Degenerative disc disease is a condition where the degradation or wearing away of your spinal discs leads to pain and discomfort. Everyone�s discs wear down, but not every person experiences pain. That is the difference!
What are the Four Stages of DDD
Two of the main components of the spine are the vertebrae and the discs. The discs sit between vertebrae to provide cushion, support, and flexibility. Each disc is made up of a soft inner layer and a tough outer layer. Over time, or due to injury, the discs can lose their integrity, begin to thin and even tear in certain cases. Compromised discs increase the likelihood of pressure on nerves and friction between the vertebrae.
Like many diseases, degenerative disc disease has several possible stages. As the stages progress, the negative symptoms become more pronounced.
1st Stage
The first stage of degenerative disc disease may go unnoticed by the individual but can be identified by a chiropractor or other medical professional. The loss of the natural curvature of the spine can indicate the beginning of degenerative disc disease. Pain may not be apparent, but extra pressure is being placed on the spine which can lead to more rapid aging of the spine, nerves, joints, etc.
2nd Stage
The degradation of discs becomes more apparent in the second stage. They may look thinner, and it is common to see deformations in the bone, such as bone spurs. The curvature of the spine will become more unnatural and the spinal canal may become more narrow. Stage 2 is often where you will begin to notice some pain and discomfort.
3rd Stage
Stage 3 is marked by a more extreme change in the posture and curvature of the spine, along with more pain and loss of mobility. Nerve damage is common and scar tissue typically begins to form. Discs are even thinner than before, which can sometimes cause even more deformation of the bones.
4th Stage
The final stage of degenerative disc disease is the most severe and is typically considered irreversible. Discs are at their thinnest or gone altogether. The flexibility of the spine is extremely limited and pain is often considerable. Nerve damage can be severe and the bones of the spine may even begin to fuse together.
Doctor explaining various spine diseases by the example of plastic models
How Can Chiropractic Help DDD?
Chiropractic care is a preferred treatment option for degenerative disc disease for a variety of reasons. Because it is gentle and non-invasive, chiropractic is much less likely to create undesirable side effects�which are common with prescription medications and surgery. Obviously, the earlier the stage of degenerative disc disease, the more successful treatment can be. But chiropractic can be helpful even in the most extreme cases of degenerative disc disease.
Chiropractic treatments may include:
Chiro Adjustments
One of the most effective ways to treat degenerative disc disease is to ensure the spine is in proper alignment. Loss of alignment, which can happen due to injury or just day to day life, puts extra stress on the spine which can accelerate the degradation of discs. Adjustments bring back alignment.
Spine Decompression
Spinal decompression uses gentle but firm pressure to bring space back between the vertebrae. Space allows blood flow to return and healing to happen. Decompression is an important treatment to complement adjustments.
Now is the Time to Treat DDD
The best time to seek treatment for your back and neck pain is right now. Our chiropractic team can help you feel better and live a healthier life. Please contact us now to learn more!
Doctors of chiropractic (DCs), are qualified and experienced to recommend therapeutic and rehabilitative exercises and physical activities, as well as, nutritional, dietary, and lifestyle counseling to help improve an individual’s overall health. Chiropractors perform hands-on, drug-free treatment, which includes diagnosis, adjustments, and injury prevention.
Patients describe how Dr. Jimenez helped them recover the natural integrity of their spine through chiropractic. Patients highly recommend Dr. Alex Jimenez as the non-surgical choice for a variety of health issues.
El Paso Chiropractic Clinic
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As El Paso�s Chiropractic Rehabilitation Clinic & Integrated Medicine Center,�we passionately are focused on treating patients after frustrating injuries and chronic pain syndromes. We focus on improving your ability through flexibility, mobility and agility programs tailored for all age groups and disabilities.
We want you to live a life filled with more energy, positive attitude, better sleep, less pain, proper body weight and educated on how to maintain this way of life.
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A chiropractor, or (DC), is a healthcare professional that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of a variety of health issues associated with the musculoskeletal and nervous system. Dr. Jimenez is a back pain specialist who utilizes chiropractic care to safely and effectively correct any spinal misalignments, or subluxations, which may be causing painful symptoms. Individuals describe how Dr. Jimenez and his staff helped them recover the natural integrity of their spine. These patients recommend Dr. Jimenez as the choice for back pain.
El Paso Back Clinic
We are blessed to present to you�El Paso�s Premier Wellness & Injury Care Clinic.
As El Paso�s Chiropractic Rehabilitation Clinic & Integrated Medicine Center,�we passionately are focused on treating patients after frustrating injuries and chronic pain syndromes. We focus on improving your ability through flexibility, mobility and agility programs tailored for all age groups and disabilities. �
We want you to live a life filled with more energy, positive attitude, better sleep, less pain, proper body weight and educated on how to maintain this way of life. �
Call Us And Let Us Get You Healthy!
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Hamstring injuries are several of the most common types of injuries among athletes. These makeup for the most days or even weeks missed each year amongst AFL football players. The majority of partial or complete tears include either the hamstring muscle belly or the distal musculotendinous junction. However, a proximal hamstring injury is ultimately uncommon. In the total hamstring injury spectrum, it makes up for under 10 percent of hamstring injuries, among other health issues. �
Anatomy
The hamstring makes up the majority of the muscle mass of the rear of the thigh. It is fundamental for shoving off, landing and leaping, especially for volatile activity, such as Pilates. The hamstring consists of 3 muscles, each utilizing a common proximal attachment through a big tendon to the ischial tuberosity of the pelvis or the big bone found in the buttocks. This proximal attachment gives a fixed point from which muscle contraction can impact a more distal activity. The hamstring gives some extension of the hip but the primary activity is movement around the knee.� It is largely responsible for knee flexion. �
The 3 muscles, the biceps femoris, the semitendinosus, and the semimembranosus, originate in the posterior thigh and attach distally around the knee through tendons to bony landmarks, crossing the joint. The biceps femoris then attaches laterally into the head of the fibula on the exterior of the knee. The semitendinosus and the semimembranosus attach to the medial side of the upper tibia. Because the sciatic nerve travels closely along with the attachment of the proximal hamstring tendon to the ischium, it may become injured along with the hamstring and ultimately cause the well-known symptoms of sciatica. �
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Mechanism of Injury
The proximal hamstring tendon can become injured through progressive stretching or through sudden and intense contraction when the hip is forcefully flexed over an extended knee. In younger patients with an average proximal hamstring tendon, this can occur through sprinting or hurdling, however, the most common athletes affected in this instance involves waterskiiers who fall forward with an extended knee. In elderly patients, proximal hamstring injuries occur through a different type of trauma, such as slipping on a wet surface or even doing the “splits” inadvertently. �
Proximal hamstring injuries could include complete tendon ruptures or incomplete/partial tears. In young patients, the bone together with the tendon is frequently avulsed or fractured in the pelvis or the ischium. In older patients, the tendon usually avulses or tears from the bone of the ischium at its attachment point. Occasionally, the tendon may tear in its midsubstance, leaving a stump of tendon still attached to the bone. Frequently this type of injury is referred to as a partial tear. �
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Diagnosis for Proximal Hamstring Injury
A proximal hamstring injury may commonly occur due to a sports-related injury and/or accident where the patient will experience something “go” deep in their buttocks. If the incident is being observed, the sufferer may often be seen holding their buttock or upper thigh. The person is generally not able to continue with the activity and when on the ground, they may need help to get up and to walk. There is normally immediate pain and weight bearing on the affected leg while it may also be painful to sit on the affected buttock. During the next 24 to 48 hours, there is swelling and bruising which appears over the buttocks region and extends down the rear of the thigh into the lower leg. Occasionally, the patient may also experience a “pins and needles” sensation in the lower leg and/or foot, similar to sciatica. Decreased movement in the foot may be seen with a foot fall. These injuries generally require immediate medical attention to diagnose the health issue. �
X-rays are fundamental in younger patients to rule out an avulsion fracture of the ischial tuberosity. Ultrasound may be undertaken and will help determine the presence of a hematoma, or blood collection, in the buttock and upper thigh which can also detect tendon tears. MRI scans are the best choice of diagnosis and it is highly accurate at determining the site of injury, whether the tear is partial or complete and whether there has been any retraction of the tendon end to the thigh. �
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Treatment for Proximal Hamstring Injury
Initial treatment for proximal hamstring injury must be symptomatic, where measures will be taken to help decrease pain and swelling with icing, analgesia, and the utilization of crutches to help walking. As the pain begins to settle, a few gentle movements of the leg may be undertaken along with the aid of a healthcare professional. When the diagnosis of a proximal hamstring injury is made, it’s fundamental to follow-up with the proper treatment choices. �
Conservative treatment using a rehabilitation program may be appropriate in sedentary older patients or in those with partial tendon tears at which a significant percentage of this tendon is still intact. Conservative treatment is usually also undertaken in most instances of bone avulsion fracture where the bone fragment is sitting near the ischium. Surgery is generally recommended for younger, athletic patients or for elderly victims where there is a complete tendon tear. �
Surgery generally involves an overnight stay in the hospital and the process itself is performed under general anesthesia. An incision is made in the buttock/upper thigh where the torn tendon end is identified, mobilized if it’s retracted down to the thigh and repaired back down onto the bone utilizing bone anchors or transosseous sutures. The sciatic nerve is also protected during the surgery. After surgery, painkillers may be required. Healthcare professionals may recommend patients to rest lying on their back with a pillow under the knees to allow the hamstring to be in a relaxed position. �
Differential Diagnosis of Hip Pain and Discomfort
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Tendon injuries are common health issues which frequently affect the athletic population. While Achilles tendon and patella tendon injuries are some of the most well-known types of tendon injuries, proximal hamstring injuries can still affect many athletes. Proximal hamstring injuries are health issues which can cause a variety or problems for people if they’re not properly diagnosed and treated. Understanding the differences between proximal hamstring injuries and it’s symptoms, including sciatica, can help both the patient and the doctor achive recovery. – Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
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Fibromyalgia Magazine
The purpose of the article was to discuss proximal hamstring injuries and sciatica. It has also been observed that patients with proximal hamstring injuries may confuse their symptoms for sciatica. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal and nervous health issues as well as functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. 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 �
Additional Topic Discussion: Severe Sciatica
Back pain�is one of the most prevalent causes of disability and missed days at work worldwide. Back pain attributes to the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience back pain at least once throughout their life. Your spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles, among other soft tissues. Injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as�herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of sciatica, or sciatic nerve pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of painful symptoms, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have these results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease sciatic nerve pain, or sciatica, through the utilization of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief. �
�
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. �
About� 40 percent of people all over the world struggle with allergies and the demand for treatment has never been higher. However, there is still no cure-all when it comes to treating allergies. There are plenty of options available, but few are as effective as we would like them to be�and the ones that do work usually have side effects that can make them undesirable.
Chiropractic offers an attractive alternative to standard medical treatment. By improving general health, chiropractic helps the body better cope with all those allergens now and years to come.
What are they?
When the human body encounters a substance that it is allergic to, the immune system is triggered and attempts to attack the allergen in much the same way it would a substance that is truly harmful. The problem is, the allergen is not harmful in and of itself�but the immune system reaction can be harmful, or at least highly unpleasant.
For example, if you are allergic to pollen, your immune system will attempt to attack the pollen you inhale. Your body will produce immunoglobulin, leading to the release of histamines. The histamines that surge through your system cause blood vessels to dilate, fluid to increase in the space surrounding your cells, and your blood pressure to drop. A runny nose and sneezing typically follow, and symptoms can become even more extreme, like nausea and vomiting. It all seems like overkill for a bit of pollen, but there is little you can do to avoid it.
It is possible to be allergic to just about anything, but there are certain substances that are common allergens. These include:
Pollen
Mold
Pet Dander
Weeds
Dust Mites
Grass
Girl� with allergies
Allergies and Chiropractic Adjustments
Allergies are not something that can be cured, but they can be treated in a way that lessens their impact on your life. Standard medical care offers a variety of treatments for allergies, some more effective than others.
Many over-the-counter allergy medications are available, each with its own potential side effects. You can also seek an appointment with an allergy specialist, who can determine exactly what you are allergic to and offer stronger treatment options�but these also carry potential side effects, and as with over-the-counter options, may or may not be effective.
Proper Nervous System Function
Chiropractic care approaches allergies more holistically. One of the main ideas behind chiropractic is that the human body can heal itself in most cases if the conditions are right.
It is the job of your chiropractor to create the ideal conditions for healing. By optimizing spinal alignment, it is possible to improve nervous system function and thereby improve the body�s response to all types of stimuli�including allergens.
Lifestyle Recommendations
Chiropractic is about more than spinal adjustments. A holistic approach means optimizing every aspect of your health, which includes diet and exercise.
Your chiropractor can look closely at your diet and other lifestyle factors and help you identify changes that may lessen your allergy symptoms. By improving your diet and adding exercises that add strength and mobility, you will change the composition of your body in fundamental ways. These changes often lead to surprising improvements in the way you react to a variety of substances.
Call To Make An Appointment
If you are suffering from allergy symptoms and you are tired of ineffective treatments and their unpleasant side effects, chiropractic care may be a perfect fit for you. Please contact us today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Alex Jimenez. Let us show you how much better chiropractic can make you feel.
A bursa is a fluid-filled sac which functions by helping to decrease friction around the joints. However, when the fluid inside a bursa becomes infected or irritated due to excessive movement, the bursa can become swollen, causing pain and discomfort, ultimately making it difficult to move the affected joint. This health issue is commonly known as bursitis. �
Although bursitis generally occurs in the knee, called �housemaid�s knee�, or in the elbow, called �tennis elbow�, it can occur in any joint in the human body. When it occurs in the buttocks, it is known as ischiogluteal bursitis. In this instance, the bursa is found between the ischial tuberosity at the base of the pelvis and the tendon of the hamstring muscle. �
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Symptoms of Ischiogluteal Bursitis
The symptoms of ischiogluteal bursitis can be similar to those of hamstring tendonitis. Several of the most common symptoms associated with ischiogluteal bursitis include pain and discomfort as well as tenderness in the buttocks region. Painful symptoms may frequently occur when stretching the hamstring muscle or flexing the knee against resistance. �
The symptoms of ischiogluteal bursitis can also be similar to those of sciatic nerve pain. Sciatica is a collection of symptoms characterized by pain, discomfort, tingling sensations, and numbness. While the symptoms of ischiogluteal bursitis may be similar to those of sciatica, sciatic nerve pain occurs when the sciatic nerve is irritated, compressed or impinged. �
Ischiogluteal bursitis associated with a sports-related injury and/or aggravated underlying condition, such as fibromyalgia, the pain and discomfort may slowly increase after exercise or physical activity. The symptoms may also worsen when sitting for extended periods of time. Ischiogluteal bursitis caused by an infection can ultimately be followed by a fever. �
Causes of Ischiogluteal Bursitis
The three most common causes of bursitis are generally due to injury or trauma, infection, and crystal deposits. Trauma can include repetitive movements or a blow to the region. By way of instance, the injury could occur due to a fall. Occasionally, trauma or injury can cause blood to leak into the bursa, causing ischiogluteal bursitis, or any other type of bursitis. �
Infection septic bursitis, or an infection in the bursa, generally occurs in the joints which are located closer to the surface of the human body. This health issue frequently affects men, however, it does not seem to be a leading cause of ischiogluteal bursitis. Crystal deposits can also form around the joints when there is too much uric acid in the human body. People with gout can develop bursitis because it is also caused by crystal deposits and it shares many similar symptoms with bursitis.
Diagnosis of Ischiogluteal Bursitis
Bursitis can generally be easily diagnosed by a healthcare professional, however, due to the similar symptoms of ischiogluteal bursitis, hamstring tendonitis, and even sciatica, it may be difficult to diagnose. However, tendonitis can often be relieved by deep tissue massage while bursitis will not and may actually worsen after a deep tissue massage. Proper diagnosis is fundamental in order for healthcare professionals to follow-up with the correct treatment for ischiogluteal bursitis. �
Treatment of Ischiogluteal Bursitis
In most instances, bursitis can be treated by resting the affected region and treating the swelling by utilizing cold therapy. When using an ice pack or similar cold pack, it should be wrapped in a cloth to avoid skin damage. The healthcare professional may also recommend a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication to reduce painful symptoms and swelling. �
As for people that have bursitis caused by an infection, an antibiotic is often prescribed to ultimately help fight the infection, relieving pain and discomfort in several days. If the painful symptoms continue for over a week, the doctor may suggest additional treatment approaches, such as draining of the bursa followed by a corticosteroid injection to reduce inflammation. �
Differential Diagnosis of Hip Pain and Discomfort
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Ischiogluteal bursitis is a well-known health issue characterized by pain and discomfort in the buttocks which is commonly caused by sitting for extended periods of time. In a variety of instances, ischiogluteal bursitis may also be caused due to an injury or aggravated underlying condition, such as fibromyalgia. Because ischiogluteal bursitis may occur due to inflammation, the widespread painful symptoms of fibromyalgia may also trigger other health issues. Furthermore, ischiogluteal bursitis may share similar symptoms to sciatica, due to the location of the health issue. – Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
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Fibromyalgia Magazine
The purpose of the article was to compare ischiogluteal bursitis and sciatica. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal and nervous health issues as well as functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. 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 �
Additional Topic Discussion: Severe Sciatica
Back pain�is one of the most prevalent causes of disability and missed days at work worldwide. Back pain attributes to the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience back pain at least once throughout their life. Your spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles, among other soft tissues. Injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as�herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of sciatica, or sciatic nerve pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of painful symptoms, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have these results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease sciatic nerve pain, or sciatica, through the utilization of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief. �
�
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. �
Whether you are walking around the house, to the store or to the mailbox, you know how to walk. Taking a walk is one of the most basic things a human can do. What you may not realize is that you are doing something that is fundamental for health. Walking is one of the single best exercises you can do. This is why you can expect your chiropractor to suggest that your daily routine should incorporate walking.
Cardiovascular health
Better mood
Weight loss
Walking does so much! If it was a pill, everyone would be taking it.
Walking Benefits
When you come to the chiropractor, chances are you are seeking help for a condition that is painful and/or uncomfortable. Back pain, leg pain, neck pain, etc. You may also make regular visits to the chiropractor for your overall health, as scheduled adjustments can help you feel better over the long-term.
Hearing your chiropractor recommend walking can be surprising, especially when you are expecting an adjustment or some other immediate type of care (don’t worry, you can still get your adjustment.) But there are reasons for the recommendation, reasons that fit perfectly into the goals of chiropractic care. These include:
1. It will help you lose weight.
Every extra pound you carry puts exponential pressure on your joints, including your back. Your chiropractor wants you to lose weight to protect your joints and minimize your pain and chance of injury.
Just 30 minutes a day of walking is enough to steadily shed pounds. Start with a 20-minute walk a day and gradually increase your time. Ideally, you should get 10,000 steps a day for fitness (a pedometer is helpful for measuring your steps.)
2. It will improve your mood.
Commercial products and pharmaceuticals are constantly offered to the public as mood lifters, and some of them may work�but most carry significant side effects. Walking will also improve your mood, and its main side effect is weight loss.
Studies have demonstrated that walking lowers feelings of anger and hostility. Walking is recommended for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), the condition that tends to show up as the days get darker and shorter.
Walking can also be helpful after an upsetting situation. If you take a walk, you will probably find you feel a little calmer and more in control when you return.
A father walking with his dog and his son in the suburbs
3. It will lower your risk of chronic disease.
There have been several studies that have shown walking can reduce the risk of chronic disease. One study found that people who walked five days a week for 30 minutes or more had a 30% less chance of developing cardiovascular disease. Other studies have shown it reduces blood pressure and most likely reduces the risk of having a stroke.
4. It improves digestion.
Having regular, predictable digestion makes life easier and more enjoyable. There are plenty of ways that people try to improve their digestion�ranging from a cup of coffee in the morning to fiber supplements. Walking is another way you can become more regular. The movement of walking aids in digestion, so much so that people who have gone through abdominal surgery are required to walk because of its positive effects on digestion.
What Walking Does to Your Body
Check out this video and discover exactly what happens to your body when you walk:
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