The sciatic nerve is the longest in the body and is the central nerve in the leg. A critical nerve that comes off the spine runs through the pelvis, into the buttocks, down the back of each thigh, and finally into the feet. It is a mixed nerve meaning it is made up of both motor/movement) and sensory/sensation fibers. The nerves merge with the spinal nerve roots before they enter the spinal cord, where the sensory information travels to and from the brain. If the nerve is inflamed, compressed, twisted, damaged, or injured, this can negatively affect the muscles’ function, leading to chronic pain conditions. Injury Medical Function Restoration Chiropractors will do precisely that for the sciatic nerve and the rest of the body.
Nerve Roots and Branches
Different nerve roots make up the sciatic nerve, with two starting in the lower back and three at the bottom of the spine or sacrum. At the knees, the nerve splits into two branches:
The peroneal nerve runs from the knee’s outer part to the foot’s outer part and splits into two main branches below the knee.
The tibial nerve goes down the back of the calf, extending to the heel and sole.
There are smaller branches at the:
Hips
Inner thighs
Calves
Feet
Sciatic Nerve Function
The sciatic nerve’s purpose serves motor functions by assisting the muscles in the legs and feet to move, walk, run, and stand. And for the sensory function of feeling sensations in the legs and feet includes pain, numbness, burning, and electrical sensations.
Motor Functions
The nerve provides motor functions that power movement to the muscles that move the thighs, legs, and feet. Essential motor functions:
Motor function signs of sciatic nerve problems include difficulty or inability to walk, bend the leg, and/or stand on tiptoe or the heel.
Sensory Functions
The nerve provides sensation to the different areas; when the nerve is injured, the corresponding area may feel unique/abnormal sensations with differing degrees of numbness, pins-and-needles, and pain. Commonly affected areas include:
Front, back, and outside the thigh.
Front, back, and outside the lower leg.
The top and outer side of the foot.
Bottom of the foot.
Between the toes.
Like motor function disruption, sensory impairment is determined by where the problems are occurring.
Function Restoration Chiropractor
Affected, reduced, and inhibited motor and sensory functions can lead to muscle weakness, chronic pain, and permanent nerve damage. Function restoration chiropractor and physical therapeutic massage can help manage nerve compression and irritation. Spinal manipulations restore misaligned vertebral discs taking the pressure off the nerve relieving the pain, and regaining nerve signal flow and mobility. Chiropractic will induce deep muscle relaxation to stop muscle spasms, release tension, soothe the nerve, release endorphins, and restore sciatic nerve function.
Spinal Decompression
References
Bouche, P. “Compression and entrapment neuropathies.” Handbook of clinical neurology vol. 115 (2013): 311-66. doi:10.1016/B978-0-444-52902-2.00019-9
Cook, Chad E et al. “Risk factors for first-time incidence sciatica: a systematic review.” Physiotherapy research international: the journal for researchers and clinicians in physical therapy vol. 19,2 (2014): 65-78. doi:10.1002/pri.1572
Giuffre BA, Jeanmonod R. Anatomy, Sciatic Nerve. [Updated 2021 Jul 29]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482431/
The body’s immune system is vital in protecting the body from foreign invaders that can wreak havoc. The immune system has a casual relationship with different body systems like the gut, endocrine, and central nervous systems that work together to keep the body functional. When environmental or genetic factors affect the body over time, the immune system will begin to attack normal, healthy cells causing issues and becoming a risk of developing autoimmune diseases. Autoimmune diseases are when the body starts to attack itself, and if it is not managed over time, it can lead to the development of chronic disorders. Today’s article looks at one of the most common autoimmune diseases, systemic lupus erythematosus or lupus, its symptoms and factors, and how to manage lupus with available treatments. We refer patients to certified providers specializing in autoimmune therapies to help those with systemic lupus and its associated symptoms. We also guide our patients by referring to our associated medical providers based on their examination when it’s appropriate. We find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
What Is Systemic Lupus Erythematosus?
Are you experiencing fatigue? How about sharp pain located in your chest? Have you been experiencing headaches that seem to pop up for no reason? Some of these symptoms are signs that you could be at risk of developing lupus. Lupus or systemic lupus erythematosus is a systemic autoimmune disease with a multisystem involvement that occurs when an individual’s immune system starts to attack their tissue and organs. Systemic refers to multiple affected organs, lupus refers to various skin diseases, and erythematosus refers to inflamed, reddened skin. Studies reveal that lupus is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease affecting multiple organ systems and potentially associated with different factors. Lupus is tricky to diagnose because it often mimics other ailments like fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, and other autoimmune diseases; it can cause inflammation in the different body systems.
The Symptoms and Factors
Even though lupus is difficult to diagnose, the signs and symptoms vary for individuals who might be at risk of developing lupus. Some signs may suddenly appear or evolve, ranging from mild to severe depending on the factors. Some of the factors that are associated with lupus include:
Many of these factors contribute to the development of lupus and are closely associated with other autoimmune diseases like diabetes, RA (rheumatoid arthritis), and fibromyalgia. So how do these autoimmune diseases correlate with lupus? Since lupus can mimic other autoimmune disorders, some symptoms overlap, affecting the different body systems like the joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells, brain, heart, and lungs. For example, many autoimmune diseases are closely associated with inflammation, which could potentially be involved with the gut. Some of the symptoms that are associated with lupus include:
Fatigue
Joint and muscle pain
Headaches
Butterfly rash
Headaches
Skin legions
Stomach issues
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Overview-Video
Have you been experiencing issues with your gut? How about joint stiffness and swelling? Or are you constantly feeling the effects of fatigue? Many of these symptoms are associated with lupus, and the video above explains what systemic lupus erythematosus is and how it affects the body. Lupus is an autoimmune disease that is difficult for physicians to diagnose since it mimics other issues that a person may be experiencing. An example would be fibromyalgia associated with lupus. Studies reveal that the presence of fibromyalgia could be a separate diagnosis or potentially be involved with lupus as a confounder. In fibromyalgia and lupus, somatic symptoms like fatigue, aching, and pain may overlap and affect the surrounding muscles and organs. This is known as somato-visceral pain. Fortunately, there are ways to manage autoimmune diseases like lupus.
Treatments To Manage Lupus
When a person is dealing with an autoimmune disease like lupus, it may feel like it is the end of the world to them. While there is no cure for lupus, there are ways to manage this autoimmune disease from progressing further to causing more damage to the body. Making small changes in food intake, adding more supplements to boost the immune system like vitamin D, exercising, and chiropractic care work together to manage autoimmunity in the body. So how do all these things work together? Well eating anti-inflammatory foods filled with antioxidants to dampen inflammatory effects. Supplements like vitamin D can help improve and maintain a healthy immune system. Chiropractic care not only focuses on the musculoskeletal system but can help the immune system to its total capacity by correcting any subluxations or spinal misalignments in the body.
Conclusion
The immune system helps the body by attacking foreign invaders that wreak havoc inside while having a casual relationship with different body systems. When environmental or genetic factors affect the body over time, the immune system mistakenly attacks normal, healthy cells thinking they are foreign invaders. This is known as autoimmune disease and, if not managed over time, can lead to the development of chronic disorders. Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can mimic other chronic conditions, making it tricky to diagnose. Some of the overlapping symptoms associated with lupus can vary in severity. While there is no cure for lupus, available treatments can help manage the symptoms and associated conditions. Combining healthy eating habits, exercise, vitamin intake, and chiropractic care can help improve a person’s health and wellness.
References
Justiz Vaillant, Angel A, et al. “Systemic Lupus Erythematosus – Statpearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 15 Mar. 2022, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK535405/.
Maidhof, William, and Olga Hilas. “Lupus: An Overview of the Disease and Management Options.” P & T : a Peer-Reviewed Journal for Formulary Management, MediMedia USA, Inc., Apr. 2012, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3351863/.
Wolfe, Frederick, et al. “Fibromyalgia, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), and Evaluation of SLE Activity.” The Journal of Rheumatology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Jan. 2009, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2944223/.
Cheerleading and the physically intensive gymnastics and acrobatics put participants’ body’s/musculoskeletal systems at an increased risk of injury. A wrong move or falling at the wrong angle can cause permanent damage. Cheerleaders must follow a balanced diet and maintain physical fitness, strength, endurance, and flexibility to be successful cheerleaders. Cheerleading conditioning builds the musculature and spinal strength to decrease the risk and prevent injury.
Cheerleading Conditioning
Cheerleaders must have a solid musculoskeletal system to ensure their safety and the safety of their squads. Workouts include cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises.
Warming Up
Before any workout, the muscles need to be warmed up.
Spend five minutes jumping rope, running in place, jogging on a treadmill, or doing any mild activity to raise the heart rate.
Try tree pose by standing on the right foot, and the left leg bent on the right knee.
The left thigh should be parallel to the ground.
Raise arms overhead and make a V motion keeping the abdominal muscles pulled in tight.
Balance for up to one minute.
Switch to the other foot.
Once balance is mastered on the ground, try balancing on a cushion to add instability.
Repeat three to five times on each foot.
Common Injuries
Common injuries include:
Hand and finger injuries.
Ligament sprains in the knees and ankles.
Muscle strains in the hip, low back, and legs.
Overuse injuries
Cheerleading is becoming a year-round sport.
Starting with tryouts during spring.
Teams may hold or go to organized summer cheerleading camps to learn new skills, improve skill sets, and create routines for competition.
Continuous training and competitions increase the chance of overuse injuries.
The wrists, elbows, knees, and ankles can be injured by repetitive stress.
More severe injuries are:
The repetitive tumbling places significant pressure on the spine and can cause stress fractures.
Dislocation of the shoulder or elbow.
Injury Causes
Lack of arm and shoulder, foot, and ankle strength.
Little to no core and abdominal strength.
Flexibility problems.
Improper conditioning.
Unhealthy diet.
Performing skills that are advanced for the cheerleader’s current level.
Chiropractic Enhancement
Chiropractic care can treat injuries and strengthen the body’s musculoskeletal system to prevent injuries. Chiropractic’s goal is optimal body performance by redistributing blood circulation, nerve energy flow, correct muscle positioning, and skeletal alignment. Many cheerleading teams are incorporating chiropractic. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic also specializes in sports medicine rehabilitation, strength training, nutrition, and health coaching.
Cheerleading Strength Training Workout
References
Boden, Barry P, and Christopher G Jarvis. “Spinal injuries in sports.” Neurologic clinics vol. 26,1 (2008): 63-78; viii. doi:10.1016/j.ncl.2007.12.005
Miners, Andrew L. “Chiropractic treatment and the enhancement of sport performance: a narrative literature review.” The Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association vol. 54,4 (2010): 210-21.
Mueller, Frederick O. “Cheerleading injuries and safety.” Journal of athletic training vol. 44,6 (2009): 565-6. doi:10.4085/1062-6050-44.6.565
Pang, Yanbin, et al. “Premature exhaustion of mesenchymal stromal cells from myelodysplastic syndrome patients.” American journal of translational research vol. 9,7 3462-3468. 15 Jul. 2017
Wan, Jing-Jing, et al. “Muscle fatigue: general understanding and treatment.” Experimental & molecular medicine vol. 49,10 e384. 6 Oct. 2017, doi:10.1038/emm.2017.194
Many individuals have dealt with issues affecting their lives in some way or form. People with autoimmune diseases must learn to manage their immune system from constantly attacking their bodies to function normally. The immune system’s primary function in the body is to attack environmental factors that harm the cells, muscles, and organs. When a person has an autoimmune disease, either from their family history or environmental factors, their immune system will begin to attack the body’s normal cells because it thinks it is a foreign invader to the body. Some common autoimmune disorders that most people have include lupus, ankylosing spondylitis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Most of these common autoimmune disorders correlate to common symptoms that add to other issues that affect the body. Today’s article looks at rheumatoid arthritis, its symptoms, how it relates to fatigue, and how there are available treatments to manage rheumatoid arthritis as well as fatigue. We refer patients to certified providers specializing in musculoskeletal therapies to help those who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis and fatigue. We also guide our patients by referring to our associated medical providers based on their examination when it’s appropriate. We find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Have you been feeling stiffness and inflammation around your joints? have you experienced gut issues affecting your life? Or do problems of insomnia or fatigue seem to affect your quality of life? Many of these symptoms are associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and swelling in the joints. The video above explains how to manage rheumatoid arthritis and its associated symptoms. Fatigue is one of the symptoms associated with rheumatoid arthritis as the inflammatory cytokines could be a co-morbidity in altering brain function that can lead to an overlap of pain and fatigue in the body, as studies reveal. While there hasn’t been a cure for rheumatoid arthritis, various treatment approaches can help people manage the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
The Symptoms
Some of the most commonly rheumatoid arthritis symptoms do to the body include pain, swelling and inflammation of the joints, joint deformity, and stiffness. Unlike wear and tear damage from different types of common inflammatory issues, rheumatoid arthritis symptoms may come and go that can range from mild, moderate, or even severe. When this happens, rheumatoid arthritis may be the result of making it difficult to perform simple tasks and cause joint alterations. Research shows that rheumatoid arthritis associated with inflammation can damage different body parts like the gut. Gastrointestinal problems like leaky gut, IBS, or SIBO could trigger flare-ups in individuals who have rheumatoid arthritis. This is known as somato-visceral pain, where the muscles affect the vital organs, causing problems for the body.
How Does Fatigue Correlate To RA?
Individuals that have rheumatoid arthritis do suffer from various symptoms that are associated with inflammatory issues. When inflammation begins to affect the body, it can overlap the profiles of fatigue and poorer quality of life in the individual. So how does fatigue correlate to rheumatoid arthritis? Studies reveal that fatigue is considered one of the acute symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis that imposes a burden on individuals, thus being associated with reducing their health and wellness. Fatigue has many dimensions that do impact many individuals. Some people will explain to their primary physicians that they are constantly tired, overworked, and repeatedly stressed from everyday life or disorders affecting their bodies. For rheumatoid arthritis individuals, studies reveal that high inflammatory factors associated with fatigue may cause them to feel exhausted. This is related to individuals who have insomnia from other conditions.
Managing Rheumatoid Arthritis-Video
Have you been feeling stiffness and inflammation around your joints? have you experienced gut issues affecting your life? Or do problems of insomnia or fatigue seem to affect your quality of life? Many of these symptoms are associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and swelling in the joints. The video above explains how to manage rheumatoid arthritis and its associated symptoms. Fatigue is one of the symptoms associated with rheumatoid arthritis as the inflammatory cytokines could be a co-morbidity in altering brain function that can lead to an overlap of pain and fatigue in the body, as studies reveal. While there hasn’t been a cure for rheumatoid arthritis, various treatment approaches can help people manage the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Treatments For RA & Fatigue
Even though there hasn’t been a cure for rheumatoid arthritis, there are ways to manage the associated symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Eating anti-inflammatory riched foods could potentially dampen the effect of inflammation on the joints. One way while exercising can help loosen up stiff joints and bring back muscle strength, thus restoring joint motion. Treatments like chiropractic care can also provide pain relief and management for individuals dealing with rheumatoid arthritis. Chiropractic care comprises passive and active treatment modalities for rheumatoid arthritis and fatigue. Chiropractors utilize spinal adjustments and manual manipulation to reduce misalignment or subluxation of the spine. Chiropractic care may also help with many symptoms like fatigue associated with rheumatoid arthritis without invasive treatments or medication. Chiropractic care could potentially improve the function of the bones, joints, and even the nervous system in the body.
Conclusion
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease that causes joint stiffness and swelling. The causes of this autoimmune disease are unknown. Still, factors like stress, gut issues, and obesity are associated with symptoms like fatigue, leaky gut, muscle stiffness, and poorer quality of life could potentially be involved with rheumatoid arthritis. Treatments like eating anti-inflammatory foods, exercising, and chiropractic care could help manage inflammatory issues triggering rheumatoid arthritis and potentially reduce the effects of fatigue from the body, thus slowing down the progression and bringing back a person’s quality of life.
Korte, S Mechiel, and Rainer H Straub. “Fatigue in Inflammatory Rheumatic Disorders: Pathophysiological Mechanisms.” Rheumatology (Oxford, England), Oxford University Press, 1 Nov. 2019, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6827268/.
Pope, Janet E. “Management of Fatigue in Rheumatoid Arthritis.” RMD Open, BMJ Publishing Group, May 2020, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7299512/.
Santos, Eduardo J F, et al. “The Impact of Fatigue in Rheumatoid Arthritis and the Challenges of Its Assessment.” Rheumatology (Oxford, England), Oxford University Press, 1 Nov. 2019, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6827262/.
Staff, Mayo Clinic. “Rheumatoid Arthritis.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 18 May 2021, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20353648.
The body needs protein which is essential in building muscle, repairing tissue, producing enzymes and hormones and is a source of energy. Whey is a complete protein source that provides all the essential amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that increase anabolism, also known as muscle growth. It is used for various reasons. Some individuals want to build muscle mass and gain strength, while others want to lose weight and achieve improved results from working out. Even individuals who don’t exercise can benefit from the supplement as it supports immune function, helps reduce blood pressure, and improves insulin response.
Whey Protein
Whey protein is made from the liquid produced during the cheese-making process.
Milk comprises two forms of protein: casein (80%) and whey (20%).
It contains less than 0.5 g of fat and only 5 mg of cholesterol per serving.
Pure whey does not contain any gluten.
It is referred to as the most nutritious protein available.
It’s easy to digest.
Incorporating whey into a healthy diet can help lower the risk of diabetes.
Types
There are three primary types of whey protein in supplements.
Hydrolysate is a form that has already gone through partial hydrolysis, a process so the body can absorb protein.
It is considered pre-digested, so it gets absorbed quicker.
Concentration is the most popular and least expensive option that retains the most nutrients. However, some individuals can tolerate isolate and hydrolysate a lot better and are ideal for those trying to cut down on carbs and fats.
Benefits
Increased Strength and Muscle
Helps to increase protein consumption.
Most brands contain 80 to 90 percent without added carbs or fats.
Helps to build muscle and increase strength after physical activity/exercise recovery.
Can Help Burn Fat
A study found a group of adults that supplemented their diet with whey protein experienced a decrease in body fat and weight.
Combining whey protein and resistance training, participants found their weight and fat loss were even higher.
Can Help Stabilize Blood Sugar
Consuming whey protein with a high glycemic index before a meal can help stimulate insulin production while preventing spikes in blood sugar levels.
The protein naturally reduces blood sugar levels after meals when consumed before the meal.
Improves Heart Health
It can help reduce blood pressure and arterial stiffness.
It has been linked to improving individual lipid profiles.
Promotes heart health by building muscle and helping with weight loss.
Increased Immunity
It can help encourage glutathione synthesis, which increases immune system function.
It is also rich in vitamins and minerals that promote immune function.
It helps the body recover from oxidative stress and inflammation.
Improves Energy Levels
It helps to increase glycogen, a source of energy during exercise or other physical activities.
It also increases leptin which helps balance the body’s energy levels.
Whey is easily digested, which can be quickly converted to energy.
Factors to Consider When Choosing
Flavor
The flavor is crucial because nobody wants to drink a daily protein shake they cannot enjoy.
Options like chocolate and vanilla are usually safe.
If experimenting, get a small container to start.
Mixability
Not all supplements mix properly or thoroughly.
Find a brand that dissolves quickly and has little clumping.
Container Size
Most protein supplements are available in 1 lb, 2 lb, 5 lb, or 10 lb containers.
Larger sizes are more cost-effective.
One 5 lb package is cheaper than buying five 1 lb containers.
Everything You Need To Know
References
Ebaid, Hossam et al. “Whey protein enhances normal inflammatory responses during cutaneous wound healing in diabetic rats.” Lipids in health and disease vol. 10 235. 14 Dec. 2011, doi:10.1186/1476-511X-10-235
Hashemilar, Mazyar, et al. “Effect of Whey Protein Supplementation on Inflammatory and Antioxidant Markers, and Clinical Prognosis in Acute Ischemic Stroke (TNS Trial): A Randomized, Double-Blind, Controlled, Clinical Trial.” Advanced pharmaceutical bulletin vol. 10,1 (2020): 135-140. doi:10.15171/apb.2020.018
Kim, Jooyoung, et al. “Effect of timing of whey protein supplement on muscle damage markers after eccentric exercise.” Journal of exercise rehabilitation vol. 13,4 436-440. 29 Aug. 2017, doi:10.12965/jer.1735034.517
Marshall K. Therapeutic applications of whey protein. Alternative Medicine Review. 2004;9(2):136-156.
Pradhan, Geetali, et al. “Ghrelin: much more than a hunger hormone.” Current opinion in clinical nutrition and metabolic care vol. 16,6 (2013): 619-24. doi:10.1097/MCO.0b013e328365b9be
Volek, Jeff S et al. “Whey protein supplementation during resistance training augments lean body mass.” Journal of the American College of Nutrition vol. 32,2 (2013): 122-35. doi:10.1080/07315724.2013.793580
Everyone is trying to find what exercise works for them as they start looking for ways to improve their health and wellness. Many individuals who begin to work out would go with finding a personal trainer or a gym that helps incorporate muscle strength training and cardio training to improve their heart and lung capacity to make the body feel good while strengthening their muscles. One of the unique forms of exercise that involve both the heart and muscles is dancing. Dancing is a great way to not only improve musculoskeletal and cardiovascular health but can help reduce overlapping conditions that a person is dealing with in their bodies. Today’s article looks at how dancing helps with musculoskeletal health, affects the heart and brain, and how chiropractic care goes hand in hand with dancing. We refer patients to certified providers specializing in musculoskeletal and cardiovascular therapies to help those with heart and muscle issues. We also guide our patients by referring to our associated medical providers based on their examination when it’s appropriate. We find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
Dancing For Musculoskeletal Health
Have you ever noticed people take a cardio class with music playing in the background and see them happy afterward? How do athletes incorporate cardio into their exercise regime to improve their mobility and flexibility? Or how do particular video games make you get up and move around? All these scenarios imply that cardio exercises like dancing may help improve musculoskeletal function. Dancing is one of the many aerobic exercises that can help improve a person’s social skills and is something that can be taken up early while providing many beneficial qualities like:
Increase strength
Improve gait and balance
Reduce functional loss
Reducing the risk of falls
Rehabilitating musculoskeletal injuries
Stabilize core muscles
For the musculoskeletal system, dance would be considered an isometric exercise involving different muscle groups like the hips, shoulders, back, and abdominals without using the joints. When a person is dancing, each of the various movements is related to strengthening the core muscles by working thoroughly with the abdominals. Dance can even help improve posture by maintaining strength and enhancing stability in the body. Studies reveal that dance’s impact on individuals with chronic issues like Parkinson’s disease associated with motor and non-motor symptoms can increase their quality of life. So what does that mean? It means that dancing, even for just one song, can help with movement and foster balance, flexibility, and muscle endurance through repeated tasks while associating with accessible, social, and attractive aspects of a person’s physical abilities.
How Does Dancing Affect The Heart and Brain?
Dancing not only helps with musculoskeletal issues, but it can help improve brain and heart function in the body. Studies reveal that moderate-intensity dancing was inversely associated with a reduced risk for cardiovascular disease mortality. What dancing does to the heart is that it makes the body intake more oxygen to the lungs, which relates to the heart beating faster and circulating the blood to be transported throughout the entire body. But how does dancing correlate to brain health? Let’s look at dance fitness classes, like Zumba, and use it as an example. Studies show that dance fitness classes provide several health benefits that could reduce mood disorders like depression and anxiety while improving cognitive skills. This means that dance fitness classes like Zumba do repetitive movements to the beat of the music that engages the individual to repeat the steps while having fun. When the muscles begin to do repetitive movements, this motor function sends the signal to the brain, making the person remember the movements later, known as muscle memory. When an individual suffers from neurological disorders like dementia or Alzheimers, dancing could potentially be involved with music therapy, allowing the individual to reduce the risk of developing neurological disorders from progressing further.
How Does The Body React To Dancing?-Video
Have you felt terrific after listening to a good song? How about feeling like you just had a workout? Or have you noticed certain areas in your body like your abdominals, legs, and back looked more toned? All these are beneficial signs that you should add dancing to your regime. The video explains what happens to the body when people are dancing. Dancing could potentially be a mediator for many athletes that play sports.
An example would be football and ballet. How do football and ballet relate to each other? Football utilizes efficient and precise movements that benefit every position on the field, while ballet requires speed to make them flawless on stage. Combining the two, many football players will increase their speed and agility associated with ballet to avoid tackles, jump higher, catch passes and avoid injuries on the field. Dancing is an excellent way to get some cardio exercises in, and combined with other treatments can make a difference in a person.
Chiropractic Care & Dancing
Like all athletic individuals, professional dancers utilize various treatments to recover and improve their performance. Treatments like chiropractic care are safe, effective, and widely used by young and professional athletes that want to prevent injuries from progressing. Chiropractic care for professional athletes and the general population can help prevent and treat injuries like back and neck pain or aggravating conditions like sciatica through spinal manipulation. Chiropractic care also helps restore an individual’s original well-being while increasing their strength, flexibility, and mobility. By working with an experienced chiropractor, an individual can regain their stamina by adopting new ways to prevent injuries caused by spinal complications from reoccurring in the body.
Conclusion
Dancing for 30 minutes to an hour can be used as part of an exercise regime and could potentially reduce chronic issues that affect the body’s brain, heart, and muscles. Dancing could also enhance a sports athlete’s performance by increasing their agility, endurance, and performance. Combined with chiropractic care, individuals will begin to see improvements in their range of motion, flexibility, and even an increase in their brain function to dance longer and improve their health and wellness. So whether you are a professional or not, dancing is for everyone.
Reference
Barranco-Ruiz, Yaira, et al. “Dance Fitness Classes Improve the Health-Related Quality of Life in Sedentary Women.” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, MDPI, 26 May 2020, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7312518/.
Ferchak, Dawn. “Belly Dance Your Back Pain Away – Spineuniverse.” Spine Universe, 14 Oct. 2020, https://www.spineuniverse.com/wellness/exercise/belly-dance-back-pain.
Gyrling, Therese, et al. “The Impact of Dance Activities on the Health of Persons with Parkinson’s Disease in Sweden.” International Journal of Qualitative Studies on Health and Well-Being, Taylor & Francis, Dec. 2021, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8547839/.
Merom, Dafna, et al. “Dancing Participation and Cardiovascular Disease Mortality: A Pooled Analysis of 11 Population-Based British Cohorts.” American Journal of Preventive Medicine, U.S. National Library of Medicine, June 2016, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26944521/.
Fatigue Ankylosing Spondylitis: Fatigue is a significant complaint for individuals dealing with ankylosing spondylitis. Ankylosing spondylitis is chronic inflammation of the spine’s joints that can cause them to become fused or locked up. The process can cause the spine to stiffen, limiting movement, reducing flexibility, and generating a severe hunched posture. Symptoms can include back pain, stiffness, and the inability to take a deep breath if the ribs are involved. Fatigue can have a variety of causes, but in ankylosing spondylitis, inflammation and cytokines play a significant role. The underlying cause of ankylosing spondylitis is still being researched, but it currently affects around 300,000 Americans.
Fatigue Ankylosing Spondylitis
Most individuals with ankylosing spondylitis experience pain in the lower back but can also feel pain in their hips and neck, have abdominal pain, or experience problems with vision. Inflammatory back pain is usually strongest in the morning but can also come from inactivity.
Spinal Condition and Extreme Exhaustion
The inability to move along with a decreased spinal range of motion impacts body functionality, sleep quality, and respiratory function affecting energy levels and leading to mild to severe fatigue. Studies have shown that 50% – 85% of individuals with ankylosing spondylitis experience fatigue.
Fatigue is brought on by inflammation, as the body generates the same chemicals when fighting a cold or flu; an individual’s body constantly works to reduce inflammation, leaving them drained and unable to perform ordinary tasks. Inflammatory diseases take a significant toll on the whole body, leading to an increased risk of depression and increased fatigue levels.
Exercise, Massage, and Diet
Many individuals find that their symptoms flare up after long periods of inactivity, like sleeping. This can make wanting to fall and stay asleep complicated, exacerbating fatigue and vice versa, creating a vicious cycle. Even though it can be challenging to move, gentle exercise is recommended. Exercise can help slow the disease progression, build muscle, and improve sleep. It is recommended to speak with a spine specialist, doctor, chiropractor, physical therapist, or exercise trainer about a customized exercise treatment program.
Many individuals with ankylosing spondylitis find therapeutic massage helpful in temporarily relieving pain, and stiffness, reducing stress and improving flexibility from increased blood circulation. A combination of gentle chiropractic massage, exercise, ergonomic adjustments, and rheumatology treatment is recommended for many cases. An anti-inflammatory diet comprised of foods like fatty fish, fruits, nuts, and leafy green vegetables can fight inflammation and decrease fatigue.
AS Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Pathology
References
Cornelson, Stacey M et al. “Chiropractic Care in the Management of Inactive Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Case Series.” Journal of chiropractic medicine vol. 16,4 (2017): 300-307. doi:10.1016/j.jcm.2017.10.002
Li, Ting, et al. “Fatigue in Ankylosing Spondylitis Is Associated With Psychological Factors and Brain Gray Matter.” Frontiers in medicine vol. 6 271. 21 Nov. 2019, doi:10.3389/fmed.2019.00271
Zhang, Jun-Ming, and Jianxiong An. “Cytokines, inflammation, and pain.” International anesthesiology clinics vol. 45,2 (2007): 27-37. doi:10.1097/AIA.0b013e318034194e
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