, and immune system. Through the use of functional neurology, many healthcare providers have found ways to help individuals by dampening the effects of neurological disorders from progressing further. In this 2 part series, we will be taking a look at what is functional neurology, its relationship with functional medicine, and how functional neurology can help dampen the effects of neurological disorders. In Part 2, we will take a look at what is ALS and how functional neurology diagnoses ALS. By referring patients to qualified and skilled providers who specialized in neurological services. 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, in case 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 Functional Neurology?

So functional neurology is a branch of medicine that deals with disorders of the nervous system. Functional neurology deals with the diagnosis and treatment of all categories of conditions and diseases involving the central and peripheral nervous systems, including their coverings, blood vessels, and all effector tissue, such as muscle. Studies have found that functional neurology is one of the many specialties that are within the world of chiropractic practices. Within chiropractic practice, many chiropractors will start manipulating the spine on patients causing a sense of relief on the spinal nerves. When the spinal nerves are disrupted it causes an imbalance to the nerve output in the body, thus resulting in an unhealthy body and chronic neurological disorders will develop over time.

What Is Functional Medicine?

Functional medicine is system biology that is based on an approach and focuses on identifying and addressing the root cause of disease. Since each symptom or differential diagnosis may be one of many
contributing to an individual’s illness. Research studies show that functional medicine is represented as a therapeutic partnership between the patient and the practitioner that focuses on the underlying causes of many diseases from a systems biology perspective.

How Do They Work Together?

This combination of neurology with functional medicine demands that everyone should understand the disease that they are experiencing, understand the diagnosis which includes the natural history of the disease and standards of care in managing the disorder, along with the ability to consider the unique factors that cause the disease in the individual patient. What this means is that talking with a healthcare provider about what is making a person feel horrible can provide them with the answers that they have been searching for. With the application of functional medicine and functional neurology combined, is how many providers guide the patient through a program that ultimately accomplishes a change in the disease trajectory and a transformation of the individual affected by the disease (functional medicine). Some the examples that functional neurology and medicine actually look include:

Mental Status
Cranial Nerves
Motor Examination
Bulk, Tone, Power
Coordination
Sensation
Pain/Temperature
Vibration/Proprioception
Deep Tendon Reflexes and Primitive Reflexes
Gait and Station

HCTP Therapy

Stem cells* or HCTP (human cellular tissue products) are part of regenerative cellular treatment that helps boost the body’s own natural healing process. Both international and nationally affiliated clinics and distribution organizations use HCTP to help repair and regenerate damaged cells, diseased organs, and tissues back to their original function in the body. With many upcoming research studies about the beneficial factors of HCTP, many individuals can begin their wellness journey pain-free from chronic disorders.

Functional Neurology & Neurological Diseases

Since functional neurology deals with diagnosing and treating neurological disorders, research has shown that functional neurological disorders are related to how the brain functions and not to the damage that was caused to the brain’s structure. With this, many healthcare providers can give patients an early diagnosis and treatment to help with the recovery process. Other research studies have also found that when someone has functional neurological disorders, they can function normally like everybody else, however, their brain is unable to send and receive the neuron signals properly causing a disconnection to the lobes’ function and emotional processing in the brain.

Functional Neurology & Alzheimer’s Disease

So the term “Alzheimer’s disease” actually refers to an aggregate of neuropathologic changes and thus is defined in vivo by biomarkers and by postmortem examination, not by clinical symptoms. Research studies have shown that Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that causes the brain to go into atrophy and causes the brain cells to die. As a common form of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease causes deficits in two or more areas of cognition, and it progressively worsening of memory and other cognitive functions. There are no actual disturbances of consciousness as more studies show that the manifestations of Alzheimer’s include the disturbances in the brain’s area where memory and language do function. Alzheimer’s disease occurs between ages 40 and 90, most often after age 65; and with the absence of systemic disorders or other brain diseases that in and of themselves could account for the
progressive decline in memory and cognition due to this progressive neurological disorder.

Functional Neurology & Chronic Inflammation

Inflammation in the body in its acute form is beneficial as it makes sure that it repairs the damaged area. As research studies have shown that inflammation is a fundamental, complex response that eliminates infections and the initial cause of cell injury. Even though it is beneficial in its acute form when it turns into chronic inflammation it can cause tissue damage to the organs and can affect the brain. This is known as neuroinflammation and studies have shown that neuroinflammation is an inflammatory response that is within the brain or the spinal cord. When the inflammatory cytokines are attaching themselves to the neuron signals, it can weaken the blood-brain barrier and cause many unwanted symptoms to the brain. Some of the risk factors that can cause inflammation include:

Poor sleep habits
Eating inflammatory foods
Sedentary lifestyle
Chronic stress
Social isolation
Environmental toxins
Chronic infections

Conclusion

All in all, functional neurology helps deal with the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders in the brain. When there are neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s disease and chronic neuroinflammation that are causing the brain to stop sending the neuron signals all throughout the body, can cause it to develop into chronic illnesses over time. Through the combination of functional neurology and functional medicine, many health care providers can help many individuals understand what is happening and can guide them on their wellness journey to be pain-free.

References

Bland, Jeffrey. “Functional Medicine: An Operating System for Integrative Medicine.” Integrative Medicine (Encinitas, Calif.), InnoVision Professional Media, Oct. 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4712869/.

DiSabato, Damon J, et al. “Neuroinflammation: The Devil Is in the Details.” Journal of Neurochemistry, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Oct. 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5025335/.

Margach, Russell W. “Chiropractic Functional Neurology: An Introduction.” Integrative Medicine (Encinitas, Calif.), InnoVision Health Media Inc., Apr. 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6413643/.

Medical Professionals, NINDS. “Functional Neurologic Disorder.” National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2 Aug. 2021, www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Functional-Neurologic-Disorder.

Schachter, Armand S, and Kenneth L Davis. “Alzheimer’s Disease.” Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience, Les Laboratoires Servier, June 2000, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3181599/.

Skaper, Stephen D, et al. “An Inflammation-Centric View of Neurological Disease: Beyond the Neuron.” Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience, Frontiers Media S.A., 21 Mar. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5871676/.

Staff, Mayo Clinic. “Alzheimer’s Disease.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 19 Feb. 2022, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alzheimers-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20350447.

Staff, Mayo Clinic. “Functional Neurologic Disorder/Conversion Disorder.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 11 Jan. 2022, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/conversion-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20355197.

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DOMS: Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Upset young european male suffering from elbow pain with painful facial expression isolated on white background, copy space. Osteoporosis, sport injury, muscle spasm, healthcare and medical concept

Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness – DOMS is when muscle pain or stiffness develops a day or two after playing sports, weight lifting, exercise, or work that involves concentrated physical activity like lifting and carrying objects. DOMS is considered a normal response to extended exertion and is part of the adaptation process that the recovering muscles experience as they undergo hypertrophy or an increase in muscle size. It is common in individuals who have just started exercising, increased the duration or intensity of their workouts, or just beginning a physically demanding job.

Table of Contents

DOMS

When muscle contracts as it lengthens is known as eccentric muscle contractions, which is most associated with DOMS. It is related to increased stress in muscle fibers as they are exerted excessively. This also happens when engaging in movements the muscles are not used to, like a new exercise or helping a friend move heavy boxes, furniture, etc. Examples include:

New exercise or unusual physical task.
Descending stairs.
Lifting/Lowering weights or heavy objects.
Running downhill.
Deep squats.

Symptoms

Individuals will not feel DOMS during the workout or physical activity. Delayed symptoms include:

Swelling in the affected muscles.
Muscles feel tender to the touch.
Muscle fatigue.
Reduced range of motion and movement.
Pain and stiffness when moving.
Decreased muscle strength.

Treatment Options

Time and waiting for the muscles to repair themselves is the natural healing process, but steps can be taken to ease the soreness, stiffness, and pain. This includes:

Stretching.
Hot or cold bath/massage shower.
Ice/heat therapy.
Topical analgesics.
Percussive massage therapy.

It is different for everybody; personal experience will determine which works best for the individual.

Active Recovery

Active recovery is a technique that uses low-impact aerobic exercise right after a workout to increase blood flow to the muscles.
The increased blood supply can help relieve the inflammation.

RICE

This technique is used for acute injuries but can be applied to delayed onset muscle soreness. It stands for:

Rest
Ice
Compression
Elevation

Chiropractic

A chiropractic massage is for healing sore muscles, tendons, ligaments after an intense game, workout, etc. Chiropractic increases the blood and nerve circulation around the muscles delivering added oxygen and nutrients. This type of massage helps loosen the muscles/connecting tissues allowing the body to recover and heal quicker.

Body Composition

When Muscles Are Not Rested

Not taking time to recover because of overtraining/working can have consequences on the body. Inflammation that is not given the time to heal can lead to:

Injuries.
Weakened immune system.
Muscle mass loss.
Mental health issues.

The body’s immune system cannot function at total capacity during intense physical stress. This causes difficulty when trying to fight off germs and viruses. Studies have found preventing inflammation and injury requires prioritizing rest. Constantly being on the go and under intense physical stress can take a toll not only on the body but the brain as well. This can lead to irritability, frustration, anger, which leads to other health problems generating a vicious cycle.

References

Cheung, Karoline et al. “Delayed onset muscle soreness: treatment strategies and performance factors.” Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.) vol. 33,2 (2003): 145-64. doi:10.2165/00007256-200333020-00005

Guo, Jianmin et al. “Massage Alleviates Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness after Strenuous Exercise: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” Frontiers in physiology vol. 8 747. 27 Sep. 2017, doi:10.3389/fphys.2017.00747

Reinke, Simon et al. “The influence of recovery and training phases on body composition, peripheral vascular function and immune system of professional soccer players.” PloS one vol. 4,3 (2009): e4910. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0004910

Neurological Uses for CBD

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Table of Contents

Introduction

The central nervous system is home to the brain and spinal cord and its primary function are to send out neuron signals all throughout the body and make sure that the body is functioning properly. The neuron signals make sure that the body is feeling sensations whenever a person is touching something whether it be a pleasant experience or a painful experience or making sure the heart is beating regularly and the gut is properly digesting whatever it’s consuming. When there are unwanted pathogens that start to disrupt the neuron signals from traveling throughout the body and back to the brain, it can cause neurodegenerative disorders to come up in the brain and if it is not treated can lead to chronic disorders over time. There are ways to dampen the progression of neurodegenerative disorders as many individuals find ways to make small changes to their lifestyle by eating healthier food, exercising regularly, and even finding ways to relieve stress from their bodies. One of the ways to dampen neurodegenerative disorders is the usage of CBD and in this article, we will be taking a look at what the endocannabinoid system is, its functions, as well as, how CBD affects the brain and its neurological benefits. By referring patients to qualified and skilled providers who specialized in neurological services. 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, in case 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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What Is The Endocannabinoid System?

The brain’s main function is to transmit neuron signals all throughout the entire body. The endocannabinoid system does the same thing in the body but does it a bit differently. Research studies have shown that the endocannabinoid system actually helps regulate and controls the most critical bodily functions of the entire body. The endocannabinoid system is a vast, densely packed network of chemical signals and cell receptors that travel throughout the brain and body like neuron signals. Other studies have shown that the endocannabinoid system is a widespread neuromodulatory system that does play many important roles in the central nervous system development, synaptic plasticity, and endogenous response in the body.

The Functions Of The Endocannabinoid System

With the endocannabinoid system, the critical physiologic system is involved in establishing and maintaining human health and homeostasis for the body and the neurotransmitters. Some of the functions that the endocannabinoid system can affect lifestyle factors include diet, sleep, psychosocial stress, relationships, body weight/ composition, and physical activity/ exercise. All of this is known as the endocannabinoid tone and the endocannabinoid tone is a function of the location density of cannabinoid receptors and shows the relative abundance or uptake of endocannabinoids that are being transmitted throughout the entire body.

HCTP Therapy

HCTP (human cellular tissue products) or stem cells* are used in regenerative cellular treatment to help the body’s own natural healing process by giving it a miniature boost. In both international and nationally affiliated clinics and distribution organizations use HTCP to regenerate damaged cells, tissues, and organs back to their original function in the body and state. With more and upcoming research looking at the beneficial properties of HCTP, many individuals can begin to recover faster and be pain-free.

CBD & The Brain

With the usage of CBD and how it affects the brain, studies have found that neuroreceptors CB1 and CB2 from CBD are outside of the central nervous system and are associated with the immune system. Some of the physiologic mechanisms & benefits of CBD are:

Anti‐inflammation – Decreased Cytokine and Chemokine action
Analgesic Effects
Anti‐nausea, Anti‐emetic & GI Benefits
Reduces neural excitability and pain
Neuroprotective
Antioxidant

Other studies have found that the acute effects of CBD can help enhance the frontostriatal brain function during a resting state and can even improve cognitive brain function in the body.

The Neurological Benefits Of Using CBD

With the neuronal protection from excitotoxicity, hypoxia, and glucose deprivation; in vivo, the neurological benefits that cannabinoids does is that they decrease hippocampal neuronal loss and
infarct volume after cerebral ischemia, acute brain trauma, and induced excitotoxicity. With these effects, it can help inhibition of glutamate transmission, reduce both the calcium influx and microglial activation in both the body and the brain. CBD can also inhibit the noxious cascades, such as tumor necrosis factor‐alpha generation and oxidative stress. Research studies also found that some of the neurological benefits that CBD offers include reducing inflammation, interacting with neurotransmitters, alleviating mental health disorders like anxiety and depression, and finally providing beneficial properties for individuals that are dealing with neurological disorders. Other neurological benefits include:

CBD/AEA reduces Microglia inflammatory response
Enhance Anti‐oxidant and Neuroprotection
Improve Plasticity and BDNF
Preserves cerebral circulation
Reduce Pro‐inflammatory Cytokines
Phytocannabinoids can prevent tau hyperphosphorylation in cultured neurons

Conclusion

All in all, the central nervous system consists of the brain and spinal cord and their job is to make sure that the neuron signals are being transmitted all throughout the body and sending the information back and forth to the brain and back. When there are unwanted factors that disrupt the neuron signals, it can lead to neurological disorders over time and cause havoc in the body. By using CBD sparingly, the individual can feel relaxed and be pain-free without the neurological disorders crippling them and disrupting their way of life.

References

Alger, Bradley E. “Getting High on the Endocannabinoid System.” Cerebrum: the Dana Forum on Brain Science, The Dana Foundation, 1 Nov. 2013, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3997295/.

Batalla, Albert, et al. “The Impact of Cannabidiol on Human Brain Function: A Systematic Review.” Frontiers in Pharmacology, Frontiers Media S.A., 21 Jan. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7858248/.

Grinspoon, Peter. “The Endocannabinoid System: Essential and Mysterious.” Harvard Health, 11 Aug. 2021, www.health.harvard.edu/blog/the-endocannabinoid-system-essential-and-mysterious-202108112569.

Kubala, Jillian. “6 Benefits and Uses of CBD Oil (Plus Side Effects).” Healthline, Healthline Media, 26 Nov. 2021, www.healthline.com/nutrition/cbd-oil-benefits.

Lu, Hui-Chen, and Ken Mackie. “An Introduction to the Endogenous Cannabinoid System.” Biological Psychiatry, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 1 Apr. 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4789136.

Disclaimer

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy For Mild Brain Trauma Injury

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Table of Contents

Introduction

The brain’s primary function is to make sure that the neuron signals are being transmitted and transported throughout the entire body. These neuron signals are responsible for functioning the feelings and sensations that the body is going through, while also helping the gut to digest food, the heart to regulate heartbeat rate and normalize blood pressure. All of the major systems need the neuron signals to be transferred back to the brain in a bidirectional connection as the brain makes sure that everything is working properly. When the brain suffers from a traumatic injury that causes the brain to be damaged from the inside and can be developed into long-term complications over time. In this article, we will be taking a look at what hyperbaric oxygen therapy is, its benefits, while also looking at what is mild brain trauma injury and its symptoms. By referring patients to qualified and skilled providers who specialized in neurological services. 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, in case 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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What Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?

So hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is used for individuals that have been dealing with chronic risk factors like decompression sickness, diabetic wounds, anemia, or smoke inhalation. Research has shown that hyperbaric oxygen therapy helps individuals breathe 100% pure oxygen in a pressurized chambered environment. Other research studies have found that HBOT has been used to help individuals who are suffering from decompression sickness and carbon monoxide poisoning. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is the (pharmacologic) use of greater than atmospheric barometric pressure and oxygen as a therapeutic option to treat basic disease processes/states (pathophysiology), and their diseases. There are two ways individuals can get the HBOT treatment by either a mono chamber where a person is in a tube-like chamber and inhaling the pure oxygen, while the multi-place chamber holds many individuals and they were a mask, a hood, or a tube to breathe in pure oxygen, as research shows.

Beneficial Properties For HBOT

Some of the beneficial properties that HBOT can provide to the body, as research has found is that HBOT can help treat chronic wounds that the body has endured, improve oxygenation and neovascularization, and even decrease inflammation from chronic wounds in the body. When individuals use HBOT as a therapy option to lower chronic inflammation, the largest clusters of genes are upregulated causing anti-inflammatory and growth/repair hormones genes. Without HBOT, the largest clusters of genes will be downregulated causing pro-inflammatory and cell death genes to the body. Other research studies have found that the beneficial properties for individuals to use HBOT to help with decreasing air or gas embolism, improve compromised grafts and flaps, and even treat acute thermal burn injury.

HCTP Therapy

Stem cells* or HCTP (human cellular tissue products) is a form of regenerative medicine that is used to help give the body’s own natural healing process a little boost. In both affiliated clinics and distribution organizations uses HCTP to help repair and regenerate damaged cells, diseased organs, and tissues back to their original state and function in the body. With more and upcoming research on the beneficial uses of HCTP, individuals can begin their wellness journey pain-free without chronic illnesses.

What Is Mild Brain Trauma Injury?

Studies have found that traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a nondegenerative, noncongenital insult to the brain from an external mechanical force, possibly leading to permanent or temporary impairment of cognitive, physical, and psychosocial functions, with an associated diminished or altered state of consciousness. Research studies have shown that many many individuals from infancy to the elderly tend to be more prone to losing their balance, falling, and hitting their heads is common for mild brain trauma injury. The primary injury in brain trauma includes an acceleration/deceleration with sheer, stretch, compression, tearing of white matter in the brain. While the second injury deals with the inflammatory reaction, biochemical, and neurotransmitter storm that is occurring in the brain.

The Symptoms

Studies have found that when individuals have suffered from mild brain trauma injury will have typical acute or chronic postconcussive symptoms that can cause problems to not only the brain but also the body as well. Some of the symptoms include:

Physical problems: Headaches, dizziness, visual disturbances
Cognitive impairments: Memory and attention dysfunction
Behavioral problems: Anxiety, depression, irritability

Conclusion

All in all, the brain’s main function in the central nervous system is to transport and transmit neuron signals from the brain to the entire body. These neuron signals make sure that the body and the brain are functioning normally and doing their jobs properly. When unwanted factors like mild brain trauma injury can cause many chronic symptoms to pop up in the brain. Through the usage of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), can help alleviate the symptoms that were caused by brain trauma injury and even alleviate other symptoms that individuals didn’t know they have. With HBOT, many people can begin to feel better and continue on their wellness journey.

References

Arciniegas, David B, et al. “Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: A Neuropsychiatric Approach to Diagnosis, Evaluation, and Treatment.” Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment, Dove Medical Press, Dec. 2005, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2424119/.

Georges, Alan, and Joe M Das. “Traumatic Brain Injury.” StatPearls [Internet]., U.S. National Library of Medicine, 5 Jan. 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459300/.

Lam, Gretl, et al. “Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: Exploring the Clinical Evidence.” Advances in Skin & Wound Care, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Apr. 2017, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28301358/.

Medical Professionals, Cleveland Clinic. “Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): What Is It, Causes, Types.” Cleveland Clinic, 11 Mar. 2021, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/8874-traumatic-brain-injury.

Medical Professionals, Johns Hopkins. “Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy.” Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2021, www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/hyperbaric-oxygen-therapy.

Shah, Jayesh. “Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy.” The Journal of the American College of Certified Wound Specialists, Elsevier, 24 Apr. 2010, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3601859/.

Staff, Mayo Clinic. “Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 28 Oct. 2020, www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/hyperbaric-oxygen-therapy/about/pac-20394380.

Thom, Stephen R. “Hyperbaric Oxygen: Its Mechanisms and Efficacy.” Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Jan. 2011, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3058327/.

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How S.H.I.E.L.D. Can Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease | Part 2

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Table of Contents

Introduction

The central nervous system is consist of the brain and the spinal cord that sends out neuron signals throughout the body and have a bidirectional connection to the brain. The neuron signals make sure that the body has the sensation of feeling things and makes sure that the organs are doing their jobs properly while functioning as well. When there are unwanted pathogens that are affecting the brain and disrupting the neuron signals, it can cause neurodegenerative disorders to cause not only the brain to be dysfunctional but also the body to be dysfunctional as well. In this 2 part series, we will be taking a look at what S.H.I.E.L.D. is and how it can help prevent Alzheimer’s disease from progressing further in the brain. Part 1 took a look at what is Alzheimer’s disease and how does it affect the brain. By referring patients to qualified and skilled providers who specialized in neurological services. 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, in case 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

Alzheimer’s Disease & Infections

In a normal healthy brain, it can naturally shrink due to age while retaining memory and cognitive function still intact, however, when there is an Alzheimer’s brain, the brain is shrunk but everything from the neuron signals to the brain itself is dysfunctional and causing neurodegenerative disorders. Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that causes the brain to lose neuron functioning in the body. Other unwanted pathogens can also cause Alzheimer’s disease to progress severely more if it is not treated right away. Studies have found that when chronic inflammation starts to seep into an Alzheimer’s brain it can cause viral, bacterial, and fungal infections to be chronic factors to go through the inflammatory pathways to Alzheimer’s diseased brain. This can cause Alzheimer’s disease to progress even further causing it to be untreatable. Other research studies have found that Alzheimer’s patients will have a weakened blood-brain barrier causing the amyloid plaques to form and causing an elevated risk of microbial infections to the brain.

HCTP Therapy

Stem cells* or HCTP (human cellular tissue products) are a form of regenerative medicine that is used in both international and nationally affiliated clinics and distribution organization that helps individuals that are dealing with chronic pain. HCTP helps the body by boosting its’ natural healing process by regenerating and repairing damaged tissues, diseased organs, and cells back to their normal functioning state in the body. With more and upcoming research on the beneficial properties of HCTP, many individuals can begin to feel much better and live their lives pain-free.

What Is S.H.I.E.L.D.?

There are ways to actually damper the effects of Alzheimer’s disease from progressing further in the brain. One of the ways that many individuals can help damper the effects of pre-Alzheimer’s from turning into chronic is S.H.I.E.L.D. This acronym has been used to help make individuals change their lifestyle choices and even help protect their brains. S.H.I.E.L.D. stands for:

Sleep
Handle Stress
Interact With Others
Exercise
Learn New Things
Diet

With this acronym, many individuals will not only begin to protect their brains from Alzheimer’s but also get their lives back together without chronic inflammation and have a huge change in themselves.

Sleep

Everybody needs at least 8 hours of sleep in order to feel rejuvenated and carry on their day. Research has shown that when individuals are in a deep sleep, their brains can actually clean out the amyloid plaques and other neurotoxic debris in the brain to prevent Alzheimer’s from progressing. This is due to the brain following a slow steady beat while producing slow, rhythmic electrical waves to flush out excess amyloids and fibrillary tangles out of the brain, which means that going into a deep sleep is beneficial for individuals who want to prevent Alzheimer’s from progressing.

Handle Stress

Stress is a two-way street where it can be both beneficial and dangerous to a person. For individuals who are dealing with stress, studies have shown that stress is highly involved with Alzheimer’s as it can be involved with the development and progression of the disease. Stress can cause detrimental effects on a person by affecting their mood and overall wellbeing. There are ways for individuals that need to find ways to handle their stress. Meditation and going on vacation can provide beneficial changes to the stress response and inflammation in the body. Not only that but when individuals do meditation for a week, it can lead to an increase in telomerase activity and provide beneficial changes to Alzheimer’s pathology and dampen them.

Interact

Research has found that older individuals who are lonely will have lower levels of cognitive function and progress Alzheimer’s disease to become more severe. Since loneliness can cause stress, it can cause chemical changes to the brain and can kill the nerve cells. By talking and interacting with people, it can use the nerves that utilize the cognitive function to talk and listen to individuals. This will allow the brain to be healthy and talking to individuals about similar interests can dampen the effects of stress and lower the chances of Alzheimer’s from forming.

Exercise

Exercising not only help the body feel good but also makes the brain feel good too. By incorporating any kind of form of exercising can help strengthen the brain’s nerve cells. Surprisingly though low to moderate exercises for older adults can help not only improve their body health and weight but also strengthen their cognitive function. Exercises can make individuals focus on what they are doing and make their brains go through the motions over again while improving their health.

Learn

By exercising the brain in an intellectual sense can help improve cognitive function and lower the effects of Alzheimer’s from progressing. By taking up a hobby and learning how it works can help strengthen the nerve cell connections known as synapses. This can be a variety of things that can interest a person that wants to learn something different and utilize them. Learning something new can also be relaxing to people as their brains are taking in new information that they can use in the future.

Diet

One of the easiest ways to help lower Alzheimer’s disease and even lower the chances of inflammation in the body is the Mediterranean diet. The Mediterranean diet is consist of nutritious food that can provide beneficial results by incorporating anti-inflammatory foods that are leafy greens, fruits, and vegetables. What is so amazing about the Mediterranean diet is that it can also help provide gut support to the body as well. These can include probiotics like yogurt and prebiotics like whole grains to make individuals dampen inflammatory cytokines in the brain.

Conclusion

All in all, by utilizing S.H.I.E.L.D. into daily lifestyle can help lower the effects of Alzheimer’s disease. When the brain is healthy and sends out neuron signals to the body, it makes sure that bidirectional connection is not severed by any unwanted pathogens. When Alzheimer’s disease starts to shrink the brain and causes chronic inflammatory responses to disrupt the neuron signals, causing neurological disorders. With S.H.I.E.L.D. , individuals can delay the effects of pre-Alzheimer’s in their brain and their journey to being healthier can flourish without worrying about suffering from neurological disorders.

References

Hamilton, Jon. “Deep Sleep Protects against Alzheimer’s, Growing Evidence Shows.” NPR, NPR, 17 Nov. 2020, www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2020/11/17/935519117/deep-sleep-protects-against-alzheimers-growing-evidence-shows.

Justice, Nicholas J. “The Relationship between Stress and Alzheimer’s Disease.” Neurobiology of Stress, Elsevier, 21 Apr. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5991350/.

Sochocka, Marta, et al. “The Infectious Etiology of Alzheimer’s Disease.” Current Neuropharmacology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2017, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28294067/.

Vigasova, Dana, et al. “Multi-Pathogen Infections and Alzheimer’s Disease.” Microbial Cell Factories, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 28 Jan. 2021, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33509204/.

Wilson, Robert S, et al. “Loneliness and Risk of Alzheimer Disease.” Archives of General Psychiatry, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Feb. 2007, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17283291/.

Disclaimer

Pregnant and Chiropractic

Dr. Alex Jimenez

A pregnant woman lying on her side on a stretcher while a physiotherapist massages her legs at a health center. Concept of massage for pregnant.

Pregnant and Chiropractic: Many women experience back/pelvis/leg/feet swelling, soreness, achiness, and pain during pregnancy. A growing belly added weight and changes in connective tissue can cause a variety of musculoskeletal strains and misalignments. Chiropractic care provides health maintenance of the spinal column, discs, nerves, joints, muscles, and bones. It is an art and science of adjusting a misaligned body, reducing stress, and promoting health throughout the body.

Table of Contents

Pregnant and Chiropractic

With a primary doctor’s clearance, chiropractic can provide safe adjustments. Chiropractors trained to work with pregnant women utilize techniques that avoid applying pressure on or around the abdomen. Benefits of chiropractic during pregnancy include:

Restores and maintains spinal alignment and balance.
Helps control symptoms of nausea.
Improves energy levels.
Relieves body pain.
Helps reduce labor time and delivery.
Restores pelvic positioning and balance, improving standing, sitting, and walking mechanics.
Improves blood perfusion and better movement for the baby

A chiropractor trained in the needs of pregnant women will also provide exercises and stretches that are safe during pregnancy. A chiropractor will discuss/recommend treatment options, patient concerns, and a complete medical history assessment. They will monitor symptoms to customize treatments to the individual’s specific needs to get the most relief.

Body Composition

Gestational Hypertension

Gestational hypertension develops during pregnancy. It is not preventable and returns to normal levels postpartum. However, there is an increased risk of developing chronic hypertension later if gestational hypertension begins to develop. According to Mayo Clinic, gestational hypertension is diagnosed by the following:

At least 20 weeks gestation.
Blood pressure is higher than 140/90 on at least two occasions.
Must be more than four hours apart.
There is no other organ damage present.

References

Gutke, Annelie et al. “Treatments for pregnancy-related lumbopelvic pain: a systematic review of physiotherapy modalities.” Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica vol. 94,11 (2015): 1156-67. doi:10.1111/aogs.12681

Poděbradská, R et al. “The effect of physiotherapy intervention on the load of the foot and low back pain in pregnancy.” “Vliv fyzioterapeutických postupů na zatížení plosky a bolesti zad v těhotenství.” Ceska gynekologie vol. 84,6 (2019): 450-457.

Schreiner, Lucas et al. “Systematic review of pelvic floor interventions during pregnancy.” International journal of gynecology and obstetrics: the official organ of the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics vol. 143,1 (2018): 10-18. doi:10.1002/ijgo.12513

How To Detect Alzheimer’s In The Brain | Part 1

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Table of Contents

Introduction

The brain’s main function in the central nervous system is to make sure that the neuron signals that the brain produces are transferring throughout the entire body. These neuron signals also have a function as they help the body feel pain, sense moods, aid in organ function, and have a bidirectional connection to the brain as the body sends the signals back and forth. When there are unwanted pathogens that start to disrupt the neuron signals and start to affect the brain, it can lead to neurodegenerative disorders causing the entire body to be dysfunctional. In this 2 part series, we will be taking a look into what is Alzheimer’s and how does it affect the brain. In Part 2, we will take a look at what S.H.I.E.L.D. is and how can it help prevent Alzheimer’s disease from progressing further in the brain. By referring patients to qualified and skilled providers who specialized in neurological services. 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, in case 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 Alzheimer’s Disease?

So Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia in the elderly that ranges from ages 65 and older. About 5.5 million patients in the U.S. would spend about $300B per year in medical costs while getting treated for Alzheimer’s. Research shows that since Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurologic disorder, it will cause brain shrinkage and cause brain cells to die over time. Some of the major risk factors that can cause Alzheimer’s disease to progress in an individual are family history, age, head injury, stroke, high blood pressure, and gender. It turns out that females actually make up about 2/3 of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Other research studies have shown that Alzheimer’s disease is classified as preclinical or presymptomatic depending on how severe the cognitive impairment is in a person. Since about 30-40% over the age of 85 have Alzheimer’s disease the current lifespan is about 80 years.

The Symptoms

Since age plays a huge role as a risk factor to aid the progression of Alzheimer’s disease the symptoms can actually range from mild to severe as research found that when there is damage to the brain, Alzheimer’s disease can start in a decade or more before memory loss and other cognitive problems start to appear as it progresses. Even though Alzheimer’s is starting in the preclinical stage, a person may look symptom-free, however, the changes are taking place in the brain and causing cognitive disorders. Some of the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease actually depends on how severe is the progression and they include:

Repeating questions
Memory loss
Shortened attention span
Problems recognizing family and friends
Inability to communicate
Seizures

HCTP Therapy

Stem cells* or HCTP (human cellular tissue products) have been used in both international and nationally affiliated clinics and distribution organizations to help boost the body’s own natural healing process. As a form of regenerative cellular treatment, HCTP can help repair and regenerate damaged cells, tissues, and organs back to their original state and function properly in the body. As more and upcoming research finds more information on the beneficial properties of HCTP and its uses, individuals with chronic pain can begin their wellness journey pain-free.

How Does Alzheimer’s Disease Affect The Brain?

In a normal healthy brain, the brain does shrink naturally while still retaining normal cognitive functions, like memory skills and motor skills. In an Alzheimer’s brain, the brain is shrunk but the cognitive functions are disrupted causing neurodegenerative disorders. Research shows that Alzheimer’s disease causes widespread damage to the brain causing many neurons in the brain to stop functioning, lose connection and eventually die. Not only that but in an Alzheimer’s brain, it will form plaque modules known as amyloid plaque and neurofibrillary tangles in the brain.

Amyloid Plaques & Neurofibrillary Tangles

Studies have found that the correlation of the behavioral symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease is due to the accumulation of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in the brain causing damage and destruction to memory and cognitive function. Surprisingly, there are actually three tauopathies that can cause neuroinflammation to the brain and cause the start of cognitive decline. All three of these induced tauopathies require decades of tangles and neuroinflammation spreading through the brain eventually leading to dementia, which likely begins early in life, e.g. CTE and playing football as a young adult. These three tauopathies are:

Alzheimer’s disease, which is an amyloid-induced tauopathy
Frontotemporal Lobe Dementia (FTLD), which is a direct (often genetic-induced) tauopathy
Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy, which is a head trauma-induced tauopathy

Other studies have found that the neuropathological alternations in an Alzheimer’s brain can cause lesions to the brain while having an abundance of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles infesting the brain. This will cause neuronal dysfunction and degeneration to the brain causing cognitive disorders to progress further and causing the individual to have neurological problems as research shows.

Conclusion

Overall, the brain’s main function in the central nervous system is to transport neuron signals all throughout the body in a bidirectional connection as the neuron signals help keep the body functional and working properly. When neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s disease start to affect the brain, it can cause amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles to infest the brain and disrupt the neuron signals in the brain. By treating Alzheimer’s disease from progressing further in the brain with whole nutritious food and exercising regularly (both mentally and physically) can help improve brain function as well as improve memory function in older adults.

References

Bloom, George S. “Amyloid-β and Tau: The Trigger and Bullet in Alzheimer Disease Pathogenesis.” JAMA Neurology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Apr. 2014, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24493463/.

Kumar, Anil, et al. “Alzheimer Disease.” StatPearls [Internet]., U.S. National Library of Medicine, 11 Aug. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499922/.

Medical Professionals, NIA. “What Are the Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease?” National Institute on Aging, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 16 May 2017, www.nia.nih.gov/health/what-are-signs-alzheimers-disease.

Medical Professionals, NIA. “What Happens to the Brain in Alzheimer’s Disease?” National Institute on Aging, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 16 May 2017, www.nia.nih.gov/health/what-happens-brain-alzheimers-disease.

Paulson, Jennifer B, et al. “Amyloid Plaque and Neurofibrillary Tangle Pathology in a Regulatable Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease.” The American Journal of Pathology, American Society for Investigative Pathology, Sept. 2008, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2527075/.

Serrano-Pozo, Alberto, et al. “Neuropathological Alterations in Alzheimer Disease.” Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Medicine, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press, Sept. 2011, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3234452/.

Disclaimer

Do’s and Don’ts After Chiropractic Adjustment

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Cropped Image Of Osteopath Treating Female Patient In Clinic

Everybody is different in how the body reacts to a chiropractic adjustment. Body misalignment often leads to spinal misalignment or vice versa. Misalignments occur over time; individuals do not notice until soreness and pain begin presenting. Depending on the injury and/or condition, getting the full potential from a chiropractic adjustment means knowing the dos and don’ts following treatment. This involves maintaining a healthy posture, staying hydrated, getting proper rest, and staying active.

Table of Contents

Adjustments

Adjustments are highly effective for the body. Benefits include:

Pain relief.
Restored full range of motion.
Increased strength.
Increased energy.
Improved sleep.
Lowered blood pressure in individuals with hypertension.

Do’s and Don’ts

Stay Properly Hydrated

One of the best things for the body is plenty of water every day. Water helps:
Circulate nutrients and oxygen to your cells.
Flush bacteria from the bladder.
Assist with digestion.
Prevent constipation.
Normalize blood pressure.
Stabilize heartbeat.
Cushion the joints.
Protect organs and tissues.

Stay Active

It is not recommended to take on intense workouts after an adjustment but to remain active to keep the muscles, tendons, ligaments flexible and strengthen the body during healing.
Activities should be done in moderation and include:
Walking
Jogging
Biking
Swimming

Proper Rest

Getting the proper amount of sleep is essential for the body to heal to the optimal level.
The body getting used to the adjustment can be an exhausting process.

Maintain Healthy Posture

Proper posture is essential to keep the body in healthy alignment and prevent further/new injuries.
A chiropractor and physical therapist will educate and train individuals on maintaining healthy, active postures.

Stretching

Stretching is prescribed as part of the treatment to maintain flexibility and strength.
A chiropractor will recommend and show how to perform specific stretches and exercises between adjustments.

What to Avoid

Recommendations on what to avoid after a chiropractic adjustment.

Explosive Movements

Stay active but limit any explosive movements for a few days after the adjustment.

Avoid Sitting Too Much

Too much sitting, even with a lumbar support chair, can cause the muscles to tighten pulling on the spine.
When sitting, get up and move around every 20 minutes.

Paying attention to the recommended do’s and don’ts will help expedite the healing and create new healthy habits.

Body Composition

Dairy Products

Conventional vs. Organic and Grass-fed Dairy

Studies have found that dairy cows consuming a diet of grass and hay significantly improved nutrient profiles of produced milk.
Milk from grass-fed cows has a higher omega-3 content when compared to organic and conventional grain-fed cows.
Omega-3s protect against:
Inflammation
Heart disease
Metabolic conditions

Fermented Products

Dairy is often fermented to produce various products, including sour cream, yogurt, and certain cheeses.
When dairy foods go through fermentation, they become a source of probiotics.
Consumption of cultured dairy has been shown to improve cholesterol and immunity.
Protects against allergies and certain types of cancer.
Dairy products will have “live active cultures” on the label.

References

Bourrie, Benjamin C T et al. “The Microbiota and Health Promoting Characteristics of the Fermented Beverage Kefir.” Frontiers in microbiology vol. 7 647. 4 May. 2016, doi:10.3389/fmicb.2016.00647

Licciardone, John C et al. “Recovery From Chronic Low Back Pain After Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association vol. 116,3 (2016): 144-55. doi:10.7556/jaoa.2016.031

Maher, C G. “Effective physical treatment for chronic low back pain.” The Orthopedic clinics of North America vol. 35,1 (2004): 57-64. doi:10.1016/S0030-5898(03)00088-9

Will, Joshua Scott et al. “Mechanical Low Back Pain.” American family physician vol. 98,7 (2018): 421-428.

A Look Into Neuropathic Pain | Part 2

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Table of Contents

Introduction

With trillions of nerves that are inhibiting the body, the nervous system is consist of the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system, and its job is to make sure that the neuron signals are traveling to and fro from the brain to the entire body. When there is an unwanted pathogen that enters the body and starts to disrupt the neuron signals, it can cause a variety of neurodegenerative disorders and neuropathic problems to affect the body over time. In this 2 part series, we will be taking a look at what is neuropathic pain and its symptoms. In Part 1, we discussed and understand what is polyneuropathy and how different polyneuropathies can affect the body. By referring patients to qualified and skilled providers who specialized in neurological services. 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, in case 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 Neuropathic Pain?

When there is pain that is radiating from the nerves, the spinal cord, or the brain, it is known as neuropathic pain. This type of pain doesn’t originate in the bones, muscles, or organs but is a direct consequence of diseases that is affecting the somatosensory system. Research studies have shown that neuropathic pain is caused by various central and peripheral nerve disorders that cause lesions in the nervous system. This can be problematic for individuals who have neuropathic pain because it can cause the body to appear normal but can be experienced in other parts of the body. Other research studies have found that neuropathic pain can cause mild to severe pain symptoms that can distort existing neuron signals, create new ones, or even prevent the neuron signals from transferring throughout the entire body.

The Symptoms

Since neuropathic pain in the body is chronic and is due to damaged nerves, research shows that even though neuropathic pain is a chronic progressive nerve disorder that can occur from injuries or infections that affect the body, it can send unprompted signals to the brain causing it to be dysfunctional. Other symptoms that neuropathic pain can cause to the body include:

Numbness
Burning pain
Sleep difficulty
Hypoalgesia
Allodynia( cold pain)
Metabolic disorders
Inflammatory disorders

HCTP Therapy

As a form of regenerative treatment, stem cells* or HCTP (human cellular tissue products) can help boost the body’s own natural healing process by repairing and regenerating cells, damaged tissues, and diseased organs. HCTP is used in both international and nationally affiliated clinics and distribution organizations to help individuals that are in chronic pain and need relief. With more and upcoming research discovering beneficial properties of HCTP, many individuals can start living life to the fullest pain-free.

Small Fiber Polyneuropathy

Small fiber neuropathies (SFN) are a result of damage to the peripheral nerves affecting small myelinated A-delta and unmyelinated C fibers in the body. The fibers affected include both small somatic as well as autonomic fibers as they can be subserved through thermal perception and nociception by small fibers. With the enteric function is also subserved by small fibers, research shows that SFN is affected by the damaged peripheral nervous system causing the small fibers to cause burning pain or a tingle sensation on the feet and progress through the leg and throughout the entire body.

The pathogenesis of injury to small fibers is not well understood but when SFN starts to progress, it can involve the large fibers in the body. The large fibers are heavily myelinated and involved in muscle control, as well as touch, vibration, and position sense. So when SFN starts to affect the large fibers, it can cause muscle cramps on the body causing a person to be in pain unless it is treated. Other less common symptoms that SFN can be a result on the body involved the face, trunk, proximal limbs, or other more localized areas.

Small Fiber Polyneuropathy Symptoms

Some of the symptoms vary widely in severity when an individual is dealing with small fiber polyneuropathy as it is often affected to individuals that describes it as a gradual onset of vague distal sensory disturbances. Some of the examples include feeling like there is sand in the person’s shoe, a sock feeling as if it has pebbles in it, pins and needle sensations, cold painful sensations, or tingling. Other symptoms from SFN can include burning pain in the extremities and sometimes can be severe. Studies have found that some of the known causes of SFN can include diabetes Mellitus, amyloidosis, toxins, and inherited neuropathies. Other symptoms that are caused by SFN include:

Allodynia and hyperesthesia
Dry eyes and mouth
Lightheadedness with changes in posture
Syncope
Abnormalities of sweating
Erectile dysfunction
GI symptoms (nausea and emesis, constipation, diarrhea, changes in urinary frequency including nocturia)

Conclusion

All in all, the nervous system’s primary function is to make sure that all the neuron signals are coming from the brain and traveling throughout the entire body while keeping a bidirectional communication with the brain. When unwanted pathogens like neuropathic pain and SFN are causing a disruption to the neuron signals, it can cause the body to be dysfunctional while causing pain to the individual. The individual will feel a tingling sensation or burning pain depending on how severe the neuropathic pain is. By making small changes that can help minimize chronic pain flare-ups like acupuncture or eating anti-inflammatory foods, individuals can get their lives back together pain-free.

References

Eske, Jamie. “Small Fiber Neuropathy: Symptoms, Treatment, Causes, and Progression.” Medical News Today, MediLexicon International, 2 Dec. 2021, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/small-fiber-neuropathy.

Gilron, Ian, et al. “Neuropathic Pain: A Practical Guide for the Clinician.” CMAJ : Canadian Medical Association Journal = Journal De L’Association Medicale Canadienne, Canadian Medical Association, 1 Aug. 2006, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1513412/.

Holland, Kimberly. “What You Should Know about Neuropathic Pain.” Healthline, Healthline Media, 5 Feb. 2020, www.healthline.com/health/neuropathic-pain.

Lacomis, David. “Small-Fiber Neuropathy.” Muscle & Nerve, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Aug. 2002, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12210380/.

Sissons, Beth. “Neuropathic Pain: Causes, Types, and Treatment.” Medical News Today, MediLexicon International, 10 Feb. 2022, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/neuropathic-pain.

Disclaimer

Understanding All Types Of Polyneuropathies | Part 1

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Table of Contents

Introduction

In the body, there are trillions of nerves that inhabit the body and are connected to the central nervous system. The nervous system is split off into two parts which are the central nervous system which consists of the brain and spinal cord, and the peripheral nervous system which consists of the nerves that are branched out throughout the body from the spinal cord. The nervous system’s function to the body is to send out neuron signals all over the body to and from. When there are unwanted factors that start to affect the nerves in the body, it can disrupt the signals from transporting throughout the body and affect a person’s ability to function. In this 2 part series, we will be taking a look at understanding what is polyneuropathy and looking at the different types of polyneuropathies that can affect the body. In Part 2, we will look at what is neuropathy pain and its symptoms. By referring patients to qualified and skilled providers who specialized in neurological services. 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, in case 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 Polyneuropathy?

Polyneuropathy or peripheral neuropathy is experienced by approximately 40 million people in the US, as research shows that it is a result of nerve damage that is located outside of the brain and the spinal cord. Many peripheral neuropathies are mixed neuropathies with both large fiber and small-fiber involvement and are increasingly recognized in the demonstration of specific involvement of small myelinated or unmyelinated fibers, e.g. small fiber neuropathies. This refers to a disorder of numerous peripheral nerves at a given time and is often characterized by a distal, symmetric sensory deficit (“glove and stocking” distribution). Since the peripheral nervous system sends out sensory information to and fro to the brain and spinal cord, polyneuropathy can occur through many factors like exposure to toxins, metabolic problems, and traumatic injuries that can affect the body. Polyneuropathies can also be further subclassified as primarily axonal or demyelinating in nature.

HCTP Therapy

Stem cells* or HCTP (human cellular tissue products) are a form of regenerative medicine that is used by both international and nationally affiliated clinics and distribution organizations used for help individuals that are dealing with chronic pain. HCTP’s function is to help boost the body’s own natural healing process by regenerating damaged cells, repairing diseased tissues, and organs back to their original state and function in the body. As more and upcoming research begins to talk about the beneficial properties of HCTP, many individuals begin their wellness journey without dealing with chronic pain.

The Types of Polyneuropathies

Since polyneuropathy is a multitude of damaged peripheral nerves that can affect the sensory signals in the body, research has found that there are multiple types of neuropathies that can take from hours to days or even years to develop and cause havoc to the nerves in the body. Polyneuropathy can also affect the nerves that are responsible for controlling the body’s primary functions like movement, feeling, digestion, and heart rate.

Mononeuropathies

Research has shown that mononeuropathies are single nerve damage that is close to the skin and near the bone causing isolated nerve lesions with deficits restricted to the nerve in question. Mononeuropathies are commonly related to entrapment and trauma that has been affecting the nerves in the wrist. Some of the frequently encountered mononeuropathies in clinical practice include:

Median
Ulnar
Radial
Peroneal
Lateral femoral cutaneous

Since there are several individual nerves that are affected by mononeuropathies, it can come in usually at random and non-contiguously and is often related to vasculitis or other inflammatory/autoimmune conditions like diabetes. Some of the examinations reveal deficits attributable to the involvement of one or more isolated peripheral nerves that can cause mononeuropathy to progress into chronic disorders if it is not treated.

Entrapment Neuropathy

Entrapment Neuropathy is nerves that are at risk and are passing through tight fibrous or
fibro-osseous channels. Research has found that entrapment neuropathies are usually caused by compressed or irritated peripheral nerves that are traveling through narrow anatomical spaces in the body. Entrapment neuropathy can cause the body to have mechanical distortion that leads to focal
demyelination and possibly axonal injury to the nerves in the body. Some of the most common factors and symptoms that are caused by entrapment neuropathy include:

Median nerve at the wrist (carpal tunnel)
Ulnar nerve at the elbow
Peroneal nerve at the fibular head
Increased body mass index
Predisposed systemic diseases (Hyperthyroidism, diabetes)

Axonal Polyneuropathies

Also known as Diabetic Neuropathy, axonal polyneuropathies are most often distal symmetric polyneuropathy that is consist of large or small fibers that cause autonomic neuropathy to coexist. Studies have found that axonal polyneuropathies are a paralytic disorder that causes motor nerve fiber degeneration and are considered asymmetric neuropathy that may involve cranial nerves, thoracic or limb nerves in the body. Axonal polyneuropathies have resulted from ischemia (vasa Nervosa) and entrapments while also being a result of immune-mediated epineural microvasculitis causing proximal motor neuropathy (diabetic amyotrophy) that causes severe proximal limb pain and weakness to the body. Some of the factors that can cause axonal polyneuropathies can be inherited like demyelinating polyneuropathies and are due to metabolic disorders, vasculitis, and nutritional habits.

Demyelinating Polyneuropathies

Demyelinating polyneuropathies is an immune-mediated/inflammatory autoimmune disorder in the body. This disorder is usually inherited and can be caused by nutritional and toxin factors that are affecting the body. Research studies have shown that demyelinating polyneuropathies can become chronic over time and occur when the body’s own immune system starts to attack the myelin sheath that is around the nerve cells. One of the most common forms of demyelinating polyneuropathies is Acute Inflammatory Polyradiculoneuropathy (AIDP) or Guillain-Barre syndrome. AIDP is an autoimmune segmental demyelination of motor skills that is greater than sensory nerves. Some of the symptoms of demyelinating polyneuropathies can include:

Facial weakness
Molecular mimicry (i.e. Campylobacter jejuni)
Ascending weakness and respiratory compromise
Areflexia

Another common form of demyelinating polyneuropathies is Charcot-Marie-Tooth. This is a hereditary motor and sensory neuropathy that causes musculoskeletal deformities like pes cavus, hammertoes, and “inverted champagne bottle” legs while causing distal weakness and atrophy to the body.

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

Also known as “Lou Gehrig Disease,” Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ASL) is a disorder of upper and lower motor nerves affecting the nerve cells that are in the brain and spinal cord that causes a loss of muscle control, as research studies show. ALS affects motor nerves with minimal sensory involvement and causes widespread denervation of muscle in the body by causing respiratory failure, dysphagia, and a loss of independence. This may become non-ambulatory since the 2 most common forms of presentation are limb onset & bulbar onset. Studies have shown that since ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease of the motor neurons, it will cause paralysis over time and inevitably death 2-6 years after diagnosis.

Other studies have found that when ALS is progressing in the body and affect the primary motor nerves, it can cause extra-motor manifestations like a change in a person’s behavior, executive dysfunction, and cause language problems. When the lower motor nerves are affected it can cause atrophy, weakness, and fasciculations; while the upper motor nerve is being affected as well, causing “long tract signs”, brisk deep tendon reflexes, and pathologic reflexes (eg Babinski).

Conclusion

All in all, polyneuropathy is a multitude of peripheral nerves that are damaged and cause problems to the nervous system in the body. If left untreated over time, it can develop into chronic disorders that will affect the nerves and cause the body pain and be dysfunctional. By making small changes to a certain lifestyle, eating anti-inflammatory foods, or exercising regularly, individuals can dampen the effects of inflammation in the nerves and begin their wellness journey.

References

Brotman, Ryan G, et al. “Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.” StatPearls [Internet]., U.S. National Library of Medicine, 29 Aug. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK556151/.

Hafer-Macko, C, et al. “Acute Motor Axonal Neuropathy: An Antibody-Mediated Attack on Axolemma.” Annals of Neurology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Oct. 1996, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8871584/.

Leonard, Jayne. “Polyneuropathy: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment.” Medical News Today, MediLexicon International, 3 Feb. 2022, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317212.

Masrori, P, and P Van Damme. “Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Clinical Review.” European Journal of Neurology, John Wiley and Sons Inc., Oct. 2020, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7540334/.

Medical Professional, Cleveland Clinic. “Mononeuropathy: What Is It & How to Treat It.” Cleveland Clinic, 24 Mar. 2021, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16014-mononeuropathy.

Medical Professionals, Johns Hopkins. “Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyradiculoneuropathy.” Johns Hopkins Medicine, 27 Mar. 2019, www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/chronic-inflammatory-demyelinating-polyradiculoneuropathy.

Schmid, Annina B, et al. “Entrapment Neuropathies: A Contemporary Approach to Pathophysiology, Clinical Assessment, and Management.” Pain Reports, Wolters Kluwer, 22 July 2020, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7382548/.

Staff, Mayo Clinic. “Peripheral Neuropathy.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 3 July 2021, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/peripheral-neuropathy/symptoms-causes/syc-20352061.

Disclaimer

Volleyball Strength Workout

Dr. Alex Jimenez

Volleyball is a dynamic game that requires players to be fast on their feet. Players have to be able to quickly shift into various position/s, make quick movements in any direction quickly and reach the ball. Volleyball strength workouts focus on power development and maintaining safe positions when exploding through the plays. Many players include resistance training exercises in their training programs to maximize power and set a solid foundation.

Table of Contents

Volleyball Strength Workout

A well-rounded volleyball workout will help players strengthen and maintain optimal body health.

Good Mornings

This exercise is ideal for gluteal strength, hamstring strength, and improving vertical jumps.
It is recommended to do three sets of 10 reps.

Single-Leg Roman Dead Lift to Overhead Press

This volleyball workout works the hamstrings and glutes.
Helps improve balance and increases jump strength.
It is recommended to do three sets of 10 reps.

Lunge With a Twist

This volleyball strength workout builds up the legs and stabilizes the ankles to reduce the risk of injury.
It also helps with single-leg jumps.
It is recommended to do three sets of 16 reps, 8 left – 8 right.

Dumbbell Snatch

The dumbbell snatch helps with jumping mechanics’ power development and improves explosiveness.
It is recommended to do three sets of 8 reps.

Bicep Curl to Overhead Press

This exercise helps prevent shoulder injuries.
Attackers develop secondary muscles that strengthen spiking.
It is recommended to do three sets of 8 reps.

Medicine Ball Throw Down

Another recommended resistance training exercise that can be done is medicine ball throwdowns.
The object is to throw a medicine ball down forcefully; the ball bounces, catch and repeat.
It is recommended to do two-four sets of 6-10 reps.

Band Reverse Lunge to Overhead Press

A recommended exercise that can be done with a resistance band.
The exercise does not require a lot of space, so it can be done almost anywhere.
It is recommended to do two-three sets of 10-15 reps.

It is recommended to consult a professional trainer that can create a diverse fitness program to make exercising/training/working out much more enjoyable.

Body Composition

How Aerobic and Resistance Training Interact

The body adjusts differently to various types of exercise. Aerobic and resistance training each tells the body to adapt in different ways. Both are important for healthy body composition, and when done in combination, it is known as concurrent training. Aerobic is best for losing fat, resistance training builds muscle that keeps the body functioning throughout the day. However, molecular mechanisms involved in aerobic and resistance adaptations can interfere with each other if not appropriately planned. Two steps to minimize any possible interference and maximize aerobic/resistance benefits:

Nutrition

Adequate protein intake is vital for muscular adaptation from resistance training.
It stimulates muscle protein synthesis after concurrent training.
After workout sessions, consume at least 25g of high-quality protein to achieve strength and hypertrophy improvements.

Recovery

When doing both aerobic and resistance training on the same day, maximize recovery time between the sessions.
Strength and aerobic fitness gains are low when the two are separated by 6 hours or less.
Twenty-four hours between sessions is the recommended time, especially if the priority is on endurance.

References

Camera, Donny M et al. “Protein ingestion increases myofibrillar protein synthesis after concurrent exercise.” Medicine and science in sports and exercise vol. 47,1 (2015): 82-91. doi:10.1249/MSS.0000000000000390

Cools, Ann M et al. “Prevention of shoulder injuries in overhead athletes: a science-based approach.” Brazilian journal of physical therapy vol. 19,5 (2015): 331-9. doi:10.1590/bjpt-rbf.2014.0109

Pereira, Ana et al. “Training strategy of explosive strength in young female volleyball players.” Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania) vol. 51,2 (2015): 126-31. doi:10.1016/j.medici.2015.03.004

Ramirez-Campillo, Rodrigo et al. “Effects of Plyometric Jump Training on Vertical Jump Height of Volleyball Players: A Systematic Review with Meta-Analysis of Randomized-Controlled Trial.” Journal of sports science & medicine vol. 19,3 489-499. 13 Aug. 2020

Seminati, Elena, and Alberto Enrico Minetti. “Overuse in volleyball training/practice: A review on the shoulder and spine-related injuries.” European journal of sports science vol. 13,6 (2013): 732-43. doi:10.1080/17461391.2013.773090

Silva, Ana Filipa et al. “The Effect of Plyometric Training in Volleyball Players: A Systematic Review.” International journal of environmental research and public health vol. 16,16 2960. 17 Aug. 2019, doi:10.3390/ijerph16162960

Villareal, Dennis T et al. “Aerobic or Resistance Exercise, or Both, in Dieting Obese Older Adults.” The New England journal of medicine vol. 376,20 (2017): 1943-1955. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa1616338

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