Summer footwear, although light and comfortable can lead to low back pain. Individuals with low back pain conditions/issues should opt for custom flip-flops or sandals. A few tips on how to choose the right summer footwear and avoid back pain. With the temperature going up we’re all ready to take out the shorts, t-shirts, and flip-flops or sandals. That’s when back pain can flare-up.
There are a variety of things that can generate back pain like improper posture, muscle spasms, and various medical issues. However, everyday shoe choices can also impact the spine and cause back pain. NCBI studies backed by podiatrists have found that unstable shoes, e.g., cheap flip-flops, and sandals can cause low back pain. �
�
�
Improper footwear allows biomechanical abnormalities affecting the feet to be compounded and worsened. This leads to increased pain in the knees, hips, and lower back. Accurately fitted shoes and orthotics are some of the best footwear for lower back pain. While flip-flops and sandals unless they are orthotic based offer little to no support.
�
Summer Footwear Back Pain
Like any type of mechanical system, if there is something wrong in one area, other problem issues begin to arise in other areas. It is the same with the body. If there is an issue with the feet it can affect the knees and hips, rising up to the spine causing back pain.
Summer shoes can worsen any of these underlying issues that often individuals don’t even know they had until they see a doctor for their back pain. This usually begins with the foot type. Those with flat feet tend to force the muscles and tendons in the feet to work more leading to tendinitis.
Arches that have fallen or droppedand remain unsupported can lead to arthritis development in the knees and the wearing down of the medial meniscus. Knees that do not function properly place added stress on the hips and lower back. This can lead to disc degeneration of the intervertebral discs. �
�
Foot Arch Type
Anatomical anomalies like fallen arches/flat feet and high arches can cause back pain differently. Hyperpronation happens in flat feet causing the arches to collapse. This places more pressure on the inside of the legs and knees, which creates more imbalance in the hips and low back. �
�
Hyper supination happens in high-arched feet causing the arches to rise. This places the pressure on the outside of the legs and knees, leading to muscle imbalances on the outside of the legs along with the hips and low back. Wearing unsupportive shoes like flip-flops, sandals, and heels for a long time, can cause back pain or make an existing condition worse. �
�
Either flat feet or high-arched feet left untreated can lead to long-term injuries and extended/over wear and tear of the spine’s vertebrae and intervertebral discs. Summer footwear choices can influence discomfort and back pain.
�
The Right Shoes
Summer footwear that doesn’t generate back pain doesn’t mean that you have to throw out the flip-flops. Look for shoes or flip-flops that are highly durable, sturdy, that don’t bend in the middle, and only at the toes.
For those with flat feet look for sufficient arch support to prevent hyperpronation. Pay attention to the details of the shoes/flip-flops/sandals. For example, added cushion, or ankle support could mean the difference between pain and relief. There are sandals that have ankle straps to keep the feet in place. This prevents the feet from slipping out, provides better stability during walks, and can help prevent tendinitis. �
�
It is better to avoid anything with a heel, especially sandals or flip-flops that have a heel/high lift. These force the individual to shift their center of gravity forwardforcing the arching of the spine when standing. This position definitely contributes to back pain.
�
Customized Footwear
Customized flip-flops or sandals that won�t cause any back pain are available with the help of a podiatrist or a chiropractor that helps and works with podiatrists. 3D-scans can be done to make fully-customized flip-flops that support the arches based on the scan. �
�
Excessive Foot Pronation and Custom Foot Orthotics
�
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
Chronic back pain does not have to ruin the summer season. The best approach is planning ahead remembering a few self-care warm/hot weather tips. The hot weather can worsen pain symptoms. With all the family activities going on, maintaining back pain wellness can be difficult. This is where the planning/preparing for chronic pain comes in.
Individuals should begin thinking around April what they will be doing once the hot months arrive and plan accordingly. However, self-care should be implemented for all seasons. �
�
Water Therapy
Depending on the condition, water can be a friendly sanctuary from the pain with the ability to do some spine exercises. Light stretching can bring relief and keeps the muscles and ligaments stretched. Outside of the pool, a misting fan can create a relaxing atmosphere along with ice packs during summer pain flares. �
�
Avoid high heat
Sunburn or prolonged heat exposure can cause burning nerve pain. The changes in temperature and barometric pressure can trigger joint pain. Plan on doing activities in the morning or after the sun has set. Keep a hand-held fan close-by whenever going out. Wear loose light sun friendly clothing, comfortable shoes, possibly a hat to shield the face and keep an ice-cold water bottle with you. �
�
Proper seating
Summer activities typically include uncomfortable seating, like small chairs, bleachers, and activities where everyone sits on the ground. Plan ahead for these situations and store a comfortable possibly therapeutic folding or travel chair that fits in an automobile. Add a lumbar cushion to support the lower back. �
�
Immune system health
Fruits and vegetables can boost the body’s vitamin and mineral bank. Better quality food will make you feel so much better. Whatever you can get at the market, get it and turn it into a cold healthy smoothie. The USDA found that cherries contain pain-fighting and inflammation-reducing compounds that can help reduce pain, specifically arthritis. �
�
Air quality
Pay attention to the air quality rating during the summer. Studies have shown that air pollution can increase inflammation, specifically for individuals with:
Don�t let summer vacation or road trips get in the way of your chiropractic treatment plan. Check-in before you go and ask for help to navigate the adventure with as little pain as possible. Self-sufficiency can be achieved by planning ahead. Reduce stress and increase your independence.
�
Why Chiropractic Works
�
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
An individual may need to wear a neck brace or cervical collar after cervical spine surgery, or after experiencing a traumatic injury to the neck, from an automobile accident, sports, work, or personal injury. Neck braces are some of the most common spinal braces. A doctor might call these orthoses or orthotics. There are different types of neck braces also called cervical collars, and function for different purposes.
They can be utilized in stabilizing the neck after cervical/neck surgery.
They can provide non-surgical relief after experiencing trauma or injury to the neck
Neck braces or collars are used to limit movement, support the head, and take the load off the neck. This gives the muscles time to rest, recover, and heal properly and thoroughly. �
Soft braces are made to be flexible and are made of a polyurethane foam rubber. They easily wrap around the neck and are secured with Velcro.
Soft collars are usually worn for a minor injury that just needs to be worn for a short time or to transition from wearing a hard brace from a more serious injury or surgery. Soft braces are worn typically at the end or completion of the healing process. The main purpose is to help with the gradual transition to remove the brace.
Hard neck braces look sort of like soft braces. The difference is that they are made of hard polyethylene and are rigid/stiff to really keep the neck from moving. These braces provide support and pain relief for spinal conditions like cervical spondylosis and acute neck pain. �
�
Philadelphia
A Philadelphia brace is made of stiff foam and is made in two pieces that attach with Velcro. The upper portion supports the lower jaw with the lower brace extending down to cover the upper back.
This brace is made to protect more of the neck area than a soft or hard brace. However, it does place a higher restriction on the neck and body’s range of motion. Because of its effectiveness for limiting movement, it is usually prescribed after cervical surgery for a healthy recovery. The Philadelphia neck brace is also used for stabilization of minor cervical fractures and to reduce pain brought on from neck muscle strain. �
�
Sterno-Occipital-Mandibular Immobilization
The Sternooccipital mandibular immobilization brace is a highly rigid braceused to position the neck in straight alignment with the spine. This brace immobilizes the neck completely by preventing the head and neck from moving at all. This allows the injured/damaged structures to heal correctly and quickly. Sterno comes from the sternum. The brace has a front chest plate, and bars that go over the shoulder. �
�
It is secured with straps that attach to the front chest plate. It also has a removable chin piece where the mandibular comes from, which is the lower jawbone. And there is an optional headpiece for added protection and support. Occipital is referring to the occipital bone at the back of the head. This type of brace is used for the treatment of severe neck injury/s or cervical pain caused by a chronic condition, like arthritis. It can also aid in recovery after cervical spine surgery.
�
Halo
The halo brace is the most rigid of the neck braces. It completely immobilizes the head and neck from moving. Sometimes it is necessary to immobilize the spine after a major neck procedure or for stabilizing fractures in the neck or middle back area. Halo bracing is considered a form of spinal traction. Traction pulls the spine in 2 different directions.
The tension reduces the abnormal curvature associated with spinal conditions, like scoliosis. A halo brace has a metal ring secured to the head using pins. The ring is connected to bars that are attached to a properly weighted vest. The weight of a halo brace is different depending on the individual wearing it. A halo brace is worn at all times until completely healed and recovered. �
�
Effectiveness
Neck braces are the most effective when they are used as directed by a doctor, chiropractor, or spine specialist. Working with an orthotist, or a specialist that designs and custom fits spinal braces can be extremely beneficial. Any questions about how to wear and care for a spinal brace should be brought up with a doctor or orthotist. They will help ensure a full understanding of how to get the most benefit from the treatment.
�
Neck Pain Chiropractic Treatment
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
Spinal meningitis does not just affect the brain. Most think of meningitis as a brain disease, but it can also affect the spine. We will discuss learning how to recognize it and find the right treatment to fix it within the spinal cord. Spinal meningitis can be a potentially deadly infection of the meninges. This is the protective tissue that covers the brain and spinal cord.
It can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi that are transmitted from person to person by sneezing, talking, and sharing food.Viruses and pathogens that cause other infections, like the mumps and measles, can also cause meningitis. The lining around the brain and the spine are connected, which means that infection can travel from one area to another, or remain in the brain or the spine.
�
The Meninges
Meninges are the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. They are made up of three layers:
Dura mater is the thick and tough outer layer
Arachnoid mater is the middle layer made up of strands of connective tissue
Pia mater is the inner layer of cells
Spinal meningitis can develop when a virus, bacteria, or pathogen invade the meninges layers. This causes the immune system to react trying to remove the invading bacteria etc, which causes inflammation. These organisms usually take up residence in the nose and throat and never cause problems. Most individuals that come into contact with these viruses never get sick.
The reason for this is because the body produces fighting antibodies before the pathogens can invade the meninges. Others, possibly from age or underlying conditions, where they are not able to produce enough or any antibodies, makes them vulnerable to the illness. When the brain and spine’s tissue/s get infected with any one of these pathogens, the tissue swells, which constricts proper blood flow to the brain.
Types of Spinal Meningitis
The most common types of spinal meningitis in the United States include:
Viral meningitis
Viral meningitis is caused by enteroviruses, which are common viruses that enter the body through the mouth and travel to the brain and tissues where multiplication ensues. There are other viruses that can also cause meningitis. These include:
Viruses that cause mumps
Herpesviruses – like Epstein-Barr, measles, influenza, West Nile
Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus from rodents
Any of these viruses can spread to the meninges, causing spinal meningitis to develop. This is a less severe type than bacterial meningitis.
Bacterial meningitis
This is the type where dangerous bacteria invade the meninges. Individuals are at higher risk as this type can be fatal if not treated. Common types of bacterial meningitis include:
Haemophilus influenzae – can cause severe infection/s of the lining of the brain, spinal cord, and the blood.
Pneumococcal meningitis – is caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumonia and is the most common form of bacterial meningitis.
Meningococcal meningitis – also known as meningococcal disease, is a less common type. This type is caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitides. Around 2,600 people in the U.S. are affected yearly.
�
Symptoms
Viral or bacterial spinal meningitis can cause a range of symptoms, including:
Neck and back stiffness
Muscle weakness
Headache
Drowsiness
Fatigue
Fever
Double vision
Sensitivity to light
Nausea
Vomiting
Hearing difficulty
Confusion
Seizures
Rash
Symptoms are often far more pronounced with the bacterial form. This is because it�s associated with more inflammation, compared to the viral type.
Complications
Depending on the type whether viral or bacterial the results can be serious, leading to:
Permanent brain damage
Permanent organ damage
Stroke
Loss of hearing
Loss of limbs
Death
Anyone who experiences symptoms of meningitis should see a doctor immediately for diagnosis and treatment options.
�
Risk for Spinal Meningitis
Getting spinal meningitis depends on various factors like:
Age
Immune system status
If the individual lives in a group environment
Children younger than five
Individuals with weakened immune systems from taking medication/s for other conditions
Recent organ/bone marrow transplants
Babies younger than 1-month-old along with weakened immune systems are more likely to experience severe illness
These are factors that could increase the risk of viral meningitis. Fortunately, most cases are not serious and in children’s cases, most recover in one to two weeks. Meningitis can also occur very rarely after spine surgery where the lining around the dura is torn with an infection happening at the same time.
Diagnosis
Detecting spinal meningitis a doctor will utilize:
Blood tests
Imaging tests
Spinal tap to test the cerebrospinal fluid which surrounds the brain and spinal cord.
The fluid is collected and sent to a lab, where it is analyzed for bacteria or viruses.
Treatment
Antiviral medication can help with certain types of viral meningitis with other meds for treating meningitis symptoms. Doctors recommend bed rest, proper fluids, and medication for fever relief and headache relief. This is for viral meningitis.
Antibiotic medications can treat bacterial spinal meningitis. It is commonly treated with intravenous antibiotics in a hospital setting. Unfortunately, around ten percent of children with bacterial meningitis die from it yearly. Even with immediate antibiotic treatment a child’s body can become overwhelmed by the bacteria/organism. The Meningococcus bacteria can create a toxin that invades the blood. This can be fatal for a child or adolescent within hours. This is why it�s highly recommended to prevent bacterial meningitis than to treat it once it’s active.
Contagious
Proper hygiene like hand washing, not sharing food, beverages, utensils, or body care products like lip salve/balm can help stop the spread of bacterial and viral meningitis.
Neck Pain Chiropractic Care
�
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
Alexander Jimenez grew up knowing he was going to be a chiropractic doctor. As a child, Dr. Jimenez’s grandmother (Rebecca Tinoco of Bogota, Columbia)� experienced pain symptoms and would ask little Alex to massage the painful areas. His grandmother found relief and Dr. Jimenez began to think about how he could help others experiencing pain. �
�
It was through this care that Dr. Jimenz realized being a health care chiropractic practitioner was the best way to help people. Like his grandfather, many others have experienced profound results thanks to chiropractic treatment. Dr. Jimenez knew that he wanted to be able to treat patients naturally. He would learn and develop the skills required to practice as a chiropractic physician. He enrolled in a university chiropractic program, graduated, has put in almost 30 years of work, and the rest is history. What to know about chiropractic physicians.
�
A Chiropractic Physician*
A Doctor of Chiropractic also known as a D.C. is far more than a back doctor. Chiropractors study the same sciences as doctors of medicine or MDs. They are trained in the latest techniques and approaches, diagnostic tools, and developing effective treatment plans to manage various health conditions. However, chiropractic physicians specialize in non-invasive/non-surgical/non-pharmacological health care protocols and focus on whole-body health and natural healing. Wide range of factors that can impact an individual�s health like:
Biomechanical dysfunction
Diet
Genetics
Trauma
Hygiene
Emotions
Environment – Home/work
Infection/s
Lack of exercise
Posture
Stress levels
Based on these factors a chiropractor is able to determine the most effective, beneficial natural treatment plan.
�
Work
Chiropractic physicians encourage individuals to look at natural, medication/surgery-free approaches to improve health, reduce, and alleviate painful symptoms. They are often called upon for preventive and rehabilitative health care. �
� Chiropractic treatment is responsible for thousands of back surgeries being avoided, as well as injuries being prevented with conservative care. Chiropractors perform manual, and tool-assisted adjustments of the spine and the body’s other joints. Depending on their training, they could practice:
Acupuncture
Functional medicine
Nutritional medicine
Physical rehabilitation
Provide supplements like vitamins and natural botanicals
Chiropractors utilize diagnostic tests like X-rays, ultrasound, and check blood pressure. They can order and interpret blood samples, urine samples, and other medical lab tests. Chiropractic physicians are able to:
Practice as primary-care physicians in most states
Doctors of chiropractic are able to treat individuals of all ages, and a variety of health conditions. Most know about chiropractors and their expertise in treating back pain, neck pain, and headaches. However, chiropractors can also treat many types of injuries and disorders involving the musculoskeletal system. They can:
Release tight muscles
Stretch out ligaments
Return joint mobility
Relieve overuse/repetitive injuries
Ease migraines
Rehabilitate/Prevent sports injuries
Treat automobile accident injuries
Reduce/Alleviate arthritis
The Most Effective Chiropractor
�
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
NOTICE: The Texas Board of Chiropractic and The Texas Supreme Court defines a Chiropractor as a Doctor. New Mexico State Bylaws and New Mexico Chiropractic State Board define a Chiropractor as a Chiropractic Physician*.
Both are the same however the bylaws require legal and literal defining.�
IFM's Find A Practitioner tool is the largest referral network in Functional Medicine, created to help patients locate Functional Medicine practitioners anywhere in the world. IFM Certified Practitioners are listed first in the search results, given their extensive education in Functional Medicine
