Agility is the ability to accelerate, decelerate, stabilize, and quickly change directions with proper form and posture. Everyone, athletes and non-athletes, use agility every day. This can be maneuvering around objects during a jog, shifting movements or positions when walking through a crowd, reaching toward the highest shelf, or carrying things upstairs. These controlled reactions require a balance of coordination, speed, stamina, and strength. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic can provide agility enhancement through adjustments, massage, and decompression to relax the body, strengthen the muscles, and improve circulation and nerve function.
Agility Enhancement
Individuals need skill and control to react to a stimulus or movement. Agility requires muscular coordination, efficiency, and cohesiveness between the upper and lower body. Agility and reaction time are two components of neuromusculoskeletal health that work together. Agility enhancement can improve cognitive ability, power production, and physical performance. Agility enhancement improves overall physical skills, including:
Balance
Stability
Coordination
Body Control
Cognition
Recovery time
Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic improves agility neurologically through improved circulation and energy flow in the nervous system.
Injury Treatment and Prevention
Agility enhancement can help with injury prevention, as agility training increases control, balance, and flexibility. It teaches the correct body placement while moving to protect the knees, shoulders, and lower back. It also helps to strengthen the muscles and improve the resiliency of the connective tissue allowing them to shorten and lengthen rapidly. This helps prevent injuries and relieves pain and stiffness associated with muscle overuse.
Stiffness often occurs from the overuse of muscles.
Stiffness reduces flexibility, increasing the risk of injury and affecting movement and physical capabilities.
Stiffness can even occur from changes in everyday routines.
Chiropractic prevents the muscles from tensing up, reducing stiffness and increasing your range of motion.
Chiropractic helps strengthen the musculoskeletal system, which makes it easier to maintain normal balance.
Chiropractic can strengthen the muscles by making the muscle fibers more excitable, contributing to quicker reaction time.
We create rehabilitation and strength and conditioning treatment plans that are individualized for each individual. This program entails the following:
Posture, mobility, and performance education for improved movement.
Health and nutritional recommendations.
Our treatment programs are designed to improve each individual’s whole body health and decrease the risk of injury.
Improve Balance And Agility
References
Ali, Kamran, et al. “Comparison of Complex Versus Contrast Training on Steroid Hormones and Sports Performance in Male Soccer Players.” Journal of chiropractic medicine vol. 18,2 (2019): 131-138. doi:10.1016/j.jcm.2018.12.001
Järvinen, Tero A H, et al. “Muscle injuries: optimizing recovery.” Best practice & research. Clinical rheumatology vol. 21,2 (2007): 317-31. doi:10.1016/j.berh.2006.12.004
Lennemann, Lynette M et al. “The influence of agility training on physiological and cognitive performance.” Journal of strength and conditioning research vol. 27,12 (2013): 3300-9. doi:10.1519/JSC.0b013e31828ddf06
Miners, Andrew L. “Chiropractic treatment and the enhancement of sports performance: a narrative literature review.” The Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association vol. 54,4 (2010): 210-21.
The various muscles and tendons surrounding the foot play an important role as they provide stability to the lower parts of the body and allow the individual to move and flex their feet. These various muscles and tendons help support the ankles and allow leg movement. Many people will be on their feet constantly as the world moves and sometimes have to deal with various issues affecting their ability to walk. As the body naturally ages, many people will begin to shuffle their feet around, which causes strain on the foot muscles and can affect the calves and legs over time. To that point, it can lead to foot pain and other conditions that can affect the individual. Other issues that can affect the feet and its muscle could be incorrect footwear, how they are standing, or how they walk. When this happens, conditions like plantar fasciitis and trigger point pain can affect the feet differently. Today’s article focuses on the superficial intrinsic foot muscles, how trigger points and plantar fasciitis correlate with foot pain, and how to strengthen the foot muscles. We refer patients to certified providers incorporating techniques and therapies in the lower body extremities of trigger points affecting the feet. This helps many people with trigger point pain symptoms associated with plantar fasciitis along the intrinsic foot muscles. We encourage and appreciate each patient by referring them to associated medical providers based on their diagnosis when it is appropriate. We understand that education is a terrific way when asking our providers intricated questions at the patient’s request and understanding. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., only utilizes this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
The Superficial Intrinsic Foot Muscles
As stated earlier, the foot has various muscles and tendons that allow stability to the ankles and allow movement when a person is walking. The foot has two muscle groups: the extrinsic and intrinsic muscles. Today we will look at the intrinsic foot muscles and how important these muscles are in the foot. Studies reveal that the intrinsic foot muscles are highly important as they are contained to the foot and contribute to supporting the medial longitudinal arch. The intrinsic foot muscles are superficial and help keep the toes straight while providing flexion and extension when in motion. The foot has about 29 muscles, including 10 surrounding the foot and ankle, while the other 19 are intrinsic and provide the roles for gait and posture. The 19 intrinsic muscles have the following:
Abductor Hallucis
Quadratus Plantae
Flexor Hallucis Brevis
Flexor Digitorum Brevis
Abductor Digiti Minimi
Flexor Digiti Minimi
The Interossei Muscles
The Lumbricals
These muscles allow individuals to walk, run, or jog without pain. However, when the intrinsic muscles become impaired, studies reveal that intrinsic foot muscle function could be linked to various foot conditions that affect a person’s walking ability.
How Does Foot Pain Correlate With Plantar Fasciitis & Trigger Points?
Studies reveal that foot pain can cause an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience as many factors can affect how a person is walking and can lead to various issues affecting the lower extremities’ mobility. When multiple issues affect how a person walks, the intrinsic muscle and other muscles surrounding the ankle and foot could become strained and overlap with other foot conditions. When foot pain affects the intrinsic foot muscles, co-existing muscle impairments could affect the alignment, motion, load distribution, and muscle performance that involves the legs. When these impairments are causing foot pain, it can correlate with trigger points and conditions like plantar fasciitis that can affect a person walking. But how does foot pain connect with plantar fasciitis and trigger points?
According to Dr. Travell, M.D.’s book “Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction,” when tension starts to overload the foot, the intrinsic muscles develop tiny nodules in the muscle fibers and reduce the muscle strength of the medial arch. To that point, it can collapse and cause the foot to develop inflammation associated with repetitive actions that cause plantar fasciitis in the feet. When this happens, it can affect a person’s ability to walk, run, stand, and affect the lower extremities’ mobility. If it is not treated right away, it can cause muscle and joint pain in the hips, legs, knees, and lower back.
An Overview Of The Intrinsic Foot Muscles-Video
Have you been dealing with issues on your feet? Do you find it difficult to step down or walk? Or have you been rubbing your feet constantly to reduce the soreness in your feet? Many of these issues correlate with trigger points affecting the intrinsic foot muscles that could cause foot issues like plantar fasciitis. The foot has various muscles, like the intrinsic muscles, that allow gait and stability to the body. Multiple factors affecting the intrinsic foot muscles can lead to instability, muscle strain, tendon stress, and muscle and joint pain. This can affect how a person moves throughout the day and their quality of life. The video above explains where each different muscles are, which ones are extrinsic and intrinsic, and how each muscle helps with foot function. When various issues begin to affect the foot and cause mobility issues, multiple techniques are available to help strengthen the foot muscles and prevent future problems from affecting the feet.
Strengthening The Foot Muscles
Regarding trigger point pain affecting the intrinsic foot muscles, various techniques can reduce the pain-like symptoms of trigger points and prevent foot issues like plantar fasciitis from re-occurring. Studies reveal that light, non-weight-bearing exercises like cycling and swimming can minimize muscle overload on foot. Other ways to strengthen the intrinsic foot muscles are by stretching the toe flexors to help improve stability and prevent hypermobility in the foot. Other techniques that can reduce trigger points in the foot’s muscle fibers include using a cylindrical or spherical object and rolling under the arches to massage and loosen stiff muscles. Many of these techniques could help restore foot functionality and stability while reducing future issues like plantar fasciitis in the feet. To that point, allow people to walk pain-free again.
Conclusion
The foot has 29 muscles, including ten extrinsic muscles surrounding the foot and ankle and 29 intrinsic muscles on the foot. The intrinsic muscles are highly important for foot functionality as they are superficial and contribute to supporting the medial longitudinal arch. The intrinsic foot muscles also help keep the toes straight and allow flexion and extension when in motion. These muscles also help a person walk and stabilize the ankle. When various factors affect a person’s walking ability, it can lead to muscle strain and tendon stress to the foot, leading to the development of trigger points in the intrinsic muscle fibers and causing pain. This could cause foot conditions like plantar fasciitis and other co-existing muscle impairments that can affect the lower extremities’ mobility while causing muscle and joint pain in the hips, legs, knees, and lower back. Luckily there are available techniques that can help massage, stretch, and strengthen the intrinsic foot muscles while reducing trigger points and their associated symptoms from re-occurring. To that point, these techniques can allow many individuals to walk without feeling pain.
References
Card, Ryan K, and Bruno Bordoni. “Anatomy, Bony Pelvis and Lower Limb, Foot Muscles.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 27 Feb. 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539705/.
Gooding, Thomas M, et al. “Intrinsic Foot Muscle Activation during Specific Exercises: A T2 Time Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study.” Journal of Athletic Training, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Aug. 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5094843/.
Hawke, Fiona, and Joshua Burns. “Understanding the Nature and Mechanism of Foot Pain.” Journal of Foot and Ankle Research, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 14 Jan. 2009, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2631512/.
Lim, Ang Tee, et al. “Management of Plantar Fasciitis in the Outpatient Setting.” Singapore Medical Journal, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Apr. 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4853481/.
Soysa, Achini, et al. “Importance and Challenges of Measuring Intrinsic Foot Muscle Strength.” Journal of Foot and Ankle Research, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 26 Nov. 2012, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3544647/.
Travell, J. G., et al. Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual: Vol. 2:the Lower Extremities. Williams & Wilkins, 1999.
There is a multitude of reasons why back muscles tighten and stiffen up. Muscles pull the bones and joints. Overuse and/or injuries can pull the bones, joints, and tendons out of place, thus causing the muscles to stay in a flexed or stretched position, the inability for the muscles to relax and return to their normal position, resulting in symptoms of discomfort, stiffness, and pain. Individuals can have reoccurring bouts of tight muscles, eventually becoming chronic. Chronic muscle tension can pull the spine out of alignment even if there is no specific injury. The Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Wellness Team can relieve tight back muscle tension and restore positioning, mobility, and function.
Muscles are the Key
Muscles make the body move and greatly impact the skeletal and nervous systems. When a muscle is overstretched or pulled, there is not just injury to the muscles but the potential for injury to the bones and tendons in the area. This, in turn, can pinch nerves and cause problems with the nervous system, especially in pain signal transmissions.
Symptoms
Symptoms will depend on the cause and severity. The most common include:
Constant or chronic muscle achiness, soreness, stiffness, and tightness.
Even after stretching or flexing, there is a dull aching or pain.
More serious symptoms may include:
Electrical or burning sensations
Sharp or stabbing pain.
Weakness in the legs or arms
Tingling or numbness in the legs, arms, or chest.
Chest discomfort symptoms.
Causes
Aging
The older a person is, the more likely they will experience back discomfort symptoms. Back issues most likely occur in 30- to 50-year-olds.
The aging process naturally wears the body.
Thinning bones
Muscle mass reduction
Fluid loss between joints in the spine.
All these can cause back issues and problems.
Unhealthy posture
Constant pressure on the spine can lead to general back discomfort symptoms. Practicing unhealthy posture can generate this pressure. The muscles and ligaments must work harder to keep the body balanced because the muscles are out of position, and the other muscles can’t perform their job properly. Overworking and overuse lead to tight back muscles, aches, and pain.
Muscle sprain or strain
Sprains are the tearing or stretching of ligaments. Strains are the tearing or stretching of muscles and tendons. Lifting heavy objects without proper form can easily cause a back sprain or strain. Sprains and strains can also occur after an awkward, sudden, or jerking movement.
Herniated disc
A herniated, slipped, or ruptured disc puts pressure on a nerve/s. This can stress the surrounding muscles causing tension to build up.
Fall or other injuries
Tight back muscles can result from the following:
A fall
Vehicle accident
Force Trauma
Sports accident
Weight gain
Added weight stresses and pulls the body down. This causes unhealthy posture and muscle tension.
Chiropractic Functional Wellness
Usually, tight muscles can be relieved with a hot bath or cold therapy. Reoccurring bouts of, or chronically tense back muscles, are signals that something is wrong and should not be ignored. Chiropractic care can release and relax tight back muscles and get them back into a natural state by re-aligning the spine through tissue manipulation, decompression, massage, and adjustments. The various treatment methods will relieve the discomfort, pain, tension, and realign the spinal column, and strengthen the body. When spinal components are put back into their proper place, the surrounding muscles no longer need to provide a counter-balance to the misalignment and begin to relax. Chiropractors can also recommend ways to improve posture and strengthen muscles to incur less wear and tear.
Chiropractic Back Therapy
References
Furlan, Andrea D et al. “Complementary and alternative therapies for back pain II.” Evidence report/technology assessment,194 (2010): 1-764.
Geneen, Louise J et al. “Physical activity and exercise for chronic pain in adults: an overview of Cochrane Reviews.” The Cochrane database of systematic reviews vol. 4,4 CD011279. 24 Apr. 2017, doi:10.1002/14651858.CD011279.pub3
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2017). Back pain: Symptoms. mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/back-pain/basics/symptoms/con-20020797
Miake-Lye, Isomi M et al. “Massage for Pain: An Evidence Map.” Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.) vol. 25,5 (2019): 475-502. doi:10.1089/acm.2018.0282
Nahian, Ahmed, et al. “Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment: Facial Muscle Energy, Direct MFR, and BLT Procedure – for TMJ Dysfunction.” StatPearls, StatPearls Publishing, 12 September 2022.
Rahman Shiri, Jaro Karppinen, Päivi Leino-Arjas, Svetlana Solovieva, Eira Viikari-Juntura, The Association Between Obesity and Low Back Pain: A Meta-Analysis, American Journal of Epidemiology, Volume 171, Issue 2, 15 January 2010, Pages 135–154, doi.org/10.1093/aje/kwp356
Regarding different destinations, our feet allow the legs and the lower body to move forward and stabilize the upper extremities from putting so much weight on the body itself. The lower portion of the body contains the hips, pelvis, legs, and feet. Within each section of the lower body, various muscles surround the joints and skeletal features of the lower half. For the hips, multiple muscles and tendons help support hip mobility and pelvic function. The legs work with the thigh as numerous muscles and tendons help the legs have more power to move. The lower portion of the legs works with the knee to allow extension and flexion to move as well. And finally, the ankles and feet work with various muscles to enable movement to the toes. The different muscles in the toes help stabilize the foot from causing issues to the ankles. However, when multiple injuries or factors begin to affect the muscles in the toes, it can lead to myofascial pain syndrome or trigger points to affect not only the toes but the entire portion of the legs and travel up to the hips.
Today’s article looks at the flexor muscles of the toes, how calf pain is associated with trigger points affecting the toes, and how different treatments and stretches can alleviate trigger points along the toe flexor muscles. We refer patients to certified providers that incorporate various techniques and therapies in the lower body extremities pertaining to trigger points affecting the legs, calves, and feet. This helps many people with pain symptoms along the flexor toe muscles, causing pain when doing everyday actions like stepping or walking. We encourage and appreciate each patient by referring them to associated medical providers based on their diagnosis when it is appropriate. We understand that education is a terrific way when asking our providers intricated questions at the patient’s request and understanding. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., only utilizes this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
The Flexor Muscles Of The Toes
Have you been dealing with stability issues that are affecting the way you are standing? How about coping with unquestionable calf or foot pain? Do you feel aches in your big toe? Many of these issues affecting the feet are correlated with the flexor muscles in the toes. The flexor muscles are the flexor digitorum longus and the flexor hallucis longus. These muscles are located in the calf region of the lower leg and travel downwards to the ankle, forming the tendons for the feet and toes. Research studies reveal that the flexor digitorum longus muscle is a thin muscle located in the tibia’s deep posterior muscles and provides operational support to the four different sections of the toes and allows flexion. While other research studies reveal that the flexor hallucis longus muscle is a deep posterior muscle located in the fibula and provides flexion to the great toe while serving to plantarflex and inversion to the foot.
Now the flexor muscles work together to allow stability to the foot when a person is walking. Additional studies have shown that the flexor muscles are active as many people push off from the heel to allow movement to the toes and feet when stepping on the ground. This action enables the flexor muscles to contract and exerts much energy to allow the feet to move. However, when the body begins to age naturally, or various issues affect the lower body extremities, it can lead to multiple problems affecting a person’s mobility.
Calf Pain Associated With Trigger Points Affecting The Toes
As the body ages naturally, a person’s mobility will eventually begin to decline as they shuffle in their steps instead of picking up their feet to move. Studies reveal that when older adults start to age naturally, they tend to have a decreased foot posture that enables them to have a more pronated foot than a supinated foot. When this happens, it can reduce mobility in their legs while also causing stress to the flexor muscles and have a high occurrence in lower extremity injuries like patellofemoral pain or tendon dysfunction. Stress in the flexor muscles can lead to the potential development of trigger points along the flexor muscles, which can correlate to calf pain. Dr. Janet Travell, M.D.’s book, “Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction,” mentioned that trigger points along the toe flexor muscles could potentially cause impaired mobility and strain to the foot. Since the flexor muscles are located in the calves, many individuals that incorporate running, jogging, or walking as part of their daily lives can be affected. To that point, if a person is walking on uneven ground, it can cause the foot to be hyper-pronated and lead to calf pain. At the same time, trigger points in the flexor muscles can cause symptoms of muscle spasms and cramps which can become overlapping risk profiles for ankle and foot pain.
Treating Trigger Points Along The Flexor Muscles- Video
Have you been dealing with unexplainable muscle spasms in your calves? Do you feel unstable when walking for a long time? Or do you notice you shuffle instead of picking up your feet? Many of these issues are correlated with trigger points affecting the flexor muscles of the toes that are causing pain to the calves and feet. When it comes to trigger points along the flexor muscles of the toes, studies show that it can develop a “trigger toe” where the flexor hallucis muscle that is providing flexion to the great toe, is in pain which leads to foot issues like plantar fasciitis or ankle pain. Fortunately, all is still possible as there are different stretches and treatments to reduce trigger points associated with the toe flexor muscles. The video above explains where the flexor muscles are located in the calve region of the leg and demonstrates how to stretch the flexor muscle to prevent trigger points from returning.
Different Stretches & Treatments For Toe Flexor Muscles
When relieving foot and calf pain associated with trigger points affecting the flexor muscles, there are different stretches and treatments to reduce pain-like symptoms associated with trigger points. Studies reveal that incorporating various muscle-strengthening exercises that target the calves could improve postural balance on the feet. Or find the right footwear to prevent trigger points from appearing in the future. Other stretches like toe grasping and flexing the foot allow many pain specialists to locate where the trigger points affect the flexor muscles and develop a treatment plan to reduce the effects of trigger points along the toe flexor muscles. Some of the treatments include chiropractic care. Now, doesn’t chiropractic care only incorporate spinal adjustments on the back? Yes, it does, but it can also alleviate other issues. As stated earlier, the feet provide stability to the lower body extremities. When problems affect a person’s balance can cause limited mobility to the hips, affect the legs and feet over time, and develop trigger points along the way. With chiropractic care, chiropractors can restore hip mobility through mechanical and manual manipulation of the spine and can help loosen the stiff joints and muscles that are causing pain. Chiropractors can pinpoint where the trigger points are located and find ways to reduce the pain in the affected muscle.
Conclusion
The flexor muscles of the toes, the flexor digitorum longus, and the flexor hallucis longus allow stability and flexion to the toes. The flexor muscles are located in the calve region and enable the individual to walk without complications. When issues or injuries start to affect the feet, they could develop into overlapping issues that affect the flexor muscles and causes symptoms of instability in a person’s balance. If not treated right away, it could develop trigger points in the calf region and cause pain to the flexor muscles. Trigger points in the flexor muscles can cause stress on the flexor muscles, which then leads to foot issues like patellofemoral pain or tendon dysfunction. To that point cause impaired mobility and muscle strain on the foot. Luckily there are treatments and various stretches to reduce trigger points from developing further and improve stability in the body. To that point, allow the individual to walk without any foot pain.
References
Fowles, J V, and N M Newman. “A Case of ‘Trigger Toe.’” Canadian Journal of Surgery. Journal Canadien De Chirurgie, U.S. National Library of Medicine, July 1984, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6744145/.
Goldmann, Jan-Peter, and Gert-Peter Brüggemann. “The Potential of Human Toe Flexor Muscles to Produce Force.” Journal of Anatomy, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Aug. 2012, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3406365/.
Kusagawa, Yuki, et al. “Toe Flexor Strength Is Associated with Mobility in Older Adults with Pronated and Supinated Feet but Not with Neutral Feet.” Journal of Foot and Ankle Research, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 11 Sept. 2020, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7488436/.
Murdock, Christopher J, et al. “Anatomy, Bony Pelvis and Lower Limb, Calf Flexor Hallucis Longus Muscle …” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 25 Aug. 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539776/.
Quinlan, Shayan, et al. “The Evidence for Improving Balance by Strengthening the Toe Flexor Muscles: A Systematic Review.” Gait & Posture, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Sept. 2020, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32679464/.
Travell, J. G., et al. Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual: Vol. 2:the Lower Extremities. Williams & Wilkins, 1999.
Winter is when most children and adults are prone to catching colds, the flu, etc. The excitement of the holiday season can also take a toll on the body’s neuromusculoskeletal system, leaving the individual more susceptible to illness. Digestive issues such as bloating, cramping, and constipation are also common. Certain supplements can help maintain body, gut, and brain holiday health. Here are a few recommended supplements to take during the holidays.
Holiday Health
To help fill in the gaps from the holiday foods and increase energy, holiday health supplements to consider adding include:
Probiotics
Probiotics are healthy bacteria and microbes that populate the gut or microbiome.
They help digest nutrients, support proper digestion and elimination, and manage appetite and mood.
A quality probiotic supplement supports healthy digestion and immune health.
It can help reduce diarrhea, constipation, gas, and bloating while protecting the immune system against pathogens.
For the most benefits, it is recommended to take a supplement with a high CFU count, diverse probiotic strains, and a delivery method that ensures the probiotics will survive once consumed.
The body produces melatonin naturally, especially at night, since this promotes sleep.
Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate the body’s circadian rhythm, which makes you feel tired or alert at the right times of the day.
Taking melatonin can help decrease jet lag symptoms.
Consider taking melatonin to help promote healthy sleep.
However, it’s usually only recommended for short-term use, so consult your doctor.
Vitamin D
During the winter, when less sunlight is available, low vitamin D levels are very common among adults.
The body naturally makes vitamin D when the skin is exposed to the sun’s UV light rays; however, most spend nearly all their time indoors once the weather becomes cold.
Vitamin D is responsible for hundreds of reactions related to brain function, hormone production, and immune defenses.
A vitamin D supplement can help maintain healthy levels, which is important for maintaining a strong immune system, cardiovascular and bone health, and mood.
Magnesium
Magnesium is a mineral and electrolyte providing cardiovascular and bone support, improved sleep, healthy muscle and nerve function, and healthy digestion.
A magnesium supplement can help with aches and pains, restlessness, headaches, and constipation.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C intake protects against colds and other illnesses.
It supports healthy immune defenses, healthy nervous system function, antioxidant activity, neuron function, and skin health.
A vitamin C supplement combined with probiotics further helps support healthy gastrointestinal function and absorption.
Chiropractic For Digestive Health
Chiropractic care supports the healthy functioning of the nervous system.
The vagus nerve extends from the brain stem and innervates digestive system organs.
Sympathetic nerves in the thoracic and lumbar regions and the parasympathetic nerves near the sacrum also support digestion.
Decompressing the spine and correcting posture allow room for the muscles to contract, open up the spine to circulate fluids throughout the body, and expand and properly circulate food and waste.
Ernst, Edzard. “Chiropractic treatment for gastrointestinal problems: a systematic review of clinical trials.” Canadian journal of gastroenterology = Journal canadien de gastroenterology vol. 25,1 (2011): 39-40. doi:10.1155/2011/910469
Govender, Mershen et al. “A review of the advancements in probiotic delivery: Conventional vs. non-conventional formulations for intestinal flora supplementation.” AAPS PharmSciTech vol. 15,1 (2014): 29-43. doi:10.1208/s12249-013-0027-1
Leboeuf-Yde, Charlotte, et al. “Self-reported nonmusculoskeletal responses to chiropractic intervention: a multination survey.” Journal of manipulative and physiological therapeutics vol. 28,5 (2005): 294-302; discussion 365-6. doi:10.1016/j.jmpt.2005.04.010
Peterson, Caroline. “A case study of chiropractic management of pregnancy-related heartburn with postulated fetal epigenome implications.” Explore (New York, N.Y.) vol. 8,5 (2012): 304-8. doi:10.1016/j.explore.2012.06.001
Qu, Liuxin, et al. “Irritable bowel syndrome treated by traditional Chinese spinal orthopedic manipulation.” Journal of traditional Chinese medicine = Chung i tsa chih ying wen pan vol. 32,4 (2012): 565-70. doi:10.1016/s0254-6272(13)60072-2
The feet allow movement to make the host do various actions when it comes to the body. Whether running, walking, or stretching, the feet allow stability with help from the legs and lower limbs of the lower body to support the upper body’s weight and allow mobility and functionality to the hips. The feet have various extensor muscles that start at the head where the tibia and in the front of the shin and spreads out to the front of the foot and allow movement to each of the toes. Injuries like ankle sprains, objects landing on the foot, or muscle cramps can cause the various muscles to become injured and soon develop tiny nodules that can cause referred pain to the lower portion of the legs and cause mobility issues. To that point, trigger point pain can affect how a person functions and cause many to deal with unquestionable foot pain. Today’s article looks at the extensor muscles of the toes, how trigger points can affect the foot and toes, and how chiropractic care can help treat trigger points along the extensor muscles of the toes. We refer patients to certified providers that incorporate various techniques in the lower body extremities, like lower legs, calves, and foot pain therapies correlating to trigger points. This helps aid many people with pain symptoms along the extensor toe muscles, causing pain when doing everyday actions like stepping or walking. We encourage and appreciate each patient by referring them to associated medical providers based on their diagnosis when it is appropriate. We understand that education is a terrific way when asking our providers intricated questions at the patient’s request and understanding. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., only utilizes this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
The Extensor Muscles Of The Toes
Have you been having issues walking for long periods? Do your feet constantly ache, so you have to take off your shoes to rub them? Or have you been having mobility issues that start at the hips and then travel down to the feet? Many of these issues are associated with pain that can affect the extensor muscles of the toes. The feet have various superficial muscles that allow movement to each toe. Today, we will look at the extensor muscles that enable movement to the toes and help with lower limb functionality. The extensor toe muscles include the extensor digitorum and the extensor hallucis longus. Studies reveal that the extensor muscles are the anterior compartment of the lower limbs that can allow extension and dorsiflex of the foot at the ankle. The extensor hallucis provides movement to the big toe, independently moving it up and down. At the same time, the extensor digitorum forms into four tendons to the other toe joints.
These muscles work together to control the foot when descending and allow the heel to land first and then the toes after to prevent foot slaps or hard stepping. To that point, during this gait action, the extensor digitorum helps provide pure dorsiflex of the foot through balance on the tibial muscle. In contrast, the extensor hallucis allows the foot to adapt when the host is walking. Now, what happens when the extensor muscles suffer from injuries that cause mobility issues to the individual?
Trigger Points Affecting The Foot & Toes
When issues affect mobility and prevent many people from walking, it could be due to trigger points associated with the extensor muscles affecting the foot and toes. Trigger points or myofascial pain syndrome is where sensitive points or pressure in the muscles or muscle groups can cause referred pain in different body areas. This means that, for example, someone is dealing with pain in their elbows; however, they are complaining about shoulder pain. Studies reveal that when the legs’ lower limbs have trigger points in the feet musculature, it can lead to hypersensitivity in the extensor muscles and tendons. According to Dr. Janet G. Travell, M.D., she explained in her book, “Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction,” when the extensor muscles of the toes are being affected by trigger points, it could potentially be associated with anterior compartment syndrome and ischemia along the lower limbs. To that point, trigger points could affect a person’s ability to walk and cause them to shift their weight around to compensate for the pain from affecting them. When this happens, it can lead to hip issues.
Trigger Points Of The Week: The Extensor Toe Muscles- Video
Have you been dealing with foot pain affecting your ability to walk? Does it hurt when you are stepping? Do you have mobility issues in your hips or legs associated with foot pain? Suppose you have been experiencing any of these issues in the lower extremities of your body. In that case, you could be dealing with trigger points associated with the toe extensor muscles correlating with foot pain. Studies reveal that trigger points associated with the extensor muscles can be characterized by pain and cause a limited range of joint motion. What that does is that trigger points in the extensor hallucis muscle can cause the lower portion of the legs to have intense sensitivity and hyper-irritability to the legs, which can affect how a person walks. The video above explains where the extensor muscles are located in the lower portions of the legs and where the trigger points cause referred pain to the foot and legs. When trigger points affect the extensor muscles, they can cause referred pain to the entire lower half of the body, including the hips. How would trigger points be associated with the hips when it affects the extensor muscles? Well, when the extensor muscles succumb to pain, it causes the individual to shift their weight and can cause the hips to become unstable, and that instability can affect not only the hips but the legs, knees, calves, and feet. Fortunately, treatments can reduce trigger point pain in the extensor muscles.
Chiropractic Care For Trigger Points
So when a person is dealing with mobility issues along the extensor muscles that are causing them pain, they don’t realize that their hips, legs, and knees are being affected. By going to chiropractic treatment, they can get the relief they are looking for and regain their ability to walk. A chiropractor will thoroughly examine and assess the individual dealing with trigger points along the extensor muscles. Chiropractors can pinpoint where the trigger points are located in the affected muscle and dramatically decrease pain through manipulation. Using mechanical and manual manipulation can help realign the spine out of subluxation, and chiropractors can provide a personalized treatment plan to the individual to incorporate to prevent trigger points from returning after a few treatments. Since chiropractic care is a whole-body approach, many patients can learn healthy habits, which include using a tennis ball under the feet, light stretching on the feet, and walking correctly with good posture can prevent future injuries from coming.
Conclusion
The feet allow movement to allow the host to walk from one location to another. The extensor muscles of the toes allow mobility and stability as they work together with the legs and hips to support the upper body’s weight and stability. When injuries like ankle sprains or heavy objects landing on foot affect the extensor muscles, it can lead to trigger points associated with foot pain that can affect the hips. When trigger points affect the extensor muscles, it can cause a person to be unable to walk properly and cause more issues in the hips. When this happens, treatments like chiropractic care can manually manipulate the spine and release trigger points from the extensor muscles. With chiropractic care, many individuals will be pain-free and can walk again.
References
Lezak, Bradley, and Spencer Summers. “Anatomy, Bony Pelvis and Lower Limb, Extensor Hallucis Longus Muscle.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 26 Sept. 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539875/.
Tornero-Caballero, Maria, et al. “Muscle Trigger Points and Pressure Pain Sensitivity Maps of the Feet in Women with Fibromyalgia Syndrome.” Pain Medicine (Malden, Mass.), U.S. National Library of Medicine, 1 June 2016, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27257287/.
Travell, J. G., et al. Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual: Vol. 2:the Lower Extremities. Williams & Wilkins, 1999.
Wada, Juliano T, et al. “An Anatomical Basis for the Myofascial Trigger Points of the Abductor Hallucis Muscle.” BioMed Research International, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 22 Jan. 2020, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6998759/.
This time of year brings plenty of changes to normal day-to-day activities. We eat more and move less. But it is possible to stay on track while still enjoying the holiday festivities. The key is to balance healthy choices, stay aware of stressors, make a plan for staying healthy and get the whole family involved. The CDC recommends focusing on four areas to maintain family health: physical activity, nutritional habits, sleep, and screen time.
Family Health
Striking a balance between being active and having fun will help to create a more enjoyable and relaxing holiday experience.
Get The Whole Family Moving
Physical activity develops stronger muscles and bones, improves heart health, increases blood circulation, and lowers body fat.
Children ages 3 to 5 years should be active throughout the day.
Children ages 6 to 17 need at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily.
Look for ways to blend fun and physical activity as a family.
If you can get outside, play games like basketball or touch football, walk the dog, or take a nature walk.
Everyone has go-to foods, treats, and drinks they enjoy during the holidays. Restricting or avoiding these pleasures completely isn’t good, as it can lead to binge eating.
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