Asthma, coughing, and heavy breathing can contribute to back muscle strain, soreness, and pain. An asthma attack can cause the body to heave during intense gasping, leaving the back muscles physically exhausted. Chiropractic adjustments and decompression can bring back pain relief, strengthen and stretch the spine and spinal muscles, and prevent it from returning, along with asthma management.
Asthma
The bronchial tubesdivide into smaller passages called bronchi and then into bronchioles. The bronchioles have tiny air sacs called alveoli, where inhaled oxygen is delivered to the blood. After absorbing the oxygen, the blood leaves the lungs and travels to the heart. Asthma is a lung condition that can affect anyone at any age. Asthma narrows the lungs’ airways causing inflammation in response to respiratory triggers, making it harder for air to travel out of the airways when exhaling. Symptoms include:
Wheezing
Difficulty breathing
Gasping to get air
Coughing
Tightness in the chest
Triggers can include:
Hot and/or humid weather
Exercise
Cold air
Pollen
Pets
Viral infections
Respiratory infections
Asthma Coughing and Back Strain
Asthma symptoms can take a toll on the back muscles and spine. Asthma attacks that cause gasping and heavy breathing cause the primary muscle (diaphragm) that supports breathing to weaken and strain. The diaphragm helps the spine but cannot do so effectively when under constant strain.
Constant Coughing and Spinal Health
Coughing is the body’s way of expelling unwanted foreign bodies. Chronic coughing stresses, strains, and overexerts the spinal support muscles and impacts posture. Individuals unconsciously take on a tense, forward-leaning posture/position that can cause:
Neck and shoulder stiffness, upper/lower back tightness, disc herniation, and pain.
Vertebrae subluxations/spinal misalignments can interfere with circulation and nerve function.
For short-term back pain following an asthma attack or coughing episode, it is recommended to rest, apply heat or ice, and take over-the-counter pain medication.
Massage therapy and myofascial release can stretch and relax the muscles.
Chiropractic manipulation relieves the stress on the nerves and muscles and stimulates the spinal cordand nerves to regain proper functioning.
Breathing Exercises and Yoga
Strengthened and conditioned core muscles can help to breathe more efficiently. When breathing normally it is usually a shallow inhale/exhale that does not fill the lungs to the total capacity. Diaphragmatic breathing is a technique to fully engage the diaphragm and abdominal muscles to fill the lungs with air more efficiently. Using the diaphragm correctly will:
Strengthen the diaphragm.
Use less energy to breathe.
Slow down the breathing rate.
Decrease the work of breathing hard.
Decrease the demand for continuous oxygen.
Yoga is another core-strengthening technique that encourages focused breathing that can help improve asthma control.
Lunardi, Adriana Claudia, et al. “Musculoskeletal dysfunction and pain in adults with asthma.” The Journal of asthma: Official Journal of the Association for the Care of Asthma vol. 48,1 (2011): 105-10. doi:10.3109/02770903.2010.520229
Rasmussen-Barr, E. et al. “Are respiratory disorders risk factors for troublesome low-back pain? A study of a general population cohort in Sweden.” The European spine journal: official publication of the European Spine Society, the European Spinal Deformity Society, and the European Section of the Cervical Spine Research Society vol. 28,11 (2019): 2502-2509. doi:10.1007/s00586-019-06071-5
Solakoğlu, Özge, et al. “The effects of forward head posture on expiratory muscle strength in chronic neck pain patients: A cross-sectional study.” Turkish Journal of physical medicine and rehabilitation vol. 66,2 161-168. 18 May. 2020, doi:10.5606/tftrd.2020.3153
Everybody deals with stress at some point in their lives. Whether it be a job interview, a huge deadline, a project, or even a test, stress is there to keep the body functioning in each scenario that the body is going through. Stress can help regulate the body’s immune system and help metabolize homeostasis as the body increases its energy throughout the day. When dealing with chronic stress can cause metabolic dysfunction in the body like gut disorders, inflammation, and an increase in blood glucose levels. Chronic stress can also affect a person’s mood and health, eating habits, and sleep quality. Today’s article will look at if stress is a good thing or a bad thing, how it affects the body, and the effects of what chronic stress does to the body. Refer patients to certified, skilled providers specializing in gut treatments for individuals that suffer from autonomic neuropathy. We guide our patients by referring to our associated medical providers based on their examination when it’s appropriate. We find that education is critical for asking insightful questions to our providers. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
Can my insurance cover it? Yes, it may. If you are uncertain, here is the link to all the insurance providers we cover. If you have any questions or concerns, please call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900
Is Having Stress Good Or Bad?
Do you feel anxious all the time? How about feeling headaches that are constantly being a nuisance? Feeling overwhelmed and losing focus or motivation? All these signs are stressful situations that a person is going through. Research studies have defined stress or cortisol as the body’s hormone that provides a variety of effects on different functions in each system. Cortisol is the primary glucocorticoid that is from the adrenal cortex. At the same time, the HPA (hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal) axis helps regulates the production and secretion of this hormone to the rest of the body. Now cortisol can be beneficial and harmful to the body, depending on the situation a person is in. Additional research studies have mentioned that cortisol begins and affects the brain and the rest of the body as stress in its acute form can cause the body to adapt and survive. The acute responses from cortisol allow neural, cardiovascular, immune, and metabolic function in the body.
How Does It Affect The Body’s Metabolism?
Now cortisol affects the body’s metabolism when controlled in a slow, steady sleep cycle that decreases corticotropin‐releasing hormone (CRH) and increases growth hormone (GH). Research studies have shown that when the adrenal glands secrete cortisol, it starts to have a complex interaction with the hypothalamus and pituitary glands in the nervous and endocrine systems. This causes the adrenal and thyroid function in the body to be closely linked while under the control of the hypothalamus and tropic hormones. The thyroid competes with the adrenal organs for tyrosine. Research studies have found that tyrosine is used to produce cortisol under stress while preventing cognitive function decline that is responsive to physical stress. However, when the body can not produce enough tyrosine, it can cause hypothyroidism and cause the cortisol hormone to become chronic.
An Overview About Stress-Video
Have you experienced headaches that randomly show up out of nowhere? Have you constantly gained weight or lost weight? Do you feel anxious or stressed out always that it is affecting your sleep? These are all signs and symptoms of your cortisol levels turning into their chronic state. The video above shows what stress does to your body and how it can cause unwanted symptoms. When there is chronic stress in the body, the HPA axis (neuro‐endocrine) is imbalanced due to the stress‐mediated activators involved in autoimmune thyroid diseases (AITD). When there is chronic stress in the body, it can cause excessive production of inflammatory compounds in the body can generate IR. The inflammatory substances can damage or inactivate insulin receptors leading to insulin resistance. This then contributes to the breakdown of one or more factors needed to complete the glucose transport process in the body.
The Effects Of Chronic Cortisol In The Body
When there is chronic stress in the body and has not been treated or reduced right away, it can lead to something known as allostatic load. Allostatic load is defined as wear and tear of the body and brain due to chronic overactivity or inactivity of the body systems typically involved in environmental challenges and adaptation. Research studies have shown that allostatic load causes excess secretion of hormones like cortisol and catecholamine to respond to chronic stressors affecting the body. This causes the HPA axis to do one of two things: being overworked or failing to shut off after stressful events causing sleep disturbances. Other issues that chronic stress does to the body can include:
Increased insulin secretion and fat deposition
Altered immune function
Hypothyroidism (adrenal exhaustion)
Sodium and water retention
Loss of REM sleep
Mental and Emotional instability
Increase in cardiovascular risk factors
These symptoms cause the body to become dysfunctional, and research studies have pointed out that various stressors can damage the body. This can make it extremely difficult for a person to cope with stress and alleviate it.
Conclusion
Overall, stress or cortisol is a hormone the body needs to function correctly. Chronic stress in the body from various stressors can cause many metabolic dysfunctions like hypothyroidism, weight gain, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome, to name a few. Chronic stress can also cause sleep disorders since the HPA axis is wired up and can seem to calm down the slightest. When people start to find ways of dealing with these various stressors, they can reduce their stress levels back to normal and be stress-free.
References
Jones, Carol, and Christopher Gwenin. “Cortisol Level Dysregulation and Its Prevalence-Is It Nature’s Alarm Clock?” Physiological Reports, John Wiley and Sons Inc., Jan. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7749606/.
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/.
McEwen, Bruce S. “Stressed or Stressed out: What Is the Difference?” Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience : JPN, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Sept. 2005, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1197275/.
Rodriquez, Erik J, et al. “Allostatic Load: Importance, Markers, and Score Determination in Minority and Disparity Populations.” Journal of Urban Health : Bulletin of the New York Academy of Medicine, Springer US, Mar. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6430278/.
Young, Simon N. “L-Tyrosine to Alleviate the Effects of Stress?” Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience : JPN, U.S. National Library of Medicine, May 2007, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1863555/.
The body has many nerves that intertwine and branch out from the spinal cord in the central nervous system. These nerves provide many functions that the body needs to work correctly, from motor function on the arms, legs, and neck to sensory functions like perceiving how much light comes into the eyes, that sense of fullness in the gut system, and when something is touching the skin. The body needs these nerves for everyday function and when a person feels pain from accidents and injuries. When there are factors that cause nerve damage or even gut issues that are internally affecting the body, it can cause many symptoms and cause a person to feel gloomy. Today’s article looks at the parasympathetic nervous system, how it affects the gut microbiota, and how autonomic neuropathy disrupts the gut system in many individuals. Refer patients to certified, skilled providers specializing in gut treatments for individuals that suffer from autonomic neuropathy. We guide our patients by referring to our associated medical providers based on their examination when it’s appropriate. We find that education is critical for asking insightful questions to our providers. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
Can my insurance cover it? Yes, it may. If you are uncertain, here is the link to all the insurance providers we cover. If you have any questions or concerns, please call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900.
What Is The Parasympathetic Nervous System?
Have you experienced gut issues affecting your body? How about feeling dizzy or faint when standing up? Does it seem difficult to adjust your eyesight from dark to light? Or have you experienced gut inflammation? These signs and symptoms are usually affected when the parasympathetic nerves are damaged and causing gut issues in the body. The parasympathetic nervous system. as research has defined it, conserves the body’s energy to be used for a later date while regulating bodily functions. These nerves help the body go into a “resting” condition that allows the body to work in a less stressful environment than the sympathetic nervous system, which drives the “fight or flight” response. The parasympathetic nerves also help with the GI tract, as additional research shows the parasympathetic nervous system helps exert excitatory and inhibitory GI control and motility in the intestines. The parasympathetic nerves and the gut microbiota are connected as they help influence the body’s homeostasis.
How Does It Affect The Gut Microbiota?
So the brain and the gut are connected to the body as they help send the information back and forth to provide the body’s homeostasis and immune function in preventing diseases. So for the parasympathetic nervous system and how it affects the gut microbiota, it’s all due to the vagus nerve that keeps the gut microbiota functioning and doing its job to support the body. Research studies have shown that the vagus nerve is the primary component of the parasympathetic nervous system. The vagus nerve helps with the bi-directional communication between the brain and the gut system by overseeing the crucial bodily functions. Some of the tasks that the parasympathetic nervous system does for the gut microbiota include:
Connect emotional and cognitive areas of the brain
An Overview On The Parasympathetic Nerves-Video
Feeling inflammatory effects inside your gut? How about feeling dizzy by just standing for a little bit? Do you have difficulty eating or have a loss of appetite? Many of these signs of parasympathetic nerves are affected, causing abnormalities in the gut microbiota. The video above explains what the parasympathetic nervous system does and how it plays its role in the entire body. The parasympathetic nervous system also has a partnership with the gut microbiota. Research studies mentioned that the interaction between the parasympathetic nervous system and the gut microbiome ensures the proper maintenance of homeostasis and cognitive functions for the body. The gut-brain axis helps promote optimal bodily function while ensuring that the motor-sensory parts are doing their jobs.
How Autonomic Neuropathy Affects The Gut System
Injuries affecting the gut microbiota and the parasympathetic nervous system can cause gut inflammation in the intestines and nerve damage to the nervous system. This is known as autonomic neuropathy, and research shows that this type of neuropathy causes body and gut issues like diabetes and gastrointestinal motility and contributes to other GI symptoms. Other research studies have found that autonomic neuropathy can alter the gut microbiota’s homeostasis regulation. When this happens, the body will start to have various symptoms affecting each organ and making them dysfunctional. The body will develop more symptoms when the gut microbiota becomes affected. These symptoms cause a decrease in vagal outflow or an increase in sympathetic activity, which will be associated with a slow decreased gastrointestinal motility.
Conclusion
The gut and nervous systems have a bi-directional communication that helps provide the body with proper immune support and metabolizing homeostasis for functionality. The nerves in the nervous system are branched out from the spinal cord and help offer many functions to the arms, organs, legs, and muscle tissues. The parasympathetic nerves in the nervous system help the body rest and digest the nutrients provided to the body. When the nerves or the gut suffer from damage, it can cause various problems that cause dysfunction to the motor-sensory functions of the body. When this happens, many individuals can find different treatments to restore body functions to the gut and the parasympathetic nerves and reduce the symptoms that come with it.
References
Breit, Sigrid, et al. “Vagus Nerve as Modulator of the Brain-Gut Axis in Psychiatric and Inflammatory Disorders.” Frontiers in Psychiatry, Frontiers Media S.A., 13 Mar. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5859128/.
Browning, Kirsteen N, and R Alberto Travagli. “Central Nervous System Control of Gastrointestinal Motility and Secretion and Modulation of Gastrointestinal Functions.” Comprehensive Physiology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Oct. 2014, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4858318/.
Kornum, Ditte S, et al. “Assessment of Gastrointestinal Autonomic Dysfunction: Present and Future Perspectives.” Journal of Clinical Medicine, MDPI, 31 Mar. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8037288/.
Mayer, Emeran A. “Gut Feelings: The Emerging Biology of Gut-Brain Communication.” Nature Reviews. Neuroscience, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 13 July 2011, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3845678/.
Tindle, Jacob, and Prasanna Tadi. “Neuroanatomy, Parasympathetic Nervous System – Statpearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 5 Nov. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK553141/.
Tougas, G. “The Autonomic Nervous System in Functional Bowel Disorders.” Canadian Journal of Gastroenterology = Journal Canadien De Gastroenterologie, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Mar. 1999, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10202203/.
The gut microbiome is “the second brain” in the body as it helps regulate homeostasis and metabolize the immune system for functionality and to keep the body in motion. The brain is part of the nervous system, providing neuron signals constantly traveling all over the body. The brain and the gut have a communication partnership where they send information back and forth for the body to function normally. When the body gets injured, either the brain, the gut, or both can be affected, causing dysfunction and unwanted symptoms that can cause other issues to affect the other systems in the body. One of these injuries can affect the brain in a traumatic way, which can disturb the signaling to the gut microbiota and affect an individual’s quality of life. Today’s article looks at a traumatic brain injury known as a concussion, its symptoms, and how it affects the gut-brain axis in the body. Refer patients to certified, skilled providers specializing in gut treatments for individuals that suffered from concussions. We guide our patients by referring to our associated medical providers based on their examination when it’s appropriate. We find that education is critical for asking insightful questions to our providers. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
Can my insurance cover it? Yes, it may. If you are uncertain, here is the link to all the insurance providers we cover. If you have any questions or concerns, please call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900.
What Is A Concussion?
Have you been headaches that pop out of nowhere and affect you daily? Have you been experiencing leaky gut or other gut disorder issues causing problems? Do you have trouble concentrating on the simple tasks at hand? Many of these symptoms are signs that you might be suffering from a concussion. Research studies have defined a concussion as a transient disturbance that traumatically induces brain function in the body. Concussions can vary depending on the severity of the injury. When a person suffers from a concussion, the neurotransmitters get disrupted as the brain’s electrolytes go through neurological dysfunction, and blood glucose metabolism decreases cerebral blood flow. Other research studies have found that a concussion does an axial rotation to the brain, which results in the brain jiggling and causes whiplash to the neck. This disruption will cause a biochemical injury that either alters the blood glucose metabolism or can cause derangement of the adenine nucleotides of the nervous system.
Its Symptoms
Research studies have found that when a person suffers from a concussion, the symptoms in its acute phase can drastically change and evolve into a chronic situation over time. Concussions usually occur in individuals that play a contact sport, where they bump each other in the heads, auto accidents that causes severe injuries that affect the neck and brain, or even a simple blow to the head. Other research studies have stated that the symptoms of a concussion can include:
Blurry vision
Headaches
Dizzyness
Mood changes
Light sensitivity
Concentration and memory complications
Additional research studies have mentioned that neuronal dysfunction can occur when a person suffers from a concussion as there are ionic shifts, impaired connectivity to the brain, and changes in the neurotransmitters from completing their jobs to provide sensory-motor functions to the entire body. When this happens, not only does the nervous system gets affected, but the gut system gets affected as well.
An Overview Of Leaky Gut & Concussions-Video
Do gut disorder symptoms seem to be affecting your quality of life? Have you become sensitive to light? Have you felt muscle stiffness in your neck? Or have you been suffering from frequent headaches? If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it might be due to a concussion affecting your gut microbiota. The video above explains how a concussion and a leaky gut are linked. In an average functioning body, the gut and the brain have a bi-directional connection as they help send the neuron signals to each of the body systems and muscle tissues that make the body move. When traumatic forces like a concussion affect the brain, it can disrupt and change the neurotransmitters signals that can cause gut disorders in the microbiota. When gut disorders affect the gut microbiota, it can cascade a series of inflammatory effects that can affect the body’s homeostasis and immune function. Experiencing these symptoms in the body can drastically affect a person’s mood and quality of life if it is not taken care of immediately.
How The Gut-Brain Axis Is Affected By A Concussion?
Since the gut-brain axis has a communication partnership, this axis helps the body’s immunity, homeostasis, and metabolism function. When a concussion starts to affect the gut-brain axis, research studies have shown that the communication pathways are affected in the gut-brain axis as tit incorporates the afferent and efferent signals. The signals involved in the gut-brain axis include the hormones, neurons, and immune pathways that can result in chronic gastrointestinal dysfunction and disability to the body. Since the gut helps keep the body functional through homeostasis, the brain helps the neuron signals provide sensory functions. With a concussion, these signals are disrupted, affecting the body’s functionality and causing a change in a person’s mood.
Conclusion
Overall the gut-brain axis provides functionality to the body by maintaining the homeostasis and metabolism of the immune system. A person’s involvement in a traumatic accident can lead to brain injuries like a concussion that can impair the gut and brain relationship. A concussion can become severe when it is not treated right away and can affect a person’s quality of life in their health and wellness journey.
Giza, Christopher C., and David A. Hovda. “The Neurometabolic Cascade of Concussion.” Journal of Athletic Training, National Athletic Trainers’ Association, Inc., Sept. 2001, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC155411/.
Mann, Aneetinder, et al. “Concussion Diagnosis and Management: Knowledge and Attitudes of Family Medicine Residents.” Canadian Family Physician Medecin De Famille Canadien, College of Family Physicians of Canada, June 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5471087/.
Tator, Charles H. “Concussions and Their Consequences: Current Diagnosis, Management and Prevention.” CMAJ : Canadian Medical Association Journal = Journal De L’Association Medicale Canadienne, Canadian Medical Association, 6 Aug. 2013, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3735746/.
Zhu, Caroline S, et al. “A Review of Traumatic Brain Injury and the Gut Microbiome: Insights into Novel Mechanisms of Secondary Brain Injury and Promising Targets for Neuroprotection.” Brain Sciences, MDPI, 19 June 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025245/.
The body requires energy to move around and get to places as fast as possible. The primary energy source is the blood glucose in the body, which helps provide power for the body and the brain, muscle cell tissues, and the blood cells that travel to each body’s organs. When disruptive forces start to affect the body, like chronic stress, endocrine disruptors, or lifestyle choices, it can cause the glucose levels to either increase or decrease depending on the severity. When glucose levels become too high, it can cause hyperglycemia or diabetes to develop. When they are too low, it can cause hypoglycemia. The body also suffers when there aren’t enough nutrients, minerals, or vitamins to provide energy to the body as symptoms of fatigue and insulin resistance begin to rise. Fortunately, there are ways to boost the body’s glucose levels naturally. Today’s article focus on a mineral known as magnesium, its benefits, and how it affects insulin resistance in the body. Refer patients to certified, skilled providers specializing in endocrine treatments for individuals with insulin resistance. We guide our patients by referring to our associated medical providers based on their examination when it’s appropriate. We find that education is critical for asking insightful questions to our providers. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
Can my insurance cover it? Yes, it may. If you are uncertain, here is the link to all the insurance providers we cover. If you have any questions or concerns, please call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900.
What Is Magnesium?
Have you been feeling weird pins and needles sensations in certain parts of your body? Are you suffering from chronic fatigue and muscle cramps? Have you lost your sense of appetite? Or have you felt muscle spasms in your arms or legs? Many of these symptoms are signs that your body is suffering from low levels of magnesium in your body. Research studies have defined magnesium as the fourth most common mineral in the body that provides fundamental functions for regulation. Magnesium can be found in certain foods like leafy greens, chocolate, nuts, fruits, and meats that are riched with this mineral and can be regulated in homeostasis in the intestines, kidneys, and bones in the body. Additional research studies have shown that magnesium is essential for maintaining the body’s normal organ and cellular function. Magnesium also ensures that each organ functions normally and is transported through the entire body by the blood cells. Magnesium also plays a vital role in the body’s energy production as it helps regulate glycemic control.
What Are Its Benefits?
As the fourth common mineral in the body, magnesium helps the body in many ways as it provides energy to other organs and body systems. Some of the benefits that magnesium provides, as research has shown, include:
Reducing insomnia
Prevent metabolic syndrome
Reduce migraines and headaches
Helps with pregnancies
Reduce asthmatic symptoms
Relieve muscle cramps
Additional information has shown that magnesium can help those with anxiety by modulating the HPA (hypothalamic pituitary adrenal) axis and substrating the stress response system in the body. Magnesium also plays a role when it comes to glucose levels in the body and affects insulin resistance.
An Overview Of Magnesium & Insulin Resistance-Video
Are you feeling migraines and headaches popping up out of nowhere? Have your muscles started to ache and cramped? Have you been experiencing asthmatic symptoms more frequently? Or have your blood glucose levels begun to rise? If you have been suffering from any of these symptoms, you could suffer from magnesium deficiency. The video above explains what happens when the body is experiencing insulin resistance due to magnesium deficiency. Research studies have found that magnesium deficiency is not uncommon worldwide, as early signs of magnesium deficiency can cause nausea, vomiting, and weakness in the body while causing metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. Surprisingly, diabetes is one of the most common causes of magnesium deficiency and insulin resistance.
How Does Magnesium Affect Insulin Resistance?
Research studies have found that magnesium deficiency in the body can increase the risk of insulin resistance and cause the body to become dysfunctional. When metabolic imbalances are associated with trending low or alert, low magnesium levels in the body, it can increase the serum CRP-hs, cause headaches, weight gain, and an increased risk for metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes. The intestines will be impaired in intestinal absorption while the blood glucose levels will increase and cause type 2 diabetes to form. However, additional information has also been provided that when an individual begins to take magnesium regularly, it can help dampen the effects of insulin resistance by regulating the blood glucose levels in the body. Many individuals with pre-existing diabetes can take a bit of magnesium to improve their blood glucose levels and continue on their health journey.
Conclusion
Incorporating supplements and minerals like magnesium could help lower the risk of insulin resistance and manage type 2 diabetes. The body needs the energy to function normally and move around constantly. Magnesium is a common mineral that can help regulate the organ’s functions and helps regulate blood glucose levels. When the body starts to suffer from magnesium deficiency, it can cause various issues that can make a person miserable while the body starts to become dysfunctional. Incorporating magnesium as part of a healthy lifestyle for the body can provide the necessary energy that a person needs to function and help them along their health and wellness journey.
References
Al Alawi, Abdullah M, et al. “Magnesium and Human Health: Perspectives and Research Directions.” International Journal of Endocrinology, Hindawi, 16 Apr. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5926493/.
Boyle, Neil Bernard, et al. “The Effects of Magnesium Supplementation on Subjective Anxiety and Stress-A Systematic Review.” Nutrients, MDPI, 26 Apr. 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5452159/.
Kostov, Krasimir. “Effects of Magnesium Deficiency on Mechanisms of Insulin Resistance in Type 2 Diabetes: Focusing on the Processes of Insulin Secretion and Signaling.” International Journal of Molecular Sciences, MDPI, 18 Mar. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6470576/.
As the world is in constant motion, many people have to endure stressful situations affecting their bodies and health. The body needs hormones like cortisol to keep functioning as it affects the immune, nervous, cardiovascular, and musculoskeletal systems, to name a few. Another essential function the body needs is glucose, which requires energy to be in constant motion. Situations that cause the cortisol levels and glucose levels to rise in the body can lead to chronic issues like diabetes and chronic stress. This causes the individual to be miserable and be in a serious situation if it is not controlled right away. Today’s article examines how cortisol and glucose affect the body and the interwoven connection between stress and diabetes. Refer patients to certified, skilled providers specializing in stress management and endocrine treatments for diabetic individuals. We guide our patients by referring to our associated medical providers based on their examination when it’s appropriate. We find that education is critical for asking insightful questions to our providers. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
Can my insurance cover it? Yes, it may. If you are uncertain, here is the link to all the insurance providers we cover. If you have any questions or concerns, please call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900.
How Does Cortisol Affect The Body?
Have you been experiencing sleeping problems at night? What about frequent headaches that are a nuisance throughout the entire day? Or have you noticed excessive weight loss or weight gain around your midsection? Some of these symptoms are signs that your cortisol and glucose levels are high and can affect your body. Cortisol is a hormone produced in the endocrine system and can be beneficial or harmful to the body if it is not regularly checked. Research studies have defined cortisol as one of the prominent glucocorticoids secreted out due to the response of the body’s biochemicals, characterized by the HPA (hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal) axis helps cognitive events. However, when the cortisol levels turn chronic in the body due to circumstances that cause the body to become dysfunctional, it can significantly impact a person and cause an imbalance in the HPA axis. Some of the symptoms that chronic cortisol leads to the body can include:
Hormonal imbalances
Insulin resistance
Weight gain
Increases in visceral “belly” fat
Increased cortisol output
Immune problems
Allergies and Asthma
Inflamed Joints
Poor exercise recovery
Additional information has provided that the presence of cortisol in the body can help increase blood glucose availability to the brain. With cortisol providing organ functionality, the blood glucose provides energy for the body.
How Cortisol & Glucose Work In The Body
Cortisol helps stimulate mass glucose mobilization in the liver, allowing block protein synthesis to push amino acids into sugar for the body. This is known as fatty acid liberation biotransformed into glucose. When this happens, it helps stimulate visceral fat storage if excess glucose is not utilized, thus causing weight gain. Research studies have shown that a lack of cortisol can cause a decrease in hepatic glucose production in the body. This will cause hypoglycemia, where the body doesn’t have enough glucose in its system. Additional research shows that cortisol responds to any stressor that affects a person with low glucose levels but can also become positive after a glucose load. Managing the body’s glucose and cortisol levels can help progress the development of diabetes.
How Cortisol Is Linked With Type 2 Diabetes- Video
Have you experienced stressful situations that cause your muscles to tense up? How about feeling your blood sugar either spiking up or down? Do you feel inflammatory effects all over your body that makes them ache? Stress can cause harmful effects to the body, activating inflammation, increasing sympathetic tone, and reducing glucocorticoid responsiveness. Stress can also be linked to diabetes, as the video above shows how the stress hormone cortisol is linked with type 2 diabetes. Research studies have mentioned that cortisol can become negatively associated with the mechanics of insulin resistance, increasing the beta-cell function and increasing the insulin released in the body. This can become dangerous for many individuals that have pre-existing diabetes and have been dealing with stress constantly.
The Interwoven Connection Between Stress & Diabetes
The interwoven connection between stress and diabetes is shown as research studies have found that the pathophysiology of anxiety and diabetes has increased insulin resistance risk for the body. When a person is dealing with chronic stress, it can cause them to have many issues like:
Cold intolerance
Diminished cognition and mood
Food sensitivities
Low energy throughout the day
When this happens, the body is at a high risk of developing insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Research studies have mentioned that type 2 diabetes is characterized by insulin resistance and beta-cell dysfunction. The glucocorticoid in the body can become excessive to affect the cells, causing dysfunctionality. Additional research studies have shown that any perceived stress can become a vital risk factor that not only affects the body, like hypertension, BMI (body mass index), or diet quality but can cause a rise in type 2 diabetes. When individuals find ways to lower their chronic stress, it can help manage their glucose levels from reaching critical levels.
Conclusion
The body’s chronic stress can cause insulin resistance and cause diabetes to become pre-existing. The body needs cortisol and glucose to keep functioning and have the energy to move. When people start to suffer from chronic stress and diabetes, it can become challenging to manage; however, making minor changes to the body like finding ways to lower stress, eating healthy foods, and monitoring glucose levels can help the body reset the glucose and cortisol levels to normal. Doing this can relieve many individuals who want to continue their health journey being stress-free.
References
Adam, Tanja C, et al. “Cortisol Is Negatively Associated with Insulin Sensitivity in Overweight Latino Youth.” The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, The Endocrine Society, Oct. 2010, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3050109/.
De Feo, P, et al. “Contribution of Cortisol to Glucose Counterregulation in Humans.” The American Journal of Physiology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, July 1989, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2665516/.
Hucklebridge, F H, et al. “The Awakening Cortisol Response and Blood Glucose Levels.” Life Sciences, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 1999, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10201642/.
Joseph, Joshua J, and Sherita H Golden. “Cortisol Dysregulation: The Bidirectional Link between Stress, Depression, and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.” Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Mar. 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5334212/.
Kamba, Aya, et al. “Association between Higher Serum Cortisol Levels and Decreased Insulin Secretion in a General Population.” PloS One, Public Library of Science, 18 Nov. 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5115704/.
Lee, Do Yup, et al. “Technical and Clinical Aspects of Cortisol as a Biochemical Marker of Chronic Stress.” BMB Reports, Korean Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Apr. 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4436856/.
Thau, Lauren, et al. “Physiology, Cortisol.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 6 Sept. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538239.
Forearm pain refers to soreness, aches, or discomfort between the wrist and the elbow. An injury or inflammation can affect any tissues, including muscles, bones, blood vessels, tendons, and the skin. The causes usually include overuse injuries, pinched nerves, accidents causing trauma, lifting or heaving heavy objects, sports injuries, and fractures. If left untreated, issues like chronic muscle pain and decreased and disrupted blood/nerve circulation can develop, leading to numbness and weakness. Chiropractic treatment can release tension, massage, reset, and stretch the muscles to expedite healing.
Anatomy
The forearm comprises the radius and ulna, which extend the forearm’s length and cross at the wrist.
The Radius
This bone starts at the elbow and connects to the wrist on the thumb side.
Ulna
This bone begins at the elbow and connects to the wrist on the side of the little finger.
Muscles
Several muscles operate to rotate the forearm up/supination and down/pronation and flex and extend the fingers.
Causes
Forearm pain can happen to anyone and is usually related to traumatic or repetitive use injury. In other cases, pain may be associated with a benign growth, like a cyst or possibly a malignant tumor. Common causes include:
Pulled and/or strained muscles
Muscle ruptures or small tears
A direct blow, fall, or any extreme twisting, bending or jamming action.
Tendonitis from tennis or golfers elbow.
Tennis elbow is caused by inflammation or tiny tears in the forearm muscles and tendons outside the elbow.
Golfers’ elbow is on the inside of the elbow.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a repetitive stress disorder that affects the nerves and tendons of the wrist and forearm.
Musculoskeletal Causes
The musculoskeletal causes involve issues in how the forearm components operate together.
Repetitive actions like lifting, gripping, and typing can compress nerves and blood vessels throughout the forearm.
Forearm problems like dislocations or sprains can also lead to chronic inflammation and pain.
Traumatic Causes
Traumatic causes include those that result in injury to components of the forearm.
Anything that causes a direct injury to the forearm, including an automobile crash or accident, fall, or a direct hit, can fracture bones in the forearm.
A sprain can twist or stretch a ligament or tendon.
Activities that cause bending, twisting, quick sudden movement or direct impact can result in sprained multiple ligaments in the forearm.
Chiropractic Treatment
Healing forearm pain depends on the type of injury, location, and cause of the pain. Chiropractic addresses arm pain, tingling, and numbness in ways often overlooked by general physicians.
A chiropractor will perform a physical examination to determine if there are any underlying causes.
They may apply an ice pack to help control inflammation before the massage.
The chiropractor will perform gentle adjustments to the wrist, arm, and shoulder.
They may recommend a forearm brace to help retrain positioning and movement.
They will recommend exercises and stretches to strengthen and maintain the adjustments.
Carpal Tunnel Pain Treatment
References
Ellenbecker, Todd S et al. “Current concepts in examination and treatment of elbow tendon injury.” Sports health vol. 5,2 (2013): 186-94. doi:10.1177/1941738112464761
Shamsoddini, Alireza, and Mohammad Taghi Hollisaz. “Effects of taping on pain, grip strength and wrist extension force in patients with tennis elbow.” Trauma monthly vol. 18,2 (2013): 71-4. doi:10.5812/traumamon.12450
Suito, Motomu, et al. “Intertendinous epidermoid cyst of the forearm.” Case reports in plastic surgery & hand surgery vol. 6,1 25-28. 28 Jan. 2019, doi:10.1080/23320885.2018.1564314
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