Spine Specialist Team: Agility & speed are necessary for athletes and individuals who actively engage in physical activity and sports. These individuals often depend on these abilities to increase their overall performance. Quickly and gracefully, both mental and physical skills are often a key element towards overcoming challenges related to the individual’s specific sport. The key to improving agility is to minimize the loss of speed when redirecting the body’s center of gravity.
Rapid change drills that change direction forward, backward, vertically, and laterally will help improve individuals by training your body to make these changes more quickly. Dr. Alex Jimenez describes various stretches and exercises utilized to enhance agility and speed throughout his collection of articles, focusing largely on the benefits of fitness and occasional injuries or conditions resulting from overexertion.
Sport-Specific Training & Chiropractic in Back Injury Recovery
Introduction
Back injuries—whether from sports, auto accidents, work accidents, or daily strain—present a unique challenge. The spine supports nearly every movement, and when it’s compromised, strength, mobility, and balance suffer. For patients at a clinic offering advanced back care (like El Paso Back Clinic), the integration of sport-specific training with chiropractic and integrative modalities offers a powerful path toward recovery and long-term resilience.
Sport-specific training—customized drills that focus on strength, agility, and coordination—can rebuild function in a way that general rehabilitation often cannot. Paired with structural alignment, nerve health, soft tissue healing, and holistic support, this combination helps patients achieve more than just pain relief. They regain strength, flexibility, and control.
In this article, we will:
Define sport-specific training and its essential components
Show how it applies in a back-injury or spinal-rehab setting
Explain how chiropractic and integrative care complement and enhance outcomes
Illustrate how a multidisciplinary spinal/rehab clinic (such as El Paso Back Clinic) can deploy these strategies for complex cases
What Is Sport-Specific Training?
Sport-specific training consists of exercises and drills designed to mimic or approximate the demands of a particular sport or movement pattern. Rather than simply engaging in general strength training or cardio, the athlete (or rehab patient) practices movements that simulate the activities they actually perform in their sport (or daily life). (Simplifaster, 2023)
For example:
A soccer player might do cone drills, direction changes, and sprint cuts.
A basketball player might do jump-rebound drills, lateral slides, and shot motion under fatigue.
A person recovering from a back injury who intends to return to recreational tennis may benefit from training rotational core stability, hip control, and deceleration drills.
The principle is to condition not just muscles, but neuromuscular coordination, timing, balance, and movement patterns under stress. (Island Sports PT, 2024)
Core Elements of Sport-Specific Training
Strength & Conditioning Focused strength work for sports-relevant muscles. For instance, rotational core strength, hip extensors, and glutes are often critical, especially when the spine is recovering from injury. (Kinetics Performance, 2024)
Power/Explosive Work Plyometric movements, medicine-ball throws, jump training. These train fast-twitch fibers and increase force production. (Keiser, 2024; Physio Jersey, 2024)
Speed, Agility & Quickness Drills with cones, agility ladders, reaction tasks, shuttle runs—all aimed at improving the ability to change direction and speed efficiently. (Sensory Stepping Stones, 2024; Rockstar Academy, 2024)
Endurance/Conditioning Many sports or daily activities require sustained effort. Interval training, circuits, or sport-like conditioning help build stamina. (Adrenaline SPT, 2024)
Skill/Technical Drills Repetition of sport-specific moves—shooting in basketball, footwork in soccer, and throwing motion in baseball. (Island Sports PT, 2024)
Balance, Coordination & Core Stability Single-leg work, balance boards, unstable surfaces, control drills—all to enhance proprioception and stability (TRX Training, 2024).
Adapting Sport-Specific Training in Back Injury/Spinal Rehab
When someone has a back injury, it is not advisable to immediately engage in high-intensity sports drills. The approach must be staged, cautious, and progress gradually. Sport-specific training in this context helps by:
Rebuilding movement patterns in a safe, graduated way
Restoring control under load so that the spine can handle complex tasks
Bridging rehabilitation and performance so patients return stronger
Preventing reinjury by conditioning neuromuscular systems for the true demands of sport
Direction change, agility, weighted movement pattern mimicry
Maintain spinal control, avoid jerky motion
Performance/Return
Full sport drills, high intensity
Cutting, jumping, sprinting, full-range sport tasks
Ensure readiness, maintain recovery support
By layering work progressively, the spine adapts, and the patient regains confidence in movement.
Why Combine Chiropractic & Integrative Care?
Sport-specific training alone is powerful—but when combined with structural and holistic care, the results are far more robust. Particularly for back injuries, the spine, nerves, musculature, and soft tissues must all work in harmony.
1. Structural & Joint Alignment
Spinal misalignments or restricted joints (“subluxations” or hypomobilities) can alter loading patterns, leading to compensations that result in pain or injury. Chiropractic adjustments and mobilizations restore joint mechanics, which help patterns in training translate cleanly into movement (El Paso Back Clinic focus) (ElPasoBackClinic.com, 2024).
2. Soft Tissue Healing & Function
After injury, muscles, ligaments, and fascia often stiffen, scar, or become restricted. Therapies such as myofascial release, instrument-assisted soft tissue techniques, or therapeutic massage break up adhesions, improve circulation, and restore elasticity. This allows better movement and reduces the risk of overuse.
3. Nervous System & Proprioception
The spine is intimately linked to the nervous system. When spinal alignment and joint function are optimal, nerve signals travel more freely, which improves balance, reaction time, coordination, and fine motor control. Chiropractic care supports this neural integrity.
4. Pain Modulation & Inflammation
Manual therapies, acupuncture, electrotherapy, or low-level laser may reduce local inflammation, modulate pain, and speed recovery—allowing patients to train more consistently.
5. Systemic & Functional Health
Recovery is not just local—nutrition, hormonal balance, sleep, metabolic health, and inflammation status all impact tissue healing. Integrative methods (functional medicine, nutritional support, lifestyle modification) optimize these systemic factors, enabling better regeneration.
How El Paso Back Clinic Can Implement This Model
El Paso Back Clinic, as stated in its mission, provides care for back injuries, sports wellness, rehabilitative protocols, chiropractic services, functional medicine, acupuncture, and sports rehabilitation (ElPasoBackClinic.com, 2024). This makes it well-positioned to deploy a combined training and integrative care approach.
Here is how a clinic like this can operationalize the model:
Diagnostic & Assessment Phase
Use advanced imaging, postural and movement analysis, orthopedic tests, and functional assessments
Identify spinal misalignments, joint restrictions, muscular imbalances, and neuromuscular deficits
Use lab panels or metabolic analysis to pick up systemic inhibitors of healing (e.g., inflammation, nutritional deficiencies)
Treatment & Structural Rehabilitation
Begin with chiropractic adjustments and soft tissue work to restore alignment
Address compensatory tight muscles and weak stabilizers
Start with gentle neuromuscular re-education, core work, and movement foundations
Integrative Support
Provide nutritional counseling, anti-inflammatory protocols, and supplementation as needed
Use adjunctive therapies (acupuncture, electrotherapy, cold laser) to accelerate tissue healing
When foundational stability is sufficient, introduce sport-specific drills adapted to the patient’s goals
Progress through staged phases (as shown above)
Monitor compensation, form, pain response, and neuromuscular control
Maintenance & Prevention
Even after returning to activity, periodic check-ups, structural tuning sessions, and movement refreshers help prevent recurrence
Continued integrative support helps sustain joint health, muscular balance, and systemic resilience
Case Example (Hypothetical)
Patient Profile: A 28-year-old recreational soccer player suffered a lumbar disc strain while pivoting mid-game. After several weeks of pain control and basic rehab, she presents to the clinic wanting to return stronger than before.
Protocol:
Assessment: MRI, posture/gait/movement analysis. Detect slight rotational asymmetry in the pelvis and tight hamstrings.
Structural phase: Chiropractic adjustments to lumbar and pelvis, soft tissue work along paraspinals and hamstrings, nerve glides.
Intermediate loading: Hip bridges, split squats, controlled rotational medicine-ball passes
Sport transfer drills: Side shuffles, agility ladder, simple cuts, controlled acceleration
Full application: Simulated soccer drills, jumping, multi-directional change, in-field practice
Maintenance: Structural “tune-up” visits, integrative support, movement habit education
Over months, the patient regains performance while minimizing flare-ups.
Benefits & Outcomes
By integrating sport-specific training and chiropractic/integrative care in a back-focused clinic, patients can expect:
Faster, more complete recovery
Better movement control under stress
Reduced recurrence of back pain or injury
Enhanced performance in sport or daily tasks
A more holistic, systemic healing process
In El Paso Back Clinic’s model, this approach strengthens the spine and the entire neuromuscular system, rather than just patching symptoms.
Conclusion
Back injuries challenge the body’s core systems. Recovery is not just about stopping pain—it’s about restoring function, control, and resilience. Sport-specific training gives patients a roadmap to rebuild movement in a meaningful way. Chiropractic and integrative care corrects structure, optimizes nerve function, treats soft tissue, and supports systemic healing.
At a clinic like El Paso Back Clinic, which already embraces chiropractic, functional medicine, rehabilitative services, and sports wellness, the synergy of these approaches is a natural fit. By walking patients through assessment, structural restoration, staged sport-specific training, and integrative support, the clinic can help them not only return from injury—but come back stronger, more balanced, and more resilient.
Live Pain-Free: Chiropractic and Integrative Care for Injury Recovery at El Paso Back Clinic
In the vibrant heart of El Paso, Texas, where desert trails beckon and hardworking days define our community, injuries can derail your active lifestyle. From car accidents to workplace strains or sports mishaps, overexertion and trauma often lead to pain, stiffness, or chronic issues that linger without proper care. These setbacks can limit your ability to work, play, or enjoy El Paso’s unique spirit. At El Paso Back Clinic, led by Dr. Alexander Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, chiropractic and integrative care offer a path to recovery. Through spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and neuromuscular re-education, the clinic accelerates healing, restores flexibility, enhances balance, and boosts heart and lung function. With holistic nutrition and stress management plans, Dr. Jimenez’s team crafts personalized strategies to prevent future injuries, empowering El Pasoans to live pain-free and thrive.
This article explores how injuries arise, the benefits of integrative care, and how El Paso Back Clinic delivers top-tier recovery solutions.
The Impact of Overuse and Accidents: Why Pain Persists
El Paso’s dynamic lifestyle—hiking the Franklin Mountains, working long shifts, or driving busy roads—can strain the body. Overexertion from repetitive tasks like lifting or intense workouts causes sprains, strains, or joint issues. Motor vehicle accidents (MVAs) bring sudden trauma, with 60% of cases leading to lingering pain if untreated (Jimenez, n.d.). Even minor falls at home can spark chronic discomfort.
Dr. Alexander Jimenez, a chiropractor and nurse practitioner with over 30 years of experience, sees these patterns daily. “Our dual-scope diagnostics, combining chiropractic and nursing insights, uncover how trauma or overuse triggers pain cycles,” he shares on his clinic’s site (Jimenez, n.d.). Using advanced neuromusculoskeletal imaging, his team pinpoints root causes, from workplace injuries to MVA trauma. Ignoring early signs, such as stiffness or fatigue, can lead to reduced mobility, increased stress, and sleep disturbances. El Paso Back Clinic’s integrative approach breaks this cycle, restoring health naturally.
Everyday Injuries: From Crashes to Chronic Strains
Injuries vary but share a common impact: they disrupt your life. MVAs cause neck and back pain, limiting movement. Work-related strains, like those from lifting or repetitive tasks, create nagging discomfort. Sports injuries, such as twisted ankles or knees, sideline active El Pasoans. Personal falls at home can lead to shoulder or hip pain, while untreated stress may cause chronic conditions like joint stiffness.
Dr. Jimenez’s clinic tackles these with precision. “We connect injury origins—crashes, work tasks, or sports—to customized treatments,” he explains. MVAs receive urgent care with legal documentation for claims. Work injuries get rehab to restore function, and sports or personal injuries benefit from targeted plans to prevent recurrence. Without care, these issues worsen, lowering the quality of life. El Paso Back Clinic’s chiropractic and integrative methods pave the way to recovery.
Realigning for Relief: The Power of Spinal Adjustments
Spinal adjustments are the foundation of chiropractic care at El Paso Back Clinic. These precise, hands-on techniques realign vertebrae, easing nerve pressure and restoring balance to the body. Injuries from accidents or overuse misalign the spine, causing pain and impaired movement. Adjustments can boost blood flow, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain by up to 25% in as little as a few weeks (Trident Health Chiropractic, n.d.).
For MVA patients, adjustments relieve neck stiffness, restoring mobility. Work injury patients regain strength for daily tasks. Dr. Jimenez’s approach is unique: “We use imaging to guide adjustments, targeting issues from trauma or strains,” he says. Legal reports ensure MVA patients have clear records for claims. From athletes to office workers, adjustments help El Pasoans move freely and heal quickly.
Healing Muscles: Soft Tissue Therapy for Recovery
Injuries tighten muscles, creating knots that misalign joints and prolong pain. Soft tissue therapy, like massage or myofascial release, targets these areas, breaking up scar tissue and boosting circulation. This delivers nutrients to damaged tissues, speeding recovery. A single session can significantly reduce healing time, getting you back to work or play faster (Yoder Chiropractic Center, n.d.).
Picture a construction worker with shoulder pain from heavy lifting. Therapy loosens tightness, improving arm range. MVA patients find relief from neck strain. Dr. Jimenez’s team pairs therapy with imaging for precision. “We treat trauma from accidents or sports non-surgically,” he notes. Legal documentation tracks progress for claims, prioritizing natural healing. Patients feel relaxed, move more easily, and recover more quickly.
Injuries disrupt nerve-muscle communication, resulting in shaky balance or impaired movements. Neuromuscular re-education uses exercises like balance drills or resistance training to retrain these pathways, reducing fall risks and boosting confidence. A soccer player with a sprained ankle, for example, regains stability, thereby lowering the odds of re-injury (Integrative Chiropractic, n.d.).
Dr. Jimenez’s clinic excels here. “We link nerve issues to injury histories, guiding re-education for MVA, work, or sports recovery,” he says. A retail worker with back pain learns core-strengthening moves; an MVA patient rebuilds neck control. Legal reports detail progress for claims, ensuring comprehensive care. This sharpens coordination, making daily tasks and active pursuits feel natural again.
Faster Healing, Better Mobility: Recovery and Flexibility Gains
Chiropractic care at El Paso Back Clinic speeds healing by optimizing body systems. Adjustments and therapy reduce swelling, allowing tissues to mend faster—often in weeks, not months (Abundant Life Chiropractor, n.d.). Flexibility improves as tight muscles and joints stretch safely. A warehouse worker lifts without strain; an accident victim moves freely again.
Dr. Jimenez’s holistic plans amplify results. “Targeted exercises and adjustments build lasting mobility, preventing chronic issues,” he says. Nutrition tips, like anti-inflammatory foods, fuel healing. MVA and work cases get legal-grade documentation, aligning care with claims. El Pasoans recover quickly, staying active in our vibrant community.
Balance and coordination are key to preventing injuries and enhancing daily function. Re-education drills steady wobbly steps, helping MVA victims or athletes avoid falls. A delivery driver navigates uneven terrain easily post-care. Chiropractic also boosts stamina by freeing the spine for deeper breaths, improving oxygen flow and endurance (ASR Sports Medicine, n.d.).
Jimenez’s integrative approach shines: “Acupuncture and massage enhance flow, boosting stamina for work or sports.” Virtual coaching reinforces gains, and legal support ensures MVA patients have clear records. Patients work longer, play harder, and live stronger.
Whole-Person Healing: Nutrition, Stress, and Custom Plans
El Paso Back Clinic’s functional medicine approach goes beyond physical fixes. Nutrition advice—like omega-3s or antioxidant-rich fruits—fights inflammation and boosts energy. Stress management, such as mindfulness or breathing exercises, eases tension, aiding sleep and recovery. Personalized plans fit your injury, lifestyle, and goals.
Dr. Jimenez leads the way. “We uncover root causes—poor diet, stress—and craft plans with acupuncture or massage,” he says. MVA or work injuries get detailed reports for legal cases, prioritizing natural healing. Patients receive plans tailored to their El Paso lives, ensuring lasting wellness.
El Paso Back Clinic: Your Trusted Recovery Partner
At El Paso Back Clinic, Dr. Alexander Jimenez combines chiropractic and nursing expertise for exceptional care. Awarded from 2015 to 2024, his team treats MVAs, work strains, sports injuries, and personal falls with precision. “Our imaging and dual expertise catch hidden issues,” he says. A crash victim drives pain-free in weeks. A nurse lifts patients again. Legal documentation supports MVA and work cases, while virtual coaching and nutrition webinars empower long-term health.
Patients praise the results: “Dr. Jimenez restored my mobility and energy,” one shares. From veterans to families, his care transforms lives, helping El Pasoans thrive.
Preventing Future Pain: A Strategy for Lifelong Wellness
Prevention keeps you active. Regular chiropractic checkups spot misalignments early, cutting injury risks by 20% (Erie Chiro, n.d.). Holistic habits—such as balanced diets, stress relief, and smart exercise—build resilience. Dr. Jimenez’s team creates plans for workers, athletes, or retirees. “We flag risks like posture or stress early, ensuring lasting health,” he notes.
With care, education, and documentation, El Pasoans live pain-free, embracing our city’s vibrant spirit.
Healing from the Inside Out: Chiropractic Nutrition and Sports Recovery at El Paso Back Clinic
A Different Approach to Recovery
Healing isn’t just about rest and rehabilitation—it’s about what fuels the body. At El Paso Back Clinic, Dr. Alexander Jimenez emphasizes an integrative chiropractic nutrition plan that combines spinal health, targeted therapy, and nutrient-dense eating. This method reduces inflammation, promotes faster recovery, and helps prevent long-term consequences of injuries.
Dr. Jimenez’s dual-scope expertise, as both a chiropractor and nurse practitioner, enables him to address injuries not only at the structural level but also at the systemic level. His patients benefit from a unique approach that combines hands-on chiropractic adjustments, advanced imaging, and functional medicine strategies for comprehensive care.
Fuel for Performance: Why Nutrition Matters
Athletes and active individuals often prioritize training plans over nutrition. Yet, nutrient-dense foods are essential for peak performance and resilience. When athletes consume processed foods or skip key nutrients, inflammation rises, recovery slows, and the risk of injury increases【redeeminglifenutrition.com†source】.
An integrative chiropractic diet emphasizes:
Anti-inflammatory foods like fatty fish, leafy greens, and berries.
Complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains and legumes, provide sustained energy.
Healthy fats, such as avocados, olive oil, and walnuts, can support hormone balance.
High-quality proteins from both plant and animal sources are essential for repairing muscle and connective tissue.
This tailored approach ensures athletes recover quickly while maintaining long-term joint and spinal health【bbcgoodfood.com†source】.
Strength from the Ground Up: Chiropractic and Joint Care
At El Paso Back Clinic, spinal alignment and nutrition work in tandem. Chiropractic adjustments restore nerve function and circulation, which enhances nutrient absorption throughout the body. When combined with anti-inflammatory foods, this creates a strong foundation for muscle, joint, and ligament recovery【atlanticchirofl.com†source】.
Dr. Jimenez often explains that ignoring inflammation is like ignoring misalignment—it may not cause problems immediately, but it eventually limits mobility and performance. By aligning the spine and fueling the body correctly, athletes optimize their healing capacity.
Protein Power for Repair
Protein is not just for bodybuilders—it’s the building block of recovery. After sports injuries, car accidents, or workplace strain, muscles, tendons, and ligaments require amino acids to rebuild tissue. Without adequate protein, recovery stalls【revistanutricion.org†source】【childrensmercy.org†source】.
El Paso Back Clinic guides patients in balancing:
Animal proteins: chicken, fish, eggs, and lean beef.
Plant-based proteins: tofu, lentils, and quinoa.
Protein-rich snacks: Greek yogurt, nuts, or smoothies.
When paired with chiropractic therapies like massage, decompression, and rehabilitation exercises, protein accelerates healing while reducing scar tissue and stiffness.
Reimagining Carbs: Energy That Lasts
Carbohydrates often get a bad reputation, but for athletes and recovering patients, they are critical. The key is choosing complex carbohydrates over refined sugars. Whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables supply steady energy that supports both workouts and tissue repair【betterhealth.vic.gov.au†source】.
Dr. Jimenez emphasizes that after motor vehicle accidents or intense training, glycogen restoration is crucial for reducing fatigue and enhancing concentration during rehabilitation. Without this energy, recovery exercises feel harder and progress slows.
Fats That Heal Instead of Harm
Not all fats are created equal. At El Paso Back Clinic, patients learn that healthy fats reduce inflammation, lubricate joints, and regulate hormones. Omega-3s from salmon, sardines, and flaxseeds are especially valuable for musculoskeletal recovery【nuffieldhealth.com†source】.
This mirrors the principles of the Mediterranean diet, which research shows improves both athletic recovery and long-term cardiovascular health【stanford.edu†source】.
Micronutrients: The Hidden Healers
While macronutrients like carbs, proteins, and fats grab attention, micronutrients play a hidden yet crucial role in recovery:
Vitamin D and calcium strengthen bones.
Magnesium supports muscle relaxation and nerve conduction.
Vitamin C and zinc enhance collagen production and tissue repair.
Chiropractic care ensures structural alignment, while micronutrient-rich diets give the body the tools to rebuild【parcofontario.com†source】.
Whole-Body Recovery: Chiropractic + Nutrition
El Paso Back Clinic utilizes advanced imaging tools, including MRIs and X-rays, to accurately detect underlying injuries. But recovery goes beyond the scan. By combining chiropractic adjustments with individualized diets, patients experience:
Reduced pain and inflammation.
Faster ligament and tendon repair.
Improved mobility and strength.
Lower risk of chronic complications.
This integrative strategy benefits not only athletes but also patients recovering from work-related injuries, car accidents, and repetitive stress disorders. 【sportsrd.org†source】【essendonsportsmedicine.com.au†source】
Beyond the Clinic: Legal and Medical Support
In personal injury cases, documentation matters. Dr. Jimenez ensures his patients at El Paso Back Clinic receive comprehensive medical and legal reports. These include diagnostic imaging, detailed progress notes, and chiropractic assessments—critical for court cases and insurance claims.
By bridging medical care and legal advocacy, patients gain peace of mind knowing their recovery is both clinically supported and legally defensible.【dralexjimenez.com†source】.
Integrated Therapies for Lasting Health
The strength of El Paso Back Clinic lies in its multimodal therapy model. Patients often receive:
Acupuncture to balance energy and relieve inflammation.
Targeted exercises to improve mobility and strength.
Nutritional guidance for long-term health.
This combination creates an environment where natural healing thrives, preventing future injuries while optimizing current recovery.【americansportandfitness.com†source】【holisticwholenessinstitute.com†source】.
Patient-Centered Care in El Paso
Dr. Jimenez’s reputation is built on compassion and expertise. Patients at El Paso Back Clinic consistently highlight his ability to connect, explain, and design treatment plans that feel personalized. His integrative care is not a quick fix—it is a sustainable strategy for lifelong health.
Conclusion
At El Paso Back Clinic, healing is not just physical—it’s nutritional, structural, and systemic. With Dr. Alexander Jimenez’s dual expertise in chiropractic care and functional medicine, patients gain access to a unique approach that combines nutrition, advanced imaging, integrative therapies, and legal documentation for complete recovery.
By reducing inflammation, fueling the body, and restoring spinal alignment, chiropractic nutrition doesn’t just treat symptoms—it transforms recovery, performance, and long-term wellness.
El Paso Back Clinic®: Your Path to Wellness and Recovery
At El Paso Back Clinic®, we believe in empowering our patients to live pain-free, active lives through comprehensive chiropractic care and integrative medicine. Led by Dr. Alex Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, our clinic in El Paso, TX, specializes in treating a wide range of injuries, from motor vehicle accidents (MVAs) to sports mishaps, with a focus on restoring mobility, flexibility, and overall wellness. By addressing posture, spinal health, and musculoskeletal issues, we help patients recover from injuries, manage pain, and prevent future complications. This article explores how our holistic approach, combining chiropractic care, nutrition, and advanced therapies, transforms lives at El Paso Back Clinic®.
The Role of Posture in Wellness and Recovery
Good posture is the foundation of a healthy body, especially when recovering from injuries or managing chronic pain. Poor posture, often caused by accidents or prolonged sitting, can lead to muscle strain, joint stress, and increased discomfort. At El Paso Back Clinic®, we prioritize correcting posture to improve spinal alignment, which enhances mobility and reduces the risk of further injury. Proper posture allows the body to distribute weight evenly, supporting natural healing and optimal function (Optimal Spine Chiro, 2023).
Our chiropractic adjustments focus on restoring spinal alignment, relieving pressure on nerves, and improving overall body mechanics. This is particularly important for patients recovering from MVAs or sports injuries, where misalignments can worsen pain or delay recovery. By addressing posture, we help patients move better, feel better, and stay active (Zaker Chiropractic, 2023).
Dr. Alex Jimenez: Leading Wellness Care in El Paso
Dr. Alex Jimenez, a chiropractor and nurse practitioner, brings a unique combination of medical and chiropractic expertise to El Paso Back Clinic®. With years of experience treating severe pain, sciatica, whiplash, and sports injuries, Dr. Jimenez uses advanced diagnostics and integrative therapies to create personalized treatment plans. His dual training allows him to address both the structural and medical aspects of injuries, ensuring comprehensive care (Jimenez, 2025).
Advanced Diagnostics for Precise Treatment
At El Paso Back Clinic®, we use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, such as X-rays and MRIs, to identify the root causes of pain and injury. Dr. Jimenez employs techniques like motion palpation and static palpation to assess spinal and joint function, ensuring treatments are tailored to each patient’s needs. This approach is critical for conditions like whiplash or spinal misalignments caused by MVAs, where precise diagnosis leads to faster recovery (El Paso Back Clinic, 2023).
Supporting Legal and Medical Needs
In personal injury cases, such as those from car accidents, Dr. Jimenez provides detailed medical reports to support insurance claims or legal proceedings. His ability to navigate both medical and legal aspects ensures patients can focus on healing while their cases are handled effectively. This expertise is especially valuable for injuries like back pain or joint dislocations, where documentation is key (Personal Injury Doctor, 2017).
El Paso Back Clinic® specializes in treating musculoskeletal injuries caused by MVAs, workplace accidents, sports, and daily activities. Our non-invasive, drug-free approach focuses on restoring function and relieving pain through chiropractic care and integrative therapies.
Whiplash and Neck Pain
Whiplash, common in car accidents, results from sudden neck jolts that strain muscles and misalign the spine. Our clinic uses gentle spinal adjustments, trigger point therapy, and corrective exercises to reduce inflammation and restore mobility. These treatments help patients recover quickly and avoid chronic neck pain (El Paso Back Clinic, 2023).
Back Pain and Spinal Injuries
Back injuries, such as herniated discs or spinal misalignments, are frequent after MVAs or heavy lifting. Dr. Jimenez employs spinal manipulation and decompression techniques to alleviate pain and promote healing. We also incorporate mobility exercises to strengthen supporting muscles, ensuring long-term spinal health (El Paso Back Clinic, 2023).
Sports and Joint Injuries
Athletes trust El Paso Back Clinic® for recovery from injuries like ACL tears, sprains, or joint dislocations. Our integrative approach combines chiropractic adjustments with physical therapy and nutritional guidance to restore strength and enhance performance. By improving posture and alignment, we help athletes return to their sport stronger than before (Square One Health, 2023).
Our clinic’s strength lies in combining chiropractic care with integrative therapies to address the whole person, not just the injury. This holistic approach promotes natural healing, reduces pain, and prevents long-term complications.
Targeted Exercise and Physical Therapy
Customized exercise programs are central to our treatment plans. These exercises strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and support spinal health, helping patients recover from injuries like fractures or sprains. For example, after an 18-wheeler accident, we design specific stretches to restore mobility without aggravating spinal trauma (El Paso Back Clinic, 2023).
Massage Therapy and Acupuncture
Massage therapy relieves muscle tension and boosts circulation, aiding recovery from soft tissue injuries. Acupuncture reduces inflammation and stimulates natural pain relief, complementing chiropractic care. These therapies work together to provide comprehensive pain relief and support healing (Mountain Movement Center, 2023).
Nutritional Support for Healing
Nutrition is a key component of recovery at El Paso Back Clinic®. Dr. Jimenez provides dietary recommendations, such as anti-inflammatory foods and supplements, to support tissue repair and reduce pain. This approach strengthens the body’s ability to heal after MVAs or sports injuries, promoting long-term wellness (El Paso Back Clinic, 2023).
Preventing Long-Term Complications with Integrative Care
Untreated injuries can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, or conditions like degenerative arthritis. At El Paso Back Clinic®, our integrative approach prevents these issues by addressing the root causes of pain and injury. Regular chiropractic adjustments maintain spinal alignment, while therapies like acupuncture and exercise reduce inflammation and strengthen the body. This comprehensive care ensures patients recover fully and maintain optimal health (Current Physical Therapy, 2025).
For athletes, this means returning to their sport with improved performance and less risk of re-injury. For accident victims, it means reclaiming their daily lives without pain. Our focus on wellness empowers patients to live active, healthy lives long after their treatment ends (Tigard Chiropractic Auto Injury, 2023).
El Paso Back Clinic®, under the leadership of Dr. Alex Jimenez, is dedicated to helping patients achieve wellness through chiropractic care and integrative medicine. By focusing on posture, spinal health, and holistic therapies, we treat injuries from MVAs, sports, and daily life, while preventing long-term complications. Whether you’re recovering from whiplash, back pain, or a sports injury, our personalized approach ensures you return to a pain-free, active life. Visit El Paso Back Clinic® to start your journey to optimal health today.
Can pace running help runners concentrate on other things, like breathing, form, or mental toughness?
Pace Running
Running is a sport many participate in and doesn’t require any equipment—only quality running shoes. Running in races comes with various physical and mental challenges. Some runners enjoy running in races and marathons but want to perfect their abilities and techniques, become more consistent, finish in a certain time, or pass a personal record. This is where pace running or working with a pace runner can help achieve those goals.
What is a Pace Runner?
A pace runner, or pacer, is an experienced runner who can run at a set pace for a long time. The pacer sets the speed so the runner can focus on running. Pacers run in races or marathons to help set the pace for a runner or runners. There are different reasons why professional and amateur runners work with a pace runner. Professional runners often use pace runners to work on techniques and help reach new levels in their running, while amateur runners can work on improving their overall running abilities. There are three typical types of pacers.
Race Pacer
Pacers wear or carry signs to make it easier for the runners and can often run split times.
A split time is the time it takes to run a certain distance.
Typically, these pacers will run at an even pace.
Many marathons will have pace groups that run at a specific speed or pace throughout the race.
The pace groups will have runners running a set time so other runners can key off these runners.
There are typically set paces for a 3-hour marathon time up to a 6-hour marathon time.
Runners can use pacers to help them reach their goals without relying on technology, such as a smartwatch or GPS, to determine if they maintain the correct speed throughout the race.
Distance Pacer
Professional and non-professional runners who run long distances or ultramarathons may also use a pace runner to set a specific tempo.
Ultramarathons are any race with a distance longer than the standard marathon of 26.2 miles.
Because some ultramarathons can be as long as 50 to 100 miles, runners who choose to have a pacer often have several pacers at different sections to motivate them and help set the rhythm.
Record Pacer or Rabbit
A record pacer, also known as a rabbit, is a pacer who helps a professional runner set a new record.
A rabbit often leads the race for a predetermined distance at a predetermined pace.
Some races have multiple pacers at various distances.
How Are Pacers Used?
There are different reasons for having a pacer, but they are based on the runner’s goals.
A runner being paced runs directly behind a pacer or pacers.
A pacer can run any pace requested, but typically, the pace groups run at an even pace or with a slight negative split.
A negative split is when a runner runs the race’s second half faster than the first half.
How Do They Help?
A pacer can be helpful because it takes more energy to lead a race than to sit back and follow another runner.
The pacer is responsible for timing and establishing the tempo so runners only have to focus on running.
A pacer does more work setting the pace, which allows the runner being paced to relax and not stress about hitting the pace.
A study focused on elite athletes who used pacers. It found that running together at a realistic speed helped optimize and achieve finishing time goals. (Casado A. et al., 2021) However, not all elite events allow pacers to participate. Some championship events, like the Olympics and NCAA Championships, do not allow pacer runners.
Benefits
Benefits of running with a pacer.
Prevent Running Too Fast
When a race begins, runners can take off and start too fast.
Starting too quickly can negatively impact the runners, like losing energy and stamina.
A pacer can help start the race with a steady pace, keeping them from going out too fast or expending too much energy.
Maintain an Even Pace
Maintaining an even pace can be difficult throughout a long race or a marathon.
Having a pacer can relieve some stress and pressure.
A pacer can keep the runners on an even pace or negative splits versus going out too fast and losing energy.
Focus on the Race
Pacers help the runners stay focused on the race without worrying about how they are running or maintaining the right speed.
A pacer can help keep runners relaxed.
Motivating
Pacers can help motivate runners.
The pace runners may encourage individuals along the way and help them stay motivated to keep working toward their goal, especially when the hard parts come.
Disadvantages
Running with a pacer can sometimes be more stressful than beneficial, especially for amateur runners. A pacer or pace group can be helpful, but it also can create more stress for some amateur runners.
Sometimes, individuals realize the pacer is running too quickly for what they can handle.
Anxiety can present as not being able to keep up.
Other times, runners underestimate their abilities and run more slowly than their bodies can handle.
However, runners don’t have to stay with a pace group just because they started with them.
Individuals can run ahead.
Or if the group is too fast, the runner can slow down and join the slower-paced group behind them.
The key is to listen to your body and do what feels right.
Becoming a Pacer
An experienced runner who wants to be a pacer for a race can contact a running organization about becoming a pace runner.
Individuals need to be able to have consistent racing times.
Be able to run at a set speed for a long duration.
Most pacers will contact the race organization to apply for a certain pace.
Some pacers enjoy the thrill of running in a race and helping other runners meet their goals.
The runner’s goals and the type of event also influence who the pacer is.
Injury Medical Chiropractic & Functional Medicine Clinic
Individuals can talk to local running experts or a running coach. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to develop an optimal health and wellness solution. We focus on what works for you to relieve pain, restore function, and prevent injury. We can also work with other medical professionals to integrate a treatment plan to resolve musculoskeletal issues.
The Difference of Using Custom Foot Orthotics
References
Casado, A., Hanley, B., Jiménez-Reyes, P., & Renfree, A. (2021). Pacing profiles and tactical behaviors of elite runners. Journal of Sport and Health Science, 10(5), 537–549. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jshs.2020.06.011
Can adding fartlek training improve speed and endurance for runners and running enthusiasts?
Running Fartlek Training
Fartlek training, which means speed play in Swedish, is a form of running training that involves alternating between bursts of fast running and slower recovery jogging.
It is a form of interval or speed conditioning.
It involves varying one’s pace throughout their run, alternating between fast treks and slow jogs.
Workouts are unstructured and allow runners to decide the duration and intensity of the fast and slow sections.
Unlike formal interval training, this flexibility offers a new way to improve speed, endurance, mental preparedness, and stamina.
Training Benefits
Traditional interval training uses specific timed or measured segments. Fartleks are more unstructured, with work-rest intervals based on how the body feels. With fartlek training, individuals can experiment with pace and endurance as they run, which helps them tune in to their body and adjust how it performs. Many runners enjoy the training because it involves speed work and is more flexible and less demanding.
A stopwatch is not needed for time intervals.
Training doesn’t have to be done on a track and can be performed on all terrain, such as roads, trails, or hills.
The training stresses the body’s systems, leading to faster speeds and improving anaerobic threshold. (Bacon, A. P. et al., 2013)
Improves the anaerobic threshold and increases the body’s ability to train longer at higher intensities. (Mazurek K. et al., 2016)
This is due to an increased VO2 max, which measures how much oxygen the body can take in and use.
Training includes a higher risk of injury and strain.
Beginners are more prone to shin splints.
The training is demanding, so it should not be done daily.
Workout
The method is to vary brief periods of slightly higher pace into regular runs (Kumar P. 2015). Maintain a faster pace for a short distance or time interval, such as 200 meters or 30 seconds. Intervals can vary throughout the workout, and landmarks such as streetlights or telephone poles can be used to mark segments instead of measuring miles or meters. Once a fast segment is completed, slow to below-normal running cadence until the body fully recovers and breathing returns to normal. Return to running normally and incorporate slightly faster intervals later in the run.
Fartleks should be short because they are intense.
The actual higher-pace portion of the run should last up to 30 seconds.
Gradually add more time to the faster-paced portion as conditioning improves, up to 60 seconds.
Training Example
An example of a 40- to 45-minute fartlek workout suitable for beginners.
10-minute warm-up at a light pace
1 minute on (fast pace)
2 minutes off (easy)
2 minutes on
1 minute off
Repeat the set 3 to 4 times
10-minute cooldown at an easy pace
Remember that beginners should go slow when introducing fartlek training into their workouts. It is more intense and can increase the risk of injuries and strains, such as shin splints. Get help from a running coach or trainer if you are unsure how to incorporate the training into your routine.
Training on a Treadmill
Speed play can be done on a treadmill. The idea is to find ways to create speed variation intervals and help relieve treadmill boredom. Some examples include:
If watching television, use commercials to go into speed intervals.
At the gym, make a game out of the sprints and/or
Speed up during certain parts of songs where you can feel the energy moving you faster.
One precaution is learning to use the treadmill’s buttons to increase and decrease the pace. This can slow you down and disrupt form, so maybe do longer durations for each phase so there is less contact with the control panel.
Injury Medical Chiropractic & Functional Medicine Clinic
Fartlek training is an excellent way to add variety, fun, and interest to running. This speed work can also enhance performance, increase cardiovascular output, and allow individuals to run at higher intensities for longer periods. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to develop an optimal health and wellness solution. We focus on what works for you to relieve pain, restore function, and prevent injury. We can also work with other medical professionals to integrate a treatment plan to resolve musculoskeletal issues.
Building a Stronger Body
References
Bacon, A. P., Carter, R. E., Ogle, E. A., & Joyner, M. J. (2013). VO2max trainability and high-intensity interval training in humans: a meta-analysis. PloS one, 8(9), e73182. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0073182
Mazurek, K., Zmijewski, P., Krawczyk, K., Czajkowska, A., Kęska, A., Kapuściński, P., & Mazurek, T. (2016). High-intensity interval and moderate continuous cycle training in a physical education programme improves health-related fitness in young females. Biology of Sport, 33(2), 139–144. https://doi.org/10.5604/20831862.1198626
Scribbans, T. D., Vecsey, S., Hankinson, P. B., Foster, W. S., & Gurd, B. J. (2016). The Effect of Training Intensity on VO2max in Young Healthy Adults: A Meta-Regression and Meta-Analysis. International journal of exercise science, 9(2), 230–247. https://doi.org/10.70252/HHBR9374
Kumar, P. (2015). Effect of fartlek training for developing endurance ability among athletes. Int J Phys Ed Sports Health., 2(2), 291-293. https://www.kheljournal.com/archives/2015/vol2issue2/PartE/3-3-75-957.pdf
Can hula hooping be an option for individuals and athletes needing an effective, light, fun workout?
Hula Hoop Workout
A hula hoop workout is a low-impact exercise that involves spinning a hula hoop around your body. It can help improve balance, core strength, and aerobic fitness. Hula hooping is a great aerobic exercise that raises the heart rate and engages the whole body. Exercises can be done with a weighted or non-weighted hula hoop. A standard hoop will increase heart rate after about three minutes. A weighted hula hoop can target and build important core and lower body muscles, including the hamstrings, calves, quadriceps, and glutes. Lifting the weighted hula hoop also works the upper body muscles, giving the all-over body workout.
Weighted Hula Hoop
A weighted hula hoop can offer several health benefits.
Burns Calories
According to a research study, hula hooping can burn an average of 200 calories during a 30-minute workout. Researchers found that hooping is comparable in calories burned to boot camp-style fitness classes, kickboxing, and step aerobics. The average heart rate of the study participants was 151 beats per minute, equal to 84% of the age-predicted heart rate maximum. This can result in improved cardiovascular health and muscle conditioning. (American Council on Exercise, 2011)
Helps Build Muscle Mass
A study found that hula hooping increased trunk muscle mass and decreased waist circumference more than walking alone. Participants hula hooped an average of 12.8 minutes daily and walked almost 10,000 steps daily. The results showed more benefits to the core with hula hooping. The body fat percentage in the core region decreased significantly with hula hooping compared to walking. (Lahelma M. et al., 2019)
Lowers LDL Cholesterol
In the same study, researchers found that hula hooping can reduce LDL cholesterol more than walking. The results demonstrated an LDL-lowering effect similar to what resistance training does for cholesterol levels. Hula hooping for 13 minutes daily could benefit anyone with elevated cholesterol levels. (Lahelma M. et al., 2019)
Fun Workout
Weighted hula hooping can help individuals get out of a workout rut if they’re bored with a routine. It is recommended as either a warmup or a full workout.
Allows for Multitasking
If time to work out is limited, you can multitask using a hula hoop, easily add it to an exercise routine, and get moving while speaking on the phone, during breaks, or watching TV.
Benefits
Core strength: The exercise requires core strength to keep the hoop spinning.
Balance: Helps improve balance.
Aerobic fitness: Hooping can be used as a primary cardio routine.
Weight loss: Hooping can help burn calories and contribute to weight loss.
Hula Hoop Workout
Stand with a straight spine and feet shoulder-width apart.
Draw your abdomen in to engage your core.
Place the hoop around your waist, just above your hips.
Hold the hoop with both hands and toss it to one side.
Keep your back straight and move forward and back as fast as you can.
Pulse your hips and feet in a rocking motion.
Keep your arms out to the side or above your head.
Be mindful of posture, which will help you hoop better.
Weighted Workout
A full-weighted hula hoop workout. Start with a warmup for 5 minutes with a light jog or running in place. Then, perform three sets of the following:
Minute 1
50 seconds of a hula hoop halo with the right arm – swinging the hoop around your arm
10 seconds of rest
Minute 2
50 seconds of a hula hoop halo with the left arm
10 seconds of rest
Minute 3
50 seconds around the waist, hula hooping
10 seconds of rest
Minute 4
50 seconds of hula hoop squats, keeping the hoop around the legs and not dropping it
10 seconds of rest
Minute 5
50 seconds of hula hoop sit-ups, keeping the hoop around your legs and not dropping it
10 seconds of rest
Minute 6
0 seconds of hula jumping front to back, keeping the hoop around your legs and not dropping it
10 seconds of rest
How long you hula hoop each day is a matter of personal preference. To gain cardiovascular benefits, it is recommended that adults engage in at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity. Spreading out the exercise throughout the week is preferable. (American Heart Association, 2024)
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to build optimal health and wellness solutions. Regarding musculoskeletal pain, specialists like chiropractors, acupuncturists, and massage therapists can help mitigate the pain through spinal adjustments that help the body realign itself. The clinic can also work with other medical professionals to integrate a treatment plan to resolve musculoskeletal problems.
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References
American Council on Exercise. (2011). ACE-sponsored research: Hooping—Effective workout or child’s play? https://www.acefitness.org/certifiednewsarticle/1094/ace-sponsored-research-hooping-effective-workout-or-child-s-play/
Lahelma, M., Sädevirta, S., Lallukka-Brück, S., Sevastianova, K., Mustelin, L., Gylling, H., Rockette-Wagner, B., Kriska, A. M., & Yki-Järvinen, H. (2019). Effects of Weighted Hula-Hooping Compared to Walking on Abdominal Fat, Trunk Muscularity, and Metabolic Parameters in Overweight Subjects: A Randomized Controlled Study. Obesity facts, 12(4), 385–396. https://doi.org/10.1159/000500572
American Heart Association. (2024). American Heart Association Recommendations for Physical Activity in Adults and Kids. https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/fitness-basics/aha-recs-for-physical-activity-in-adults
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