Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of chronic heel or foot pain. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, approximately 2 million plantar fasciitis cases are diagnosed and treated each year. An estimated one in 10 people will develop plantar fasciitis at some point during their lifetimes. Moreover, plantar fasciitis accounts for between 11 and 15 percent of all foot symptoms, as demonstrated by research studies associated with the health issue. Most heel symptoms are caused by plantar fasciitis or the inflammation of the tissue on the bottom of the foot. �
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What are the Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a foot health issue characterized by sharp, stabbing heel pain which generally manifests when a person gets out of bed in the morning or stands up after sitting for an extended period of time. Although the most frequent symptom of plantar fasciitis is shooting pain, the health issue may also cause swelling and inflammation in the heel. The pain from plantar fasciitis can be considerably severe after rest but it can generally improve significantly throughout the day. Additionally, the painful symptoms associated with plantar fasciitis may worsen after exercise or physical activity. �
The plantar fascia is a dense band of connective tissue found on the base of the foot which connects the heel to the front of the foot. This group of connective tissue supports the arch of the foot by functioning like a bowstring on a bow. The plantar fascia absorbs any type of stress and pressure being placed on the toes. Over time, however, a person may experience an injury or develop an underlying condition which may create inflammation of the fascia in the heel bone, resulting in plantar fasciitis, a chronic and persistent health issue. People can almost never fully rest their foot enough to heal completely. �
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia becomes tightened from too much stress and pressure, causing swelling and inflammation. As increasing tension builds up in the plantar fascia, tiny tears can begin to form in the dense band of connective tissue. Furthermore, more tension and ripping in the plantar fascia results in more swelling and/or inflammation. This buildup of tension and ripping ultimately causes plantar fasciitis and results in heel and foot pain. �
Men and women between the ages of 40 and 70 have a higher risk of developing plantar fasciitis. However, the health issue is slightly more prevalent among women than men. In addition, there’s a higher incidence of plantar fasciitis among athletes, especially runners, and it is sometimes referred to as “runner’s heel.” A 2002 research study demonstrated that 7.8 percent of sports injuries was plantar fasciitis. Also, the health issue ranked among the five most common sports injuries. �
What Other Health Issues Cause Heel Pain?
Plantar fasciitis is the most well-known cause of heel and foot pain. There are several less well-known causes of heel pain which should be ruled out before starting treatment for plantar fasciitis. Among these causes of heel and foot pain are: �
Bursitis: Bursas are fluid-filled sacs which cushion bones, muscles, and other soft tissues around joints in the human body. These can be found in the shoulders, elbows, and buttocks, as well as in the heel of the foot. Bursas in the feet can become irritated and inflamed due to excessive walking, running, or jumping.
Calcaneal Apophysitis: The growth plate, or epiphyseal plate, in the heel can also become irritated and inflamed. The health issue, also known as Sever’s disease, generally occurs in children during growth spurts.
Inflammatory Diseases: People with hereditary inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, Reiter’s syndrome, and gout, may experience heel pain.
Lateral Plantar Nerve Entrapment: Nerves located along the central region of the arch of the foot may become compressed or impinged between tissue and bone, leading to pain around the heel and ankle region of the foot.
Plantar Fascia Rupture: In rare cases, the plantar fascia may also rupture. This extremely debilitating injury generally occurs during high-impact exercise or physical activity, although some of the risk factors for plantar fasciitis, such as flat feet and obesity, can contribute to its occurrence. It also occurs in patients that have chronic plantar fasciitis.
Sciatica: An injury or underlying condition can compress or impinge the sciatic nerve, or the largest and longest nerve in the human body, causing low back pain and painful symptoms along the lower extremities. The pain may be felt in the foot, but it may be a tingling sensation or numbness in relation to the pain associated with plantar fasciitis.
Stress Fracture: A hairline fracture may develop in the heel bone, also referred to as the calcaneus. It’s generally caused by overuse or due to an injury where the heel is crushed under the weight of the human body, such as a fall. Calcaneal stress fractures are uncommon and account for approximately 2 percent of all fractures in adults.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: The tarsal tunnel is a region within the ankle containing tendons, ligaments, arteries, and nerves. One of these soft tissues is the tibial nerve, which allows movement and provides feeling to the foot. Tarsal tunnel syndrome refers to the compression or impingement of the tibial nerve, caused by an ankle sprain, inflammatory disease, and flat or fallen arches. The common symptoms include a tingling sensation around the heel.
How Is Plantar Fasciitis Diagnosed?
Heel pain is the most common symptom associated with plantar fasciitis and it is often an unmistakable indication of the presence of the health issue. If the heel pain doesn’t improve after a few weeks, it’s recommended for you to make an appointment with a specialized healthcare professional, such as a podiatrist. A podiatrist will talk to you about your symptoms and evaluate your foot to rule out other conditions which can cause heel pain. Your podiatrist may also order an X-ray or alternative tests to make sure there’s not a fracture in your foot or anything else that’s causing your heel pain. �
Heel spurs, or small, pointed overgrowths on the heel bone or the calcaneus bone, may occasionally be seen on X-rays. However, heel spurs aren’t necessarily regarded as the cause of the pain in plantar fasciitis. As a matter of fact, they are often seen on X-rays of men and women who don’t have heel pain or plantar fasciitis and are therefore believed to be an incidental finding. One out of 10 people has heel spurs, but only 1 out of 20 individuals with heel spurs have foot pain and discomfort. �
How Is Plantar Fasciitis Treated?
Most cases of plantar fasciitis may be treated with self-care, including rest and by applying ice therapy. Stretches and exercises can also help speed up the recovery process and help prevent other health issues and complications, such as tightness or weakness of other foot muscles. However, complete recovery may take several months. �
Non-prescription and prescription drugs and/or medications can help decrease pain and swelling associated with plantar fasciitis. Orthotics, or shoe inserts which provide support and relieve stress and pressure on the foot, can also relieve pain. �
Plantar fasciitis generally requires treatment to stop it from becoming worse. When untreated, plantar fasciitis can restrict your mobility. It can also cause back problems, hip and knee problems, and other foot problems because of the way it affects the way you walk.
Chiropractic care and physical therapy can also help correct injuries and/or underlying conditions which may be causing or aggravating your plantar fasciitis.� Surgery performed to treat plantar fasciitis, called a plantar fasciotomy, can lead to complications. After surgery, some support to the foot is lost, causing temporary instability. �
Plantar fasciitis generally develops for no specific or clearly identifiable reason. However, a wide variety of risk factors can increase the chance of developing plantar fasciitis, such as excess weight and obesity, foot abnormalities, arthritis, and even wearing the improper shoes. Low back pain and sciatica can cause painful symptoms anywhere along the entire length of the sciatic nerve, however, plantar fasciitis is generally direct heel or foot pain. Low back pain and sciatica, however, can cause plantar fasciitis if the person’s posture is affected, causing stress and pressure on the heel and foot. – Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
Low Back Pain
The purpose of the article is to describe how plantar fasciitis can be associated with sciatica and other health issues. Sciatica is a collection of symptoms characterized by pain, tingling sensation, and numbness. 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: Foot Orthotics
Low back pain and sciatica are common health issues which affect many individuals worldwide. However, did you know that chronic pain may be due to foot problems? Health issues originating in the foot may ultimately cause imbalances in the spine, such as poor posture, which can cause the well-known symptoms of low back pain and sciatica. Custom foot orthotics, individually designed with 3-arch support can help promote overall health and wellness by supporting and promoting good posture and correcting foot problems. Custom foot orthotics can ultimately help improve low back pain and sciatica. �
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. �
For many chiropractic patients, the first experience with chiropractic comes during early adulthood or middle age. Most adults seek out chiropractic care because they are in some sort of pain. If you are one of those that are new to chiropractic, its effectiveness may surprise you. Your next thought might be about how chiropractic could help others in your life�friends, family and more.
Fortunately, sharing chiropractic with your loved ones is easy because it is so well-suited to just about everyone. Whatever the age of the individual, chiropractic can be adapted to provide gentle preventative care and to improve overall health.
Smiling multi-generation family smiling down at the camera
Chiropractic for Children
Sometimes it can seem like children are invincible. They are flexible, heal quickly and tend to bounce back from situations that would floor an adult. But kids need support to be as healthy as possible, especially as they grow up. Chiropractic care is excellent for encouraging healthy growth in infants, toddlers, children, and teens.
Some of the benefits of chiropractic for children include:
Spinal alignment. The small spines of children can become misaligned much like those of adults. Regular chiropractic adjustments help to bring your child�s spine back into proper alignment, which encourages proper functioning of the nervous system, immune system and more.
Healthy movement patterns. It is normal to develop at least a few unhealthy movement patterns as we move from childhood to adulthood. These bad patterns can lead to injuries on down the line. Chiropractic care can help teach children how to move safely, which can yield benefits for a lifetime.
Gentle adjustments designed for young bodies. Chiropractors who work with children learn special techniques to ensure that adjustments heal and not hurt. Immature bodies work in much the same way as older bodies, but a delicate touch is still important for safety.
Chiropractic Care for Older Adults
Older adults can also experience numerous benefits from chiropractic care. The elderly in particular face a number of health challenges that chiropractic can assist with. Some of the benefits of chiropractic care for older adults include:
Pain relief. Chiropractic can do wonders for pain management, all without drugs or surgery. Regular adjustments and other supplemental therapies have been proven to reduce or eliminate pain, something older adults can truly appreciate.
More mobility. Just because you get older does not mean you should have to stop doing the things you love. Chiropractors know how to gently increase your mobility so that you can get back on your feet and enjoy life the way you deserve.
Improved immune response. The nervous system and immune system are linked in many ways. Adjustments help to align the spine and improve nervous system function. An adjustment can also aid in immune system function, which means your body can fight off invaders more effectively.
Benefits of Using Custom *Foot Orthotics* | El Paso, TX (2019)
Foot Orthotics
Experiencing foot pain, there�s no doubt you checked out your foot to make sure it�s not�injured�or hurting from�improper fitting shoes, corns, plantar fasciitis, etc. This may seem counterintuitive, but you may want to check the condition of the�lumbar spine (lower back)?� Most foot problems are caused by issues with the foot itself, but you might be surprised to find that pressure on the sciatic nerve can cause intense foot pain.
What is a Pronated Foot and Can Custom Orthotics Help?
When a foot is pronated, it means the arches have fallen and the foot is flat.
Flat feet are less shock-absorbent and make for a less stable base for the rest of the body. This includes the bones, muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
Flat Feet can also:
Shift the body out of alignment
Cause pain in the feet, knees, hips, neck, and spine
Lead to injury/s like shin splints, Achilles tendinitis, and plantar fasciitis
Women with flat feet are 50% more likely to have low back pain
Up to 1/3 of people suffer from flat feet
�Pronation Causes
The connective tissue, called the plantar fascia, on the underside of the foot is what maintains the foot�s healthy arch shape.
Walking and standing, injury and health conditions can cause the fascia to stretch out and flatten.
Once the fascia stretches out, there is nothing to bring the spring back.
Treatment
Chiropractic adjusting to ensure proper positioning of bones and joints
Custom orthotics for pronation control, support, and comfort
Chronic Inversion Sprain
Foot Dysfunction can very easily cause a domino effect that extends all the way to the back. The feet are the foundation of the body and when there is a problem with the way they function it can cause the entire body to shift out of alignment. For instance, overpronation of the foot causes a series of internal changes that extend up through the leg. The femur may rotate causing hip pain and inflammation of the sacroiliac joint which leads to back pain. Other misalignments in the body that are caused by foot problems can also lead to chronic lower back pain as well.
NCBI Resources
The best way to keep your spinal joints healthy over the long-term is to make regular visits to your chiropractor while also maintaining a healthy diet and�exercise regimen. Everyone is different, which is why it is important to get customized treatment from your chiropractor.
Many individuals assume that knee pain is always associated with knee joint health issues. However, according to healthcare professionals, knee pain can also occur due to spine health issues. While pain and discomfort can be the result of a knee problem, it can also be the result of a herniated disc or a pinched nerve root, commonly the sciatic nerve, in the lower back. �
If healthcare professionals suspect that the patient’s knee pain is due to another underlying health issue, they will perform a diagnosis utilizing a variety of evaluations to determine the source of the patient’s knee pain. The purpose of the article below is to describe how low back pain and sciatica can also cause knee pain as well as other painful symptoms. �
Contents
Sciatica, Low Back Pain and Knee Pain
The sciatic nerve, the largest and longest nerve in the human body, extends from the lower back, or lumbar spine, and travels down the buttocks, hips, and thighs into the legs, knees, and feet. With age or due to an injury or underlying condition, however, the intervertebral discs may sometimes bulge out and push against or through the intervertebral disc material, pinching or irritating the sciatic nerve, causing low back pain or sciatica. Sciatica is also referred to as sciatic nerve pain. �
When the sciatic nerve becomes compressed or impinged and irritated, it can send pain signals out throughout the entire length of the sciatic nerve. �If a spinal health issue, such as a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or arthritis is pinching the sciatic nerve, the painful symptoms may radiate into the knee and even into the feet.�If the sciatic nerve is being compressed or impinged and irritated due to an injury or underlying condition, it may cause a variety of painful symptoms, including: �
Pain and discomfort in the thigh
Knee pain
Tingling sensations and/or numbness in the leg
Weakness in the hip
In the circumstance that you are experiencing any of the painful symptoms described above, make sure to seek immediate medical attention from a qualified and experienced healthcare professional to receive an accurate diagnosis before following-up with proper treatment. Your knee pain may also be due to a hip joint health issue, therefore, a careful physical evaluation is ultimately fundamental to determine the true source of your knee pain, low back pain, and sciatica. �
Low Back Pain, Sciatica, and Knee Pain Treatment
Treating knee pain due to the compression or impingement and irritation of the sciatic nerve can ultimately be achieved through surgical interventions, however, it is generally not recommended until the patient has tried all conservative treatment options. Conservative treatment approaches are often initially preferred. Sometimes, steroid injections can be utilized to help decrease inflammation around the nerve root but these should not be the initial treatment for knee pain. �
Physical therapy and chiropractic care can help naturally restore the original integrity of the spine to treat low back pain, sciatica, and knee pain. Healthcare professionals may also recommend a variety of stretches and exercises to strengthen the surrounding structures and speed up the recovery process. Engaging or participating in a progression of stretches and exercises can help safely and effectively eliminate knee pain and improve your overall health and wellness. �
If your knee pain worsens with physical activities, the healthcare professional can also show you postural correction techniques and strategies to help decrease stress on your spine and help decrease knee pain as well as avoid future health issues. If physical activity doesn’t have any effect on your knee pain, the healthcare professional may perform a variety of tests and exams to make sure if your knee pain is due to a knee joint or hip joint health issue, among other health issues.
�
Knee pain is a well-known health issue, however, did you know that knee pain can also be caused due to low back pain and sciatica? Sciatica is a collection of painful symptoms, rather than an injury or underlying condition, characterized by pain, tingling sensations, and numbness along the entire length of the sciatic nerve. Because the sciatic nerve extends from the lower back, down the buttocks, hips, and thighs, into the legs, knees, and feet, any health issue which irritates the sciatic nerve can potentially cause knee pain. The compression or impingement of the sciatic nerve due to a variety of health issues, can ultimately cause low back pain, sciatica, and knee pain. – Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
Low Back Pain
The purpose of the article was to describe how knee pain can be associated with low back pain and sciatica. Sciatica is a collection of symptoms characterized by pain, tingling sensation, and numbness. 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: Foot Orthotics
Low back pain and sciatica are common health issues which affect many individuals worldwide. However, did you know that chronic pain may be due to foot problems? Health issues originating in the foot may ultimately cause imbalances in the spine, such as poor posture, which can cause the well-known symptoms of low back pain and sciatica. Custom foot orthotics, individually designed with 3-arch support can help promote overall health and wellness by supporting and promoting good posture and correcting foot problems. Custom foot orthotics can ultimately help improve low back pain and sciatica. �
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. �
Healthy joints have obvious benefits, including aiding in movement, keeping you flexible and allowing you to stay active. The health of some of your joints is readily apparent�you only have to bend your knees, ankles, elbows or wrists to see how they are functioning at any given moment. But there are some joints in your body that are even more important, although you may not be as aware of them. The joints in your spine, where each vertebra connects to another, are vital to the normal, healthy function of your body. Without healthy spinal joints, you can expect pain and loss of mobility, among other unpleasant symptoms.
Fortunately, keeping your spinal joints healthy is made much easier with regular chiropractic care. Periodic visits to your chiropractor will help you keep your spine operating as well as it possibly can, year in and year out!
Contents
Ways that Chiropractic Helps In Spinal Joint Health
ILLUSTRATION OF A HEALTHY INTERVERTEBRAL DISC, THE DAMAGED INTERVERTEBRAL DISC, HERNIATION.
1. Circulation Increased.
Stiffness in the spine can be caused by a variety of issues, including trauma and degenerative disc disease. While chiropractic cannot prevent the wear and tear that life often brings, it can do a lot to heal that damage. One way that adjustments aid in healing is by increasing circulation to your spinal discs and surrounding tissues. Increased circulation brings in healthy nutrients and removes undesirable material, making it possible for your spine to heal more thoroughly than without good circulation.
2. Pain Is Reduced or Eliminated.
Back pain can make living a normal life difficult if not impossible. Depending on the frequency and severity of the pain, you may find yourself unable to do many of the things you once enjoyed. Even if you do not lose mobility, back pain can distract and upset you every time it shows up.
The pain in your back can most likely be alleviated through chiropractic care. By returning your spine to proper alignment, your chiropractor can ease pressure on the nerves in your back and encourage muscles and other soft tissue to release. Over time spinal adjustments can greatly reduce or even eliminate back pain, which will help you stay active and improve the health of your spinal joints.
3. Mobility Increased.
Pain in your spine and/or neck is usually accompanied by a loss of mobility. Your muscles may seize up in an effort to protect your spine, which can make it impossible to move normally. Even if you are not suffering from muscle spasms, consistent back and neck pain can make you hesitant to move in ways that will trigger pain. Over time, the lack of movement can cause the body to stiffen and weaken. The longer this goes on, the less likely you are to get the physical activity you need to keep your joints mobile and your body strong.
Chiropractic adjustments are capable of breaking up the stiffness that holds you back. By returning your spine to proper alignment, circulation is increased, pain is decreased, muscles release and mobility returns. It can take time to get back to the way you want to be, but it is time well spent.
Healthy Joint Health Requires Consistency
The best way to keep your spinal joints healthy over the long-term is to make regular visits to your chiropractor while also maintaining a healthy diet and exercise regimen. Everyone is different, which is why it is important to get customized treatment from your chiropractor. By establishing a relationship with your chiropractor, you can ensure that you are always on the right track for spinal joint health.
Contact us today to learn more about chiropractic care and to schedule an appointment with our team.
The Difference of Using *CHIROPRACTIC ORTHOTICS* | El Paso, Tx
Custom Orthotics are Worth The Cost
People who experience back, hip, and/or foot pain usually turn to orthotics for relief.
Foot Levelers is the leading custom orthotic provider in the U.S., but custom is not always cheap, as compared with the non-customized, over-the-counter orthotics.
What�s the difference and why spend money on custom orthotics?
Common Orthotics are Not The Same for Everyone
What works for one person may not work for you, which is evident by all the different insoles on the market for the same problems.
Take 10 people, all of who have different levels of activity, weight, age, types of pain and wear different shoes, go to the store for store-bought orthotics, take a quick assessment, and are all told to wear the same insole.
You need customized care, which is exactly what custom orthotics provide for your body.
Custom orthotics are created by scanning and assessing your arches, seeing how you distribute your body weight on your feet, and then a unique treatment plan is created especially for you.
The Body’s Foundation is our Feet
What if you were told that the foundation of your home was cracking and you had two options: put duct tape over the crack and hope for the best or spend a little more money and fix the problem the right way.
A scan of the feet is used to learn about each foot independently.
These scans highlight any differences between your feet like one being smaller, wider, or flatter than the other.
This information is essential to creating orthotics and helps achieve a result that over-the-counter orthotics simply cannot provide.
Although non-custom orthotics are less expensive, they are basically like putting duct tape on your foundation and may not resolve the issue\s and cause more problems and greater costs.
In the Long Run You Will Save Money
Custom orthotics are an investment that pays your body back a hundredfold.
Non-custom orthotics are cheaper and are made with unreliable and usually cheap material. These are not designed to resolve your condition, which forces you to spend more money.
Paying attention to the foundation of your body provides benefits to the rest of your body, and eliminates the cost of treating all types of discomfort.
The process of getting custom orthotics begins with a simple foot scan.
This provides us with important information to keep your body operating optimally.
Spine Pain
Overpronation and over supination can cause a variety of injuries and conditions that affect not only the feet and ankles, but also the knees, hips, and back as well. Foot Dysfunction�can very easily cause a domino effect that extends all the way to the back. The feet are the foundation of the body and when there is a problem with the way they function it can cause the entire body to shift out of alignment.
NCBI Resources
All our organs receive messages from our brain via our spinal cord. The lungs know to breathe in and out because of the messages they receive from the brain. The heart beats because of these messages as well. Every organ in our body is connected to the brain and blocking this connection�even a little�can cause serious health issues. Some health problems are easily felt like numbness in the fingers or a headache. Some troubles are not so apparent like digestive issues or kidney problems. If the spine is out of order, the organs will feel it.
People will often visit the doctor looking for hip pain relief while other people will often attempt to take care of it themselves. Hip pain can frequently occur due to an injury or underlying condition as well as a variety of health issues. However, not many people who visit the doctor or attempt to take care of their hip pain expect it to originate as a result of sciatica. Many people’s misunderstanding concerning the origin of their pain is due to not understanding back and hip anatomy. �
Contents
Understanding Back Pain
Because of the complexity of the spinal cord and its nerve roots, back pain can often radiate or travel down buttocks, hips, and thighs, sometimes even extending as far down into the legs, knees, and feet.� Sciatica, or sciatic nerve pain, is a collection of symptoms, rather than a single injury or underlying condition, caused by the compression or impingement of the sciatic nerve. Sciatica is characterized by pain, tingling sensations, and numbness along the length of the sciatic nerve. �
The sciatic nerve is the largest and longest nerve in the human body. It extends from the lower back, down the buttocks, hips, and thighs, into the legs, knees, and feet. The irritation or inflammation of the sciatic nerve may also cause painful symptoms in the upper extremities. It’s essential to understand that an injury or underlying condition, as well as a variety of health issues, can cause back pain and sciatica. Sciatica is generally a symptom associated with numerous other medical problems. �
By way of instance, a herniated disc can cause back pain and sciatica. People may experience “hip pain”, however, the painful symptoms may not necessarily be indicative of a hip joint health issue. Degenerative disc disease can cause a narrowing of the spinal canal, referred to as spinal stenosis, which may cause hip pain. Spinal stenosis can cause hip pain with physical activity and fatigue. Spinal stenosis symptoms are relieved with sitting and will re-occur when physical activity is resumed. �
You will find differences in painful symptoms involving a herniated disc, spinal stenosis pain, and other health issues. Painful symptoms associated with a herniated disc often worsen when sitting and improve with physical activity. A herniated disc, much like spinal stenosis, can also cause sciatica and it may often be due to degenerative disc disease. Sciatica, or sciatic nerve pain, will generally radiate or travel down the buttocks, hips, and thighs into the legs, knees, and feet. �
Understanding Hip Pain
If the health issue originates in the hip joint itself, common painful symptoms may often include groin pain on the affected side, which can occasionally radiate down the inner region of the thigh into the front of the leg. The painful symptoms can also travel to the knee, making healthcare professionals and patients believe their pain is associated with a knee problem rather than a hip problem. Walking worsens the pain and with continued physical activity, the pain increases. �
Hip pain caused by health issues, such as arthritis, can cause painful symptoms to gradually worsen over time.� Minimal physical activity, even slight movements while in bed, can also ultimately worsen the painful symptoms. Other health issues, such as advanced congenital hip dysplasia or avascular necrosis of the hip, can also cause these painful symptoms. When the hip pain originates due to arthritis, the movements of the hip joint may often be limited or restricted. �
Occasionally, hip pain can be a result of another health issue referred to as bursitis. A weak abductor muscle, a leg length discrepancy, overuse, and a deteriorating hip joint can ultimately cause bursitis. Often times, the true source of a patient’s bursitis cannot be determined. Painful symptoms associated with bursitis include pain and discomfort on the side of the hip with prolonged walking, lying sideways in bed or when rising or standing from a chair as well as with similar movements. �
Sciatica Diagnosis
A comprehensive medical history and physical evaluation can help healthcare professionals determine the source of the patient’s symptoms. X-rays demonstrate specific bony/cartilage modifications, however, x-rays don’t always necessarily demonstrate health issues associated with soft tissues, such as tendons, ligaments, muscles, and even nerves. X-rays may also help diagnose degenerative disc disease when the patient is feeling well and not experiencing any painful symptoms. �
As previously mentioned above, because x-rays only demonstrate certain bony/cartilage changes, it’s essential for healthcare professionals to also request the patient to have an MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, to confirm the presence of health issues associated with soft tissues, such as tendons, ligaments, muscles and nerve roots. That’s why it’s essential to undergo the background and physical evaluation which could confirm the diagnosis before beginning with the best treatment. �
Sciatica Treatment
The two types of health issues are frequently treated utilizing anti-inflammatory drugs and/or medications, especially in mild to moderate instances. Some types of analgesics can also be utilized intermittently. It is essential to understand that both health issues can be improved considerably through weight loss, stretches and exercises. Epidural blocks will help several types of spine health issues. Utilizing a cane when walking might help improve back pain, hip pain, and sciatica. �
Surgical interventions, whether if it’s a hip replacement for hip arthritis or spine surgery due to a herniated disc, spinal stenosis, or any other type of health issue, is generally considered to be the last resort for treating back pain, hip pain, and sciatica. Full physical evaluations are recommended and conservative treatment approaches are often tried first. Remember, there are many treatment options for hip pain and sciatica. Diagnosis is the first step to effective treatment. �
Sciatica, or sciatic nerve pain, is a collection of symptoms, rather than a single injury or condition, characterized by pain and discomfort, tingling sensations, and numbness anywhere along the length of the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is the longest and largest nerve in the human body which extends from the lower back, down the buttocks, hips, and thighs, into the legs, knees, and feet. The compression or impingement of the sciatic nerve and irritation due to a herniated disc, among other health issues, can ultimately cause sciatica symptoms and low back pain. – Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
Low Back Pain
The purpose of the article was to discuss and demonstrate hip pain associated with sciatica. Sciatica is a collection of symptoms characterized by pain and discomfort, tingling sensation, and numbness. 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: Foot Orthotics
Low back pain and sciatica are common health issues which affect many individuals worldwide. However, did you know that chronic pain may be due to foot problems? Health issues originating in the foot may ultimately cause imbalances in the spine, such as poor posture, which can cause the well-known symptoms of low back pain and sciatica. Custom foot orthotics, individually designed with 3-arch support can help promote overall health and wellness by supporting and promoting good posture and correcting foot problems. Custom foot orthotics can ultimately help improve low back pain and sciatica. �
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. �
Asking questions is the best way to learn, of course, and chiropractic patients often ask questions about some of the health issues they face. Some chiropractic patients are curious about back problems, for example, because chiropractors are well known for being extremely knowledgeable when it comes to spine health and the musculoskeletal system. A few chiropractic patients want to know about TMJ disorders.
Here are a few of the most common things chiropractic patients want to know about TMJ disorders.
Contents
The Most Frequently Asked Questions about TMJ Disorders
�TMJ disorder?
A TMJ disorder affects the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), which is the joint where the jawbone connects to the head, just in front of the ear. The bones and muscles of the TMJ allow the jaw to move up and down, and side to side, enabling a person to talk, chew and yawn.
TMJ disorders (TMDs) can cause pain in the jaw joint and in the muscles that control the movement of the jaw.
How common is it?
About 12 percent of the population experiences symptoms of TMJ at any given time, according to the TMJ Association.
The Causes?
There are several known causes of TMJ disorders, including:
Dental procedures, especially those that require the mouth be open for a long time
Insertion of a breathing tube prior to surgery
Arthritis
Misalignments of the jaw
Grinding teeth, known as bruxism, may cause TMJ disorders but not everyone who grinds their teeth develops a TMD.
Medical professionals may not be able to determine the underlying cause of TMJ disorders in many cases but chiropractors can treat TMJ disorders even if the cause cannot be determined.
The Symptoms of TMJ disorder?
Many people with TMD describe their symptoms as a dull, aching pain that comes and goes in their jaw joint and in nearby areas. Some people with TMJ disorders do not experience pain but have trouble moving their jaws.
Other common symptoms of TMJ disorders include:
Pain or stiffness in the jaw muscles
Chronic headaches
Neck, shoulder pain
Clicking, popping or grating of the jaw joint when the individual opens or closes his or her mouth
Limited movement of the jaw
�Locking� of the jaw
Tinnitus, which includes ear pain, fullness, pressure, and ringing in the ears
Dizziness, vision problems
A bite that feels �off� when the person closes his or her mouth
Treatment for TMJ disorders?
The best way to treat TMJ disorders is to eat soft foods, ice the affected area with ice packs to ease pain and try to avoid extreme jaw movements, such as chewing gum or yawning.
Does Chiropractic treat TMJ disorders?
Yes, chiropractic safely and effective treats TMJ disorders. A chiropractor will perform a full evaluation of the patient�s temporomandibular joint and surrounding bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments to assess the full scope of the TMJ problem and determine its underlying causes. The chiropractor can then suggest a range of treatment that can include stretches and exercises that alleviate pain and melt stiffness in the jaw joint. The chiropractor can also detect and address any misalignments that may be contributing to TMJ pain.
For more information about the temporomandibular joint, TMJ disorders and chiropractic for TMJ problems, contact a chiropractor with experience in diagnosing and treating TMJ problems.
Reduce *IMBALANCE & PAIN* with Functional Orthotics | El Paso, Tx
Foot pronation is a natural movement during standing, walking, or running, however, excessive foot pronation can cause postural imbalances which can result in chronic pain, including low back pain and sciatica. Dr. Alex Jimenez, a chiropractor in El Paso, TX, can help diagnose and treat a variety of health issues associated with foot problems through the utilization of functional custom foot orthotics.
Functional custom foot orthotics are specially designed to accommodate every person’s unique foot anatomy. Excessive foot pronation can ultimately lead to poor posture, which can add unnecessary pressure to the spine and it’s surrounding structures. Dr. Alex Jimenez is the non-surgical choice for foot problems and other health issues through the use of functional custom foot orthotics.
Custom Orthotics & Store Bought Insoles
Store-bought orthotic insoles are cheap but the cost to you and your health can be very high. Understanding the differences between over the counter and custom made orthotics is important. Foot Levelers customized orthotics provide the highest-quality and most effective orthotic out there.
Foot Levelers custom orthotics are individually designed for your feet. This achieves a balanced foundation and a stabilized pelvis. These orthotics are handmade based on 3D scans or casts, and your doctor�s examination.
Over-the-counter insoles do cost less, but they only support one arch in the foot. When only one arch is supported, the structure can collapse, and that’s when problems can begin in other parts of the body. Over-support of one arch can cause pain and symptoms, instead of relieving them.
Orthotics Treat Way More Than Feet
Radiculopathy is associated with some of the most significant causes of chronic or acute low back pain. However, it is important to note that the condition itself does not cause pain. Instead, elements of radiculopathy, such as disc herniation, nerve root impingement, and facet arthropathy are actually what causes the pain.
Radiculopathy is a condition of the spine that occurs when a nerve is compressed, causing pain, weakness, tingling, or numbness along the nerve�s course. In the lower back, that course is in the leg. While it is most common in the lower back, radiculopathy can occur in the cervical or thoracic regions of the spine as well.
NCBI Resources
The�temporomandibular joints, TMJ, are the lower jaw hinges that sit on either side of the head in front of each ear. They are responsible for the lower jaw opening, closing, sliding, and rotating. The TMJs are the most body�s most complex joints. The typical person uses them more than 5,000 times a day by talking, laughing, yawning, chewing, eating, smiling, and swallowing.
Sciatica is commonly associated with low back pain, however, sciatica may also generally occur due to a variety of other health issues. The sciatic nerve is the longest and largest nerve in the human body. The sciatic nerve extends from the lower back, or lumbar spine, down the buttocks, hips, and thighs, into the legs, knees, and feet. The sciatic nerve is in charge of controlling many muscles in the legs and it also provides feeling to the skin of the majority of the lower extremities. �
Sciatica, also referred to as sciatic nerve pain, is not an injury or condition itself but rather a collection of well-known symptoms. Several healthcare professionals estimate that up to 80 percent of people may experience some form of back pain throughout their lifetime, including low back pain and sciatica. The purpose of the article below is to discuss the causes and symptoms of low back pain and sciatica as well as demonstrate the treatment approaches to improve health and wellness. �
Contents
Causes and Symptoms of Sciatica
The most common symptoms associated with sciatica include pain and discomfort along the length of the sciatic nerve, tingling sensations or “pins-and-needles” in the feet and toes as well as numbness. The painful symptoms may vary in severity and these may also often become aggravated by sitting for extended periods of time. Sciatica is common in a variety of health issues, however, an estimated 90 percent of cases are due to a herniated disc. Other common causes of sciatica include: �
Lumbar spinal stenosis or the narrowing of the spinal canal in the low back
Spondylolisthesis, a condition where a vertebra slips forward over the vertebra below it
Spinal tumors, which may compress or impinge the sciatic nerve
Infection, which may ultimately affect the spine
Other causes like an injury to the lumbar spine or lower back
Cauda equina syndrome, a rare but serious condition which affects the nerves in the lower part of the spinal cord; it generally requires immediate medical attention, and
Pregnancy, which can affect approximately 50 to 80 percent of pregnant women.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Sciatica
If the sciatica symptoms are moderate and don’t last more than 4 to 8 weeks, it’s referred to as acute sciatica, and immediate medical attention isn’t generally required. As for chronic sciatica which does require immediate medical attention, a complete medical history may help speed up the diagnosis process. Shooting pain down the length of the leg with physical activities generally indicates sciatica.�Imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI, may help determine the source of sciatica. �
Acute Sciatica Treatment
Most cases of acute sciatica can be treated utilizing a variety of self-care measures, which include: �
Over-the-counter painkillers, such as ibuprofen,
Stretches and exercises, such as walking
Hot or cold therapy. It is generally helpful to alternate between the two
Not all treatments are suitable for everybody; individuals may need to talk to their healthcare professional. �
Chronic Sciatica Treatment
Treatment for chronic sciatica generally involves a combination of self-care measures and medical treatment, including: �
physical therapy
chiropractic care
cognitive behavioral therapy or CBT
Surgery may be an option if symptoms have not improved with other treatment approaches. Surgical options include: �
Lumbar laminectomy or the widening of the spinal cord in the lower back to reduce pressure on the nerves.
Discectomy, the partial or entire removal of a herniated disc
Depending on the cause of sciatica, a surgeon will go over the risks and benefits of surgery and suggest the best option. �
Stretches and Exercises
As previously mentioned above, stretches and exercises can help improve sciatica symptoms. This allows patients to: �
Alleviate sciatica symptoms on their own
Reduce or prevent the use of drugs and/or medications
Find relief and comfort for sciatica symptoms during flare-ups
Sciatica, or sciatic nerve pain, is a collection of symptoms, rather than a single injury or condition, characterized by pain and discomfort, tingling sensations, and numbness anywhere along the length of the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is the longest and largest nerve in the human body which extends from the lower back, down the buttocks, hips, and thighs, into the legs, knees, and feet. The compression or impingement of the sciatic nerve and irritation due to a herniated disc, among other health issues, can ultimately cause sciatica symptoms and low back pain. – Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
Low Back Pain
The purpose of the article was to discuss and demonstrate the low back pain associated with sciatica. Sciatica is a collection of symptoms characterized by pain and discomfort, tingling sensation, and numbness. 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: Foot Orthotics
Low back pain and sciatica are common health issues which affect many individuals worldwide. However, did you know that chronic pain may be due to foot problems? Health issues originating in the foot may ultimately cause imbalances in the spine, such as poor posture, which can cause the well-known symptoms of low back pain and sciatica. Custom foot orthotics, individually designed with 3-arch support can help promote overall health and wellness by supporting and promoting good posture and correcting foot problems. Custom foot orthotics can ultimately help improve low back pain and sciatica. �
Formulas for Methylation Support
XYMOGEN�s Exclusive Professional Formulas are available through select licensed health care professionals. The internet sale and discounting of XYMOGEN formulas are strictly prohibited.
Proudly,�Dr. Alexander Jimenez makes XYMOGEN formulas available only to patients under our care.
Please call our office in order for us to assign a doctor consultation for immediate access.
If you are a patient of Injury Medical & Chiropractic�Clinic, you may inquire about XYMOGEN by calling 915-850-0900.
�
For your convenience and review of the XYMOGEN products please review the following link.*XYMOGEN-Catalog-Download �
* All of the above XYMOGEN policies remain strictly in force. �
If you have never been to see a chiropractor before, you may be wondering what you should expect. You likely have seen a video or heard someone talk about a chiropractic adjustment. Having your back or neck adjusted is definitely a big part of the process�but what else do you need to know? Continue reading to discover the basics of chiropractic and what you have to look forward to.
Contents
�Chiropractic Guide for First Time Patients
Your visit begins with a thorough examination.
Don�t expect to walk through the door of the chiropractor and get your back cracked. Chiropractors are highly-trained professionals that focus on individualized treatments and getting the best possible results. That means getting a clear picture of what your condition is and identifying the ideal treatments before starting with the adjustments.
The chiropractor will conduct a full physical examination to identify your injuries, any movement difficulties, etc. He or she will also ask a number of questions to find out how you feel and why you think you feel the way you do.
You might get an adjustment.
There are a lot of ways to adjust the human body, which are not limited to the standard adjustments you may have seen on TV or in movies. Your chiropractor can adjust not only your back but all of your joints, including knees, ankles, elbows and more. He or she can also use different tools to facilitate adjustments and employ techniques that range from extremely gentle to more forceful.
The adjustment you get will be based on your unique circumstances and the opinion of the chiropractor.
You might not get an adjustment.
It can be surprising to be told by the chiropractor that you won�t get an adjustment during your visit, but it does happen. Your chiropractor may determine that other therapies are better for your current condition. The adjustment may have to wait until your body is ready for it.
You will be offered alternative therapies.
Chiropractors focus on getting the best results for patients, which often means employing supplemental and complementary therapies in addition to chiropractic adjustments. Some common therapies include massage, decompression, electrical stimulation and more. Massage can relax soft tissues to allow for better adjustments, or to help adjustments stay in place. Decompression can increase blood flow to discs. Electrical stimulation can increase healing times.
You always have the final say in your treatment plan.
While the chiropractor will certainly have recommendations on which therapies are best suited to your needs, in the end, it is you who decides what happens. After your examination, the chiropractor will present the recommended options and let you decide if you want to start treatment.
You will experience improvements sooner rather than later.
Many patients are pleasantly surprised by how effective their chiropractic treatments are. Often after the first visit, you will feel less pain, more mobile and more at ease. A good adjustment and supplemental therapies can do a great deal to alleviate discomfort and stiffness. The good news is that each successive visit will only add to the good feelings you experience.
Getting Safe, Highly Effective Treatment
According to the American Chiropractic Association, chiropractic care is one of the safest drug-free, non-invasive treatments available for injuries and degenerative conditions related to your muscles, joints and skeletal system. There are so many benefits, and so few potential downsides, that it is hard to find a reason not to try chiropractic!
Please contact our team today to schedule an appointment with a chiropractor. Discover why so many people choose chiropractic for their healthcare needs.
Chiropractic
Gait Related Lower Back Pain
31 million Americans experience low back pain at any given time. This condition affects many, but finding the exact cause can be a challenge. Chiropractors are spinal specialists that are trained to not only alleviate pain but also find and help correct the cause of the problem.� Prevention is the best cure for any condition/ailment. When someone sees a chiropractor, they not only find relief for their condition, but they learn ways to prevent their symptoms in the future. Using proper exercise and ergonomics, they can ease the discomfort before it starts.
NCBI Resources
A�chiropractor�is the ideal�medical professional�to consult with for any unexplained pain in the musculoskeletal system. They are highly qualified professionals that their specialty is treating conditions like lower back pain and they are very affordable. If you or a loved one have pain in the lower back, gives us a call. We�re here to help!
Most people know that a chiropractor can help with musculoskeletal problems, such as backaches and slipped discs, but many people do not realize that chiropractic can do much more. In fact, chiropractic can even improve your sleep.
Getting enough quality sleep each night is good for your health. Not getting enough sleep can increase your risk of developing obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other serious conditions, according to Harvard Medical School.
But what if you allow yourself plenty of time but still have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep?
Chiropractic can help you sleep. In fact, one-third of people who undergo chiropractic adjustment report sleeping better immediately, according to the National Sleep Foundation. The benefits are not just for adults � 40 percent of infants slept better after just one chiropractic session. That is good news, considering one-fourth of babies experience sleep problems and when babies don�t sleep, nobody else in the house sleeps either!
Contents
3 Ways Chiropractic Can Improve Your Sleep
1. Pain relief
Pain can prevent you from getting a decent night�s sleep, especially if you have chronic pain that lasts for three or more months. In fact, one study shows that 20 percent of people with chronic pain experience at least one symptom of insomnia, compared with only 7.4 percent of people without chronic pain. Chiropractic can alleviate pain associated with backaches, headaches, whiplash, migraines and more to help you get the sleep you need.
Chiropractic can also help you sleep by providing a drug-free approach to pain relief. Many prescription pain relievers, such as those containing morphine, oxycodone, and opioids, can make you drowsy throughout the day. Daytime drowsiness might cause you to take naps throughout the day, which can interfere with your ability to sleep at night. The drug-free approach of chiropractic allows you to stay alert all day and sleep well at night.
Extensive research presented by the National Institutes of Health shows that chiropractic is as effective as other treatments, such as drugs, at relieving pain. Perhaps the best part of chiropractic is that the research shows that pain relief lasts up to 18 months of treatment � which means you can remain pain-free without using drugs for a year and a half.
2. Relieves muscle tension and stress
Stress can prevent you from falling asleep or sleeping well. Stress can also cause uncomfortable muscle tension that interferes with sleep. The National Sleep Foundation lists muscle tension as one of the three signs that you are under too much stress to sleep. Tension and poor sleep can be a vicious cycle, as tension can cause poor sleep and poor sleep can cause tension.
Chiropractic often includes massage to melt away painful muscle spasms. These therapeutic massages are relaxing, which helps you unwind enough to fall asleep. Chiropractic also stimulates blood flow, which helps bring oxygen to your brain and other parts of your body.
Your chiropractor may also be able to suggest gentle exercises, stretches and relaxation techniques to help you relax tense muscles and quiet your stressed-out mind.
3. Suggested sleeping positions
Your chiropractor may offer suggestions on sleeping positions and other ideas about how you can sleep better. Your chiropractor may discourage you from sleeping on your stomach if you are having back pain, for example, or be able to recommend a particular pillow or mattress to help you sleep better at night.
For more information on how chiropractic can improve your sleep, talk with your chiropractor. You may start sleeping better as soon as your first visit.
Reduce *IMBALANCE & PAIN* with Functional Orthotics | El Paso, Tx
Foot Orthotics
Foot Dysfunction�can very easily cause a domino effect that extends all the way to the back. The feet are the foundation of the body and when there is a problem with the way they function it can cause the entire body to shift out of alignment.
Recipe Ingredient Substitutions
Here is a guide to give your kitchen a healthy makeover! Here are tips to help you create a healthy environment for your home, and these substitutions will help you make delicious allergy-friendly�dishes.
NCBI Resources
We live in an extremely sleep-deprived society. According to the�Centers for Disease Control�(CDC), 1 in 3 people in the United States does not get enough sleep on a regular basis. Additionally, the�National Sleep Foundation�reports that 45 percent of adults in the US admit that insufficient or poor sleep has had an impact on their daily activities at least once in the previous week. What�s more, about a third of the people who said they slept the number of hours that doctors recommend reported experiencing poor sleep quality.
Functional hallux limitus is a differential diagnosis from structural hallux limitus. Functional hallux limitus, or FnHL, is identified by the movement deficiency of the first metatarsophalangeal joint, found between the bones of the foot and of the toes, during gait. The first metatarsophalangeal, or MTP, joint reveals regular movements throughout an open kinetic chain evaluation. Radiographs may demonstrate a tiny amount of dorsal spurring of the joint, however, the joint doesn’t always necessarily demonstrate pervasive degenerative joint disease as an ultimate source of the health issue. �
Structural hallux limitus, or SHL, is identified by structural adaptations of the first MTP joint which restrict ordinary movement from happening in the first place. These changes can be acute, with very limited dorsiflexion mobility, )hallux rigidus) or minor, (hallux limitus) leading to small changes in dorsiflexion of the first MTP joint. When normal foot insertion during propulsion is interrupted during MTP joint movement to prevent functioning of the foot construction through maximal hallux dorsiflexion over the effect of the windlass mechanism, the small changes can become considerably significant. In SHL, movement is going to be disrupted during open-and-closed-kinetic string actions. Pain and joint mobility is ultimately connected with any movement of the first metatarsophalangeal, or MTP, joint of the foot and of the toes. �
�
Although the health issue itself is generally considered to be asymptomatic, the signs and symptoms of this condition can also be associated with a variety of other common pathologies of the foot, including heel pain, lesser metatarsal pain, Morton’s neuroma, Achilles tendon pain, and retrocalcaneal enthesitis as well as posterior tibial tendon dysfunction and postural alignment abnormalities of the lower back, or lumbar spine, and the lower extremities, including sciatica. Research studies have demonstrated that the prevalence of the disorder is much higher among the symptomatic population. �
Contents
Identifying Functional Hallux Limitus
Functional hallux limitus is unfortunately still considered to be a rare health issue which often goes unaddressed. Outcomes for many different foot disorders will be jeopardized if treatment doesn’t address functional hallux limitus. Foot and postural abnormalities have a basis in poor function of stabilization and the windlass mechanism of the foot structure through the plantar fascia. By way of instance, if this stabilizing effect is not present, it’s hypothesized that a range of foot disorders may result as normal foot function which cannot be achieved without appropriate purpose of the plantar fascia. Addressing the proper function of the foot has a high level of predictability for healing mechanically induced foot pain and this remains the goal of footbed and shoe modifications as the primary focus of orthotic intervention throughout many years in medicine. �
Functional hallux limitus, or FnHL, is commonly diagnosed by a healthcare professional by detecting gait patterns and utilizing pedobarographic evaluations, which often require a qualified and experienced doctor or pricey equipment. The time consuming evaluations are also seldom able to be performed in the clinical setting. These challenges may probably contribute to the underdiagnosis of FnHL, or functional hallux limitus. Moreover, many healthcare professionals have also identified an FnHL evaluation demonstrated by the stiffening of large toe movement when implementing a loading force from the stage of maximal displacement to the first ray, especially when holding the foot and the toes in a neutral position. �
When hallux dorsiflexion at the MTP joint is ultimately evaluated, there is a stiffening or bending movement of the MTP joint, when roughly equal power is applied to the hallux as is applied to the first metatarsal head. Healthcare professionals have demonstrated how several evaluations associated with visual gait evaluations have demonstrated that 72 percent of patients with a pronated midtarsal joint also had a positive evaluation for functional hallux limitus. Approximately 66 percent of patients with normal midtarsal joint motion had a negative test result. Healthcare professionals believe this to be a reliable test for the diagnosis of abnormal foot function. These type of evaluation have been conducted on asymptomatic individuals. �
Functional Hallux Limitus and Sciatica
Functional hallux limitus is often commonly asymptomatic, therefore, it is rarely recognized as the functional inability of the first metatarsophalangeal, or MTP, joint to dorsiflex during gait. Normal movement is present in this joint during non-weight-bearing evaluations. Because the joint controls the pivot from which the entire body moves forward during each step, this disturbance in function, when repeated multiple times on a regular basis, can ultimately affect foot and postural biomechanics. It can also cause and aggravate many underlying health issues, including low back pain and sciatica. When functional hallux limitus is addressed in an orthotic treatment plan, 77 percent of long-term postural problem patients demonstrate 50 percent to 100 percent improvement in their overall health and wellness, among other health issues. �
As soon as the diagnosis for FnHL has been made, the healthcare professional is going to want to address this health issue with the best treatment approach. Because this is a fundamental derangement of movement of the first MTP joint, conservative treatment is often successful and can be easily demonstrated in the foot evaluation. Surgery is seldom indicated. This is in contrast to structural hallux limitus, or SHL, which often does require surgical interventions to restore pain-free assortment of motion. FnHL is generally a misalignment of the first MTP joint in which the first metatarsal is dorsally displaced, restricting the average movement of the proximal phalanx in the first metatarsal head. It’s essential for a healthcare professional to accurately diagnose functional hallux limitus to follow-up with the proper treatment. �
Because of the multifaceted nature of functional hallux limitus, understanding the health issue is ultimately fundamental for healthcare professionals and patients alike. Fortunately, there are many treatment approaches for functional hallux limitus depending on the nature of the pathology. As described above, functional hallux limitus is demonstrated as a normal range of hallux dorsiflexion during non-weight-bearing, however, there is a considerable decrease in hallux dorsiflexion. Functional hallux limitus has also been demonstrated to cause sciatica. – Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
Fibromyalgia Magazine
The purpose of the article was to discuss the differential diagnosis in sciatica with a variety of health issues, including functional hallux limitus as well as structural hallux limitus, among others. Accurate diagnosis and proper treatment are important for the treatment of functional hallux limitus and low back pain or 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. �
IFM's Find A Practitioner tool is the largest referral network in Functional Medicine, created to help patients locate Functional Medicine practitioners anywhere in the world. IFM Certified Practitioners are listed first in the search results, given their extensive education in Functional Medicine