Stomach pain, burning, or aching 1-4 hours after eating?
If you are experiencing any of these situations, then you might be experiencing low glycine levels in your body.
Glycine
Glycine is a vital amino acid that is beneficial to the body. It helps support the gastrointestinal system, the neurological system, the musculoskeletal system, and the body�s metabolism from harmful factors that can cause the human body to malfunction. Glycine is even a neurotransmitter and can help increase glutathione in the brain by providing anti-inflammatory effects. Glycine provides a sweet taste when it is consumed in the body. Even though glycine has a crucial role in the human body, the amino acid has received little to no attention until recently.
The fantastic thing about glycine is that it is a “non-essential” amino acid. What this means is that the body can make glycine by itself and distribute it to the necessary systems that need glycine. This is different from the “essential” amino acids since some nutrients and vitamins must come from the food diet themselves. When there is a mild deficiency of glycine, it is not harmful to the body; however, when there is a severe shortage of glycine, it can lead to immune response failure, slow body growth, and abnormal nutrient metabolism.
Glycine for The Brain
Since glycine is a neurotransmitter for the brain, it composes both excitatory and inhibitory capacities. For the excitatory capacity function, glycine serves as the antagonist for NMDA receptors for the brain. For inhibitory capacities, glycine helps increase the neurotransmitter serotonin. Studies show that serotonin is the ancestor of melatonin. When the levels are increased due to glycine supplements, the beneficial factors it causes can help reduce insomnia and provide better sleep quality.
Glycine on Sleep
Despite being a massive impact on serotonin, glycine has been known to be used as a therapeutic option for individuals to improve their sleep quality as a novel and safe approach.� Studies show that glycine can increase the blood flow to extremities by reducing the body�s core temperature, which is an important signal to initiate sleep. When this happens, glycine can increase a person�s time when they are in REM sleep, providing the person to have a good night’s sleep. Further research shows that glycine can inhibit the stimulatory orexin neurons that are responsible for arousal and energy homeostasis, which is critical and can induce non-REM sleep or even night waking.
Glycine�s Cognitive Effects
There are many beneficial cognitive effects that glycine has to offer. Research shows that the beneficial effect of glycine can help improve episodic memory in young and middle-aged adults. This can be beneficial for patients who have schizophrenia, Parkinson’s disease, and Huntington’s disease. Additional research also shows that patients who have Alzheimer’s disease use glycine as energy production for their brains.
Glycine Osteoprotective Effects
There is even more information on glycine supplementation, providing estrogen-like osteoprotective effects for menopausal women. The research shows that glycine helps decreased weight gain and providing an increase in vaginal weight gain caused by ovariectomy. Many healthcare providers recommend their female patients that have menopause to use glycine in their diet.
More Glycine Effects
Since glycine is a non-essential amino acid and a neurotransmitter for the central nervous system, this supplement can help supple muscle, bone, and connective tissue with collagen. Glycine has a small R group, which forms a triple helix structure that makes up of tropocollagen. In the body, 33% of all collagen is composed of glycine. Collagen levels in the body can decrease naturally due to anyone getting old. When this happens, inflammatory symptoms like arthritis occur. Researchers hypothesize that supplemental doses of glycine can strengthen joints and prevent reactive arthritis by blunting cytokine release by increasing chloride influx in the body.
Glycine is one of the three amino acids that can help aid the production of glutathione for the human body. Since this amino acid is a scavenger antioxidant, it will oppose proinflammatory signals from hydrogen peroxide. Studies show that glycine supplementation plays a vital role in balancing the redox reactions caused by metabolic syndrome in the human body and protecting patients from oxidative damage. There is even more research as a study stated that glycine has a vital role in the metabolism and nutrition of mammals and humans. Since glycine protects from inflammation and has fantastic health benefits for the body, when there are decreased levels of glycine in the body, it can be linked to metabolism-related disorders like type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease.
Glycine provides cytoprotective effects on the liver and gastrointestinal tract by conjugating bile acids. This is crucial because glycine plays a role in helping lipids to be digested and lipid-soluble vitamins to be absorbed in the body. In alcohol-induced hyperlipidemia, studies have shown that glycine can reduce alcohol levels in the bloodstream while also retaining the membrane integrity by reducing lipid levels. Glycine can even protect the stomach and intestines from damages caused by gastrointestinal disorders. Since glycine can maintain enterocyte integrity and prevent apoptosis, its anti-inflammatory effects can fight oxidative stress. They can provide the requirements to the intestines and the gut in the body.
Conclusion
Glycine is a vital amino acid that provides anti-inflammatory properties for not only the body’s metabolism but also helps the gastrointestinal system. With more and upcoming research about glycine, it is essential for this amino acid to continue to provide outstanding effects to the human body and to make sure that it functions properly. When harmful factors start entering the body, or there is a glycine deficiency, it can cause the body to malfunction. So incorporating glycine-rich foods in the daily diet can help alleviate the symptoms gradually. Some products are beneficial for the body since they help support the immune system and make sure the body is functioning.
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, and nervous health issues or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health protocols to treat injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. 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. To further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.
References:
Bannai, Makoto, et al. �Oral Administration of Glycine Increases Extracellular Serotonin but Not Dopamine in the Prefrontal Cortex of Rats.� Wiley Online Library, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd (10.1111), 17 Mar. 2011, onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1440-1819.2010.02181.x.
D�az-Flores, Margarita, et al. �Oral Supplementation with Glycine Reduces Oxidative Stress in Patients with Metabolic Syndrome, Improving Their Systolic Blood Pressure.� Canadian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Oct. 2013, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24144057.
File, S E, et al. �Beneficial Effects of Glycine (Bioglycin) on Memory and Attention in Young and Middle-Aged Adults.� Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Dec. 1999, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10587285.
Griffin, Jeddidiah WD, and Patrick C Bradshaw. “Amino Acid Catabolism in Alzheimer’s Disease Brain: Friend or Foe?” Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, Hindawi Publishing Corporation, 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5316456/.
Kawai, Nobuhiro, et al. �The Sleep-Promoting and Hypothermic Effects of Glycine Are Mediated by NMDA Receptors in the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus.� Neuropsychopharmacology: Official Publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology, Nature Publishing Group, May 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4397399/.
Kim, Min-Ho, et al. “Estrogen-like Osteoprotective Effects of Glycine in Vitro and in Vivo Models of Menopause.” Amino Acids, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Mar. 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26563333.
Li, X et al. “Dietary Glycine Prevents Peptidoglycan Polysaccharide-Induced Reactive Arthritis in the Rat: Role for Glycine-Gated Chloride Channel.” Infection and Immunity, American Society for Microbiology, Sept. 2001, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC98707/.
McCarty, Mark F, et al. �Dietary Glycine Is Rate-Limiting for Glutathione Synthesis and May Have Broad Potential for Health Protection.� The Ochsner Journal, The Academic Division of Ochsner Clinic Foundation, 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5855430/.
Razak, Meerza Abdul, et al. �Multifarious Beneficial Effect of Nonessential Amino Acid, Glycine: A Review.� Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, Hindawi, 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5350494/.
Ross, Krista Anderson. �Glycine: Another Tool for the Hormone and Sleep Balancing Kit.� Doctor’s Data Specialty Testing Clinical Laboratory, 3 Dec. 2019, www.doctorsdata.com/resources/uploads/newsletters/Glycine’s-Role-in-Sleep-and-Hormone-Balancing.html.
Q: Dr. Jimenez, I have a question about degenerative disc disease, and that is can it cause nerve pain in the feet? El Paso, TX.
A: Yes in certain cases, degenerative disc disease (DDD) can cause nerve problems with the feet.
Degenerative disc disease, specifically of the lower spine, can cause nerve pain to radiate and spread into the feet from the spine.
Degenerative disc disease
Is a spine condition that’s caused by everyday wear and tear of the spine can lead to significant loss of disc height.
A disc can also herniate and push on the nerves that flow into the feet, and cause:
Pain
Tingling
Numbness
The wear and tear of the spine combined with a herniated disc can pinch the nerves that go to the feet.
There is a condition known as foraminal spinal stenosis when the spinal foramen or the small opening between the bones of the spine begins to narrow and tighten so the nerves get compressed and do not allow signals and chemicals to flow properly.
This could explain the pain or other symptoms in the foot.
DDD can cause nerve problems in the feet, back and chronic back pain is the most common symptom of degenerative disc disease.
Common degenerative disc disease symptoms
The pain increases when:
Sit down for a long time
Bending
Lifting
Twisting
The pain decreases with:
Walking
Running
Lying down
Continually changing body positions
It’s important to remember that nerve issues with the feet are not always caused by spinal conditions, this could include
Depending on how severe the nerve problem is, there are a number of treatment options. These range from:
Chiropractic care
Physical therapy
Over-the-counter medication
Talk to a doctor or a chiropractor about the right treatment option for foot nerve pain. Whether it is caused by degenerative disc disease or some other condition.
These can help maintain a healthy weight, as being overweight puts extra pressure on the spine that leads to increased back pain. Consult with a registered dietitian or health coach to discuss the best foods for your diet.
Exercise
A training regimen that incorporates aerobic, strength and flexibility exercises that can help manage degenerative disc symptoms.
A personal trainer or sports chiropractor that has experience rehabilitating patients with spine conditions. They can teach exercises that can help relieve pain and other symptoms.
They can develop a custom physical therapy program
Regular chiropractic and physical therapy can help restore proper body mechanics, proper posture, as well as, avoiding positions that cause pain.
Surgery
Surgery is considered a last resort or if the condition is progressing and getting worse. If surgery is needed, your doctor will discuss the best treatment option for your condition.
Difference Foot Orthotics Make to *REDUCE FOOT PAIN* & Correct Posture | El Paso, TX.
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Chiropractic focuses on restoring and maintaining overall health and wellness. Through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, a chiropractor can re-align the spine, and improve a patient�s strength, mobility, and flexibility.
Do digestive problems subside with rest or relaxation?
Stomach pains, burning, or aching 1-4 hours after eating?
Redden skin?
Nausea or vomiting?
If you are experiencing any of these situations, then you might be experiencing some digestive stress. Try some chamomile to reduce that stress and anxious mind.
Chamomile and its products are well-known for encouraging a healthy state of mind and for enhancing amazing sleep quality for anyone who takes this herb. This white and yellow blossom, however, has several impressive health benefits that are beneficial with anyone that’s feeling anxious in their daily, hectic lives and can provide other benefits for the body that has some ailments.
What is Chamomile?
Chamomile is an ancient medicinal plant by the Asteraceae family and is frequently known as the “earth apple on the ground” due to the apple-like fragrance it produces. Its blossoms have unique properties that could boost a person�s wellbeing and supplying beneficial nutrients that are remarkable for the body to relax and feel calm. This plant has existed for centuries and is native to eastern and southern Europe. Tons of research have shown that chamomile has been used in herbal remedies in ancient times during the Roman era, Greek era and Egypt era. The plant contains a thin spindle-shaped stem that produces tiny flower blossoms that resemble a daisy.
Chamomile Benefits
The chemicals of chamomile can serve as antioxidants in the human body and can prevent flare-ups from occurring. Because of this, when an individual is consuming chamomile goods; the health properties might help prevent the common cold, intestinal disorders from the gut, inflammation and many more body ailments that can affect the human body from functioning properly. There are two varieties of chamomile that have amazing properties that have been used for natural remedies are the German chamomile and the Roman chamomile.
German Chamomile: This type of chamomile is popular around the world and native to southern and eastern Europe. Studies have shown that people would take chamomile by the mouth to relieve ailments caused by environmental factors. There are some people that will even apply chamomile on their skin as an ointment. There is some scientific evidence that using German chamomile as an oral rinse could be helpful for cancer patients that have mucositis, which is inflammation and ulceration of the mucosal membrane lining in the digestive tract caused from chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
Roman Chamomile: This type of chamomile provides the same benefits as German Chamomile as it relieves the same ailments that environmental factors caused but also provides a bit more help to the body. Roman chamomile has hypnotic properties that help a person relax and falls asleep faster. There have been studies that this herb offered hypnotic effects to animals and when consumed, it decreased the amount of time for them to fall asleep.
The benefits that the chamomile plant provides are that it promotes the body to relax and other benefits that are essential to the body. When it is used as an essential oil for aromatherapy, the patient can feel less anxious when they breathe in the vapors and finally let their anxious mind relax.
Reducing Pain
The anti-inflammatory effect that both the essential oil and the chamomile flower itself can aid the body by reducing the pain that it has encountered. Since the chamomile plant has been used for hundreds, people have been using this plant to help reduce pain from inflammatory-related symptoms in the body they might be experiencing.
Studies have shown that people who consume herbal tea for their joint inflammation have shown an improvement especially in the knees and lower back. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that this herbal tea produces polyphenols that affect systemic inflammation and joint function in the body. Another study shows that patients with knee osteoarthritis used chamomile oil to decrease the stiffness in their joints and provide some beneficial effects on their physical function.
Heals and Promotes Skin Health
For anyone that has eczema and uses topical creams to reduce the redness, they might want to try using chamomile essential oil. The benefits of using chamomile essential oil are that it can help reduce irritated skin. A person can mix the chamomile essential oil with a carrier oil or lotion and apply it to their skin as the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties can calm down the red, dry, irritated skin while also decreasing breakouts from happening.
In some instances, there have been statements that chamomile is more effected than hydrocortisone lotion for skin lesions. Researchers found in a 2010 study, that German chamomile oil has been used to alleviate atopic dermatitis, which is a chronic skin disorder, by containing three major sesquiterpene constituents (azulene, bisabolol, and farnesene) by healing the skin gradually.
Improving Digestion
Another widespread use for chamomile, especially when it is brewed in a tea, is reducing unwanted symptoms that are associated with poor digestion in the digestive system. With chamomile tea, it can soothe an upset stomach, cramping, flatulence, and diarrhea. The therapeutic compounds that are found in chamomile can act as a digestive relaxant.
Improves Sleep and Relaxation
When it is brewed into a tea, chamomile can promote a person�s frame in mind and can enhance their sleep quality to provide them the necessary 8 hours of sleep. Research shows that individuals who drink chamomile tea before going to bed, have a better night’s sleep and relaxing a bit more. Apigenin provides a stimulant effect from chamomile tea and is bind with the benzodiazepine receptors in the brain, providing benefits that can help reduce stress from the body while also promoting a good night�s sleep.
In a 2017 study, the research shows that adults over the age of 60, consumed chamomile tea before they go to bed. The results showed that their sleep quality improved by reducing sleep complications like sleep apnea and the consumption of using sleep medication while improving their moods drastically over time.
Boosting Mental Wellness
Using chamomile products can benefit a person�s wellness. Since chamomile has beneficial properties to make the body relax, it can also help reduce the sensation of depression and anxiety in a person when it is consumed. Studies have stated that long-term chamomile intake is safe and may considerably reduce the effects of moderate to severe GAD symptoms in the body. Even using the oil for aromatherapy can be considered as an alternative for treatments for patients.
Conclusion
Thus chamomile is an effective and secured plant that has been used by individuals who have been experiencing a number of symptoms. Since chamomile is excellent for reducing pain, have better skin, improve mental health and provide many beneficial factors. When it is used in aromatherapy or consumed into the body, chamomile is a natural cure for a nervous mind. Some products combined with chamomile are designed to offer support to the gastrointestinal tract and make sure that sugar metabolism is functioning properly.
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, and nervous health issues or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health protocols to treat injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. 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. To further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.
References:
Abdullahzadeh, Mehrdad, et al. �Investigation Effect of Oral Chamomilla on Sleep Quality in Elderly People in Isfahan: A Randomized Control Trial.� Journal of Education and Health Promotion, Medknow Publications & Media Pvt Ltd, 5 June 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28616420.
Charousaei, Firuzeh, et al. �Using Chamomile Solution or a 1% Topical Hydrocortisone Ointment in the Management of Peristomal Skin Lesions in Colostomy Patients: Results of a Controlled Clinical Study.� Ostomy/Wound Management, U.S. National Library of Medicine, May 2011, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21617262.
Christiansen, Sherry. �The Health Benefits of Roman Chamomile.� Verywell Health, Verywell Health, 14 Jan. 2019, www.verywellhealth.com/roman-chamomile-4571307.
Drummond, Elaine M, et al. �An in Vivo Study Examining the Antiinflammatory Effects of Chamomile, Meadowsweet, and Willow Bark in a Novel Functional Beverage.� Journal of Dietary Supplements, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Dec. 2013, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24237191.
Health Team, eMedicine. �German Chamomile:Uses, Side Effects, Dosage, Interactions & Health Benefits.� EMedicineHealth, EMedicineHealth, 17 Sept. 2019, www.emedicinehealth.com/german_chamomile/vitamins-supplements.htm.
Mao, Jun J, et al. �Long-Term Chamomile (Matricaria Chamomilla L.) Treatment for Generalized Anxiety Disorder: A Randomized Clinical Trial.� Phytomedicine : International Journal of Phytotherapy and Phytopharmacology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 15 Dec. 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27912875.
Shoara, Ruhollah, et al. �Efficacy and Safety of Topical Matricaria Chamomilla L. (Chamomile) Oil for Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized�Controlled Clinical Trial.� Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Aug. 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26256137.
Singh, Ompal, et al. �Chamomile (Matricaria Chamomilla L.): An Overview.� Pharmacognosy Reviews, Medknow Publications Pvt Ltd, Jan. 2011, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3210003/.
Srivastava, Janmejai K, et al. �Chamomile: A Herbal Medicine of the Past with Bright Future.� Molecular Medicine Reports, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 1 Nov. 2010, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2995283/.
Being pregnant is one of life’s many joys, however, with the added weight comes normal back pain that can lead to severe back pain that can lead to sciatica.
Expecting mothers have much to look forward to but when back pain and sciatica take hold, it can be exhausting, frustrating, and extremely painful. Women experiencing pregnancyback pain varies from woman to woman. To help prevent and alleviate back pain/sciatica, here are some answers as to how and why symptoms develop and what to do to make the pregnancy a joyful occasion.
Pregnancy Back Pain and Sciatica
Changes to the body throughout pregnancy affect more than its physical appearance.
The most common change is weight gain. Increased body weight, especially when bending puts pressure on the spinal discs. The most pressure is placed on the low back. Back, leg pain, and sciatica are common complaints.
Weight gain can cause piriformis syndrome and sciatica. The piriformis muscles help with thigh movement. Piriformis syndrome can develop if the muscle compresses the sciatic nerve, which causes a pinching or electrical shock feeling in the buttocks and back of the leg.
What some might not know is that as the uterus grows, the body’s center of gravity gets thrown off. What happens is the uterus expands inside the pelvis, and the spinal nerves in the low back that flow into the sciatic nerve gets compressed and irritated.
Hormones like relaxin, which is a hormone that relaxes the pelvic ligaments and helps prepare the mother’s body for birth. Relaxin loosens the ligaments in the other areas of the body, but primarily the joints in the pelvis, low back, and knees. When exercising or lifting objects it is easy to strain these relaxed areas. Therefore, move slowly, and avoid any sudden movements.
What Steps To Take
Work with a:
Doctor
Chiropractor
Midwife
Health care provider to keep body weight in check
Take note of posture:
Stand up straight
Shoulders back
Avoid leaning backward
Try a pillow:
A standard-sized pillow
Body pillow to help make sleeping comfortable
A pillow can be positioned between the knees and under the abdomen for support.
Prenatal yoga helps:
Stretch and tone muscles
Maintain flexibility
Improve balance and circulation
Relieves tension
Deep breathing plays a major role in yoga and is an added benefit as it can help expecting mothers relax during labor.
Simple cardiovascular exercises like walking or swimming can help keep weight under control and the body in shape. Ask a doctor or chiropractor if these types of exercises are right for you.
Prenatal massage is another option to help relieve pain and tension.
This type of massage eases:
Anxiety by stabilizing hormone levels
Back pain
Pelvic pain
Hip pain
Improves circulation and digestion
Helps reduce fatigue
A warm shower or bath can helps ease back pain.
Expectant mothers should avoid aromatic oils or aromatherapy candles like:
Basil
Juniper
Peppermint
Rosemary
Star anise
Some of these oils can cause contractions.
Acupuncture is another form of alternative therapy that can treat back pain and sciatica. Sterile, millimeter thin disposable needles are inserted into points on the body that are known as energy channels. The needles help to restore the balance of energy in the body. However, expectant mothers need to be past six months to receive this type of treatment as the energy flow can cause contractions.
Ergonomics At Work & Home
Expectant mothers should avoid:
Awkward postures
Over-exercising
Heavy lifting
Repetitive work
Especially during the third trimester.
The low back and leg muscles have to work harder to keep the body balanced. Just basic standing or walking can be a challenge. Swelling is common. Make sure to take constant breaks and full-body rest combined with elevating the feet can be very helpful.
Adding an ergonomic and adjustable chair with a lumbar support backrest and footrest is worth the investment. A chair like this can helps take the pressure off of the spine and working at a desk much more comfortable. It benefits to frequently stand and sit continually changing the body’s posture and working the various muscles, joints, and ligaments to keep the body loose. And it can be a form of exercise.
Light walking also helps to reduce any swelling through increased circulation.
Hopefully, you will not have to go through any kind of back pain or sciatica. But if pregnancy back pain and sciatica start to creep in, talk to your doctor, chiropractor, midwife, or health care professional first.
When your body is truly healthy, you will arrive at your optimal fitness level proper physiological fitness state. We want to help you live a new and improved lifestyle. Over the last two decades, while researching and testing methods with thousands of patients, we have learned what works effectively at decreasing pain while increasing human vitality.
We focus on what works for you. We also strive to create fitness and better the body through researched methods and total wellness programs. These programs are natural and use the body’s own ability to achieve goals of improvement.
Back Pain During Pregnancy Treatment El Paso, TX Chiropractor
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Keeping the body, including the spine, in proper alignment is vital to mobility, flexibility, and overall wellness of the body even when it is not pregnant. However, pregnancy puts specific stress on the body, creating certain needs that chiropractic care can meet. It is safe, it is effective, it is fast, and it works.
Neck pain caused by a whiplash injury definitely warrants a visit to a chiropractic whiplash specialist that can provide non-surgical treatment and pain relief.
Whiplash is an injury to the neck muscles from a rapid forward and backward motion of the neck caused by trauma from a car accident, sports injury, slip and fall accident or even just turning one’s head but doing it with a fast whipping motion that causes the neck/spine muscles to become swollen and irritated. It can cause acute short-term neck pain and restricted movement.
How a Whiplash Injury Is Diagnosed
A chiropractor evaluates the spine in its entirety. If you go to a chiropractic clinic with neck pain following trauma. The chiropractor will examine the whole spine because the other areas of the spine could be affected and not just the neck region.
The chiropractor locates the areas where motion is restricted if there are any disc injuries, muscle spasms, and ligament injuries. They will first apply motion and staticpalpation diagnostic techniques where they feel and touch the various areas where the pain is present, as well as where there is no pain. A chiropractor will also feel for:
Tenderness
Tightness
How well the spinal joints move
They will also analyze the patient’s walk noting their posture and if there is possible spinal misalignment. This will help the chiropractor understand the patient’s body’s mechanics and what their spine is doing to compensate for the injury. This can mean:
Leaning to one side
Getting up in a very careful way so as to avoid pain
Hunching over
Only turning in one direction
In addition to the evaluation, they will also order an x-ray or an MRI to evaluate any deteriorating changes that could have existed before the whiplash injury. The images and physical and neurological evaluation resultsare compared to figure out and develop the best treatment plan.
Whiplash Treatment Stages
After a whiplash injury happens a chiropractor works to reduce neck inflammation with various therapies like:
Massage
Ultrasound
Light stretching
Soft manual therapy techniques
They may also recommend applying an ice pack on the neck and light neck support for a short time. As the inflammation and pain decrease the chiropractor will begin applying gentle spinal manipulation along with other techniques to restore the normal motion to the neck’s facet joints.
Chiropractic Whiplash Injury Treatment
A treatment plan depends on the severity of the whiplash injury. Some manipulation techniques used are:
Flexion-distraction technique
This is a gentle non-thrusting type of spinal manipulation that helps treat herniated discs. A whiplash injury can cause an aggravated bulging or herniated disc. If this happens a chiropractor uses a slow palm pump action on the disc rather than direct thrusting force.
Instrument-assisted manipulation
This technique also non-thrusting utilizes a hand-held instrument. A chiropractor generates force without thrusting directly into the spine. This therapy is great for older patients who may have degenerative joint syndrome.
Specific spinal manipulation
Spinal joints that are restricted or have abnormal motion are identified. Then the chiropractor restores motion to the joint with a gentle thrust. This stretches the soft tissue and stimulates the nervous system to bring back normal motion.
Along with these spinal therapies/techniques, a chiropractor also uses manual therapy to treat the soft tissues like the ligaments and muscles. Some examples of manual techniques are:
Instrument-assisted soft tissue therapy is where a chiropractor uses an instrument/s like the Graston technique, that gently treats any injured soft tissues. They will gently apply the instrument along the injured area with repeated strokes.
Manual joint stretching and resistance therapy is a form of manual therapy that uses the muscle’s own energy to create isometric contractions that help relax the muscles, and help lengthen the muscles.
Therapeutic massage is where a chiropractor or physical therapist performs massage to ease and relax muscle tension in the neck.
Trigger point therapy identifies specific tight painful points/areas of muscle by applying direct pressure with the hands or fingers on these points to alleviate the muscle tension.
Interferential electrical stimulation This technique uses low-frequency electrical current to stimulate the muscles and reduce inflammation.
Ultrasound increases blood circulation and helps reduce muscle spasms, stiffness, and pain. This happens by sending sound waves deep into the muscle’s tissue which generates low heat and increases circulation.
Therapeutic exercises to restore normal spinal motion and reduce whiplash symptoms.
Chiropractic medicine looks at the whole person and not just the symptoms. Neck pain is different for everyone, so chiropractors don�t just focus on the pain because the whiplash injury could have affected other areas that the patient doesn’t feel pain or anything.
But as the spine is a complex structure that works as a unit, a problem in one area can slowly or quickly start to create problems in other areas of the spine much like falling dominoes.
With these techniques, a chiropractor will help increase a patient’s daily activities back to normal as quickly as they can, depending on the severity of the injury. They will work as hard as they can to address any added spinal or nerve-related causes/injuries stemming from the original whiplash injury and treat them as well until normal movement is restored and there is no longer pain.
Remember that prevention is the key to optimal long-term health!
Our team has taken great pride in bringing our families and injured patients only clinically proved treatment protocols. �By teaching complete holistic wellness as a lifestyle, we also change not only our patient�s lives but their families as well.� We do this so that we may reach as many El Pasoans who need us, no matter the affordability issues.
El Paso, TX Chiropractic Neck Pain Treatment
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Often,�people with whiplash don�t experience any effects until a day, or even two, after. The key is to stay ahead of the pain and take measures sooner rather than later to relieve it and keep it at bay. It also provides documentation should other issues arise, and you need the information for legal purposes.
If you are in an accident, especially if you get rear-ended, and experience whiplash, see a doctor that day ��even if you don�t feel much pain. The sooner you visit a chiropractic clinic, the sooner you can begin treatment should a problem develop.
Do you feel irritable, nervous, shaky, or light-headed between meals? Do you have difficulty eating large meals in the morning? Do you feel fatigued after meals? Do you have sugar and sweet cravings after meals? Do you have an increased appetite?�If so, you may be experiencing early SIBO symptoms. �
SIBO, or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, is a severe health issue that ultimately affects the small intestine in the digestive system. This gastrointestinal (GI) tract condition happens when the bacteria that generally grows in several different regions of the gut begin to grow in the small intestine. SIBO can commonly cause pain, discomfort, and diarrhea, among other symptoms. It can also cause malnutrition as bacteria utilize the human body�s nutrients.�
What are the Symptoms of SIBO?
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, or SIBO, is a serious condition that includes symptoms which can commonly affect the gut. These can include: �
pain or discomfort in the stomach
gas
bloating
constipation
diarrhea
cramps
indigestion
a general feeling of fullness
weight loss
What are the Causes of SIBO?
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a severe health issue that is unfortunately not yet fully understood by researchers and healthcare professionals. According to research studies and clinical trials, however, this gastrointestinal, or GI, tract condition can ultimately happen when the small intestine is anatomically abnormal, due to pH changes in the small intestine, when the human body’s immune system isn’t functioning accordingly, or due to malfunctions in the muscular activity of the small intestine which can commonly cause food and bacteria to remain and not be removed from the organ. �
SIBO, or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, is also commonly associated with a variety of health issues. These can involve the following, including: �
a stomach bug, known as viral gastroenteritis
celiac disease
Crohn�s disease
low stomach acid levels, known as hypochlorhydria
IBS or irritable bowel syndrome
gastroparesis
portal hypertension
nerve damage
cirrhosis
several gastric bypass procedures
surgical interventions which cause strictures or adhesions
What are the Risk Factors of SIBO?
Moreover, researchers and healthcare professionals have determined that an underlying chronic health issue and a previous surgery or surgical intervention that affects the gastrointestinal (GI) tract can be several risk factors of SIBO. Other wellness problems which can ultimately cause SIBO include: �
diabetes
scleroderma
hypothyroidism
Parkinson’s disease
HIV
narcotics or drugs/medications which slow down the digestive system
What is the Diagnosis for SIBO?
If you’ve experienced any of the SIBO symptoms mentioned above, see your doctor immediately. The doctor will ask the patient about their symptoms and medical history. The doctor will also perform a physical examination which may include palpating or gently feeling the patient’s abdomen. A qualified and experienced healthcare professional may also order additional blood, fecal, and/or any other tests to diagnose small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. �
A breath test is another common test utilized for the diagnosis of SIBO. Excess bacteria in the small intestine can cause the release of hydrogen and methane, two common gases which can be identified through a breath test. This test is non-invasive and can be performed in a doctor�s office. Before a breath test, the patient will need to fast overnight. During a breath test, the patient will first breathe into a tube. Then, the patient will take a specialized sweet drink provided by the doctor and they will breathe into several other tubes at regular intervals for 2 to 3 hours after taking the specialized sweet drink. �
If common tests for SIBO are inconclusive, the doctor may need to sample the fluid from the patient’s small intestine to see what bacteria is growing there. �
What is the Treatment for SIBO?
Common treatment approaches for SIBO, or small intestinal bacterial growth, can ultimately include a combination of antibiotics and diet modifications. �
Antibiotics
Treatment for SIBO first involves getting the bacteria in the digestive system under control. This is generally achieved by utilizing antibiotics, such as ciprofloxacin (Cipro), metronidazole (Flagyl), or rifaximin (Xifaxan). Further treatment for SIBO may also require intravenous (IV) therapy for nutrition and fluids if the serious gastrointestinal (GI) tract condition has ultimately caused malnutrition or dehydration, among a variety of other symptoms. �
Although antibiotics may help reduce the amount of bacteria in the small intestine, however, these will not always help address the underlying chronic health issues that caused the wellness problem in the first place. If the qualified and experienced healthcare professional determines that the patient’s SIBO is due to an underlying chronic health issue, the patient will also need to begin treatment for that wellness problem. Diet modifications may also help treat SIBO. �
Diet Modifications
Further research studies and clinical trials are still required to demonstrate if diet can cause small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) but, many people with SIBO have reported feeling relief from their symptoms after diet modifications. Talk to your doctor before making any modifications to your diet. �
Furthermore, people with SIBO or other chronic health issues may only need to make small diet modifications to treat their symptoms. These can include: �
Eating a balanced and nutritious diet
Consuming minimal meals more often to prevent having too much food sit in the stomach
Avoid eating gluten products, if you have celiac disease or any other similar chronic health issues
The doctor may also recommend the patient to try an elemental diet to help treat SIBO. An elemental diet replaces food and drinks with several liquid formulas throughout an extended period of time. In one small-scale research study and clinical trial, approximately 80 percent of participants with SIBO had a normal breath test result following an elemental diet for 15 days. The researchers ultimately determined that an elemental diet may be a highly effective treatment approach for SIBO. However, further evidence is still needed. Talk to your doctor before starting an elemental diet and follow their instructions. �
Taking probiotics may also help restore the gut bacteria. A 2010 research study and clinical trial demonstrated that probiotic treatment can be more safe and effective for SIBO than taking antibiotics. However, a 2016 review determined that further evidence for the efficiency of probiotics in SIBO treatment was ultimately inconclusive. The best treatment approach for a patient with SIBO is to follow a qualified and experienced healthcare professional’s advice. �
SIBO, or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, is a well-known and often severe health issue that generally occurs because of an underlying chronic condition or disease. Common symptoms may ultimately determine the presence of SIBO. In addition, if the patient has a chronic health issue, such as celiac disease or Crohn’s disease, they should talk to a doctor to develop a long-term treatment plan. SIBO, or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth is treatable. If left untreated, this gastrointestinal (GI) tract problem can also cause dehydration and malnutrition. Patients should contact a doctor immediately if they suspect they have SIBO so that they can begin treatment right away. – Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
Neurotransmitter Assessment Form
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The following Neurotransmitter Assessment Form can be filled out and presented to Dr. Alex Jimenez. The following symptoms listed on this form are not intended to be utilized as a diagnosis of any type of disease, condition, or any other type of health issue. �
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, and nervous health issues or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health protocols to treat injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. 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. To further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.�
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez �
References:
Madormo, Carrie. �Everything You Should Know About Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO).� Edited by Suzanne Falck, Healthline, Healthline, 14 June 2017, www.healthline.com/health/sibo#symptoms.
Additional Topic Discussion: Chronic Pain
Sudden pain is a natural response of the nervous system which helps to demonstrate possible injury. By way of instance, pain signals travel from an injured region through the nerves and spinal cord to the brain. Pain is generally less severe as the injury heals, however, chronic pain is different than the average type of pain. With chronic pain, the human body will continue sending pain signals to the brain, regardless if the injury has healed. Chronic pain can last for several weeks to even several years. Chronic pain can tremendously affect a patient’s mobility and it can reduce flexibility, strength, and endurance. �
Neural Zoomer Plus for Neurological Disease
Dr. Alex Jimenez utilizes a series of tests to help evaluate neurological diseases. The Neural ZoomerTM Plus is an array of neurological autoantibodies which offers specific antibody-to-antigen recognition. The Vibrant Neural ZoomerTM Plus is designed to assess an individual�s reactivity to 48 neurological antigens with connections to a variety of neurologically related diseases. The Vibrant Neural ZoomerTM Plus aims to reduce neurological conditions by empowering patients and physicians with a vital resource for early risk detection and an enhanced focus on personalized primary prevention. �
Food Sensitivity for the IgG & IgA Immune Response
Dr. Alex Jimenez utilizes a series of tests to help evaluate health issues associated with food sensitivities. The Food Sensitivity ZoomerTM is an array of 180 commonly consumed food antigens that offers very specific antibody-to-antigen recognition. This panel measures an individual�s IgG and IgA sensitivity to food antigens. Being able to test IgA antibodies provides additional information to foods that may be causing mucosal damage. Additionally, this test is ideal for patients who might be suffering from delayed reactions to certain foods. Utilizing an antibody-based food sensitivity test can help prioritize the necessary foods to eliminate and create a customized diet plan around the patient�s specific needs. �
Formulas for Methylation Support
XYMOGEN�s Exclusive Professional Formulas are available through select licensed health care professionals. The internet sale and discounting of XYMOGEN formulas are strictly prohibited.
Proudly,�Dr. Alexander Jimenez makes XYMOGEN formulas available only to patients under our care.
Please call our office in order for us to assign a doctor consultation for immediate access.
If you are a patient of Injury Medical & Chiropractic�Clinic, you may inquire about XYMOGEN by calling 915-850-0900.
�
For your convenience and review of the XYMOGEN products please review the following link. *XYMOGEN-Catalog-Download �
* All of the above XYMOGEN policies remain strictly in force. �
If you are experiencing any of these situations, then you might have experienced some trouble losing weight.
Trying to lose weight is harder than it looks. While the secret of losing weight is more accessible said than done, people are always trying to live healthier lives by exercising and eating right. Some people can maintain a healthy weight throughout their lives effortlessly; however, for others, it is a struggle that starts from when they were a kid, and it gets harder when they start growing up. There have been books on how to lose weight, and people gaining weight when they are middle-aged, it is shown around their mid-section of their bodies. Although when a person is trying to lose weight due to health reasons or wanting to get better, it can be a long, arduous journey.
There are many reasons why individuals are having trouble losing weight. It might be due to being older and that the body changes along with getting older as well. Here are some of the reasons why it is difficult to lose weight, the older a person gets.
Losing Muscle Mass
When a person age, their metabolism changes with them. When they are younger, their metabolism can make a person exercise with high intensity. As they get older, their metabolism changes, and they will slow down a bit when they are exercising. Not only that, but a person can lose their muscle mass when they reach the age of 30.
Studies have shown that the amount of lean muscle mass can naturally decline 3 to 8 percent per decade when a person hits 30, and it will be much harder when they are at the age of 60. This is due to sarcopenia. Sarcopenia is a condition that is characterized by losing skeletal muscle mass and functioning. This condition is progressive, and some of the risk factors include age, gender, and the level of physical activity a person is doing. Since the strength and muscle mass decline in older adults mostly, it can lead to acute and chronic diseases that can harm the body.
There is a way to combat muscle loss for anyone that wants to have lean muscles and to lose weight, is to add weight training to their exercise regime. Research shows that lifting weights is perfect for anyone to make sure that the body stays toned and muscular while also preventing a metabolic slowdown. Since male and females bodies are different, doing weight lifting will help the muscles look lean and toned for females, while for males, their muscles look more prominent and bulker, depending on the weights they are using and how many reps they are doing.
Getting Overly Stressed
As we get older, the more stress we can get. Stress is made up of the hormone cortisol, which is released into the body. It can also be in two categories, which are short term and long term. With short term stress, it is effortless to manage since a person can be worried about a project for school, getting a job interview, or worrying about the little things, the cortisol hormone is short term and can be easily managed.
When it is long-term stress, it can lead to chronic illnesses if it is in a person for far too long. The pressures of work, having too many obligations, or stressing out due to deadlines for projects are bad for a person to have since the cortisol levels are building up in the body. Even having a sedentary job can cause the body to develop stress and weight gain.
There are ways to reduce stress in the body like finding hobbies to enjoy, exercising, always help the body release the tension that is pent up, even having a self-care day can do many wonders to a person and their body. Trying to de-stress the body is excellent and beneficial to anyone because being stress-free is essential for losing weight.
Major Lifestyle Changes
When it comes to significant lifestyle changes, it can be any one of these changes that can cause a person to gain weight. It does not always happen from the inside, but it can happen to people when they enter their thirties. Some changes can include starting a family, trying to find time out of a hectic schedule, distractions, or homework. Whatever the reasons are, these lifestyle changes require much attention. When that happens, then the pounds start to creep in, causing weight gain.
Medical Condition
Sometimes when a person gains weight, it is due to a medical condition they might have, and it makes it harder for them to lose weight as well. These medical conditions include PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome), sleep apnea, and hypothyroidism. When these conditions affect the targeted body systems, it can cause many health problems to the body by causing it to dysfunction.
“There are many reasons why losing weight is hard for anyone. There is a wide variety of reasons like eating junk foods, not getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, or a hectic lifestyle. If we take the time to change one thing to maintain a healthy lifestyle, then the weight will slowly but surely go away.” -Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
Conclusion
Losing weight is hard for anyone, and it can be easy for some while difficult for others. Since everyone has a different body structure, trying to lose weight is one of the more laborious tasks if an individual has problems trying to shed off the weight. By changing some of the habits that are causing the weight gain, it may be beneficial to not only the person but to their body. Some products can help the body’s metabolism and support the function of sugars and amino acids that help support even the gastrointestinal lining, the endocrine system, and help maintain the blood sugar levels.
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, and nervous health issues or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health protocols to treat injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. 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. To further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.
References:
Dray, Tammy. �Why Is It Harder to Lose Weight as You Get Older?� LIVESTRONG.COM, Leaf Group, 2019, www.livestrong.com/article/417064-why-is-it-harder-to-lose-weight-as-you-get-older/.
Gunnars, Kris. �20 Common Reasons Why You’re Not Losing Weight.� Healthline, 20 Aug. 2018, www.healthline.com/nutrition/20-reasons-you-are-not-losing-weight.
Lawler, Moira. �5 Reasons It’s Harder to Lose Weight With Age.� EverydayHealth.com, 27 June, 2019, www.everydayhealth.com/weight/weight-gain-and-aging.aspx.
Santilli, Valter, et al. �Clinical Definition of Sarcopenia.� Clinical Cases in Mineral and Bone Metabolism: the Official Journal of the Italian Society of Osteoporosis, Mineral Metabolism, and Skeletal Diseases, CIC Edizioni Internazionali, Sept. 2014, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4269139/.
Walston, Jeremy D. �Sarcopenia in Older Adults.� Current Opinion in Rheumatology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Nov. 2012, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4066461/.
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