Dr. Alex Jimenez, a chiropractor in El Paso, TX, and his staff, health coach Kenna Vaughn, and chief editor Astrid Ornelas, discuss the role of inflammation in metabolic syndrome. The following podcast offers a deeper look at understanding how inflammation can ultimately cause metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is a collection of risk factors that can increase the risk of developing a variety of health issues, including diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. The risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome can also include, waist fat, high blood pressure, high blood sugar or glucose, high triglycerides, and low HDL or good cholesterol levels. Inflammation is the immune system’s natural response against injury, infection, and environmental toxins. Although inflammation is necessary, too much of it can ultimately cause a variety of health issues, including metabolic syndrome. Dr. Alex Jimenez, Kenna Vaughn, and Astrid Ornelas discuss how nutrition, diet, and fitness, as well as getting good sleep, can help regulate inflammation to prevent further health issues. Smoothies are also a good way to add extra nutrients. Dr. Alex Jimenez, Kenna Vaughn, Astrid Ornelas, discuss what type of foods, nutraceuticals, and supplements, you can eat, drink, and take to regulate inflammation and promote overall health and wellness to prevent health issues like metabolic syndrome, among others. – Podcast Insight
If you have enjoyed this video and/or we have helped you in any way
please feel free to subscribe and share us.
Thank You & God Bless.
Dr. Alex Jimenez RN, DC, MSACP, CCST
Dr. Alex Jimenez and Dr. Mario Ruja discuss basal metabolic rate, BMI, and BIA. Body mass and body fat can be measured in a variety of ways, however, several measurement tools may ultimately be inaccurate for many athletes. According to Dr. Alex Jimenez and Dr. Mario Ruja, calculating an individual�s body mass and body fat utilizing various tools is essential to determine overall health and wellness. BMI uses a person�s height divided by twice their weight. The results may be inaccurate for athletes because their body mass and body fat is different, in terms of weight, compared to the average person. Dr. Alex Jimenez and Dr. Mario Ruja demonstrate that BIA, or bioelectrical impedance analysis, and various other tools, such as the DEXA test, the Tanita scale, and the InBody, among others, can help more accurately determine an athlete�s body mass and body fat. Basal metabolic rate, BMI, and BIA is essential for parents that have young athletes as well as for the general population. Healthcare professionals that have these tools available can ultimately help provide individuals with the results they may need to maintain overall health and wellness. – Podcast Insight
If you have enjoyed this video and/or we have helped you in any way
please feel free to subscribe and share us.
Thank You & God Bless.
Dr. Alex Jimenez RN, DC, MSACP, CCST
If you are experiencing any of these situations, then there might be some dysfunction in your body�s system, including the immune system. Why not try the Chinese herb, astragalus to help alleviate the symptoms.
Astragalus
In traditional Chinese medicine, the herb astragalus has been used for thousands of years and has been known to strengthen chi or qi life force in the body. This herb has been known to be typically employed in conditions that are related to general weakness in the body like fatigue, anemia, a poor appetite, cardiovascular diseases, and other conditions that can weaken the body. Surprisingly though, astragalus can be used to optimize kidney health and, with the combination of ginseng and echinacea, can boost up the body’s immune system. There is a variety of astragalus that are native to Northeast Asia, and its roots need to be dried and powdered to be transformed to be consumed as a capsule or as a tea.
Astragalus Beneficial Properties
Studies have found that astragalus�s beneficial pharmacological effects might contain phytochemical components, which include a host of saponins polysaccharides and flavonoids that the body’s immune system needs to function correctly. Another study found that astragalus contains about twenty trace minerals that are highly important for the body. With astragalus extract, it has immune-modulating properties in vivo and in vitro in both animals and humans, and research shows that the herb stimulates and influences on the immune response cytokines while also leaving the inflammatory cytokines unaffected.
Some of the beneficial properties that astragalus can have on the body are still being researched; however, this Chinese herb can help the body to function correctly and are effective.
Improving the Immune System
Studies have shown that astragalus contains some beneficial plant compounds that may enhance the body’s immune system. Studies show that the primary role for the immune system is that it helps protect the body from foreign pathogens like harmful bacteria and viruses that can cause a person to be ill. Research has found out that there is some evidence that astragalus can increase the body�s production of white blood cells, which will help prevent illnesses from entering the body. In other research studies, it has been found that astragalus root has been known to help the body kill bacteria and viruses caused by infections. Even though the research may be limited, there are still studies that show that astragalus can fight off viral infections like the common cold and liver infections in the human body.
Improving the Heart Function
Research shows that astragalus may be able to improve heart function by widening the blood vessels and increasing the amount of blood that is being pumped from the heart. In a clinical research study, it showed that patients were given at least 2.25 grams of astragalus for two weeks and have experienced a more significant improvement in their heart function. In another study, it shows that astragalus may help reduce the symptoms of myocarditis, which is an inflammatory condition in the heart.
Improving Kidney Function
Astragalus can help support kidney health in the body by improving the blood flow to the kidneys and measuring the protein in the urine. A study has shown that proteinuria is a condition where there is an abnormal amount of protein that is found in urine, and it can be a sign that the kidneys are not functioning normally or may be damaged. Surprisingly, there was another study that showed that astragalus could improve proteinuria symptoms in individuals that have kidney disease. Studies have even found that astragalus may also help prevent infections for anyone who has a reduce kidney function and reducing the risk of a kidney disorder known as nephrotic syndrome.
Conclusion
Astragalus is a unique herb that can help the body’s immune system to function correctly. Even though there is a limited amount of research on this herb, but the beneficial properties it provides in the body are truly amazing. Astragalus can be consumed by capsules or even be brewed as a tea, so that way, people can enjoy the beneficial properties and that their body is performing excellently in health and wellness. Some products offer support to the body’s immune system and help target the amino acids that are intended to support the intestines while offering more support to the metabolic system.
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:
Block, Keith I, and Mark N Mead. �Immune System Effects of Echinacea, Ginseng, and Astragalus: a Review.� Integrative Cancer Therapies, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Sept. 2003, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15035888.
Fu, Juan, et al. �Review of the Botanical Characteristics, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacology of Astragalus Membranaceus (Huangqi).� Phytotherapy Research: PTR, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Sept. 2014, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25087616.
Gao, Xing-hua, et al. �Saponin Fraction from Astragalus Membranaceus Roots Protects Mice against Polymicrobial Sepsis Induced by Cecal Ligation and Puncture by Inhibiting Inflammation and Upregulating Protein C Pathway.� Journal of Natural Medicines, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Oct. 2009, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19548065.
Meixner, Makayla. �Astragalus: An Ancient Root With Health Benefits.� Healthline, 31 Oct. 2018, www.healthline.com/nutrition/astragalus.
Nalbantsoy, Ay?e, et al. �Evaluation of the Immunomodulatory Properties in Mice and in Vitro Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Cycloartane Type Saponins from Astragalus Species.� Journal of Ethnopharmacology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 31 Jan. 2012, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22155389.
Peng, T Q, et al. �Effect and Mechanism of Astragalus Membranaceus on Coxsackie B3 Virus RNA in Mice.� Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi Zhongguo Zhongxiyi Jiehe Zazhi = Chinese Journal of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Nov. 1994, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7703635.
Piao, Yuan-lin, and Xiao-chun Liang. �Astragalus Membranaceus Injection Combined with Conventional Treatment for Viral Myocarditis: a Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials.� Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Oct. 2014, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25098261.
Team, DFH. �Astragalus: Funny Name Serious Results.� Designs for Health, 9 Oct. 2018, blog.designsforhealth.com/astragalus-funny-name-serious-results.
Team, NCBI. �Astragalus Membranaceus. Monograph.� Alternative Medicine Review: a Journal of Clinical Therapeutic, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Feb. 2003, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12611564.
Wang, Deqing, et al. �Study of the Effects of Total Flavonoids of Astragalus on Atherosclerosis Formation and Potential Mechanisms.� Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, Hindawi Publishing Corporation, 2012, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3306992/.
Wu, Hong Mei, et al. �Interventions for Preventing Infection in Nephrotic Syndrome.� The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd, 18 Apr. 2012, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22513919.
Yang, Qing-you, et al. �Effects of Astragalus on Cardiac Function and Serum Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha Level in Patients with Chronic Heart Failure.� Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi Zhongguo Zhongxiyi Jiehe Zazhi = Chinese Journal of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine, U.S. National Library of Medicine, July 2010, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20929124.
Zhang, Hong Wei, et al. �Astragalus (a Traditional Chinese Medicine) for Treating Chronic Kidney Disease.� The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 22 Oct. 2014, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25335553.
The University offers a wide variety of medical professions for functional and integrative medicine. Their goal is to inform individuals who want to make a difference in the functional medical fields with knowledgeable information that they can provide.
Knee pain chiropractic: Around 40 percent of running injuries are knee injuries. They fall under a general term of runner�s knee. This includes chondromalacia patellae also referred to as patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFMS). Other knee injuries include iliotibial band syndrome and plica syndrome.
Rest and ice are common therapies, but when that doesn�t work or when pain and mobility issues comeback, chiropractic is a tried and true treatment option. Structural issues that affect the knees are often very responsive to chiropractic treatment.
In the case of chondromalacia patellae and other knee problems, it has proven to reduce pain and help improve the condition significantly, providing increased mobility and flexibility.
Anatomy
The knee is constructed to take the impact of the body�s weight when bending and moving. Under the knee is a layer of cartilage that is a natural shock absorber. Injury/s, overuse, aging, and other conditions can cause damage to the cartilage. The condition causes pain and impaired mobility, especially when walking up or downstairs. The pain can be reduced with rest and ice, but sometimes it’s not enough.
Common treatments include:
Chiropractic
Physical therapy
Medications
Surgery
Symptoms
Common symptoms include pain at the front of the knee. It can be described as a dull ache deep in the knee.
This pain can be made worse when:
Sitting with the knee bent for a long time
Squatting
Kneeling
Walking up and downstairs
The more the knee is in use the worse it is. Rest and ice work fairly quickly to help relieve the pain. But if the pain persists even with rest and ice, more aggressive treatment is the next step. Traditional doctors prescribe medication and surgery. But now more individuals are gravitating to a drug-free, less invasive treatment, like chiropractic.
Causes
The exact cause of chondromalacia patellae is still unknown. The condition has been linked to several factors.
Overuse and repetitive stress placed on the joint. This is seen in sports and physical activities that involve jumping and running.
Poor muscle control when the muscles that surround the knee and hip don�t operate properly making the tracking of the kneecap off balance.
Trauma such as a fracture or dislocation.
Figure 106. Patellar tendonitis (jumper�s knee).
Risks
A person�s risk of developing chondromalacia patellae can increase based on certain criteria.
Young adults and adolescents can acquire the injury as they’re still growing.
Older individuals with knee pain and possible arthritis are more susceptible to injury.
Gender is a risk factor, as women are twice as likely to develop the condition compared to men. Doctors theorize this is due to the skeletal structure of a woman as the pelvis is wider increasing the angle where the bones of the knee joint meet.
Those that participate in sports that involve a lot of jumping and running have a higher risk. Particularly if the individual increases their level of training.
Chiropractic
Chiropractic treatment for chondromalacia patellae includes nutritional intervention as well as adjustments, stretches and exercises. The treatment is focused on stretching shortened hamstrings and adjusting the sacroiliac joint.
The aim is to improve the tracking of the kneecap and increase motor control. Soft tissue work can help individuals with knee pain. The whole-body approach that chiropractic provides goes beyond relief from knee pain but curing or reducing the condition completely.
The Cost-effectiveness
Why see a chiropractor?
There are plenty of reasons why. From:
General health
Aches
Pains
Injury
Increased movement
Strength
Optimal health
Millions are now turning to chiropractic for natural healing, relief, and whole-body wellness. Some may think the price could hinder their decision to seek chiropractic. Lack of insurance and the number of treatments are two of the common reasons patients think it’s too expensive.
However, individuals need to understand the cost of other treatment options like medications and surgery that end up costing more than dollars with all the negative side-effects. Here are three reasons to visit a chiropractor, and the savings that come with it.
Prevention
Chiropractic promotes optimal health through prevention that is increasingly attracting those striving to remain younger, longer. It promotes whole-body healing through spinal adjustments/joint manipulations to increase mobility and optimize the body’s performance. It decreases blood pressure and reduces the chance of headaches.
Avoiding these health issues saves tens of thousands of dollars in medical bills. Seeing a professional chiropractor enables a person to stay healthy and enjoy a more active lifestyle because their back, bones, and joints are in optimal condition.
Re-Injured
Millions of bodies are injured from a variety of mishaps and accidents.
Sports injuries
Car accidents
Work injuries
Slips
Falls
Our backs, knees, ankles, hips, and feet take a beating. Chiropractic for injury/s is a wise choice as it promotes healing, decreases dependence on medications, and minimizes the chance of a recurrence. It also strengthens the other parts of the surrounding area of the body and not just the injured area. Treating injuries through chiropractic decreases money spent on expensive medicine and reduces time off work.
Chronic
Many types of medical conditions are ongoing, with no cure in sight. Daily pain, loss of strength and mobility are conditions that individuals power through and learn to live with when they don’t want to continually take medication and feel horrible. This is where chiropractic medicine can shine, as it’s all-natural. The aim is to get the body to react the way it is supposed to and heal itself.
An experienced chiropractor can treat these medical conditions by building a customized treatment plan to manage the symptoms with drug-free pain management. Adjustments to the afflicted area, proper anti-inflammation diet, and at-home exercises reduce pain symptoms and increases mobility. Chiropractic is a productive treatment for various injuries and medical conditions, combined with preventative therapy to maintain and prolong wellness.
If there is one thing we are learning more and more about, it is that everything can be related back to inflammation and what we put inside our bodies. Point blank. The food you consume affects your genetics and your inflammatory response in the body. Headaches, achy joints, and overall fatigue have been directly linked to inflammation.
Inflammation
Inflammation was once thought to just be something that occurs when the body has an infection or we hurt ourselves as the body’s natural response. That fact is still true to this day. However, we now know more. Now, we are able to recognize inflammation occurring inside our organs and down to the cellular level.
Just as you roll your ankle and it becomes inflamed, if you eat the wrong foods your gut becomes inflamed. This can then be traced back to leaky gut and in some cases, autoimmune diseases.
So what can we do about it? What is actually happening in our bodies?
The human body is an amazing machine that we are still finding more about each and every day. Let’s first take a look at where this inflammation is coming from. Inflammation can enter the gut barrier as a toxin, protein, pathogen, LPS, or alcohol.
If our body is continuously exposed to these triggers, it can result in our immune system becoming dysregulated. Now that our body has these triggers, things like allergies, asthma, autoimmunity, and poor immune tolerance and regulation become our bodies new regular.
Amplifying Loop
These triggers then signal something called cytokines. Cytokines are tiny and dance around inside of the cell. These cytokines increase NF-kB activity.
NF-kB is then used to transcribe DNA and express an inflammatory state!
Now, our bodies are promoting inflammation, all because we let the toxins in. What we put into our mouth and our bodies matter. The foods we eat have the ability to provide nutrients to our cells, rather than facilitating in this ongoing inflammatory response chain.
How Do I Regain Control?
Nrf2 is a key protein in the body that has the function of regulating the genome. This helps the body balance gene expressions and the regulation of our genes. Another thing Nrf2 does is upregulate genes that encode antioxidant enzymes and antiinflammatory genes.
Essentially, Nrf2 helps to fight off inflammation and reduce oxidative stress. Nrf2 activity is part of the detoxification system our bodies naturally have. It helps us to not get sick from every single bacteria we come into contact with. However, Nrf2 is a pathway, not a supplement. So now the question becomes, How do we active Nrf2?
From The Kitchen to The Genes
As mentioned earlier, everything can be traced back to the kitchen and what we put into our mouth to nourish our body. A great way to ensure you are feeding your body what it needs is to make a smoothie in the morning. Smoothies can contain so many nutrient-dense foods to aid in Nfr2 activation.
First, start off with flaxseed in the blender. Blend it up so the flax seeds get broken up and open. Next, add in blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, acai berry powder, broccoli sprouts, and almond milk!
By providing your body and your cells with the nourishment they need, they will flourish. In addition to a smoothie, there are supplements that can aid in Nrf2 activation as well. These supplements include curcumin, fish oil, wormwood, and CoQ10.
It’s clear that the “American Diet” has been causing problems for us. The world is so busy and fast-paced that we are not taking the time or giving our bodies the consideration to shop and make nutritious home-cooked meals. We need to increase our vegetables, fruits, fibers, whole grains and decrease the carbs. Everyone has some degree of inflammation in their body, and many of us do not even realize it! I challenge us to give up fast food for an entire month, cut the soda, increase the lemon water and eat at least one salad a day during this month. By increasing our vegetables and creating plates that are more colorful, our bodies will thank us! – Kenna Vaughn, Senior Health Coach�
References:
Gordon, Jacob. �Recipes for NRF2 – MyBioHack: Unlock Your Maximum Potential.� MyBioHack, MyBioHack | Unlock Your Maximum Potential, 7 Nov. 2017, mybiohack.com/blog/recipes-for-nrf2.
Gordon, Jacob. �Why NRF2 Activation Can Make You More Sick – MyBioHack: Unlock Your Maximum Potential.� MyBioHack, MyBioHack | Unlock Your Maximum Potential, 2 Feb. 2020, mybiohack.com/blog/nrf2-cirs-sensitivities.
Lawrence, T. �The Nuclear Factor NF-�B Pathway in Inflammation.� Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Biology, vol. 1, no. 6, 2009, doi:10.1101/cshperspect.a001651.
Ma, Qiang. �Role of Nrf2 in Oxidative Stress and Toxicity.� Annual Review of Pharmacology and Toxicology, vol. 53, no. 1, 2013, pp. 401�426., doi:10.1146/annurev-pharmtox-011112-140320.
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 at915-850-0900.
The most�common type of arthritis in children and adolescents is Juvenile idiopathic arthritis aka (JIA) a type of inflammatory arthritis that affects kids 16 years and younger. It is a rare condition, that affects around 1 in every 1,000 children. It can cause�joint�pain and stiffness throughout the body, especially the facet joints/spinal joints.
Types of Arthritis that Fall Under JIA
Juvenile Idiopathic arthritis was known as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, but it is not a child/teenage version of adult rheumatoid arthritis. Juvenile Idiopathic arthritis falls into a group of several types of arthritis. When a doctor diagnoses JIA, they will determine the type.
To better understand how this arthritis affects the spine, it helps to know some of the terminology.
Enthesitis: Inflammation of the entheses is the area where tendons and ligaments connect to bone/s.
Spondyloarthritis: Arthritis that attacks the entheses of the spine. Ankylosing spondylitis is an example of spondyloarthritis.
The neck joints are the most common to be attacked by JIA. Whereas, spondyloarthritis causes pain and stiffness in the low back.
Typical Symptoms
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis happens in children aged 16 years and younger. Symptoms include:
Joint pain
Swelling
Stiffness
Tenderness
Mild heat or a warmness that has been present for at least 6 weeks.
Other symptoms can include muscles and soft tissues becoming tight, erosion of the bone,�joint misalignment, and abnormal growth patterns.
Diagnosis Can Be A Challenge
Diagnosis is not always straightforward, and there are criteria for diagnosing juvenile idiopathic arthritis. The doctor will perform a physical exam and order tests. They will monitor the child�s symptoms for at least 6 weeks initially, and then for 6 months after the onset of the disease. During this time, figuring the number of joints involved helps determine the diagnosis. As joint involvement can vary by the type of arthritis, and symptoms can and do change regularly.
This arthritis attacks the joints of the spine, specifically in the neck. However, with certain types of spondyloarthropathy, the lower back can become the target.
Diagnosing arthritis involves a complete and thorough examination. If a chiropractor has been brought in to help with the case, a medical work-up by a rheumatologist could be recommended. This includes radiology/X-rays or an MRI, urine, blood analysis and physical examinations.
Treatment
A doctor may recommend a multi-disciplinary approach to treat JIA. They may prescribe various types of therapies/treatments focused on stopping the disease’s progression. The treatment plan will include teaching healthy habits to prevent future back pain.
Medication/s
Treatment usually starts with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory’s. A doctor can also prescribe a corticosteroid to control the inflammation. Most respond well to anti-inflammatory medication, however, these medicines do not treat the underlying disease or the root cause.
Inflammatory arthritis and its progression can be controlled with certain medications. There are disease-modifying antirheumatic medications that can slow the disease�s progression. There are also TNF-blocking medications that can help block a specific protein known as tumor necrosis factor that causes inflammation. Etanercept known on the market as Enbrel and adalimumab aka Humira are examples of TNF-blockers that can prevent the disease from progressing.
Chiropractic
Understand that chiropractic medicine cannot cure arthritis, but it can help alleviate the symptoms and slow the progression. They will use spinal adjustments in conjunction with other treatments. These can include:
Hot and cold treatments
Ultrasound
Massage
Electronic muscle stimulation
Magnet therapy
Physical rehabilitation
Physical Therapy Exercise
Focuses on:
Proper posture
Joint mobility
Deep breathing
Exercises
Healthy lifestyle education
Patients can develop a forward posture that can lead to a hunched back and neck pain. Postural training and back extension exercises are helpful. Stretching and range of motion exercises keep the facet and rib joints functioning and mobile. Deep breathing expands the chest which expands the rib joints and aids lung function. Depending on the type and severity, a doctor might try other approaches like spine surgery.
Optimal Results
If you or someone has been diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis in the spine,�learn as much as possible about the disease and the ways to combat it. Being informed about this or any disease encourages empowerment and engagement throughout the treatment process.
The best results are achieved by attacking it from all angles. Working with a chiropractor and rheumatologist in combination. A chiropractor will train the individual on how to maintain a healthy diet and maintain an active exercise program to help with movement. This is geared toward a healthy outcome.
Yoga has gained popularity because of its ability to reduce back pain, relax tight muscles, relieve stress and exercise in a safe calm environment. Developed thousands of years ago, the practice of breathing, posing and stretching offers a variety of important health benefits. As a chiropractor, I�m often asked about the practice of yoga. Those with back pain or have undergone spine surgery want to know if yoga can help them improve their physical and psychological health.
Reduced stress
Improved blood pressure
Increased flexibility
Increased stamina
Greater balance
Improved breathing techniques
In addition to the normal exercise benefits yoga offers, the practice serves as therapy for a variety of injuries and health conditions. Yoga embodies the physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness, and touches upon other forms of traditional exercise. The concept that yoga heals the body in its entirety mirrors chiropractic care. These foundations offer enormous benefits to those dealing with a variety of injuries and conditions. By incorporating yoga, individuals are able to reap amazing rewards.
A regular exercise plan needs to include a little cardio as there are huge benefits from pumping the heart rate up. Minimal loading exercises, like biking, and swimming are great. Pain can be managed by participating in cardiovascular exercises, however, yoga�s gentleness can complement the healing process.
Here are a few reasons:
Prepares the body for healing
Practicing yoga stretches and elongates the body’s muscles, releasing tension and stress. It can serve to warm up the body and clear the mind, so a chiropractor can get to the root problem. Yoga complements chiropractic treatment by preparing the body to heal itself.
Strengthens joints and ligaments
Dealing with a health condition or injury is frustrating and can seem like it takes forever to heal. Implementing yoga into a recovery plan helps strengthen joints and ligaments, which aids in promoting healing and cutting down the time it takes to get better. Yoga works on the body as a whole and promotes greater well-being from head to toe. A stronger body offers more productivity than one that is stiff, sore, and unhealthy.
Increases range of motion
Depending on the individual’s specific condition, individuals may need a few visits to prepare their bodies before the main issue can be addressed. Yoga sessions increase a body’s flexibility and help with the range of motion in the neck, back, hips, and other joints.
Prevents injury/s
Yoga provides a continual way for individuals dealing with chronic conditions to manage and reduce pain, inflammation, and other symptoms. Yoga combined with chiropractic keeps the body aligned, balanced, muscles stretched, de-stressed, and the joints working properly.
Both also serve to keep posture correct, and ligaments strong. All of this creates a body that is less susceptible to future injury, illness, and stress. Individuals enjoy increased mobility for a lot longer without changing lifestyle.
The Best Way to Start
There are many different types of yoga. Most sessions usually last an hour and include breathing exercises, meditation and holding poses/postures that stretch and tone muscle groups.
To help visualize how yoga can help the spine, here’s an analogy:
Think of the spine like a cookie ice cream sandwich with the ice cream in-between and a gummy band wrapped around. The cookies represent the vertebrae, the ice cream is the disc cushion in between and the gummy band represents the ligament and muscles surrounding the area.
The tighter the gummy band is, the more it compresses the cookies and applies pressure to the ice cream.When stretching the gummy band, it loosens the pressure on the cookies and reduces the load/compression of the ice cream.
Exercise is crucial for recovery and rehabilitation. Yoga is a gentle way to get you back on your feet. It promotes circulation, relaxation, strength, and flexibility. Pure plane movements meaning moving forward then backward in basic movements are essential until the body becomes more flexible. Move carefully forward, sideways and cautiously backward.
At the beginning no movements combining bending and twisting.
The muscles need to adapt and become comfortable with these movements at first. Therefore, hold poses for at least 30 seconds without bouncing minimizing potential injury.
Certified instructor
Ask your doctor or chiropractor if they can recommend a certified yoga instructor; preferably with 500 hours of instruction. Search for small class sizes and a teacher that closely monitors movements and poses closely. It is important that the instructor be aware and make gentle adjustments or offer modifications to participants as needed.
Restorative Flow
Start off with a type known as Restorative Flow. It restores the flow from one part of the body to another with slow controlled movements/poses that emphasize stretching and correct breathing.
Listen to Your Body
When healing from injury/s, take it slow. Listen to your body and let it guide your movements so that it feels safe and comfortable. Do not push beyond. For most, a beginner or restorative Yoga class is best. Ask about modifying the poses so that the bending and twisting combinations/advanced postures are taken out so as not to overload the joints.
If you are on a budget consider purchasing an instructional DVD. DVD’s offer program variations of 20 to 60 minutes and are highly educational and easy to follow. Stretching pain/soreness is okay, but sharp pain is not.
Yoga could be an answer to many of the body’s issues, whether dealing with current conditions or just want to stay healthy in a new way check out the basics of yoga. Chiropractic coupled with yoga offers great benefits to those dealing with medical conditions or injury. Ask your chiropractor for an evaluation, and if adding yoga to your health program will help.
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
