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Understanding All Types Of Polyneuropathies | Part 1

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-

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

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 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:

 

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. “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.

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

By
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.

Volleyball Strength Workout

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

How Migraines and Headaches Affect The Brain

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-

Introduction

The brain’s primary function is to send out neuron signals from the brain to the entire body. These neuron signals travel to the gut system, the cardiovascular system, the endocrine system, and the musculoskeletal system to make sure each of these systems is doing its jobs properly. Each of the systems has a bidirectional connection to the brain and vice versa. When there are unwanted pathogens that start to attach and disrupt the neuron signals, it can cause the body to not only be dysfunctional but also cause the brain to develop neurological disorders that will cause a person to be in pain. In this article, we will be taking a look at how migraines and headaches affect the brain, their symptoms as well as ways to treat them naturally. 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

How Migraines Affect The Brain

So migraines are a chronic disorder with episodic attacks that can cause severe throbbing pain on one side of the head. Research shows that migraines are genetically influenced complex disorders that are often characterized by moderate-to-severe headache episodes that are accompanied by nausea and an increased sensitivity to light and sound. Migraines are considered as integrated mechanisms and complex pathophysiology that when someone is having a migraine attack they are functionally disabled and it can last from a few hours to days depending on how severe it is.

 

 

Other studies have shown that migraines are the commonest causes of recurring, severe headaches that may be triggered by internal or external influences that affect the individual or it can even come by itself for no reason.  When a person is suffering from migraines and is enduring in-between attacks, many individuals have to deal with the predisposition to future attacks, anticipate anxiety, and the changes in their brain function.

 

Migraine Symptoms

When a person is dealing with a migraine, it can progress into four stages depending on how severe the symptoms are as research shows. They are:

  • Prodrome: Slight changes within 1 to 2 days. Some of the symptoms include mood changes, constipation, increased urination, and neck stiffness.
  • Aura: Occurs before or during a migraine attack and lasts up to 60 minutes. Symptoms include vision loss, seeing flashes of light, numbness on the face, and tingle sensation on the arm or leg.
  • Attack: Migraines that last about 4 to 72 hours if it is left untreated. Some of the symptoms include pulsing pain, sensitivity to light and sound, and feeling nauseated.
  • Post-drome: An individual will feel drained and confused after a migraine attack and feel wiped out throughout the entire day.

 

Other research studies have found that some risk factors are associated with migraines can include genetics, gender, and chronic stress. By figuring out what are the risk factors that can cause the development of a migraine is beneficial for individuals to make small changes in their lifestyle to prevent migraines from forming.

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 both international and nationally affiliated clinics and distribution organizations use to help boost the body’s own natural healing process. HCTP has been used to help regenerate and repair damaged cells, diseased tissues, and organs back to their original state and function. With more and upcoming research talking about the beneficial properties of HCTP, individuals that are dealing with chronic pain can start feeling better and begin their wellness journey.

How Headaches Affect The Brain

Throughout the entire world, everyone has dealt with some form of headache from any situation that a person is dealing with. Headaches are throbbing pain that is in the head and it is due to that can impact a person’s life. Research studies have found that headaches affect most people due to a wide variety of factors that impact their lives. Some of these factors can be both personal and social burdens that a person is dealing with. Whether it is due to being in pain, having a disability, damaged quality of life, or financial situation, can cause a person to feel stress and developed a headache from these factors.

 

 

When individuals are dealing with a headache for a few hours are considered acute headaches. Studies have found that acute headaches are broadly classified as primary headaches due to them having no underlying cause. However, if the headache becomes a constant nuisance it can become chronic. Research shows that chronic headaches are due to causes like metabolic abnormalities, central nervous system infections, and intracranial tumors.

 

Headache Symptoms

Some of the causes and symptoms of headaches, as research shows, can be triggered by a variety of things that can affect a person. Sometimes it can be hereditary or can be triggered by environmental factors that a person is dealing with. Some of the symptoms that are caused by headaches include:

 

Treating Headaches and Migraines

 

There are ways to actually treat headaches and migraines without the usage of medication and are beneficial for individuals that are suffering from it. Research has shown that going to massage therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and acupuncture can relieve headaches and migraines from coming back. Other ways to relieve headaches and migraines include:

 

Conclusion

All in all, everyone deals with headaches and migraines due to stressful factors that can impact the body and the brain’s health. Finding ways to dampen the effects of migraines and headaches from processing further will provide the individual relief from these throbbing pains that are pounding on the head. Eating the right foods, exercising daily, meditating for about 30 minutes to an hour can help lower the stress that a person is dealing and they can continue to be on their wellness journey.

 

References

Baraness, Leeran. “Acute Headache.” StatPearls [Internet]., U.S. National Library of Medicine, 28 Dec. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554510/.

Medical Professional, Cleveland Clinic. “Headaches: Types, Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment.” Cleveland Clinic, 3 June 2020, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9639-headaches.

Medical Professional, Cleveland Clinic. “Migraine Headaches: Causes, Treatment & Symptoms.” Cleveland Clinic, 3 Mar. 2021, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/5005-migraine-headaches.

Murphy, Christie. “Chronic Headaches.” StatPearls [Internet]., U.S. National Library of Medicine, 12 Dec. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559083/.

Ruschel, Marco A. Pescador, and Orlando De Jesus. “Migraine Headache.” StatPearls [Internet]., U.S. National Library of Medicine, 30 Aug. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560787/.

Staff, Mayo Clinic. “Migraine.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 2 July 2021, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/migraine-headache/symptoms-causes/syc-20360201.

Staff, Mayo Clinic. “Which Treatment Is Best for Your Headaches?” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 10 May 2019, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chronic-daily-headaches/in-depth/headaches/art-20047375.

Steiner, T J, and Manuela Fontebasso. “Headache.” BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.), BMJ Group, 19 Oct. 2002, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1124385/.

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

Disclaimer

Pinched Nerve Healing Signs

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-
Young couple having a consultation with senior doctor discussing x-ray print sitting in the white office

A pinched nerve may not feel like it is healing. This is because of the soreness, aches, discomfort, and tingling feelings/sensations around the affected area. This could be the neck, shoulder, arm, hands, back, legs, and feet. However, when the achiness and tingling move around and shift, it is a sign of the pinched nerve healing.

Pinched Nerve Healing Signs

Amount of Time For Pinched Nerve Healing

Waiting for the nerve to heal is not a recommended treatment option, as most pinched nerves do not fully recover on their own. A pinched nerve usually takes around six weeks to heal with proper treatment. The longer the nerve stays pinched, the more likely there will be permanent damage. To keep the pinched nerve from returning and getting worse, individuals are recommended to incorporate a pre-habilitation plan that involves continuing rehabilitation exercises to strengthen and keep the muscles, ligaments, and nerves loose, and adjusting posture, work, exercise, and diet habits to prevent re-injuring the nerve or cause new injury/s. 

Common Nerve Sites

Nerves run throughout the body, so it’s possible to experience a pinched nerve anywhere. The most common pinched nerve sites occur at joints where there is constant movement. These areas include:

  • Neck
  • Shoulders
  • Lower Back
  • Arms
  • Hands
  • Feet

Healing Signs

Individuals often believe that their pinched nerve is getting worse because of soreness, aches and pains, and weird sensations. When the pain stays in one area, that could be a sign that the nerve has not been fully stretched/released and/or that there is still compression taking place. Treatment and healing include feeling the symptoms but in a different way. The symptoms will move up, down, or around depending on where the pinched nerve is. Treatment takes the nerve/s and stretches/elongates them, but the pinch created a nerve crimp, crease, fold that wants to return to the pinched position. This is why continued treatment and stretching are recommended, as a spasm, trauma, or some awkward movement can cause the nerve to re-fold to the pinched position or cause a whole new pinch.

Chiropractic Release

Chiropractic treats pinched/compressed nerves with several therapeutic modalities. These include:

  • Body Adjustments
  • Flexion-distraction
  • Therapeutic massage
  • Traction
  • Inversion
  • Laser therapy
  • Ultrasound

Combined, these methods can help heal pinched nerves and keep them from recurring.

Body Composition

Skeletal Muscle

Skeletal muscle is a major muscle group. These muscles are attached to the bone by the tendons. Skeletal muscles incorporate nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue to operate as a unit. Each skeletal muscle consists of cells that come together that form bundles of skeletal muscle fibers.

  • Strength training stimulates the muscle fibers. When combined with proper nutrition causes hypertrophy/muscle growth.
  • Muscles contract and shorten to pull bones and joints, allowing body movement.
  • The nervous system signals the nerves in the muscle/s and triggers these contractions.
  • Skeletal muscle helps the body:
  • Maintain posture
  • Generate body heat
  • Stability to the bones and joints
References

Bowley, Michael P, and Christopher T Doughty. “Entrapment Neuropathies of the Lower Extremity.” The Medical clinics of North America vol. 103,2 (2019): 371-382. doi:10.1016/j.mcna.2018.10.013

Campbell, W. “Diagnosis and management of common compression and entrapment neuropathies.” Neurologic clinics vol. 15,3 (1997): 549-67. doi:10.1016/s0733-8619(05)70333-9

England, J D. “Entrapment neuropathies.” Current opinion in neurology vol. 12,5 (1999): 597-602. doi:10.1097/00019052-199910000-00014

Kane, Patrick M et al. “Double Crush Syndrome.” The Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons vol. 23,9 (2015): 558-62. doi:10.5435/JAAOS-D-14-00176

Neurological Treatments For The Brain | Part 2

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-

Introduction

The central nervous system consists of the brain and spinal that makes sure to send neuron signals all throughout the entire body and makes sure that each organ system is doing its job properly. From the gut to the immune system and even the musculoskeletal system have a bidirectional connection to the central nervous system. When there are unwanted pathogens that start to enter the body and disrupt the signals in the brain microbiome, it’s known as a neurological disorder. In this 2 part series, we will be discussing what kind of therapeutic treatments can dampen the effects of inflammation and neurological disorders on the brain. Part 1 took a look at how neurological disorders 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

How Does Inflammation Affect Neurological Disorders?

As many articles have stated, inflammation is a 2-way component where the body’s own immune system will send out inflammatory cytokines to the intruder that is attacking the body and distinguish it out. This is beneficial when there is acute inflammation on an injury and the affected area is red, swelling, and hot to the touch. However, when there is chronic inflammation and there are no unwanted pathogens in the body, the inflammatory cytokines will attack the body causing joint pain and other chronic conditions in the body. Research studies have shown that when there is chronic inflammation in the body, it can lead to tissue damage, and when the central nervous system is being targeted due to inflammation, it’s known as neuroinflammation.

 

Other studies have shown that the activation of the glial cells and the synthesis of inflammation mediators are key elements of second chronic inflammation to neurological disorders in a wide spectrum. This is due to neuroinflammation in the brain and can disrupt the neuron signals that are traveling back and forth from the brain. Research has found that when there is highly destructive neuroinflammation that has been associated with the central nervous system glia can cause the blood-brain barrier permeability to break down and cause damage to the brain.

 

Inflammation In ADHD

 

In part 1, it discussed how ADHD or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder has a wide variety of symptoms that can impair cognitive function in the brain for both adults and children. Research studies have found that inflammation’s role in ADHD shows neuronal damage and degeneration, increased oxidative stress, and blood-brain barrier disruption. This is due to the above-chance comorbidity of ADHD with inflammatory and autoimmune disorders in the body. Studies also have found that early-life exposure to environmental factors may raise the risk for ADHD via an inflammatory mechanism due to prenatal exposure to inflammation and reducing the cortical gray matter volume in the brain. Even the polymorphisms in genes are associated with inflammation that has been seen in ADHD.

HCTP Therapy

Tony Robbins finds secret to eliminating back pain

HCTP (human cellular tissue products) or stem cells* have been used in regenerative cellular treatment in both international and nationally affiliated clinics and distribution organizations used to help boost the body’s natural healing process to rejuvenate organs, repair diseased tissues, and regenerate cellular structures back to their original state. HCTP has beneficial properties for individuals who are in chronic pain and as more upcoming research is discovering what HCTP can do, individuals can get their lives back pain-free.

Neurological Treatments For The Brain

As stated previously, the brain’s main function is to send out neuron signals throughout the body. Eating nutritional foods or taking supplements that promote brain health is important for the central nervous system because it needs these nutrients to function properly. By incorporating brain food and supplements as a part of therapeutic treatments for the central nervous system can dampen the effects of chronic inflammation and lower the risk of neurological disorders to rise up. Plus as an added bonus, taking supplements can even reduce other chronic issues that the individual didn’t know that they had in their bodies.

 

Omega-3

 

Research has shown that omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids can exhibit neuroprotective properties against inflammation while also being a potential treatment for a variety of neurodegenerative and neurological disorders like ADHD. Since ADHD has a wide spectrum of symptoms that occurs due to it being a neurodevelopmental disorder that is common in children and adults, studies have shown that omega-3s are key regulators for brain neurotransmission, neurogenesis, and neuroinflammation. With their anti-inflammatory properties, omega-3s play an important role in preventing and treating psychological and behavioral dysfunction disorders from the brain. Not only that but, omega-3s can also exhibit antioxidative effects to oxidative stress in the body.

 

Conclusion

All in all, incorporating ways to promote brain health is essential for a functional body. By finding ways to make small changes in the body can help it in the long run. The brain’s main job is to send neuron signals all throughout the body and vice versa. When there are unwanted pathogens that start to attach themselves to these neuron signals and travel with them to the brain, can cause neurodegenerative disorders that will affect the brain’s health. Utilizing therapeutic ways to dampen the effects of neurodegenerative disorders will give an individual a chance to get their life back and not be worried about the aftereffects of suffering from neurodegeneration.

 

References

Degan, Diana, et al. “The Role of Inflammation in Neurological Disorders.” Current Pharmaceutical Design, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2018, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29589534/.

Derbyshire, E. “Do Omega-3/6 Fatty Acids Have a Therapeutic Role in Children and Young People with ADHD?” Journal of Lipids, Hindawi, 30 Aug. 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5603098/.

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/.

Dunn, Geoffrey A, et al. “Neuroinflammation as a Risk Factor for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.” Pharmacology, Biochemistry, and Behavior, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 16 May 2019, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31103523/.

Dyall, Simon C. “Long-Chain Omega-3 Fatty Acids and the Brain: A Review of the Independent and Shared Effects of EPA, DPA, and DHA.” Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, Frontiers Media S.A., 21 Apr. 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4404917/.

Leffa, Douglas Teixeira, et al. “A Review on the Role of Inflammation in Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.” Neuroimmunomodulation, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 6 June 2018, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29874674/.

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/.

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The Effects Of Neurological Disorders On The Brain | Part 1

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-

Introduction

In the central nervous system, the brain’s job is to send out neuron signals throughout the entire and make sure that it’s functioning properly. These neuron signals travel to the gut, the immune system, endocrine system, and the musculoskeletal system to name a few as well as make sure that each of the systems is doing its jobs correctly. When there are unwanted pathogens that begin to disrupt the neuron signals from transmitting to the brain and the body, can develop into neurological disorders that can affect the brain. In this 2 part series, we will be taking a look at how neurological disorders affect the brain. In part 2, we will be discussing what kind of therapeutic treatments dampen the effects of neurological disorders on 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. 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

Neurological Disorders On The Brain

Since the brain’s main function in the central nervous system is to provide neuron signals to be transmitted in a bidirectional connection with the body, research shows that even though the brain can provide a cognitive function to the body, at any given time neurological diseases may disrupt the brain function and affect a person’s health. Now some of these neurological disorders can be categorized into 3 groups, they are:

  • Brain diseases: Cerebrovascular diseases, brain trauma injury, brain tumors
  • Functional brain disorders: Neurodegenerative diseases and mental disorders
  • Undetectable brain disorders: Migraines and sleep disorders

Other studies have found that throughout the entire world that the magnitude and even the burden of more than 450 million individuals have been affected by some sort of mental, neurological, and behavioral disorders. That number is devastating as many individuals are suffering from neurological disorders that are affecting their brains.

 

ADHD

 

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD can be a variety of symptoms that can affect adults and even children at a young age. Research studies have found that ADHD in the brain are consist of functional abnormalities that can express a delay in functional brain maturation of the individual. What this means is that individuals with ADHD will have a smaller brain size than normal and will process information a bit differently. Other studies have also found that individuals that have ADHD will present difficulty in a couple of attentional and cognitive functions as well as other domains that takes a while for individuals to process information or sustain attention on the task at hand.

 

Autism

Just like ADHD, autism can also be a wide variety of symptoms that can affect many individuals, both young and old. Research studies show that autism is considered a highly prevalent neurodevelopmental disordered that is often characterized by impaired social communication and restrictive repetitive behaviors that often show abnormal connectivity to the brain. This means that when individuals developed autism at the earliest of infancy, their entire way of thinking and performing is different from how a normal person thinks and performs simple tasks. Other studies have found that some of the major symptoms and features of autism are comprised of a multitude of abnormalities that affects the brain, these can include:

  • Sensory skills
  • Motor skills
  • Cognitive function
  • Emotional behaviors
  • Repetitive behaviors

 

Schizophrenia

 

Research studies show that schizophrenia is associated with the structural changes in the brain’s cortex as well as reducing the grey matter volumes in the different cortical brain regions. Individuals who are associated with schizophrenia will have structural abnormalities complex patterns that are partially hereditary. Other studies show that the morphological background from schizophrenia actually changes the nerve cell’s process while also increasing the thickening of the brain tissue. This could be due to a variety of factors that causes the structural abnormalities of the brain that are being observed over time due to schizophrenia and if it is not treated can lead to neuronal degeneration over time.

HCTP Therapy

Tony Robbins finds secret to eliminating back pain

Stem cells* or HCTP (human cellular tissue products) are considered as a form of regenerative treatment that both international and nationally affiliated clinics and distribution organizations use for individuals who are suffering from chronic illnesses that affect their bodies. HCTP has beneficial properties as it helps boost the body’s natural healing process by regenerating damaged cells, repairing organs, and tissue structure back to their original function. As more and upcoming research on HCTP continues to flourish, individuals can get their lives back pain-free from chronic illnesses.

How Neurological Disorders Affect The Brain?

Since the brain’s main job is to make sure that the neuron signals are being transported throughout the entire body, neurological disorders can affect the brain, nerves, and spinal cord that causing abnormalities within the central nervous system as research shows. Since neurological disorders are a cluster of illnesses that affect the central nervous system, it all depends on what part of the nervous system is being affected by the neurological disorders. Some of the symptoms that individuals may experience include:

  • Speech
  • Memory
  • Learning
  • Movement
  • Mood

Since the central nervous system is responsible for the multitude of bodily processes that the body has to use to function, neurological disorders can actually attach themselves to the neuron signals and travel throughout the body and disrupt the brain microbiome causing issues to the individual.

Conclusion

All in all, the brain’s main function is to make sure that the body is working properly by sending out neuron signals all throughout the body and organs to do their job. When unwanted pathogens begin to enter the body and attached themselves to the neuron signals, they can travel all throughout the body and enter the brain’s microbiome causing the development of neurological disorders to affect the brain over time. By understanding what kind of neurological disorders are affecting a person’s brain, healthcare professionals can come up with therapeutic treatments to dampen the effects of neurological disorders.

 

References

Chandra, Vijay, et al. “Neurological Disorders.” Disease Control Priorities in Developing Countries. 2nd Edition., U.S. National Library of Medicine, 1 Jan. 1970, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK11793/.

Curatolo, Paolo, et al. “The Neurobiological Basis of ADHD.” Italian Journal of Pediatrics, BioMed Central, 22 Dec. 2010, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3016271/.

Ha, Sungji, et al. “Characteristics of Brains in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Structure, Function, and Connectivity Across the Lifespan.” Experimental Neurobiology, The Korean Society for Brain and Neural Science, Dec. 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4688328/.

Iritani, Shuji. “What Happens in the Brain of Schizophrenia Patients?: An Investigation from the Viewpoint of Neuropathology.” Nagoya Journal of Medical Science, Nagoya University, Feb. 2013, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4345712/.

Karlsgodt, Katherine H, et al. “Structural and Functional Brain Abnormalities in Schizophrenia.” Current Directions in Psychological Science, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Aug. 2010, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4235761/.

Rubia, Katya. “Cognitive Neuroscience of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and It’s Clinical Translation.” Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, Frontiers Media S.A., 29 Mar. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5884954/.

Sherrell, Zia. “5 Neurological Disorders: Symptoms Explained.” Medical News Today, MediLexicon International, 29 Nov. 2021, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/neurological-disorders.

Wang, Yongjun, et al. “What Is Brain Health and Why Is It Important?” BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.), BMJ Publishing Group Ltd., 9 Oct. 2020, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7555053/.

Weston, Charles S E. “Four Social Brain Regions, Their Dysfunctions, and Sequelae, Extensively Explain Autism Spectrum Disorder Symptomatology.” Brain Sciences, MDPI, 4 June 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6627615/.

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How To Optimized Sleep For Brain Health

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-

Introduction

When a person is tired after a long day from doing either daily activities or having a long day at work, sleep is on their mind as their body starts to get into bed and their head is on their pillow. Sometimes a person can get an adequate amount of sleep and feel well-rested or sometimes they cannot get an adequate amount of sleep due to either pain that is radiating from their bodies or their minds are wired that they can’t relax and fall asleep. In this article, we will be discussing how sleep disorders can affect the brain as well as different techniques that can optimize sleep for brain health. 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.

Download

Sleep Disorders That Can Affect The Brain

When the brain is overworked and has a problem of not falling asleep, it can cause a variety of issues to an individual and can develop into sleeping disorders over time. Studies have found that when an individual starts to develop sleep deprivation, its effects can cause changes to the brain. Depending on the situation where a person can’t fall asleep, the brain would be severely vulnerable through a variety of factors. Studies have found that sleep deprivation can cause several negative effects on cognitive performance. Without getting the proper amount of sleep, the brain can develop chronic conditions that will affect the brain’s health if it is not treated in time. These can include depression, insomnia, and inflammation.

 

Depression

 

So depression can lead to an increase in morbidity including cardiovascular disease and dementia while being associated with the increased rate of mortality. Research studies have shown that depression is characterized by the prolonged presence of specific somatic and cognitive abnormalities affecting a person’s general mood. Depression can come in many forms in many individuals as a person can experience a variety of emotions that will affect not only the brain but the entire body. Other studies have found that major depressive disorder (MDD) is often accompanied by cognitive dysfunction, physical symptoms, and impaired social function due to persistent low moods from the brain.

 

Insomnia

Insomnia is co-morbid with depression as it is among the most frequent sleep disturbance in depressed patients. Research shows that insomnia is where there is a chronic dissatisfaction with the sleep quantity or quality that makes a person unable to fall back asleep or wakes them up earlier in the morning when it is still dark outside. Sleep disturbance often lingers and its persistence can represent
a residual phase of major mood disorder as studies show that insomnia can increase the levels of fatigue, anxiety, or mood disturbances in the body. When a person has insomnia, their brain function is slower than normal and if the effects of insomnia are not dampened can develop a higher risk of dementia later in their life.

 

Inflammation

Research has found that even though inflammation is considered a protective response to the body’s healing process when there is prolonged inflammation can cause tissue damage to the brain and cause cognitive impairment. Sadly though, inflammation is considered a risk factor for depression and if individuals have an inflammatory disorder will show an over 3‐fold greater prevalence of insomnia and a  2‐4 fold greater prevalence of depression. Other studies have shown that when inflammatory markers are being circulated throughout the body and entering the brain, it can cause a decline in cognitive function and worsen the brain’s structural and metabolic characteristics.

HCTP Therapy

Tony Robbins finds secret to eliminating back pain

HCTP (human cellular tissue products) or stem cells* are a form of regenerative medicine that helps boost the body’s own natural healing process by repairing and regenerating damaged cells, tissues, and organs back to their original state. As a part of regenerative treatments in both international and nationally affiliated clinics and distribution organizations, HCTP therapy has beneficial properties that can help individuals that are dealing with chronic pain. With more upcoming research on HCTP and its beneficial properties, individuals can be pain-free and live life to the fullest.

Ways To Optimize Sleep For Brain Health

Surprisingly there are many ways to optimize a better quality of sleep. Some individuals do a nighttime routine to get the full 8 to 10 hours of sleep while others take melatonin to stay asleep and feel recharged. Some of the techniques that a person can do before they can go to bed and get the proper amount of sleep are:

  • Have the phone turned off 30 minutes before bed
  • Limit the intake of caffeine
  • Have the room be cool and dark

While these are ways to provide a better quality of sleep, it is important to make sure that the brain is also being taken care of. One of the ways to help the brain stay healthy and optimize sleep is incorporating Tai Chi and meditation practices in a daily lifestyle.

 

Meditation

 

One of the greatest ways to ease a troubled mind is through the practice of meditation. Studies have found that the practice of meditation can reduce age-related brain degeneration while also improving cognitive function. By meditating in a quiet dark place, can help calm down intrusive thoughts and limit the outdoor noise that can break the concentration of a person. Research studies have found that mindful meditation practices can reduce the symptoms of cognitive disorders like anxiety, depression, and chronic pain. Meditation practices can also ease troubled minds that a person is having by being in the moment and feeling their emotions being sorted out as they are being mindful of their surroundings.

 

Tai Chi

 

Another way to optimize a better way to get enough sleep to improve brain health is by Tai Chi. Research studies have found that Tai Chi is a cognitive-motor exercise that consists of slow fluid movements while performing coordinated deep breathing, relaxation, and mental focus on the brain. With these slow movements from Tai Chi can show improved brain function in older adults as other studies have found that the health benefits from Tai Chi not only increase muscle strength and flexibility but also provide a positive effect on a person’s mood. Utilizing Tai Chi in a daily routine can also provide the individual to even sleep better knowing that their minds are at ease.

 

Conclusion

All in all, finding therapeutic ways to ease the mind and improve brain health are beneficial for adequate amounts of restful sleep. Through practices of meditation or through Tai Chi can help improve cognitive function and dampen the effects of neurodegenerative disorders from rising and harming the central nervous system. When chronic disorders like depression, insomnia, and inflammations start to not only attack the body but also the brain, they can develop into chronic issues over time if it is not treated right away. With these therapeutic techniques, not only does the body begins to feel better but so does the brain and the individual will begin to have a better chance of sleeping peacefully.

 

References

Alhola, Paula, and Päivi Polo-Kantola. “Sleep Deprivation: Impact on Cognitive Performance.” Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment, Dove Medical Press, 2007, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2656292/.

Hölzel, Britta K, et al. “Mindfulness Practice Leads to Increases in Regional Brain Gray Matter Density.” Psychiatry Research, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 30 Jan. 2011, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3004979/.

Kaltenboeck, Alexander, and Catherine Harmer. “The Neuroscience of Depressive Disorders: A Brief Review of the Past and Some Considerations about the Future.” Brain and Neuroscience Advances, SAGE Publications, 8 Oct. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7058215/.

Krause, Adam J, et al. “The Sleep-Deprived Human Brain.” Nature Reviews. Neuroscience, U.S. National Library of Medicine, July 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6143346/.

Lardone, Anna, et al. “Mindfulness Meditation Is Related to Long-Lasting Changes in Hippocampal Functional Topology during Resting State: A Magnetoencephalography Study.” Neural Plasticity, Hindawi, 18 Dec. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6312586/.

Rosano, Caterina, et al. “Maintaining Brain Health by Monitoring Inflammatory Processes: A Mechanism to Promote Successful Aging.” Aging and Disease, JKL International LLC, Feb. 2012, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3320802/.

Sartori, Andrea C, et al. “The Impact of Inflammation on Cognitive Function in Older Adults: Implications for Healthcare Practice and Research.” The Journal of Neuroscience Nursing: Journal of the American Association of Neuroscience Nurses, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Aug. 2012, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3390758/.

Wei, Gao-Xia, et al. “Can Taichi Reshape the Brain? A Brain Morphometry Study.” PloS One, Public Library of Science, 9 Apr. 2013, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3621760/.

Yue, Chunlin, et al. “Tai Chi Training Evokes Significant Changes in Brain White Matter Network in Older Women.” Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland), MDPI, 9 Mar. 2020, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7151065/.

Zhang, Fei-Fei, et al. “Brain Structure Alterations in Depression: Psychoradiological Evidence.” CNS Neuroscience & Therapeutics, John Wiley and Sons Inc., Nov. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6489983/.

Disclaimer

A Look Into Virus-Mediated Neurocognitive Disorders

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-

Introduction

The brain’s main function in the central nervous system is to send out neuron signals from the brain and to the entire body. These signals send out information to the body and the major organs systems to not only function properly but also make sure that they’re doing their jobs. When there are unwanted factors that enter the body and start to disrupt and affect the neuron signals, it can cause the development of neurodegenerative disorders. When this happens, not only does the brain gets dysfunctional, but the gut, musculoskeletal, joints, and endocrine system start to become dysfunctional as well. In this article, we will be taking a look at what are neurodegenerative disorders and why do viruses induce cognitive function 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. 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 Are Neurodegenerative Disorders?

So the central nervous system consists of the brain and spinal cord and the brain’s primary job is to send out signals throughout the body to make sure it’s functioning properly. When there are unwanted pathogens that start to affect the brain and disrupt the neuron signals, that is called neurodegenerative disorders. Studies have found that cognitive functioning from the brain can be due to age and even though normal aging in the brain can help with the development of compensatory strategies, while neurodegenerative dementias can accelerate the neuropathological process thus damaging the brain. Other research studies have also shown that neurodegenerative disorders can be the result of Lewy body disease, frontotemporal degeneration, traumatic brain injury, cerebrovascular disease, and even from the effects of Alzheimer’s disease can affect cognitive function.

 

Virus-Mediated Neurodegenerative Disorders

Virus-mediated degenerative disorders can occur to the brain as any disruptors, pollutants, and air-bourne viruses can make their way inside the body. These disorders can affect the neuron signals that are traveling throughout the body and cause chronic issues to develop inside the body. Research studies have found that cognitive deficits can develop due to brain damage or neuron toxicity from these disruptors like metabolic disorders or heavy metals that can damage the neuronal tissue in the brain. One of the virus-mediated disorders that can affect the brain is the flavivirus.

 

Flavivirus & The Brain

 

Flavivirus, as research studies have shown, is emerging re-emerging arthropod-borne pathogens that are transmitted by mosquitos and ticks. Surprisingly many of the flaviviruses pathogens are neuroinvasive and neurovirulent and they can cause damage to the central nervous system. Studies have also found that when the flavivirus pathogens start damaging the central nervous system, it can cause a wide spectrum of symptoms like hemorrhagic fever and neurologic involvement causing brain bleeding. Other symptoms that flavivirus can also cause in the body is that when it crosses the epithelial and endothelial barriers of the gut, it can disrupt the tight junction and even increase the blood-brain barrier permeability as studies show.

 

HCTP Therapy

Tony Robbins finds secret to eliminating back pain

As a form of regenerative medicine, stem cells* or HCTP (human cellular tissue products) have been used both internationally and nationally affiliated clinics and distribution organizations for individuals that are suffering from chronic illnesses. As a part of regenerative treatments, HCTP therapy has been used to help boost the body’s own natural healing process by repairing and regenerating damaged tissues, diseased organs, and cellular structures back to their original state. With more and upcoming research on the beneficial properties of HCTP and its uses, individuals can begin their wellness journey and be pain-free.

Why Do Viruses Induce Cognitive Dysfunction?

 

When viruses entered the body, the immune system will send out white cells to where the virus is attacking the body and gets rid of it. However, research studies show that when viruses start to attack the body’s immune system it can also affect the central nervous system as well. When this happens, either by directly or indirectly by viral infections, it can cause interference with the pathways of neurodegenerative diseases causing neuronal degeneration in the brain. When this happens the body can start to develop chronic inflammation and can further develop cognitive dysfunction. Other studies have shown that viral-induced cellular activity from HIV starts to release chemokine and cytokines to disrupt the blood-brain barrier and increase the number of inflammatory lymphocytes in the brain. Some of the symptoms that these viral pathogens can cause are an impact on brain structure and can cognitively impair individuals.

 

Conclusion

All in all, the brain’s primary function in the central nervous system is sending out neuron signals throughout the entire body and having a bidirectional connection with the organ systems and the body itself. When there are unwanted pathogens from either environmental disruptors or viral infections that enter the body and start to attack and disrupt the neuron signals, it can lead to cognitive dysfunction. When there is cognitive dysfunction happening in the brain, it can develop over time to neurodegenerative diseases if it is not treated. By incorporating nutritional foods that can help promote brain health and provide nutrients to the body can stop neurodegenerative diseases from progressing further in the body.

 

References

Dhakal, Aayush, and Bradford D Bobrin. “Cognitive Deficits.” StatPearls [Internet]., U.S. National Library of Medicine, 23 Nov. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559052/.

Estofolete, Cássia F, et al. “Flavivirus Infection Associated with Cerebrovascular Events.” Viruses, MDPI, 22 June 2020, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7354470/.

Gendelman, Howard E. “Predictive Biomarkers for Cognitive Decline during Progressive HIV Infection.” EBioMedicine, Elsevier, 14 Nov. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7000313/.

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/.

Laureti, Mathilde, et al. “Flavivirus Receptors: Diversity, Identity, and Cell Entry.” Frontiers in Immunology, Frontiers Media S.A., 26 Sept. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6168832/.

McDonald, William M. “Overview of Neurocognitive Disorders.” Focus (American Psychiatric Publishing), American Psychiatric Association, Jan. 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6519631/.

Neal, J W. “Flaviviruses Are Neurotropic, but How Do They Invade the CNS?” The Journal of Infection, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Sept. 2014, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24880028/.

Sachdev, Perminder S, et al. “Classifying Neurocognitive Disorders: The DSM-5 Approach.” Nature Reviews. Neurology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 30 Sept. 2014, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25266297/.

Disclaimer

Healthy Sleep, Physical Activity, and Muscle Recovery

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-
Young beautiful happy woman sleeping and smiles in her sleep in bed

Healthy sleep plays a vital role in the body’s overall health, as it ensures muscle growth, recovery, and illness prevention. This is especially true for home D.I. Yers’ fitness enthusiasts, weekend warriors, athletes, and physically active individuals. When sleeping, the body goes into recovery mode, releasing hormones and other chemicals to repair and restore muscle. A healthy night’s sleep provides the rest the mind and body need to perform at optimal levels.

Healthy Sleep, Physical Activity, and Muscle Recovery

Healthy Sleep

Sleep is vital for recovering from workouts. This could be construction work, exercise, gardening, sports, landscaping, any activity that uses bodyweight or works against some form of resistance. The muscles cannot repair themselves properly without proper sleep. Sleep aids the muscles in releasing protein-building amino acids, helping them grow in size and strength.

  • Growth hormone is released during non-REM sleep that stimulates tissue growth and repairs muscle.
  • During REM or rapid eye movement sleep, blood pressure drops, breathing slows and deepens, the brain relaxes, and blood supply to the muscles increases, feeding them oxygen and nutrients.

Unhealthy Sleep

Sleep maintains the muscles’ sharpness, coordination, function, and muscle movement patterns that improve physical performance. The body needs to sleep for at least 7 hours a night for muscles to grow properly. Not getting healthy sleep decreases protein synthesis activity and increases the activity of degradation that leads to muscle loss.

Less Sleep Leads To Eating More

Hormonal changes occur when the body sleeps less, causing individuals to feel hungry more often, increasing the amount of food taken in because after eating, the body does not feel full right away, so the individual continues to eat. Without sleep, the body decreases the production of a hormone that indicates when the body is full and activates a hormone that causes hunger. Insufficient sleep also lowers the body’s sensitivity to insulin. Because of this, the muscle fuel glycogen is not adequately replenished. Without the regular restoration of glycogen, individuals have less energy, insulin sensitivity decreases, increasing the risk of diabetes.

Physical Health

Unhealthy sleep also impacts overall physical health. Individuals that do not get healthy sleep have an increased risk of developing:

  • Irritability
  • Anxiety
  • High blood pressure
  • Obesity
  • Kidney disease
  • Heart disease
  • Stroke
  • Mental health issues
  • Depression

Body Composition

Nutrition Before Bed

Nighttime Snacks

  • Research has found that certain foods that contain tryptophan or melatonin can help with sleep.
  • These include turkey, bananas, milk, rice, grapefruit, oats, cherries, walnuts, and almonds.

Cut Back on Carbohydrates Before Bed

  • Consuming carbohydrate-rich foods before bed can impair growth hormone activation during sleep.

Reduce or Remove Afternoon and Evening Caffeine

  • Caffeine can impair sleep, sometimes without knowing it.
  • Avoid caffeinated foods or beverages before bed.

Eliminate Energy Drinks

  • These drinks can contain elevated levels of caffeine and other substances that can result in overstimulation.
  • This hyper-active state can cause individuals to decline in performance.
  • Overconsumption of energy drinks has been linked to adverse effects, including strokes, seizures, and death.

Eliminate Sugar

  • Sugar raises blood sugar, which triggers the pancreas to release insulin, fueling the cells causing overstimulation.
  • Eliminating sugar after dinner can help the body fall asleep.
References

Dattilo, M et al. “Sleep and muscle recovery: endocrinological and molecular basis for a new and promising hypothesis.” Medical hypotheses vol. 77,2 (2011): 220-2. doi:10.1016/j.mehy.2011.04.017

Morselli, Lisa et al. “Role of sleep duration in the regulation of glucose metabolism and appetite.” Best practice & research. Clinical endocrinology & metabolism vol. 24,5 (2010): 687-702. doi:10.1016/j.beem.2010.07.005

Murray, Bob, and Christine Rosenbloom. “Fundamentals of glycogen metabolism for coaches and athletes.” Nutrition reviews vol. 76,4 (2018): 243-259. doi:10.1093/nutrit/nuy001

Treatments For Chronic Neuro-Metabolic Syndrome | Part 2

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-

Introduction

When the body has an underlying condition that can change how a person looks, this is due to unwanted factors are in the body and starting to cause chaos in the body that can develop into chronic conditions. When these conditions start to affect the gut, the brain, the musculoskeletal systems, this can lead to a cluster of conditions known as chronic metabolic syndrome. In this 2 part series, we will be taking a look at what different kinds of treatments can not only dampen the effects of chronic metabolic syndrome but also improve brain health. Part 1 took a look at what chronic metabolic syndrome is and how its symptoms can 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

Metabolic Syndrome

So metabolic syndrome, as research shows, is a cluster of conditions that can develop over time in the body. Some of the conditions that can cause the development of metabolic syndrome can include high blood pressure, increased blood glucose levels, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal triglycerides. Other factors that metabolic syndrome can cause the body to develop apple and pear-shaped bodies for both males and females over time. Other research studies show that people with metabolic syndrome can have it increased with age and can cause neurodegenerative disorders in the brain.

 

How Does It Affect The Brain?

Since metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that can cause the body to develop chronic illnesses over time, it is important to know that it can affect the brain as well. The brain is part of the central nervous system and it sends out signals all throughout the body and vice versa. These neuron signals help send out information from the brain to the entire body by making sure that it stays functional. When chronic conditions like metabolic syndrome start to disrupt and affect the signals from the brain. Studies have found that metabolic syndrome can play a significant role in the progression of Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative diseases that can affect the brain. This is due to neuroinflammation and it can cause the inflammatory cytokines to cause damage to certain parts of the brain.

HCTP Therapy

Tony Robbins finds secret to eliminating back pain

HCTP (human cellular tissue products) or stem cells* treatment has been used in both international and nationally affiliated clinics and distribution organizations for individuals that are dealing with chronic issues. HCTP therapy is part of regenerative medicine treatment since HCTP can help boost the body’s own natural healing process by regenerating damaged cells, diseased tissues, and organs back to their original state and helping the individual be pain-free. With more upcoming research on the beneficial properties of HCTP, individuals can start their wellness journey without chronic pain.

Treatments To Improve Brain Health

The brain’s main job is to make sure that the body is functioning properly and that it’s sending out neuron signals all throughout the body in a bidirectional connection. When there are unwanted pathogens that enter the body and start to disrupt those signals from reach to the brain, it can cause neurodegenerative disorders to develop. By making small changes in a certain lifestyle that a person is used to can actually help not only improve their body but also can improve their brain health. These changes can be a variety of things that can help improve the brain like:

  • Eating nutritional foods
  • Exercising (both mentally and physically)
  • Taking supplements to improve brain health

 

Nutritional Foods

 

Since the immune system relies on white blood cells that produce antibodies to combat bacteria, viruses, and other invaders, studies have found that eating nutritious foods that are beneficial to the brain are the same ones that actually help protect the cardiovascular system. As part of the central nervous system, the brain needs certain nutritional foods to stay healthy and keep the body from dysfunction. Research studies have found that in order for the brain to function the entire body, it needs omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants to dampen the effects of inflammation and cellular stress from progressing in the brain while also helping with building and repairing the brain cells. Not only that but a plant-based diet has also been shown to reduce inflammatory biomarkers, but eating food that contains fiber can also lower BMI, which is linked to improved immunity.

 

Exercise

 

Research studies have found that by changing a lifestyle through exercising can actually reduce age-related cognitive decline and neurodegeneration. By maintaining a healthy weight can also benefit the immune system while also providing behavioral benefits to the brain as well. Other studies have also found that aerobic fitness can actually enhance the brain’s cognitive strategies to respond effectively to any challenges a person might face with when dealing certain situations. By making sure that the brain gets a workout either intellectually or physically can provide beneficial effects to the brain and the body.

 

Supplements

 

As stated previously, foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants are essential for optimal brain health. For omega-3 fatty acids, studies have found that the effects of EPA, DPA, and DHA from omega-3s can dampen the effects of a variety of neurodegenerative and neurological disorders while optimizing brain health. For antioxidants, research studies have found that when oxidative stress enters the brain capacity and starts to rise up it can cause neurodegenerative disorders and cause neuronal cell death in the brain. By consuming antioxidants either through food or supplemental form can dampen the effects of oxidative stress from the brain and provide neuroprotection.

 

Conclusion

All in all, by utilizing these small changes in the body, a person can begin to feel much better with the right type of foods and supplements that can optimize their brain health. Even doing puzzles or physical exercising can help provide neuroprotection to the brain from harmful pathogens. When an individual starts taking care of their body and their brain health, it can help relieve chronic illnesses that they might not realize that they have, while also feeling good about themselves.

 

References

Arshad, Nurul `Ain, et al. “Metabolic Syndrome and Its Effect on the Brain: Possible Mechanism.” CNS & Neurological Disorders Drug Targets, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2018, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30047340/.

Baek, Seung-Soo. “Role of Exercise on the Brain.” Journal of Exercise Rehabilitation, Korean Society of Exercise Rehabilitation, 31 Oct. 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5091051/.

Burgess, Lana. “12 Best Brain Foods: Memory, Concentration, and Brain Health.” Medical News Today, MediLexicon International, 2 Jan. 2020, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324044.

Dyall, Simon C. “Long-Chain Omega-3 Fatty Acids and the Brain: A Review of the Independent and Shared Effects of EPA, DPA, and DHA.” Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, Frontiers Media S.A., 21 Apr. 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4404917/.

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/.

Lee, Kyung Hee, et al. “Neuroprotective Effect of Antioxidants in the Brain.” International Journal of Molecular Sciences, MDPI, 28 Sept. 2020, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7582347/.

Medical Professionals, Cleveland Clinic. “Metabolic Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment.” Cleveland Clinic, 13 Apr. 2019, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10783-metabolic-syndrome.

Publishing, Harvard Health. “Foods Linked to Better Brainpower.” Harvard Health, 6 Mar. 2021, www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/foods-linked-to-better-brainpower.

Staff, Mayo Clinic. “Metabolic Syndrome.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 6 May 2021, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/metabolic-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20351916.

Disclaimer

A Look Into Chronic Metabolic Syndrome Symptoms | Part 1

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-

Introduction

The body has many jobs to make sure that unwanted pathogens don’t enter and cause chronic issues to develop over time. With the organ systems, their jobs are to make sure that everything is functioning properly and that everything is working as well. With the central nervous system being the one to control everything, from emotions to movement, it makes sure that the neuron signals are reaching each organ and vice versa in a bidirectional connection. In this 2 part series, we will be taking a look at what is chronic metabolic syndrome and how the symptoms affect the brain. Part 2 will be discussing on what kind of treatments not only dampen the effects of metabolic syndrome but also improve brain health. 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 Metabolic Syndrome?

 

So metabolic syndrome, as research has stated, is a cluster of conditions that is increasingly common for many individuals. Some of the symptoms of metabolic syndrome don’t always have obvious signs that are visible, unlike a larger waist circumference. Many times metabolic syndrome can come from many factors like:

Other research studies have found that metabolic syndrome if it is not treated, can actually feed into many chronic diseases to spread like type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, oxidative stress, and even inflammation. Metabolic syndrome can also affect brain health as studies have found, that when there is systemic inflammation can actually interfere with the neuronal and glial-wellbeing of the blood-brain barrier, thus breaking the balance of the brain homeostasis. When this happens, it causes the neuron signals to disrupt the cognitive and behavioral patterns in the brain and can become permanent as well as lead to the pathway of neurodegeneration.

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 helps boost the body’s own natural healing process by regenerating damaged cells, diseased organs, and tissues back to their original state. HCTP has also been used in regenerative treatments in both international and nationally affiliated clinics and distribution organizations to help individuals that are dealing with chronic pain and with more upcoming research discussing the beneficial properties of HCTP and how it can help many individuals become pain-free.

Chronic Metabolic Syndrome Symptoms

If an individual has metabolic syndrome, some of the tell-tale signs that they may have include a larger waistline, high blood pressure, higher triglyceride levels, and many more that can affect the body. Research shows that the combination of genetics and lifestyle factors is due to the result of insulin resistance in the body causing metabolic syndrome. When insulin resistance starts to become chronic in the body, it can turn into chronic metabolic syndrome. Chronic metabolic syndrome is developed when a person continues to do the same things in their daily routine but doesn’t make the necessary changes to better their life. Some of the symptoms that are caused due to chronic metabolic syndrome include:

  • Inflamed Brain
  • Lyme Disease
  • Mycotoxins

 

The Inflamed Brain

 

When there are inflammatory responses that are affecting the body, if it becomes too chronic, it can start affecting the brain. Studies have shown that neuroinflammation is an inflammatory response that is within the brain or the spinal cord. With neuroinflammation, it can actually become chronic and infect the blood-brain barrier permeability causing the brain to be inflamed. Other studies have researched that when there is a change in the peripheral and brain immunity as well as inflammation are involved with the pathophysiology of depression.

 

Lyme Disease

Research studies have shown that Lyme disease is a multi-organ animal-borne disease that is from the Borrelia species and is transferred from ticks. This disease can start affecting the skin, nervous system, musculoskeletal system, and heart in the body. Ticks that thrive in woodsy and grassy areas can actually affect the wildlife and even household dogs that go running through the tall grassy areas. When a tick starts latching onto exposed skin will transmit the disease to individuals causing them to develop a red ring-like expanding rash on the affected area and causing a huge variety of symptoms that can affect the body.

 

Lyme Disease Symptoms

Studies have shown that when a person is infected with Lyme disease, many symptoms that will occur if not treated, cause migraine lesions, palsies on the cranial nerves. If it starts to continue to spread, later on, it will cause arthritis on the larger joints, especially the knees. Other symptoms include:

 

Mycotoxins

 

Studies have found that when there is human exposure to water-damaged facilities in the area, it can cause neurologic and neuropsychiatric symptoms to the body and the brain. This is known as mycotoxins and research has shown that these microfungi particles can display overlapping toxicities to invertebrates, plants, and microorganisms. Now when mycotoxins are in the body, they can actually affect the central nervous system by shifting the brain’s metabolism and causing damage. Other research studies have found that different mycotoxins that enter the body and start to cause havoc on the brain’s metabolism can be very toxic to various parts of the brain causing neurodegenerative disorders. If it is not treated with antibiotics and being taken care of it can lead to chronic illnesses over time.

 

Conclusions

All in all, it is important to take care of not only the body but also the brain’s health. When there are unwanted pathogens and factors that can cause metabolic syndrome or neurodegenerative disorders, if it is not taken care of, can lead to chronic illnesses over time. By utilizing nutritious foods, exercising regularly, and making small changes in certain lifestyles can provide beneficial results to the individual who wants to feel better and start on their wellness journey.

 

References

Bennett, J W, and M Klich. “Mycotoxins.” Clinical Microbiology Reviews, American Society for Microbiology, July 2003, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC164220/.

Biesiada, Grażyna, et al. “Lyme Disease: Review.” Archives of Medical Science: AMS, Termedia Publishing House, 20 Dec. 2012, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3542482/.

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/.

Empting, L D. “Neurologic and Neuropsychiatric Syndrome Features of Mold and Mycotoxin Exposure.” Toxicology and Industrial Health, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2009, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19854819/.

Medical Professionals, Cleveland Clinic. “Metabolic Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment.” Cleveland Clinic, 13 Apr. 2019, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10783-metabolic-syndrome.

Sakamoto, Shinji, et al. “Inflamed Brain: Targeting Immune Changes and Inflammation for Treatment of Depression.” Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Oct. 2021, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34227186/.

Saklayen, Mohammad G. “The Global Epidemic of the Metabolic Syndrome.” Current Hypertension Reports, Springer US, 26 Feb. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5866840/.

Sankowski, Roman, et al. “Systemic Inflammation and the Brain: Novel Roles of Genetic, Molecular, and Environmental Cues as Drivers of Neurodegeneration.” Frontiers in Cellular Neuroscience, Frontiers Media S.A., 2 Feb. 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4313590/.

Skar, Gwenn L., and Kari A Simonsen. “Lyme Disease.” StatPearls [Internet]., U.S. National Library of Medicine, 15 Feb. 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK431066/.

Staff, Mayo Clinic. “Metabolic Syndrome.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 6 May 2021, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/metabolic-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20351916.

Tessier, Lauren. “Mycotoxins & the Brain.” Naturopathic Doctor News and Review, Naturopathic Doctor News and Review, 4 Feb. 2021, ndnr.com/neurology/mycotoxins-the-brain/.

Disclaimer

Delayed Injury Symptoms

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-
Office syndrome treatment. Professional middle-aged female neurologist doctor examining neck and shoulder of young upset african woman patient during visit in medical clinic. Osteopathy concept

Automobile accidents and crashes can cause all kinds of damage to the body even when the accident/crash is not severe. Physical symptoms might not present at all for several days, even weeks. This is known as having delayed injury symptoms. These can include:

  • Swelling.
  • Stiffness.
  • Aching.
  • Pain that radiates all over the body.
  • Sleep problems.
  • Headaches.
  • Brain fog.
  • Disorientation.
  • Memory problems.

Chiropractic and physical therapy rehabilitation can restore the body’s alignment, stop inflammation, loosen, stretch and strengthen the musculoskeletal system restoring optimal health.

Delayed Injury Symptoms

Adrenaline

When the body is involved in a dangerous physical situation, it protects itself by releasing a surge of adrenaline. This hormone protects the body, causing the fight or flight response when in danger. Adrenaline causes several preservation responses that include:

  • Intense increase in energy.
  • Little or no pain.
  • Enlarged blood vessels and airways increase oxygen flow.
  • Increased strength from increased blood flow to the muscles.
  • Changes in vision and hearing that focus on sights and sounds all around.
  • Endorphins are released that make the body feel calm and in control.
  • Endorphins affect the way the body responds to pain and stress.

Individuals don’t start feeling aches and pains until the adrenaline and endorphins wear off. However, because everybody is different and the emergency response has turned off, the body still might not feel the injury symptoms. These are delayed injury symptoms.

Rate of Speed

When riding in a vehicle, the body moves at the same speed as the vehicle. During an impact, the vehicle stops, but the body continues moving until it stops, typically with a lot of force from the seatbelt, airbag, or other barriers. The intense momentum change can cause soft tissue damage and ligament or muscle strains from the stretching, pulling, contracting, and tearing. Also, the intervertebral discs can tear, bulge, or herniate over time, creating pressure on nerves and the surrounding tissues.

Delayed Injury Symptoms

Headaches

  • Headaches that develop days after an accident/crash are common.
  • They can signal a possible injury to the neck or head, a blood clot on the brain, or a concussion.

Numbness

  • Loss of feeling in arms and hands could indicate a whiplash-associated disorder.
  • The loss of feeling/sensation results from damage to the neck or spinal column.
  • Around 20 percent of individuals impacted by a rear-end crash develop some whiplash symptoms.

Neck or Shoulder Pain and/or Stiffness

  • Whiplash is a classic delayed symptom injury associated with accidents.
  • Most delayed whiplash injuries are caused by rear-end vehicle collisions at speeds of less than 14 miles an hour.
  • Whiplash injuries usually require x-rays, CT scans, or MRIs for proper diagnosis.

Abdominal Pain or Swelling

  • This could indicate internal bleeding.
  • Internal bleeding can remain undiscovered for hours or days.
  • This can be a life-threatening condition that needs to be diagnosed and treated by emergency medical personnel.
  • Other symptoms include:
  • Large areas of deep bruising.
  • Dizziness.
  • Fainting.

Back Aches and Pains

  • Back pain can be caused by injury to the muscles, ligaments, nerves, or damage to the vertebrae.
  • Low back pain occurs in more than half of rear-impact collisions and almost three-quarters of side-impact crashes.

Chiropractic Rehabilitation

After an accident, soft tissues can sustain minimal damage; however, the minimal damage left untreated can start to worsen and turn into a painful condition. Emergency room visits are to rule out major injuries like brain/nerve injuries, bleeding, punctures, lacerated organs, fractures that require emergency stabilization. Chiropractors look for other symptoms and mechanisms that indicate damage to the body’s soft tissues and nerves to see if they have been stretched or torn and dysfunction in the nervous system.

Body Composition

Calorie Counting

Counting calories can be a stepping stone to change behavior towards food. Tracking what foods are being taken into the body promotes mindfulness of dietary habits. Studies on the subject reveal a significant association between self-monitoring and weight loss. Takeaways include:

References

Burke, Lora E et al. “Self-monitoring in weight loss: a systematic review of the literature.” Journal of the American Dietetic Association vol. 111,1 (2011): 92-102. doi:10.1016/j.jada.2010.10.008

D’Elia, Michael A et al. “Motor vehicle collision with seatbelt sign and traumatic abdominal wall hernia should raise suspicion for hollow viscus injury.” Trauma case reports vol. 22 100206. 25 May. 2019, doi:10.1016/j.tcr.2019.100206

Kacprzynski, Gregory, and Joshua Bucher. “Delayed vertebral artery dissection after mild trauma in a motor vehicle collision.” The American Journal of emergency medicine vol. 45 (2021): 678.e1-678.e2. doi:10.1016/j.ajem.2020.11.028

Olinger, Catherine, and Richard Bransford. “Upper Cervical Trauma.” The Orthopedic clinics of North America vol. 52,4 (2021): 451-479. doi:10.1016/j.ocl.2021.05.013

Sterling, Michele. “Whiplash-associated disorder: musculoskeletal pain and related clinical findings.” The Journal of manual & manipulative therapy vol. 19,4 (2011): 194-200. doi:10.1179/106698111X13129729551949

Factors That Can Affect The Brain | Part 2

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-

Introduction

The brain’s main function in the central nervous system is to send out neuron signals all throughout the body. What this does is that these signals go from the brain through the spinal cord and send out the information for the body to function and vice versa. These signals make sure that the organ system is doing its job properly and making the body move as well. When there are unwanted pathogens entering the body, it can disrupt the neuron signals from reaching the brain and cause chronic symptoms that can develop over time causing the person pain. In this 2 part series, we will be taking a look at how cortisol and inflammation affect the brain as well as how the gut and the brain make a connection. Part 1 discussed what is the central nervous system and what factors can 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

The Central Nervous System

The central nervous system is consist of the brain and the spinal cord in the body. What this system does, as research shows, is that it signals all the neurons in the body and transports them back and from the brain to the entire body. Each nerve signal makes sure that the entire body is moving and each organ system is getting the signals and sending them back to the brain. Some of the functions that the central nervous system does are that it controls how a person breathes, releases hormones, controls body temperature, and controls emotions as studies show. With the brain’s main function is to send out signals throughout the body, surprisingly, some of the factors can actually affect the brain signal if it becomes too chronic and they are cortisol and inflammation.

 

Cortisol & The Brain

Now cortisol is a stress hormone that gives the body a little boost of energy when an individual is dealing with a situation. Even though stress can be beneficial to the body it can also become chronic if it is not taken care of. Too much stress can lead to chronic pain and as studies have found, cortisol is released by the activation of the HPA (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal) axis, and when that increases can lead to age-related cognitive disorders in the brain. Other studies have found that when there is long-term elevated cortisol affecting the brain it can negatively influence cardiometabolic changes in the body. See the brain can send signals to the endocrine system to release hormones to get the body to function at normal levels, but when cortisol levels begin to rise in the body it can affect the brain.

 

 

Other studies have shown that when stress begins in the brain and starts to affect it, can cause pathophysiology changes to the neural, cardiovascular, immune, and metabolic systems in the body. The brain gives the signal of a “fight or flight” response to the body as it endures stressful situations. When the cortisol levels become chronic, the brain signals will be disruptive and cause chronic symptoms to develop over time and cause the individual pain.

 

Inflammation & The Brain

Just like cortisol, inflammation does the same thing to the body. When there are unwanted pathogens entering the body and causing havoc, the immune systems send out inflammatory cells to the affected area and attack the pathogen. Studies have found that inflammatory cytokines are produced by the nervous system to produce behavioral symptoms and characteristics of the illness to stop the infection from spreading and healing the body.

 

However, if the inflammatory cells start to attack the body out of nowhere and there are no unwanted pathogens attacking the body, then it can become chronic. Studies have found that chronic inflammation can increase the peptides and age can become the risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease while also becoming a role in the development of neurodegeneration.

HCTP Therapy

Tony Robbins finds secret to eliminating back pain

HCTP (human cellular tissue products) or stem cells* have been used in regenerative therapy treatments in both international and nationally affiliated clinics and distribution organizations to help individuals with chronic pain. HCTP has been used to help boost up the body’s own natural healing process by regenerating and repairing damaged tissues, diseased organs, and cellular structure back to their original state in the body. With more upcoming research discussing about the beneficial properties of HCTP, it can help the individual be pain-free and let them continue their wellness journey.

The Gut-Brain Connection

 

Research studies have found that the gut and brain are connected to each other as they send a bidirectional connection to each other and promote the proper maintenance of gastrointestinal homeostasis. Other articles have talked about how the brain and gut are even more connected through the endocrine system. While the effects from the gut microbiota can help regulate the neurotransmitters from the brain and the brain’s effects on the gut can help intestinal development and barrier integrity and function as studies show. When unwanted pathogens like chronic inflammation and chronic cortisol affect both the gut and the brain, it can cause the body to be dysfunctional and can cause the individual person pain in their body.

 

Conclusion

All in all, by regulating cortisol and inflammation levels in the body can provide beneficial results to the brain signals to be functioning normally. By eating nutritious food, making small changes in a certain lifestyle, and exercising regularly can help the individual get their life together and be pain-free. Not only that but keeping a healthy brain can dampen the effects of neurodegenerative disorders from progressing even further as the body ages naturally and the brain is “young” and healthy.

 

Reference

Blasko, Imrich, et al. “How Chronic Inflammation Can Affect the Brain and Support the Development of Alzheimer’s Disease in Old Age: The Role of Microglia and Astrocytes.” Aging Cell, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Aug. 2004, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15268750/.

Braniste, Viorica, et al. “The Gut Microbiota Influences Blood-Brain Barrier Permeability in Mice.” Science Translational Medicine, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 19 Nov. 2014, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4396848/.

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

de Souza-Talarico, Juliana Nery, et al. “Effects of Stress Hormones on the Brain and Cognition: Evidence from Normal to Pathological Aging.” Dementia & Neuropsychologia, Associação De Neurologia Cognitiva e Do Comportamento, 2011, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5619133/.

Echouffo-Tcheugui, Justin B, et al. “Circulating Cortisol and Cognitive and Structural Brain Measures: The Framingham Heart Study.” Neurology, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 20 Nov. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6260201/.

Ludwig, Parker E. “Neuroanatomy, Central Nervous System (CNS).” StatPearls [Internet]., U.S. National Library of Medicine, 14 Oct. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK442010/.

McEwen, Bruce S. “Central Effects of Stress Hormones in Health and Disease: Understanding the Protective and Damaging Effects of Stress and Stress Mediators.” European Journal of Pharmacology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 7 Apr. 2008, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2474765/.

Newman, Tim. “Central Nervous System: Structure, Function, and Diseases.” Medical News Today, MediLexicon International, 3 Feb. 2022, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/307076.

Sartori, Andrea C, et al. “The Impact of Inflammation on Cognitive Function in Older Adults: Implications for Healthcare Practice and Research.” The Journal of Neuroscience Nursing: Journal of the American Association of Neuroscience Nurses, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Aug. 2012, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3390758/.

Disclaimer

The Neuroimaging Of The Brain | Part 1

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-

Introduction

The brain’s main function is to send signals throughout the body in order for it to function properly. These signals are traveling to each of the organ systems in the body. From the gut system, the immune system, and even the endocrine system, the brain will send signals to these systems, and vice versa the organ systems will send signals back to the brain.  In this 2 part series, we will be taking a look at what is the central nervous system and what factors can affect the brain. In part 2, we will take a look at how cortisol and inflammation affect the brain as well as how the gut and the brain make a connection. 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 The Central Nervous System?

 

So the nervous system is where the body receives information and helps it function properly. Research shows that the nervous system is consist of two main parts of the body which are the peripheral nervous system and the central nervous system. So the peripheral nervous system has many nerves that are being branched off from the spinal cord and extend all throughout the entire body. The central nervous system is where the brain and the spinal cord are there to make sure that the body is functioning properly. The nervous system has many neurons throughout the body that has many different jobs that send out messages to the brain and can perform many different activities. Some of the different neurons can help the muscles move in the body, other neurons can help the body’s senses like hearing, taste feeling pressure on the skin and other neurons can help keep the organ systems functioning, like regulating heartbeat and hormonal release.

 

The Brain

 

The brain is the body’s main control system, where it sends out signals to the body and makes sure that it is keeping an individual alive. Consist of three main structures, research studies show that the brain will send out signals throughout the body that can help regulate different biological functions and even sense any environmental changes that can affect the body. The three structures of the brain are the cerebrum, cerebellum, and brain stem. Each of these structures makes sure that the brain is working properly and that it sends signals throughout the body to make it function properly as well. The brain is also connected to the spinal cord where some of the important functions like muscle movement, secreting hormones, and emotions are being controlled by the brain.

 

The Spinal Cord

 

As one of the main parts of the central nervous system, the spinal cord is a long structural, cylindrical tube of tissue that runs in the middle of the spine. Research shows that the spinal cord is connected to the brain, specifically the brainstem, all the way to the lower back. These tubes of tissue carry out nerve signals from the brain to the entire body and vice versa since it’s all connected to the central nervous system. When these nerve signals are going through the entire body, the spinal cord has three functions to make sure that the body is working properly. These functions include controlling body movements and functions like walking or running and even regulating heartbeat and breathing rate, helping the brain to record different sensations that a person is experiencing, and even managing involuntary reflexes. All of these are important for the spinal cord to send through the brain to make sure that the body is functioning properly.

HCTP Therapy

Tony Robbins finds secret to eliminating back pain

Stem cells* or HCTP (human cellular tissue products) are considered a form of regenerative medicine that helps repair and regenerate damaged cells, diseased tissues, and organs back to their original state. HCTP is used as therapeutic treatment in both international and national affiliated clinics and distribution organizations for individuals that are dealing with chronic issues in their bodies. Since HCTP is used to help boost up the body’s own natural healing process, there is still more upcoming research about the beneficial properties that HCTP can do for the body and make the individual pain-free.

Factors That Can Affect The Brain

Since the brain can help the body by sending signals to each of the organ systems, it is important to take care of the brain as well. As the body starts growing and aging, so does the brain as there are many factors that can actually affect the brain. Some of the factors can be good like listening to music, exercising (both mentally and physically), sleep habits, and intellectual stimulation like puzzles. Other factors can be harmful to the brain like neurodegenerative diseases, head traumas, mood shifts, inflammation can cause unwanted problems to the brain and can disrupt the brain signal to the entire body.

 

Neurodegenerative Diseases

Studies have shown that neurodegenerative diseases are a cluster of chronic, progressive disorders that affect the neurons in the central nervous system. Some of these neurodegenerative diseases actually can affect brain function and even cause damage to the central nervous system. These include:

Other studies have shown that when there is an increase in inflammation affecting the body, it can cause many neurodegenerative diseases to progress further into chronic disorders. When the inflammatory cells start to affect the immune cells in the body, it can start triggering and amplifying the degeneration in the brain.

 

Music

Studies have found that music can have an efficient method of dealing with emotions and the autonomic nervous system. A perfect example is when a person is listening to music and the way that their emotions begin to pour out as they sing to the lyrics. When a person is singing a song, it causes them to feel much better afterward due to belting out the song and pouring their emotions as they understand what the lyrics are saying. Studies have found that listening to music can help lower the heart rate, respiration rate, and blood pressure from the body. By lowering the cortisol levels in the body can provide beneficial results to the brain and improve the mood that the brain is signaling.

 

Conclusion

All in all, there are many factors that can affect the brain’s neuron signal to the body. The central nervous system makes sure that the brain is doing its job properly and making sure the neuron signals are sending the information from the brain throughout the body and vice versa. When there are factors that are affecting the brain’s signal in the body, it can cause chronic symptoms to pop up and disrupt the signals from reaching the other systems in the body, and when this happens, it can cause a person to feel horrible. By finding the cause of the situation that is cause the person pain and dampening its effect can cause relief to the individual.

 

References

Chitnis, Tanuja, and Howard L Weiner. “CNS Inflammation and Neurodegeneration.” The Journal of Clinical Investigation, American Society for Clinical Investigation, 2 Oct. 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5617655/.

Ellis, Robert J, and Julian F Thayer. “Music and Autonomic Nervous System (Dys)Function.” Music Perception, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Apr. 2010, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3011183/.

Gao, Hui-Ming, and Jau-Shyong Hong. “Why Neurodegenerative Diseases Are Progressive: Uncontrolled Inflammation Drives Disease Progression.” Trends in Immunology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Aug. 2008, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4794280/.

Jia, Tiantian, et al. “Music Attenuated a Decrease in Parasympathetic Nervous System Activity after Exercise.” PloS One, Public Library of Science, 3 Feb. 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4739605/.

Martin, Lauren. “The Human Brain: Parts, Function, Diagram, and More.” Medical News Today, MediLexicon International, 4 July 2021, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/brain.

Medical Professional, Cleveland Clinic. “Spinal Cord: Function, Anatomy, and Structure.” Cleveland Clinic, 7 Oct. 2021, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/21946-spinal-cord.

Office of Communications, NIH. “What Are the Parts of the Nervous System?” Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 1 Oct. 2018, www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/neuro/conditioninfo/parts.

Disclaimer

Neuromusculoskeletal Optimization

By
Dr. Alex Jimenez
-
Physical therapist does manual therapy to a young athletic guy at medical office. Concept of manual therapy and osteopathy

Chiropractic is a form of neuromusculoskeletal care that repairs and re-optimizes the nervous system that helps to relieve tension, inflammation, pain and restore body health. Like any piece of machinery that requires regular maintenance to operate correctly without issues, so too is the body an exquisite machine that needs regular maintenance. Treatment restores and maintains optimal function to the nervous system, muscles, bones, tendons, ligaments, and joints.

Neuromusculoskeletal Optimization

Neuromusculoskeletal Care

Central Nervous System – CNS

  • The Central Nervous System or CNS is the body’s computer.
  • It processes functions in the body and mind.
  • It s made up of the brain and spinal cord.
  • It helps process external information through sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste.
  • The CNS interprets sensory information that goes through the spinal cord to the brain, and the body responds accordingly.
  • It controls voluntary movements like walking, talking, exercising.
  • It controls involuntary movements like blinking, breathing, digestion.
  • It allows thoughts, emotions, and perceptions to be created and expressed.

When the Central Nervous System works correctly, the body is coordinated, all senses send and receive information effectively, and cognition/thinking is clear. 

Peripheral Nervous System – PNS

  • The Peripheral Nervous System or PNS transmits signals from the outside to the Central Nervous System.
  • The PNS is comprised of all the nerve bundles that run throughout the body.
  • The PNS is responsible for transmitting information back and forth from the CNS to the rest of the body by electrical impulses and current.

When the PNS is functioning correctly, and there is thorough nerve circulation throughout the body, there are no issues like numbness, weakness, pain, and digestion is in top form.

Enteric Nervous System – ENS

  • The Enteric Nervous System or ENS is a branch of the peripheral nervous system that signals the digestive system.
  • It comprises nerves that stretch across the entire gastrointestinal tract.
  • It allows the nervous system to communicate with the digestive tract and regulate activity.
  • It can stop the digestive process when the body is under stress or strain, i.e., fight or flight response.
  • Chronic stress can create dysfunction in the digestive system.
  • Inflammation and stress can cause the enteric system to disrupt and cause digestive problems.

Pain Relief

Body pain can be an indication of an imbalance in the nervous system. Misalignment from work, home activities, trauma, injury, or posture problems, a subluxation/misalignment can turn into discomfort that leads to pain and neuromusculoskeletal system issues. Pain in the neuromusculoskeletal system can result from spinal misalignment and a shifting skeletal structure. The joints and misaligned bones compress the surrounding nerves and tissue, causing inflammation that results in pain symptoms. This causes the muscular system to compensate for the lack of stability support from the skeletal structure causing awkward body posturing. A chiropractor realigns the spinal structure, removing the compression/pressure from the nerves, tissues, muscles, ligaments, and tendons.

Body Composition

Chiropractic Medicine

The nervous system is highly responsive to chiropractic care because of chiropractic’s focus on the spine, which restores and rejuvenates. Chiropractic medicine and a properly aligned spine:

  • Reduces and eliminates pain.
  • Reduces and eliminates headaches and migraines.
  • Improves balance and coordination.
  • Improves digestive function.
  • Improves quality of sleep.
  • Increases energy.
  • Increases flexibility and mobility.
  • Enhances cognition and clear thinking.
References

Goudman, Lisa et al. “The Link Between Spinal Cord Stimulation and the Parasympathetic Nervous System in Patients With Failed Back Surgery Syndrome.” Neuromodulation: journal of the International Neuromodulation Society vol. 25,1 (2022): 128-136. doi:10.1111/ner.13400

Gyer, Giles et al. “Spinal manipulation therapy: Is it all about the brain? A current review of the neurophysiological effects of manipulation.” Journal of integrative medicine vol. 17,5 (2019): 328-337. doi:10.1016/j.joim.2019.05.004

Millet, Guillaume Y et al. “The role of the nervous system in neuromuscular fatigue induced by ultra-endurance exercise.” Applied physiology, nutrition, and metabolism = Physiologie appliquee, nutrition et metabolisme vol. 43,11 (2018): 1151-1157. doi:10.1139/apnm-2018-0161

Stoll, T et al. “Physiotherapie bei lumbaler Diskushernie” [Physiotherapy in lumbar disc herniation ]. Therapeutische Umschau. Revue therapeutique vol. 58,8 (2001): 487-92. doi:10.1024/0040-5930.58.8.487

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