Many people experience pain daily at some point in their lives. The causes of pain can vary from person to person and can be due to environmental factors or normal wear and tear on the body. When the spine is under unwanted pressure, spinal discs can become compressed and musculoskeletal disorders can cause vertebrae to wear down, leading to chronic pain and disability. Fortunately, many treatments are available to alleviate pain and help the body restore itself naturally. This article focuses on a non-surgical treatment called spinal decompression, which can reduce the effects of musculoskeletal pain and help with the back and spine’s cervical, thoracic, and lumbar areas. We utilize and incorporate valuable information about our patients to certified medical providers using non-surgical therapies like spinal decompression to alleviate pain-like symptoms associated with environmental factors. We encourage referring patients to associated medical providers based on their findings while supporting that education is a remarkable tool to ask our providers essential questions at the patient’s request. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., comprises this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
What Is Spinal Decompression?
Do you feel stiffness in your upper or lower body? Are you experiencing any discomfort in your back, neck, or shoulders? Or are you feeling pain during simple movements? If these issues persist, consider spinal decompression therapy to alleviate your pain. Research studies reveal that many people experience pain at least a few times due to compression of the intervertebral discs caused by everyday wear-and-tear injuries and poor posture. This happens when the vertebral bones compress the spinal cord and discs, creating a risk of further complications. Luckily, spinal decompression is a non-surgical treatment option that is safe, gentle, and proven successful. It gently stretches the spine, relieving pressure on the spinal disc. Some of the physical benefits of spinal decompression therapy include:
Pain level decrease
Spine mobility improves
Postural integrity enhances
Develops core strength
Joint flexibility increases
Decrease stress levels
The immune system is boosted
Prevents new injuries from occurring
Chiropractic Care for Disc Herniation-Video
Do you feel pain or stiffness in certain body areas, especially when stretching or bending? These symptoms are often caused by spinal disc compression. Fortunately, many non-surgical treatments are available to help reduce the effects of spinal disc compression and promote natural healing. One such treatment is spinal decompression, as studies reveal that it uses negative pressure to stretch the muscles around the spine and reduce stress. Spinal decompression can be combined with other non-surgical treatments like chiropractic care to relieve pressure from the spine and reduce pain. Chiropractic care involves realigning the spine and reducing referred neck, shoulder, or back pain. Both therapies are non-invasive and can be combined with physical and nutritional treatment for optimal results. The video above explains how non-surgical treatments can help with disc herniation and associated symptoms.
Spinal Decompression For Musculoskeletal Pain
If you experience axial load on your spine from various factors, it could lead to musculoskeletal pain. Research shows that musculoskeletal pain is somatic by nature and can be associated with other pain syndromes related to the spine. Spinal decompression therapy can help alleviate this referred pain by using gentle traction to stretch the spine. Dr. Eric Kaplan, D.C., FIAMA, and Dr. Perry Bard, D.C.’s book, “The Ultimate Spinal Decompression,” stated that this therapy creates space between the vertebrae, allowing herniated or bulging discs to return to their positions in the spine. This reduces pressure on nerves and soft tissues and increases the circulation of oxygenated blood, fluids, and nutrients to the spinal disc. This helps stimulate the body’s natural healing mechanism and reduce musculoskeletal pain in the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar regions. Therefore, spinal decompression therapy can alleviate pain symptoms associated with those areas.
Conclusion
If you’re experiencing musculoskeletal pain in your neck, upper back, or lower back, it could be due to unwanted pressure on your spine. A variety of environmental factors can cause this pressure. Spinal decompression is a non-surgical treatment that can help alleviate this pressure using gentle traction on the spine. Spinal decompression can create negative pressure, increasing disc height and stretching the surrounding muscles. This can help reduce pain and prevent new injuries from occurring. Combining spinal decompression with other therapies can help individuals become more mindful of their bodies and avoid adding unwanted pressure to their spine.
Automobile accidents and collisions can cause knee and ankle injuries in various ways. Automobile crashes are considered high-energy collisions versus slip and fall traumas which are generally low-energy. However, a 30mph or under-collision can have serious and detrimental effects on the knees and ankles. The sudden forces can cause the knees to collide with the dashboard or push the feet and legs into the body, generating intense pressure and compressing the bones, muscles, and ligaments damaging soft tissues and bone structures from the impact. The Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic Team can rehabilitate, realign, strengthen, and restore function to individuals with minor to severe auto collision injuries.
Knee and Ankle Injuries
Musculoskeletal motor vehicle crash/collision injuries affect the body’s movement. The impact can pull, tear, crush, and smash bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, discs, and nerves. These injuries restrict the range of motion and can cause pain and sensation symptoms. The National Accident Sampling System reports 33% of injuries sustained during vehicle collisions are to the lower extremities.
Despite the knees and ankles having soft tissues that absorb and distribute the energy’s impact, the forces from the collision often happen instantly and unexpectedly, causing the individual to tense up, which overwhelms the structures.
Even panic stepping on the brake pedal can cause injury to the ankle and foot.
A passenger’s reflex of trying to resist forces can experience foot, ankle, and knee injuries from bracing off the vehicle’s floorboard.
Automobile collisions can cause strains, sprains, fractures, and dislocations.
Torn, Strained, or Sprained Knee
If the foot becomes planted on the floorboard while the body continues to move forward or sideways, the force can travel into the knee, causing twisting or shearing.
Depending on the injury type, the impact strength can damage different ligaments.
The ligaments resist forces that push the knee inwards/medially and outwards/laterally and slightly resist rotational forces.
When any of these ligaments are damaged, swelling, pain, and limited ranges of motion can result.
Putting weight on the affected leg can be difficult.
In some cases, the ligaments tear completely, necessitating surgical repair.
Once the individual can engage in mild activity, they can begin a rehabilitation program to restore function.
Recovery times vary based on the location and severity of the injury.
Fractured Knee or Ankle
When a fracture occurs in a joint, like the knees or ankles, surgical procedures may be necessary to repair the broken bone/s.
Broken bones can result in simultaneous damage and/or inflammation of the connective tissues that can cause the muscles to contract/tighten or atrophy during the recovery and healing phases.
Joints and bones are kept healthy with moderate movement and weight-bearing.
Fractures require immobilization of the affected area.
A physical therapy rehabilitation program can begin when the brace or cast comes off.
Targeted exercises and resistance will strengthen and stretch the joint to improve flexibility and promote healing through improved circulation.
Torn Meniscus
The meniscus is a C-shaped area of cartilage that rests between the thigh and shin bones.
It acts as a shock absorber.
The meniscus can become torn, resulting in pain, stiffness, and loss of motion.
This injury can heal independently with the right rest and therapeutic exercises.
A chiropractic auto collision specialist can diagnose the severity of the tear and provide the recommendations needed to rehabilitate and strengthen the knee.
If the tear is severe enough, surgery may be required.
Strained or Sprained Ankle
Strained tendons and sprained ligaments can result from the ankle being subject to tremendous force.
Strains and sprains vary in severity.
Both indicate that the connective tissue has been damaged or stretched beyond normal limits.
They can present with pain, inflammation, and problems moving the affected area.
With proper medical attention and rehabilitation, recovery is possible.
Torn Achilles Tendon
The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscle to the heel and is necessary for walking, running, physical activity, and bearing weight.
If the tendon gets torn, surgery will be required to reattach the muscle and tendon.
After recovery, the individual can begin physical therapy to work the tendon and muscle, slowly building strength and range of motion.
It is critical to do this with the supervision of an expert in musculoskeletal rehabilitation to avoid re-injury or developing new injuries.
Chiropractic Treatment
Any musculoskeletal motor vehicle injuries can result in intense pain that worsens with activity, inflammation, swelling, redness, and/or heat in the affected area. This is why correctly diagnosing the injury is essential if the condition is to be properly and thoroughly treated. A physical examination will vary based on the individual’s state and can include:
Strength assessment
Range of motion
Reflexes
Other variables to determine the underlying issues.
Diagnostic imaging such as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans can help identify and clarify injuries’ extent, nature, and location and rule out problems.
A qualified healthcare professional will combine the data with medical history to develop an accurate diagnosis. Our ability to effectively treat accident individuals is based on applying clinical expertise in musculoskeletal diagnosis and care. Our medical team takes a practical approach to help individuals quickly heal from musculoskeletal injuries using the latest treatments possible. When you meet with one of our professionals, you will feel relaxed and confident that you have come to the right place.
From Injury To Recovery
References
Dischinger, P C et al. “Consequences and costs of lower extremity injuries.” Annual proceedings. Association for the Advancement of Automotive Medicine vol. 48 (2004): 339-53.
Fildes, B et al. “Lower limb injuries to passenger car occupants.” Accident; analysis and prevention vol. 29,6 (1997): 785-91. doi:10.1016/s0001-4575(97)00047-x
Gane, Elise M et al. “The impact of musculoskeletal injuries sustained in road traffic crashes on work-related outcomes: a protocol for a systematic review.” Systematic reviews vol. 7,1 202. 20 Nov. 2018, doi:10.1186/s13643-018-0869-4
Hardin, E C et al. “Foot and ankle forces during an automobile collision: the influence of muscles.” Journal of biomechanics vol. 37,5 (2004): 637-44. doi:10.1016/j.jbiomech.2003.09.030
Li, Wen-Wei, and Cheng-Chang Lu. “Knee deformity following a motor vehicle accident.” Emergency medicine journal: EMJ vol. 38,6 (2021): 449-473. doi:10.1136/emermed-2020-210054
M, Asgari, and Keyvanian Sh S. “Crash Injury Analysis of Knee Joint Considering Pedestrian Safety.” Journal of biomedical physics & Engineering vol. 9,5 569-578. 1 Oct. 2019, doi:10.31661/jbpe.v0i0.424
Torry, Michael R et al. “Relationship of knee shear force and extensor moment on knee translations in females performing drop landings: a biplane fluoroscopy study.” Clinical biomechanics (Bristol, Avon) vol. 26,10 (2011): 1019-24. doi:10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2011.06.010
The human body has muscles surrounding and protecting the spine to prevent pain and disability. The spine is divided into three sections in the body: cervical, thoracic, and lumbar, which form an S-shape curve to promote stability and good posture. The spine has several discs, facet joints, and spinal nerves that work with the surrounding muscles, making the body mobile. However, various factors can pressure the spine, compressing the spinal discs and invoking referred pain to the surrounding muscles and tissues in different locations, leading to overlapping risk profiles if left untreated. This article focuses on the lumbar spine, explaining what vertebral pain syndrome is and how non-surgical treatments such as spinal decompression can restore mobility to the lumbar spine. We utilize and incorporate valuable information about our patients to certified medical providers using non-surgical therapies like spinal decompression to alleviate vertebral pain syndrome associated with the lumbar spine. We encourage while referring patients to associated medical providers based on their findings while supporting that education is a remarkable tool to ask our providers the essential questions at the patient’s request. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., comprises this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
An Overview Of the Lumbar Spine
We will concentrate on the lumbar spine, one of the three spine sections. The lumbar spine or low back begins at the T12 (the last thoracic vertebra) and ends at the S1 (the sacrum). It comprises five vertebrae with a common structure supporting the low back. These vertebrae are as follows:
The body
Pedicles
Laminae
Transverse processes
Spinous process
Superior/inferior articular processes
The lumbar spine has bigger and stronger bones that provide stability to the upper and lower parts of the body. Research studies reveal that the lumbar spine performs three essential functions that enable the body to function properly:
It supports the upper body.
It absorbs axial forces that move from the head to the trunk. This allows the muscles in the trunk to move without causing pain.
The lumbar spine forms a canal that safeguards the spinal cord and nerves.
The Structures Of the Lumbar Spine
The spine comprises several structures, including the vertebrae, spinal cord, spinal nerves, facet joints, and intervertebral discs. Each structure plays a unique role in keeping our bodies functioning properly. The vertebrae protect the spinal cord and nerves from injury, while the facet joints guide the motion of the vertebrae and help maintain stability. The spinal cord and nerves work with the central nervous system to send signals from the brain to the body for coordinating reflex actions. Intervertebral discs act as shock absorbers, allowing the spine to be flexible. Muscles, tissues, and ligaments protect the entire lumbar spine structure from pain. However, traumatic injuries or unwanted pressures can cause misalignment and low back pain. Low back pain is a common musculoskeletal complaint, and several factors can contribute to its development, often confused with vertebral pain syndrome associated with the lumbar spine, as research studies reveal.
Move Better, Live Better- Video
Do you have stiffness in your lower back or experience constant aches in certain regions? These may be signs of low back pain related to vertebral pain syndrome. Research shows that pathologic degeneration in the lumbar spine can cause low back pain, affecting all components. Several mechanical, traumatic, nutritional, and genetic factors contribute to spinal degeneration. However, non-surgical treatments can help reduce muscle pain and alleviate unwanted pressure on spinal discs. Chiropractic care and spinal decompression are two treatments that enhance mobility and function in the spine, relieving pain. The video above talks more about these treatments.
What Is Vertebral Pain Syndrome?
Experiencing pressure on the lumbar spine can result in various issues that can worsen low back pain. One of these issues is called vertebral pain syndrome. In “The Ultimate Spinal Decompression,” Dr. Eric Kaplan, D.C., FIAMA, and Dr. Perry Bard, D.C., explain that this syndrome occurs when environmental factors start affecting the lumbar spine. It can be caused by visceral pain in the lower back that disrupts neuron signals in the lumbar spine. This can irritate spinal nerves, leading to referred pain in the lower body. The book also mentions that vertebral pain syndrome can happen when the vertebrae end plates on spinal discs wear thin, causing pressure to move with the disc. This can inflame the spine, causing chronic low back pain.
How Spinal Decompression Alleviate Vertebral Pain Syndrome
How can non-surgical spinal decompression treatments help alleviate vertebral pain syndrome in the lumbar spine? Research studies revealed that spinal decompression could reduce pressure on the spinal disc and gently stretch the spine, restoring disc height. This treatment can relieve many people from low back pain and its associated symptoms. Moreover, it can rehydrate spinal discs by promoting the flow of blood and nutrients, which aids in the healing process to reduce the effects of vertebral pain syndrome.
Conclusion
Taking care of your spine is crucial as everyday factors can put pressure on it, causing damage to the spinal discs. This can lead to vertebral pain syndrome, which can cause lumbar back pain and referred pain linked to visceral problems. Luckily, spinal decompression therapy can ease the effects of this syndrome by gently stretching the spine and restoring hydration to the discs. Incorporating spinal decompression into your routine allows you to enjoy a pain-free life without worrying about lower back pain.
Kang, J.-I., Jeong, D.-K., & Choi, H. (2016). Effect of spinal decompression on the lumbar muscle activity and disk height in patients with herniated intervertebral disk. Journal of Physical Therapy Science, 28(11), 3125–3130. doi.org/10.1589/jpts.28.3125
Kaplan, E. & Bard, P. (2023). The Ultimate Spinal Decompression. JETLAUNCH.
Manfrè, L., & Van Goethem, J. (2020). Low Back Pain (J. Hodler, R. A. Kubik-Huch, & G. K. von Schulthess, Eds.). PubMed; Springer. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554336/
Not getting enough fiber in one’s diet can lead to fiber deficiency. Fiber helps support gut and microbiome health. Individuals not getting enough fiber may experience irregular bowel movements, constipation, blood sugar fluctuations, not feeling full/satisfied after eating, or rising cholesterol levels. About 100 trillion microorganisms in the gut are integral to maintaining a healthy immune system. Fiber is the food these microorganisms eat that helps them to do their job. Without the proper amount, the immune system’s health may also be compromised.
Fiber and Gut Health
Fiber and gut health benefits include regulating the body’s sugars, helping to keep hunger and blood sugar in check, helping to maintain a healthy weight, its ability to prevent or relieve constipation, reduce the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.
Dietary fiber, or roughage, is the part of plant foods the body can’t digest or absorb.
It passes through the stomach, small intestine, and colon and out of the body.
It is found mainly in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
Soluble and insoluble forms are important to overall health.
Types
Soluble Fiber
This type dissolves in water to form a gel-like substance.
It can help lower blood cholesterol and glucose levels.
It is found in oats, peas, beans, apples, citrus fruits, carrots, and barley.
Insoluble Fiber
This type of fiber promotes the movement of material through the digestive system.
It increases stool bulk, benefiting individuals who struggle with constipation or irregular stools.
Whole-wheat flour, wheat bran, nuts, beans, and vegetables, such as cauliflower, green beans, and potatoes, are good sources.
Benefits
Healthy Bowel Movements
Dietary fiber increases stool weight and thickness and makes it soft.
Fiber helps to solidify the stool by absorbing water and adding bulk.
A thicker stool is easier to pass, decreasing the potential for constipation and other problems.
Maintains Bowel Health
A high-fiber diet can lower the risk of developing hemorrhoids and small pouches in the colon/diverticular disease.
Studies have also found that a high-fiber diet can help lower the risk of colorectal cancer.
Some fiber gets fermented in the colon.
Researchers are looking at how this can help prevent diseases of the colon.
Lowers Cholesterol
Soluble fiber found in beans, oats, flaxseed, and oat bran can help lower blood cholesterol levels by lowering low-density lipoprotein or unhealthy cholesterol levels.
Studies also have shown that high-fiber foods can help reduce blood pressure and inflammation.
Regulates Blood Sugar Levels
In individuals with diabetes, fiber, particularly soluble fiber, can slow the absorption of sugar and improve blood sugar levels.
A healthy nutrition plan that includes insoluble fiber can help reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Helps Achieve Healthy Weight
High-fiber foods can be more filling than low-fiber foods, helping individuals eat less and stay satisfied.
High-fiber foods can also take longer to eat and are less energy dense, meaning they have fewer calories.
Getting More Fiber
Ideas for adding more fiber to meals and snacks:
Fiber to Start The Day
Choose a high-fiber breakfast cereal with five or more grams of fiber per serving.
Choose cereals with whole grain, bran, or fiber in the name.
Add a few tablespoons of unprocessed wheat bran to the cereal.
Add Whole Grains
Try to make at least half of the grains eaten whole grains.
Look for bread that lists whole wheat, whole-wheat flour, or another whole grain as the first ingredient, with at least 2 grams of dietary fiber per serving.
Experiment with whole-wheat pasta, brown rice, wild rice, barley, and bulgur wheat.
Baked Foods
Substitute whole-grain flour for half or all white flour when baking.
Add crushed bran cereal, unprocessed wheat bran, or uncooked oatmeal to muffins, cakes, and cookies.
Legumes
Beans, peas, and lentils are recommended sources.
Add kidney beans to soups or salads.
Make nachos with refried black beans, fresh vegetables, whole-wheat tortilla chips, and healthy salsa.
Fruit and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are rich in fiber and vitamins and minerals.
Try to eat a favorite fruit daily.
Healthy Snacks
Fresh fruits, raw vegetables, low-fat popcorn, and whole-grain crackers are healthy choices.
Try for a handful of nuts or dried fruits; however, be aware that nuts and dried fruits can be high in calories.
Moderation
High-fiber foods are beneficial for the body’s health.
Adding too much fiber can promote intestinal gas, abdominal bloating, and cramping.
Increase fiber gradually over a few weeks.
This allows the natural bacteria in the digestive system to make adjustments.
Maintain hydration, as fiber works best when it absorbs water.
Individuals not sure how to incorporate more fiber can consult a nutritionist and health coach to help begin the process.
Gut Dysfunction
References
Anderson, James W et al. “Health benefits of dietary fiber.” Nutrition Reviews vol. 67,4 (2009): 188-205. doi:10.1111/j.1753-4887.2009.00189.x
Cronin, Peter, et al. “Dietary Fiber Modulates the Gut Microbiota.” Nutrients vol. 13,5 1655. 13 May. 2021, doi:10.3390/nu13051655
Fuller, Stacey, et al. “New Horizons for the Study of Dietary Fiber and Health: A Review.” Plant foods for human nutrition (Dordrecht, Netherlands) vol. 71,1 (2016): 1-12. doi:10.1007/s11130-016-0529-6
Gill, Samantha K et al. “Dietary fiber in gastrointestinal health and disease.” Nature reviews. Gastroenterology & hepatology vol. 18,2 (2021): 101-116. doi:10.1038/s41575-020-00375-4
The spine is essential for maintaining our upright posture and allowing us to move without pain. The cervical, thoracic, and lumbar sections support different body areas. However, environmental factors and pathogens can cause musculoskeletal pain, leading to spine misalignment and stress on the surrounding muscles and nerve roots. Non-surgical treatments like IDD therapy can help realign the spine and relieve pain. We utilize and incorporate valuable information about our patients to certified medical providers using non-surgical treatments like IDD therapy to alleviate pain associated with musculoskeletal pain along the spine. We encourage and refer patients to associated medical providers based on their findings while supporting that education is a remarkable and fantastic way to ask our providers the essential questions at the patient’s acknowledgment. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., comprises this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
The Pathological Effects Of Musculoskeletal Pain On The Spine
Are you experiencing muscle pain in various parts of your body? Do you feel stiffness in your back, neck, hips, or shoulders? Or are you experiencing localized pain in a specific area? These are common symptoms of musculoskeletal pain, which affects the spine. Unfortunately, research studies reveal that musculoskeletal pain is a leading cause of long-term suffering, disability, and decreased productivity. This type of pain can strain the surrounding muscles in the upper and lower body, affect joints, and cause overlapping risk factors that make diagnosis challenging. Research studies also suggest that musculoskeletal pain can arise from different structures, leading to local or central sensitization and correlating pain intensity and duration.
Did you know that musculoskeletal pain can have pathological effects on the spine? Research studies revealed that the musculoskeletal system significantly impacts the central nervous system regarding pain. This means that when pain occurs in a certain area, neuron signals are sent to the brain, increasing sensitivity markers to that location. In the case of a traumatic spinal cord injury, these signals can become chaotic, leading to additional risk factors for the muscles surrounding the spine. This can result in musculoskeletal pain, which may cause referred pain in other body parts. Additionally, research has indicated that severe pathologies associated with the central nervous system can also lead to musculoskeletal pain. This is because the brain’s neuron signals alert the immune system that something is wrong and needs immediate attention.
The Science Of Motion-Video
Have you been experiencing stiffness or pain in different parts of your body? Do you feel discomfort lifting heavy objects or feel a pinched nerve in your lower back or legs? These daily issues could be caused by musculoskeletal pain affecting your spinal cord. Traumatic or non-specific issues can lead to overlapping risk profiles and the development of musculoskeletal pain associated with the spine. If the spinal column is affected, it can cause neuron signals to become hypersensitive, resulting in a misalignment of the body. Fortunately, non-surgical treatments can help realign and heal the body naturally, reducing the effects on affected muscles while allowing necessary nutrients and blood to flow back to the spine. The video above explains how non-surgical treatments like chiropractic care can harness the body’s ability to heal and restore stability through manual manipulation. Chiropractic care can also be combined with decompression therapy to stretch and alleviate pressure off the spine gently.
What Is IDD Therapy?
The musculoskeletal system depends on nerves, bones, and muscles for body structure and function. When affected by unwanted pathogens, it can cause pain in various areas and make a person feel miserable. Fortunately, non-surgical treatments like IDD therapy or intervertebral differential dynamic therapy can help reduce musculoskeletal pain affecting the spine. IDD therapy is decompression therapy that can help reduce pain by mobilizing and lengthening compressed spinal discs with special treatment forces. In “The Ultimate Spinal Decompression,” Dr. Eric Kaplan, D.C., FIAMA, and Dr. Perry Bard, D.C., states IDD therapy effectively alleviates spinal pain associated with the musculoskeletal system. The book also mentions that this therapy helps free the spinal discs and nerve roots as the compressed pressure is dropped. To that point, it allows the oxygen-riched blood and nutrients back to the spinal discs to begin the healing process, as research studies revealed.
Conclusion
When the spine experiences traumatic forces or injuries, it can result in musculoskeletal pain that can be constant and miserable for the individual. However, no one should have to endure such pain. The spine supports the upper and lower sections of the body and needs to be mobile to perform this task. Non-surgical treatments, such as IDD therapy, can help alleviate unwanted pressure off the spinal discs and nerve roots that have become hyper-sensitive due to trauma or injury. This decompression therapy can help restore mobility to the spine and rehydrate the spinal discs to begin the healing process. With IDD therapy, individuals can relieve pain and experience freedom of movement.
References
Arendt-Nielsen, L., Fernández-de-Las-Peñas, C., & Graven-Nielsen, T. (2011). Basic aspects of musculoskeletal pain: from acute to chronic pain. The Journal of manual & manipulative therapy, 19(4), 186–193. doi.org/10.1179/106698111X13129729551903
Bang, A. A., Bhojraj, S. Y., & Bang, A. T. (2021). Back pain and musculoskeletal pain as public health problems: Rural communities await solution. Journal of global health, 11, 01007. doi.org/10.7189/jogh.11.01007
George, S. Z., & Bishop, M. D. (2018). Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain is a Nervous System Disorder… Now What?. Physical therapy, 98(4), 209–213. doi.org/10.1093/ptj/pzy002
Kaplan, E. & Bard, P. (2023). The Ultimate Spinal Decompression. JETLAUNCH.
Puntillo, F., Giglio, M., Paladini, A., Perchiazzi, G., Viswanath, O., Urits, I., Sabbà, C., Varrassi, G., & Brienza, N. (2021). Pathophysiology of musculoskeletal pain: a narrative review. Therapeutic advances in musculoskeletal disease, 13, 1759720X21995067. doi.org/10.1177/1759720X21995067
Schimmel, J. J., de Kleuver, M., Horsting, P. P., Spruit, M., Jacobs, W. C., & van Limbeek, J. (2009). No effect of traction in patients with low back pain: a single centre, single blind, randomized controlled trial of Intervertebral Differential Dynamics Therapy. European spine journal : official publication of the European Spine Society, the European Spinal Deformity Society, and the European Section of the Cervical Spine Research Society, 18(12), 1843–1850. doi.org/10.1007/s00586-009-1044-3
Percussive massage guns have become a standard tool in osteopathy, physical and massage therapy, and chiropractic care. They provide rapid bursts of force into muscle tissues to quickly loosen and relax the muscles to alleviate soreness, stiffness and increase circulation. Percussive massager therapy devices can be a healthy part of an exercise and recovery routine. They allow individuals to give themselves quick, powerful massages anytime and anywhere. But they need to be used correctly to reap the benefits.
Percussive Massager
These devices can be found in stores and online. Many are on the market, making it tough to separate high-quality massagers from low-quality ones. With a little research and advice from a physical therapist or chiropractic professional, they can help the individual get the right one and training on how to use them to maintain a healthy musculoskeletal system.
Percussive Therapy
Massage guns utilize percussive therapy or vibration therapy, sometimes simultaneously. Percussion and vibration therapy are slightly different. They are soft tissue manipulation, which reduces muscle soreness and post-physical activity, and workout fatigue.
Vibration therapy uses vibration movements to relax the body, alleviate stress and improve circulation.
Vibration therapy applies force to targeted areas but with less intensity.
This type of soft tissue therapy is generally defined as reaching eight to 10 millimeters into the soft tissues.
Vibration therapy is often recommended for individuals with chronic pain conditions, overly sensitive muscles, or a medical condition that prevents them from using percussive therapy.
Percussive therapy involves the application of force to muscles and fascia to break up adhesions and increase circulation to sore and sensitive areas.
Percussive therapy extends deeper into the muscles and reaches deep into soft tissue, estimated to be about 60% deeper.
Using It Properly
It’s important to know how to use the machine to get the most out of a percussive massager. Using the massager incorrectly can lead to further injury or the development of new injuries.
Before Workouts
A pre-workout massage session can help warm up the body by increasing circulation and improving the range of motion of the muscles that will be engaged during the workout. Spend one to two minutes massaging each muscle group that will be worked out, plus 30 seconds on supporting muscle groups. For example, here is a pre-workout massage for a leg workout.
Sixty seconds on each quadricep.
Sixty seconds on each hamstring.
Thirty seconds on the lower back.
Thirty seconds on each calf.
Circulation increases in less than five minutes, and the muscles are ready for exercise. However, this does not replace proper warming-up like dynamic stretching and light cardio to increase heart rate.
After Workouts
After working out, a percussive massage can be part of the cool-down.
Post-workout percussive therapy can help return the body from a heightened state to a resting state.
Percussive therapy helps reduce inflammation, which helps reduce post-workout muscle soreness is thought to occur due to microscopic tears in muscle fibers and inflammation in the tissues.
Percussive therapy maintains increased circulation after a workout, providing oxygen and nutrients to tired muscles.
The massage helps relax the nervous system by reducing soreness and pain signals, similar to a TENS unit.
Sore Muscles
The muscles may still be sore a day or two after working out. This is called delayed-onset muscle soreness/DOMS.
A percussive massage can help but may not completely alleviate DOMS but it will provide temporary relief.
The massager’s speed and depth settings should be adjusted to where they don’t cause pain.
Sore muscles tend to remain sensitive, and it is recommended to use the lower settings.
Once a setting feels good, use the massager for one to two minutes on each sore area.
How Not to Use
Individuals are recommended to consult a doctor if not sure of percussive massage therapy and should avoid using a percussive massager on:
Musculoskeletal injuries – sprains and strains.
Bony areas.
Areas of severe or unexplained pain.
Sensitive areas.
Bruises or open wounds.
Individuals with arthritis, osteoporosis, fibromyalgia, or other musculoskeletal conditions.
Percussive massage devices are safe to use for muscle soreness and as a tool to improve fitness.
Individuals can safely use a percussive massager every day as long as they use proper techniques and don’t exceed the recommended usage time, usually provided with instructions on how long to use the device during a session. And some massagers have an automatic shut-off so the individual doesn’t exceed the recommended time.
Revitalize and Rebuild with Chiropractic
References
Cheatham, Scott W et al. “Mechanical Percussion Devices: A Survey of Practice Patterns Among Healthcare Professionals.” International journal of sports physical therapy vol. 16,3 766-777. 2 Jun. 2021, doi:10.26603/001c.23530
Dupuy, Olivier, et al. “An Evidence-Based Approach for Choosing Post-exercise Recovery Techniques to Reduce Markers of Muscle Damage, Soreness, Fatigue, and Inflammation: A Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis.” Frontiers in physiology vol. 9 403. 26 Apr. 2018, doi:10.3389/fphys.2018.00403
García-Sillero, Manuel et al. “Acute Effects of a Percussive Massage Treatment on Movement Velocity during Resistance Training.” International journal of environmental research and public health vol. 18,15 7726. 21 Jul. 2021, doi:10.3390/ijerph18157726
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One of the most prevalent types of pain worldwide is lumbar back pain, which affects many people and can be costly. This type of pain can be triggered by several environmental factors, which can overlap and cause referred pain throughout the body. Some factors linked to low back pain include those that impact people working for a living.
Age
Physical inactivity
Excess weight
Improper lifting
Excessive sitting
Stress
Wear and tear on the spinal discs
When environmental factors cause spine misalignment, the surrounding muscles become weak, tense, and strained. This can result in the body shifting its weight to alleviate pain. However, many non-surgical treatments are available to relieve low back pain and realign the spine. In this article, we will discuss how lumbar back pain affects the body and how non-surgical therapies such as vertebral axial decompression can help to reduce it. We utilize and incorporate valuable information about our patients to certified medical providers using non-surgical treatments like vertebral axial decompression to relieve pain associated with the lumbar spine. We encourage and refer patients to associated medical providers based on their findings while supporting that education is a remarkable and fantastic way to ask our providers the essential questions at the patient’s acknowledgment. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., comprises this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
What Is Lumbar Back Pain?
Research studies suggest that lumbar back pain is commonly experienced as a symptom in the midline or sacral region of the body. This pain can develop gradually due to unwanted pressure and weight on the spinal discs, which compresses the nerve roots surrounding the spinal cord. Based on additional studies, lumbar back pain is often categorized into two types for diagnosis.
Specific low back pain: overlapping symptoms are caused by pathological mechanisms like, herniated discs, infections, musculoskeletal disorders, fractures, or disc degeneration.
Non-specific low back pain: where overlapping symptoms are causing pain in the lumbar region without a specific cause. This form of low back pain causes referred pain to different locations.
Many individuals commonly suffer from non-specific lower back pain, which can be triggered by environmental factors and affect their daily function. However, there are methods to alleviate lumbar back pain without surgery.
From Injury to Recovery with Chiropractic Care-Video
Nobody must suffer from lumbar back pain, as many effective treatments are available to help realign the body back to normal. Non-surgical treatments like chiropractic care and decompression therapy can reduce the effects of lumbar back pain and realign the spine. These treatments can restore blood flow and nutrients to spinal discs, relieve the affected muscles, and be personalized to an individual’s health and wellness plan. This may include physical therapy to strengthen weak muscles surrounding the lumbar, nutritional advice to incorporate healthy whole foods to feed the body, and mindfulness practices to reduce the effects of stress on the body. Check out the video above to learn how to identify the root cause of health issues related to lumbar back pain and take steps toward your health and wellness journey.
What Is Vertebral Axial Decompression?
If you’re experiencing lumbar back pain, there are a variety of non-surgical and non-invasive treatments that can help alleviate the discomfort. One such treatment is decompression therapy, which involves gently pulling the spine to reduce pain and rehydrate the spinal disc. In this article, we’ll discuss vertebral axial decompression, a specific type of therapy. According to Dr. Eric Kaplan, D.C., FIAMA, and Dr. Perry Bard, D.C.’s book, “The Ultimate Spinal Decompression,” vertebral axial decompression can effectively reduce lumbar pain. Vertebral axial decompression (VAX-D) was developed by Dr. Allen Dyer, M.D., Ph.D. The book also explains that VAX-D uses a logarithmic time force curve to apply tension to the spinal column, bypassing muscle guarding reflexes in the lumbar spine and reducing disc pressure. Overall, vertebral axial decompression can be a useful treatment option for those with lumbar back pain.
How Does It Reduce Lumbar Back Pain?
Many individuals who suffer from lumbar back pain experience associated pain symptoms that affect their legs and feet. This is referred to as sciatica or leg pain associated with pressure on the spinal discs. Vertebral axial decompression is one effective solution to reduce this pressure and alleviate nerve root aggravation. Research studies have shown that this treatment can improve mobility, reduce pain in the lumbar spine, and minimize the effects of lumbar back pain. By lowering intradiscal pressure, vertebral axial decompression allows for better blood flow and nutrient absorption to rehydrate spinal discs.
Conclusion
Lumbar back pain is a common and costly issue that causes misalignment in the body by putting pressure on the spinal disc, resulting in referred pain in various body parts. Environmental factors can contribute to the development of this condition, causing muscles and nerves to become tense, weak, or strained. Fortunately, many treatments are available to alleviate lumbar spine pain and relieve pressure from the spinal discs. Decompression therapy is effective in restoring mobility and reducing pain. Vertebral axial decompression is a non-surgical option that gently stretches the spine and rehydrates the spinal disc, revitalizing the body.
References
Casser, Hans-Raimund, et al. “Acute Lumbar Back Pain.” Deutsches Arzteblatt International, 1 Apr. 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4857557/.
Goose, E E, et al. “Vertebral Axial Decompression Therapy for Pain Associated with Herniated or Degenerated Discs or Facet Syndrome: An Outcome Study.” Neurological Research, Apr. 1998, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9583577/.
Kaplan, Eric, and Perry Bard. The Ultimate Spinal Decompression. JETLAUNCH, 2023.
Koes, B W, et al. “Diagnosis and Treatment of Low Back Pain.” BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.), 17 June 2006, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1479671/.
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