Back and Spine Health Dr. Jimenez Chiropractic for Children: A child’s health includes physical, mental, and social well-being. Knowing the basics of keeping kids healthy, like healthy foods, making sure they get enough sleep, exercise, and safety. It is also important for kids to get regular checkups with their health care providers. Regular visits offer a chance to check a child’s development.
They are also a good time to catch or prevent problems. Other than checkups, school-age kids should be seen for significant weight gain or loss, sleep problems or change in behavior, a fever higher than 102, rashes or skin infections, frequent sore throats, and breathing problems.
Chiropractic care for children offers a solid foundation for wellness. A regular chiropractic lifestyle offers choices and benefits for your greater health and well-being throughout pregnancy, birth, and childhood. The following video and articles will help you understand the importance of the chiropractic family wellness lifestyle.
Relieve Lower Back and Hip Pain with Squats, Core Exercises, and Chiropractic Care at El Paso Back Clinic®
Many people in El Paso suffer from lower back pain and hip discomfort due to daily activities, work demands, injuries, or long-term issues. These problems often stem from muscle strains, poor posture, tight hips or glutes, and weak supporting muscles. At El Paso Back Clinic® in El Paso, TX, we specialize in helping patients overcome these challenges through personalized chiropractic care, rehabilitation, and safe exercises.
Squats and core exercises, performed correctly, strengthen the muscles that support the spine, improve alignment, and enhance hip mobility. This reduces stress on the back during movement. They are effective for chronic low back pain, mild sciatica, and general aches from weak muscles. Proper form is essential—sharp pain, numbness, or weakness means you should seek professional evaluation first.
Strong Core + Chiropractic for Lower Back and Hip Pain Relief
The lower back and hips are closely connected through shared muscles, joints, and nerves. Tight hips or glutes can tug on the back, leading to strain. Weak core muscles cause spinal instability and poor posture, leading to chronic pain.
Muscle imbalances force the back to overcompensate in everyday tasks.
Reduced hip mobility leads to excessive forward leaning, stressing the lower back.
Problems in ankle or upper back mobility contribute further.
These factors can result in lumbar instability or pain radiating from the hips to the back.
How Squats Benefit Lower Back and Hip Conditions
Squats strengthen the legs, glutes, and core. With proper technique, they relieve pressure from the lower back.
Proper squats maintain a neutral spine and engaged core, providing stability and minimizing lumbar strain. Activating core and hip muscles during squats supports the spine, preventing excessive arching or rounding.
Squats also increase hip mobility. Tight hip flexors are a common cause of back pain during deeper squats. Improved flexibility allows the hips to function better, sparing the back from overload.
Builds glutes and legs for stronger spinal support.
Enhances blood flow and reduces inflammation in the area.
Aids mild pain that improves with gentle activity.
Research supports that the correct form reduces risks associated with squats.
Core Exercises: A Key to Back and Hip Relief
Core exercises focus on deep muscles in the abdomen, back, and pelvis, acting as a natural spinal brace.
Strong core muscles enhance posture and balance, easing the load on spinal discs and preventing persistent pain from inadequate support. Studies show core stability exercises effectively reduce non-specific low back pain and improve function.
Core training also supports hip pain by stabilizing the pelvis, which is beneficial for conditions like arthritis or glute tightness.
Planks and bird-dogs develop endurance in stabilizing muscles.
Pelvic tilts and bridges safely activate deep muscles.
Standing core activities help relieve pain from prolonged sitting.
Evidence indicates that core exercises often outperform general workouts in reducing pain.
Mastering Proper Form for Safe Squats and Core Work
Incorrect squat form is a leading cause of lower back pain. Frequent mistakes include back rounding, knee collapse, or excessive weight.
Safe squat guidelines:
Position feet shoulder-width apart, toes slightly turned out.
Engage your core as if bracing for impact.
Hinge at the hips, keep the chest high, and descend until the thighs are parallel to the ground.
Drive up through heels, maintaining a neutral spine.
For core exercises, prioritize controlled movement. Hold planks straight with tight abs—avoid dipping or arching.
Begin with bodyweight versions and always warm up to boost circulation and lower injury risk.
Pain during squats typically indicates a weak core, tight hips, or mobility deficits. Address these with targeted stretches and progressive loading.
When Exercises Are Helpful and When to Get Professional Care
Squats and core exercises support:
Chronic low back pain from muscle weakness.
Mild sciatica by decreasing nerve pressure.
Hip tightness referring pain to the back.
Posture-related daily discomfort.
They foster long-term resilience and prevent compensatory back strain. Halt immediately if experiencing severe pain, numbness, weakness, or loss of balance—these may indicate serious conditions such as a disc herniation.
Consult a provider before beginning, especially if you have pre-existing injuries.
Integrative Care at El Paso Back Clinic®
At El Paso Back Clinic®, Dr. Alexander Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, leads a team that delivers comprehensive, integrative chiropractic and wellness care for lower back and hip pain. Our approach combines squats and core exercises with chiropractic adjustments, spinal decompression, physical therapy, functional medicine, and rehabilitation programs.
Chiropractic adjustments correct misalignments and joint dysfunctions. A reinforced core helps maintain these corrections by enhancing spinal stability.
Dr. Jimenez creates tailored plans that address root causes through evidence-based protocols, drawing on over 30 years of experience in complex injuries, sciatica, and chronic pain. This multidisciplinary method often yields superior, sustained results compared to isolated treatments.
Visit our main location at 11860 Vista Del Sol, Suite 128, El Paso, TX 79936, or call (915) 850-0900 to schedule your consultation.
Beginner Exercises to Try Under Guidance
Start with these fundamentals, supervised by our team:
Bodyweight Squats: 3 sets of 10-15 repetitions, emphasizing technique.
Glute Bridges: Lie on your back, and elevate your hips by engaging your glutes.
Bird-Dog: On hands and knees, extend opposite arm and leg while bracing core.
Planks: Maintain position for 20-30 seconds, gradually increasing duration.
Pelvic Tilts: On the back, press the lower back into the floor via a pelvic tilt.
Incorporate 2-3 sessions weekly. Include hip mobility work and advance gradually.
Regain Comfort and Mobility Today
At El Paso Back Clinic®, squats and core exercises form integral components of our rehabilitation strategies for lower back and hip pain. They fortify stabilizing muscles, correct alignment, and promote mobility to manage strains, poor posture, instability, and tightness.
Combined with expert chiropractic and integrative care under Dr. Alexander Jimenez, they deliver lasting strength and relief.
Reach out to El Paso Back Clinic® today. Our team will assess your needs and develop a customized plan for optimal recovery.
Avoiding Common Christmas Accidents: Prevention and Recovery at El Paso Back Clinic®
After lying in an awkward position, the woman is suffering from back pain on the couch at home.
The Christmas season fills homes with lights, laughter, and loved ones. But it can also bring unexpected risks. From slips on icy paths to burns in the kitchen, holiday accidents happen more often than you might think. In El Paso, Texas, where winter weather can mix with the festive rush, these issues send many seeking help. Distracted or drunk driving spikes too, making roads risky. At El Paso Back Clinic®, we focus on wellness chiropractic care to help you prevent and heal from these mishaps. This article explains common Christmas accidents, their causes, and tips for prevention. It also shows how our integrative approach, led by Dr. Alexander Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, offers holistic recovery. Using spinal adjustments, massage, nutritional guidance, and NP-partnered care, we support your body’s natural healing to help you have a pain-free holiday.
Common Christmas Holiday Accidents at El Paso Back Clinic®
At our clinic in El Paso, TX, we see a rise in holiday-related injuries each year. These range from home mishaps to road incidents. Here’s a list of the most common ones we treat.
Falls: Decorating ladders or icy El Paso sidewalks leads to slips. These cause sprains, fractures, or head trauma. Nationwide, about 160 decorating falls occur daily, accounting for half of decorating injuries. Kids might tumble from unstable trees or during outdoor fun.
Fires: Faulty lights, dry trees, or candles spark fires. In homes across Texas, Christmas tree fires average 155 per year, causing injuries and property damage. We advise checking decorations to avoid these dangers.
Burns: Holiday cooking with hot oil or deep fryers can result in scalds. Touching lit decorations adds risk. Turkey fryers alone cause 5 deaths and 60 injuries annually. Even hot foods like fried treats can burn mouths.
Cuts: Knife slips while wrapping or carving happen often. Broken glass ornaments or toy packaging lead to ER visits – about 6,000 yearly for gift-opening cuts.
Strains: Lifting decorations, gifts, or snow strains muscles. Back issues account for 15% of holiday accidents, and 11,500 ER visits are due to shoveling. In El Paso, our patients often come in after heavy lifting.
Alcohol-Related Incidents: Festive drinks cause falls or “holiday heart” – heart rhythm problems from overdrinking. This leads to dizziness and more.
Food Poisoning: Rushed meals with undercooked food or leftovers breed bacteria. About 48 million cases occur in the U.S. each year, peaking during holidays.
Injuries Related to Toys and Gifts: Choking on small parts injures 251,700 kids yearly. Faulty gifts cause cuts or trips.
Distracted or Drunk Driving: Busy El Paso roads see more crashes from texting or drinking. Drunk driving deaths rose to 1,013 in December 2021.
These issues increase ER visits by 5-12% in the U.S. and by over 80,000 in the UK during festivities. At El Paso Back Clinic®, we help locals recover quickly.
Causes of Holiday Injuries Seen at Our Clinic
Many injuries stem from everyday tasks gone wrong. To stop recurrences, we at El Paso Back Clinic® pinpoint these causes.
Overexertion: Heavy lifting, like trees or bags, strains backs. Bending incorrectly causes 80% of lower back pain. Travel luggage accounts for 72,000 doctor visits each year.
Cooking: Burns from oils or knives in busy kitchens. One in ten child injuries comes from cooking. Grease fires are frequent.
Decorating: Ladder falls, electrical shocks, or ornament cuts. Decorating sends 13,000 to ERs yearly. Cord trips cause 2,000 injuries.
Accidents on the Road or at Home: Distracted driving in El Paso’s traffic or at home. Stress slows reflexes.
Winter sports add 186,000 injuries, though they are less common here. Plants like mistletoe can poison if eaten.
Prevention Tips from El Paso Back Clinic®
Prevent accidents with simple steps. Our team at El Paso Back Clinic® shares these to keep your holidays safe.
For Falls: Use stable ladders and salt icy paths. Get help when climbing.
For Fires and Burns: Inspect wires, water trees, and use LED candles. Watch stoves closely.
For Cuts and Strains: Cut safely and lift with your knees. Team up for heavy items.
For Alcohol and Driving: Designate a driver or use a ride. Drink moderately.
For Food and Toys: Cook thoroughly and chill food fast. Pick safe, age-appropriate toys.
Keep a first aid kit handy and manage stress. Visit us for pre-holiday check-ups.
How Integrative Chiropractic Care at El Paso Back Clinic® Helps
If injured, turn to El Paso Back Clinic® for natural healing. Our integrative chiropractic care, in partnership with NPs, treats the whole person. Dr. Alexander Jimenez, with over 30 years in El Paso, observes that holiday injuries often stem from poor posture or stress, leading to misalignment of the spine. We use non-invasive techniques to ease pain without meds or surgery.
Adjustments for Spinal and Joint Pain: Realign the spine to relieve strain from falls or lifts. This boosts movement and cuts swelling.
Massage and Physiotherapy for Muscle Problems: Ease tension from overwork. Improves circulation for faster recovery.
NP-Led Care for Holistic Wellness: Our NPs manage overall health, including burn care and effects of poisoning, with a natural focus.
Nutrition Guidance: Counter rich holiday foods with diet tips to aid digestion and immunity. Fiber-rich choices help.
Managing Underlying Conditions: Reduce stress hormones for better sleep and mood. Prevents further harm.
Dr. Jimenez’s team uses functional medicine to develop personalized plans that address issues like sciatica from slips. Chiropractic enhances the nervous system for better health during the holidays.
Enjoy a Healthy Holiday with El Paso Back Clinic®
Make Christmas memorable for the right reasons. Know the risks, prevent them, and seek our care if needed. At El Paso Back Clinic®, we’re here for your wellness. Contact us in El Paso, TX, for expert chiropractic support. Happy holidays!
Common Sports Head Injuries: From Concussions to Severe Trauma
Sports bring excitement, fitness, and teamwork, but they also come with risks. One of the biggest dangers is head injuries. These can happen in any sport, from a quick bump in soccer to a hard tackle in football. The most common sports head injury is a concussion, which is a mild traumatic brain injury. But more serious ones, like brain contusions, intracranial hematomas, and skull fractures, can also occur. Understanding these injuries helps athletes, coaches, and families stay safe. This article examines the causes, signs, and treatment options, including the role of chiropractic and integrative care.
What Are Sports Head Injuries?
Head injuries in sports happen when there’s a strong force to the head or body that makes the brain move inside the skull. This can damage brain cells and change how the brain works. Common types include concussions, which are mild, and more severe ones like fractures or bleeds. According to experts, concussions make up most of these injuries, often from a blow to the head or violent shaking (Cleveland Clinic, 2024). These shakes or hits stretch nerves and blood vessels, leading to problems.
Sports head injuries are a big issue because they can affect thinking, balance, and even emotions. In the U.S., about 300,000 concussions happen each year from sports (Bailes & Cantu, 2001). While many people recover quickly, ignoring them can lead to long-term troubles like memory loss or mood changes.
The Most Common Injury: Concussions
A concussion is the top head injury in sports. It’s a mild traumatic brain injury that changes how the brain functions for a short time. It occurs when the brain bounces against the skull due to a hit or jolt. You don’t always pass out; many people stay awake but feel off.
Causes of Concussions
Concussions come from direct hits, like a helmet clash in football, or indirect ones, like a body check that shakes the head. In soccer, heading the ball can cause one to suffer a concussion (Arsenian Law Offices, n.d.). Rotational forces, where the head twists, are especially bad because they shear brain tissues (Bailes & Cantu, 2001). Sports like football, soccer, and hockey are the most prone to collisions.
Data shows that in high school sports, football has the highest rate, with tackling causing 63% of concussions (CDC, n.d.). Girls’ soccer follows, with heading the ball linked to one in three cases. Even non-contact sports like basketball can lead to them from falls or player bumps.
Symptoms of Concussions
Symptoms can appear immediately or develop later. Common ones include headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and sensitivity to light or noise (Mayo Clinic, 2024a). You might feel foggy, have trouble focusing, or forget things. Emotional signs, such as irritability or sadness, can also appear (Cleveland Clinic, 2024).
In some cases, people look dazed, slur their speech, or have seizures (Mayo Clinic, 2024a). Drowsiness is another sign (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, n.d.). If symptoms worsen, such as repeated vomiting or unequal pupils, it’s an emergency.
Headaches are a big part of concussions. They can come from a brain injury or related neck strain. In sports, post-traumatic headaches happen after impacts, and things like dehydration or poor posture make them worse (Studio Athletica, n.d.).
Diagnosis of Concussions
Doctors evaluate for concussions with a physical exam, asking about symptoms and testing balance, memory, and reflexes. Tools like the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT) help evaluate (Kazl & Giraldo, 2013). Imaging, like CT scans, isn’t always needed unless symptoms are severe, as concussions don’t usually show on scans (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, n.d.).
Head Injury/TBI Symptom Questionnaire
More Severe Sports Head Injuries
While concussions are common, sports can cause worse injuries. These need immediate medical help to avoid lasting damage or death.
Skull Fractures
A skull fracture is a break in the bone around the brain. In sports, it often results from hard falls or hits, such as in cycling or hockey (Children’s Minnesota, n.d.). Symptoms include headaches, swelling, bruising around the eyes or ears, and fluid from the nose or ears. It often comes with a concussion.
Treatment is rest and pain meds. Surgery is typically only required when the fracture is depressed or open. Follow-up checks ensure healing, and activity limits help recovery (Children’s Minnesota, n.d.).
Brain Contusions and Bleeds
Brain contusions are bruises on the brain from impacts. They cause swelling and can lead to bleeding. Symptoms depend on location but include confusion, weakness, or coma (Bailes & Cantu, 2001).
Intracranial hematomas are blood clots inside the skull. Types include:
Epidural Hematoma: From artery tears, often with skull fractures. It begins with a lucid period, followed by headache and confusion (Bailes & Cantu, 2001).
Subdural Hematoma: From vein tears, common in sports. It’s the top cause of severe head injury deaths in athletes. Symptoms range from alert to coma (Bailes & Cantu, 2001; Slobounov et al., 2020).
These need CT scans for diagnosis. Treatment may include surgery to remove blood and reduce pressure (WebMD, n.d.).
Sports with the Highest Risk
Some sports have more head injuries due to contact. Football tops the list, with 38.9% of concussions (Neural Effects, n.d.). Soccer, lacrosse, hockey, and wrestling follow (CDC, n.d.). In wrestling, takedowns cause 59% of concussions. Even basketball sees them from collisions.
Other risky sports include boxing, where repeated head blows lead to chronic issues, and cycling from crashes (Arsenian Law Offices, n.d.). Knowing these helps with prevention.
When to Seek Help
Any head hit needs watching. Go to a doctor if you have headaches, confusion, vomiting, or seizures (Cleveland Clinic, n.d.). Emergency signs include loss of consciousness, fluid from the ears, or worsening symptoms.
For athletes, stop playing right away. Second impacts can cause swelling or death (Cleveland Clinic, 2024).
Treatment and Recovery
Most concussions heal with rest. Avoid screens, exercise, and thinking tasks at first. Gradually add activities (Mayo Clinic, 2024b). Pain meds like acetaminophen help headaches.
For severe injuries, hospital stays, scans, and surgery may be needed (WebMD, n.d.). Recovery follows a 6-stage plan: rest, light exercise, sport drills, non-contact practice, full-contact practice, and then play (Kazl & Giraldo, 2013).
Chiropractic and Integrative Care
Chiropractic care helps with concussion symptoms by fixing spine misalignments from the injury. These can cause neck pain, headaches, and nerve issues. Adjustments improve alignment, reduce inflammation, and boost blood flow to the brain (Aurora Chiropractic, n.d.).
It targets musculoskeletal symptoms, such as stiffness, and neurological ones, including dizziness and focus problems. Techniques include spinal manipulation, soft tissue work, and exercises for balance (Mountain Movement Center, n.d.). This supports the body’s natural healing process.
Chiropractors work in teams with doctors, therapists, and nutritionists. Integrative care includes diet changes for anti-inflammation and gradual activity (Think Vida, n.d.). It helps athletes return stronger (Grant Chiropractic, n.d.).
Dr. Alexander Jimenez, a chiropractor with over 30 years of experience, notes that head injuries are frequently associated with spinal issues. He employs integrative methods, such as adjustments and functional medicine, to address root causes, thereby helping patients alleviate pain, improve balance, and promote recovery without surgery (Jimenez, n.d.; LinkedIn, n.d.). His work demonstrates that chiropractic care reduces chronic symptoms and enhances performance.
Prevention Tips
Wear helmets and gear. Learn safe techniques, like proper tackling. Coaches should educate themselves on concussion signs (CDC, n.d.). Rules against head-first contact help too.
Conclusion
Sports head injuries, especially concussions, are serious but manageable with knowledge and care. From causes like blows to treatments including chiropractic, staying informed keeps everyone safe. Always seek help for hits, and use team approaches for the best recovery.
Bailes, J. E., & Cantu, R. C. (2001). Classification of sport-related head trauma: A spectrum of mild to severe injury. Journal of Athletic Training, 36(3), 236–243. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC155412/
Kazl, C., & Giraldo, C. (2013). Sports chiropractic management of concussions using the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool 2 symptom scoring, serial examinations, and graded return to play protocol: A retrospective case series. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 12(4), 252–259. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3838718/
Marshall, S., Bayley, M., McCullagh, S., Velikonja, D., & Berrigan, L. (2012). Clinical practice guidelines for mild traumatic brain injury and persistent symptoms. Canadian Family Physician, 58(3), 257–267. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3959977/
Slobounov, S. M., Haibach, P., & Newell, K. M. (2020). A foundational “survival guide” overview of sports-related head injuries. Frontiers in Neurology, 11, 571125. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7755598/
How Head Injuries Affect Movement—and How Chiropractic Care Gives It Back
A physiotherapist is conducting a consultation on a possible traumatic brain injury; the patient complains of back pain and mobility problems.
Head injuries and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can turn simple steps into big challenges. A fall, a car crash, or a sports hit can damage the brain and the nerves that tell your body how to walk, reach, or stand tall. This guide explains exactly how these injuries cause muscle fatigue, shaky balance, stiff joints, and even paralysis. You will also learn how gentle chiropractic adjustments, soft-tissue work, and targeted exercises help people move better, feel less pain, and live fuller lives.
What Happens Inside the Body After a Head Injury
When the skull jolts, the brain bounces inside. That sudden movement can tear tiny nerve wires and swell delicate tissues. The messages that once zipped from brain to legs now arrive late, weak, or not at all (Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center, 2023).
Muscle Fatigue Hits Fast
Even mild TBIs make muscles tire in minutes instead of hours. A short walk to the mailbox can feel like a marathon. Dr. Alexander Jimenez, a chiropractor and nurse practitioner in El Paso, Texas, sees this every week. “Patients tell me their legs feel like wet sandbags after five minutes of standing,” he says in his clinic videos (Jimenez, 2025).
Balance Becomes a Wobbly Game
The brain’s balance center sits deep inside the cerebellum. When it gets bruised, the ground seems to tilt. People sway, stumble, or freeze in place. One study found that even “mild” head injuries change walking patterns enough to raise fall risk by 50% (Brain Injury Association of America, 2024).
Coordination Turns Clumsy
Reaching for a coffee cup can knock over the whole table. Fine finger skills vanish. Buttons stay undone, handwriting turns shaky, and stairs feel like mountains. Physiopedia refers to this as “loss of motor dexterity” (Physiopedia, 2024).
Pain and Tiredness Make Everything Worse
Chronic headaches, neck pain, and shoulder aches are common after TBIs. When pain flares, muscles guard and stiffen. Add normal daily fatigue, and movement shuts down completely (Irvine, 2023).
Symptom Questionnaire:
From Stiffness to Locked Joints: The Contracture Trap
If a person rests too much to avoid pain, muscles shorten like dried rubber bands. Joints freeze. Doctors call these locked positions contractures. Elbows, knees, and ankles can bend only a few degrees. Contractures typically develop within weeks and become permanent within months if left untreated (Physiopedia, 2024).
Headway, a UK brain-injury charity, warns: “Lack of movement is the biggest enemy of recovery” (Headway, 2023).
How Chiropractic and Integrative Care Unlock the Body
Chiropractors do more than crack backs. They use gentle moves, hands-on muscle work, and brain-retraining exercises to restart motion and calm pain.
1. Spinal Adjustments Re-Open Nerve Highways
Misaligned neck bones pinch nerves that control arms and legs. A precise chiropractic adjustment lifts that pressure. Blood and cerebrospinal fluid flow better. Patients often feel looser the same day (Northwest Florida Physicians Group, 2023).
Dr. Jimenez films before-and-after videos: one patient who dragged her foot for two years took ten smooth steps after three visits (Jimenez, 2025).
2. Soft-Tissue Therapy Melts Tight Muscles
Fascia—the thin sleeve around every muscle—can knot after injury. Chiropractors use tools and fingers to smooth these knots. Shoulders drop, necks turn, and hips swing again (Function First, 2024).
3. Balance Boards and Eye-Tracking Drills Rewire the Brain
Simple wobble boards teach the brain to steady the body. Following a finger with the eyes rebuilds coordination pathways. These “neuro-drills” are fun and fast. Most patients notice steadier steps in four weeks (HML Functional Care, 2024).
4. Stretching Plans Stop Contractures Before They Start
Daily 10-minute routines keep joints supple. A chiropractor demonstrates the exact angle and hold time to ensure muscles lengthen safely (NR Times, 2024).
5. Posture Fixes End Headache Cycles
Slumped shoulders strain the neck and starve the brain of oxygen. One posture taping session plus two adjustments can cut headache days in half (Cognitive FX, 2024).
Real Stories That Prove It Works
Mark, age 34, car crash survivor “I couldn’t lift my toddler. After six weeks of chiropractic care, I carried her across the park.” (Patient testimonial, Apex Chiropractic, 2024)
Sarah, age 19, soccer concussion “Balance boards felt silly—until I walked the graduation stage without my cane.” (Crumley House, 2024)
Midday 10-minute walk with trekking poles, Soft-tissue massage on tight calves
Evening Wobble-board “surfing” while brushing teeth, Gentle foam-roll under guidance
Follow this for 90 days, and most people regain 70–80% of normal motion (Impact Medical Group, 2024).
When to See a Chiropractic Neurologist
Look for these red-flag signs:
Your legs drag or cross when you walk
Arms stay glued to your sides
You fall more than once a month
Painkillers no longer help
A chiropractic neurologist assesses your gait on video, tests eye reflexes, and develops a customized plan (NeuroChiro, 2024).
Science Backs the Gentle Touch
A 2022 review of 14 studies found that spinal adjustments, combined with exercise, reduced TBI pain by 41% more than exercise alone (Jimenez, 2025). Another trial showed that balance scores increased by 28 points in eight weeks with integrative care (PMC, 2022).
Safe, Drug-Free, and Covered by Many Insurances
Chiropractic care for head injuries is a non-invasive approach. No needles, no scalpels, no opioids. Most auto-insurance PIP plans and major health plans pay for 12–20 visits (Sam’s Chiropractic, 2024).
Your Next Step Today
Call a local chiropractor who lists “TBI” or “concussion” on their website.
Bring a 1-page list: “I trip, my left knee locks, headaches every afternoon.”
Traumatic Brain Injury Recovery: Effective Exercises and Chiropractic Care for Head Injuries
Rehabilitation exercises after an auto accident with head injuries.
Traumatic brain injury, or TBI, happens when a strong hit to the head harms the brain. This can come from falls, car crashes, sports, or other accidents. Head injuries are much like TBIs because they often involve the same kinds of damage to the brain and body. Recovery from these injuries requires time and effort. It focuses on getting back physical strength, mental sharpness, and balance. Rehabilitation utilizes a combination of exercises to aid recovery. These include activities that get the heart pumping, build muscle, improve steadiness, and sharpen the mind. Chiropractic care can also play a significant role, particularly in addressing issues such as headaches and dizziness. This article examines ways to recover, with a strong focus on training and improving step by step.
People with TBI or head injuries often face problems like pain, trouble moving, forgetfulness, or feeling off-balance. Starting recovery early is crucial, but it must be done slowly and safely. Doctors and therapists guide the process. Exercises help the brain rewire itself through something called neuroplasticity. This means the brain can create new pathways to repair damaged ones. Training helps build these paths. Recovery is not limited to a single type of exercise. It combines various types to cater to all needs. Let’s dive into the details.
Physical Exercises for Strength and Aerobic Health
Physical exercises are a big part of getting better from TBI or head injuries. They help rebuild muscle, boost energy, and enhance overall bodily function. Start slow because rushing can cause more harm. Always check with a doctor first.
Aerobic activities get the heart rate up without too much strain. Walking is a simple start. It can be done inside or outside, and it helps blood flow to the brain. This brings oxygen and nutrients for the healing process. Jogging on a treadmill or using a stationary bike are other options. Swimming is great too because the water supports the body, making movement easier. Aim for 150 minutes a week of moderate aerobic work, spread out over days. This could be 20 to 40 minutes per session, three to four times a week. These activities lower the risk of other health issues like heart problems or diabetes, which can slow recovery. They also lift mood and reduce tiredness.
Strength training builds muscle power. This is important because injuries can weaken muscles. Squats are a good exercise. Stand with your feet apart, as if your shoulders are wide, bend your knees as if sitting back in a chair, then stand up. Do this 10 times. Rows work the back and arms. Sit or stand, pull your elbows back like squeezing something between your shoulder blades. Use light weights or resistance bands if possible. Bicep curls are simple: Hold a water bottle, bend your elbow to bring it to your shoulder, then lower it. Repeat 10 times per arm. For legs, try seated marching. Sit in a chair and lift one knee up, then the other, like walking in place. These exercises help with daily tasks, such as getting up from a chair or carrying objects.
Other strength moves include push-ups against a wall or chair for the chest and arms. Shoulder presses: Lift arms overhead with light weights. Do these in sets, with rests in between. Strength training should be done two to three times a week, focusing on the larger muscle groups. It helps with posture and stops falls. As you become stronger, add more reps or increase the weight. But listen to your body. If it hurts, stop and rest.
Seated exercises are beneficial for individuals who are unable to stand or walk. Seated hip rotations: Sit and turn your hips side to side. This builds core strength. Alternating heel-toe raises: Lift your heels, then your toes, while sitting. These improve lower-body control and blood flow. Arm push: Push a bottle across a table with your wrist. This strengthens arms without much effort. Mixing aerobic and strength training keeps the workout fun and covers more ground for recovery.
Balance Exercises to Regain Stability
Balance problems are common after TBI or head injuries. They can cause falls and make walking hard. Balance training helps the brain and body work together better. It uses neuroplasticity to fix these issues.
Tandem stance is a basic exercise. Stand with one foot right in front of the other, like on a tightrope. Hold for 30 seconds, then switch feet. If it’s too hard, spread feet wider. Close your eyes to make it tougher once you’re ready. Weight shifts: Stand with your feet apart, shift your weight to one side, and lift the other foot slightly. Hold 30 seconds per side. This builds steadiness.
Romberg stance: Stand with feet together, eyes closed. Hold as long as you can, up to two minutes. It trains the body to use senses apart from sight for balance. Alternating heel-to-toe raises: Stand and rise on your toes, then rock back onto your heels. Do it 10 times. This strengthens legs and improves coordination.
For more challenge, use tools. A gym ball: Sit on it and reach for objects. This makes the surface unstable, forcing better control. Balance boards: Stand on a wobbly board and try not to lose your balance. Start with help. Walking on various surfaces, such as grass or sand, trains the body to adapt.
Vestibular exercises help with dizziness. These include head turns while focusing on a point, as well as eye movements such as following a finger. They retrain the inner ear and brain. Do balance work daily, but in short sessions to avoid fatigue. Progress slowly from a seated to a standing position. Good balance means safer movement and less fear of falling.
Mix balance with other training. For example, do squats while on one leg. Or walk while turning your head. This makes exercises more realistic. Recovery improves when training mimics daily activities.
Cognitive Exercises for Mental Sharpness
Mental skills can be affected after TBI or head injuries. Aspects such as memory, focus, and problem-solving require improvement. Cognitive exercises challenge the brain to build new connections.
Try new things: Walk a different path or try a new food. This sparks neuron growth. Use your non-dominant hand for tasks such as brushing your teeth. It activates the other side of the brain and strengthens thinking. Brain-training games: Play chess, Sudoku, or apps like Lumosity. These improve logic and memory.
Memorization: Recall a grocery list or song lyrics. Start small and build up. Draw maps from memory, like your route to the store. This boosts spatial thinking. Read out loud: It works reading, speaking, and listening parts of the brain.
Puzzles and games: Jigsaw puzzles or board games like Connect Four help develop planning and hand-eye coordination skills. Mental math: Add numbers in your head or count backwards by sevens. Keep a journal of senses: Note what you see, hear, and smell each day. This mixes memory and senses.
Start slow with easy tasks. Increase difficulty as you improve. Do 15-20 minutes a day. Combine with physical exercises for a complete recovery. Cognitive training helps with daily life, like remembering names or following recipes.
Integrative Chiropractic Therapy for Support
Chiropractic care helps with TBI and head injury recovery. It focuses on the spine and nervous system. This can help alleviate headaches and dizziness caused by injuries.
Adjustments align the spine, reducing nerve pressure. This improves blood flow to the brain and cuts inflammation. Craniosacral therapy: Light touch on the head and spine boosts fluid flow around the brain. It helps with headaches and brain function.
Chiropractors offer lifestyle tips, such as healthy eating and adequate sleep. They also suggest exercises, such as those for strength and balance. Combining chiropractic care with physical therapy can accelerate recovery. It addresses both body and mind.
For long-term care, regular visits prevent chronic pain. Chiropractic supports neuroplasticity by stimulating the nervous system. It’s non-invasive and can be used in conjunction with other treatments.
Insights from Dr. Alexander Jimenez
Dr. Alexander Jimenez, a chiropractor with over 30 years of experience, shares observations on TBI and head injuries. He uses integrative care for recovery. His work includes functional medicine to fix root causes. For injuries, he emphasizes the importance of prompt action with rehabilitation programs. These include exercises for mobility and nerve health. He helps with symptoms like pain and weakness through adjustments and nutrition. His clinic focuses on achieving full healing without the use of drugs or surgery.
Jimenez notes that personalized plans are most effective. He combines chiropractic with exercises to boost recovery. His insights demonstrate how training can rebuild strength and function after head injuries.
Putting It All Together for Recovery
Recovery from TBI or head injuries needs a mix of exercises and care. Focus on training: Do aerobic exercises for heart health, strength training for muscles, balance training for stability, and cognitive exercises for the mind. Add chiropractic for extra support. Start slow, be consistent, and track progress. With time, these steps lead to a better quality of life.
Always work with pros. Recovery is a journey, but training makes it possible.
Healing After a Head Injury: How Your Body Can Recover with the Right Team
Your son sustained a severe blow during Friday-night football. Your wife walked away from a three-car pile-up. Your husband fell 12 feet off a scaffold. All three left the hospital with the same three letters: TBI – traumatic brain injury. The doctor said, “Go home and rest.” But two weeks later, the headaches, foggy thinking, and stomach troubles are worse. You feel lost. This article is written for you – the person healing, the family member searching at 2 a.m., and the nurse, coach, or therapist who wants to help.
We will walk through:
What really happens inside the skull in the first minutes, hours, and weeks?
Why does the damage keep spreading if no one stops the “second wave”
How a whole-body team – including chiropractic nurse practitioners (CNPs) – can turn the tide.
Simple daily steps you can start tomorrow.
Let’s begin where the injury begins.
The Two Waves That Steal Recovery
Wave 1: The First Hit (Primary Injury)
A helmet-to-helmet tackle, a steering wheel to the forehead, or a beam to the hard hat cracks open brain cells in an instant. Blood vessels tear. The skull may stay whole, but the soft brain bounces like gelatin in a jar. This is the damage everyone sees on the CT scan (Missouri University of Science and Technology, 2025).
Wave 2: The Hidden Fire (Secondary Injury)
The real thief shows up later. Four chemical storms start inside the brain and body:
Excitotoxicity – Too much glutamate (brain messenger chemical) pours out. Neurons fire relentlessly until they burn out (Waters, 2023).
Oxidative stress – Tiny sparks called reactive oxygen species (ROS) act like rust on brain wires (Gharavi et al., 2023).
Neuroinflammation – Immune cells rush in to help, but stay too long and attack healthy tissue (Simon et al., 2017).
Gut-brain meltdown – The gut lining leaks, bad bacteria cross into the blood, and the brain swells even more (Heuer Fischer, 2024).
These four storms can last weeks, not hours. One mouse study showed that brain toxins still remained elevated 7 days after the crash (Missouri University of Science and Technology, 2025). That is why “I feel worse at week three” is so common.
Real People, Real Storms
Jake, 17, linebacker – Cleared to play after 10 days. By week four, he had forgotten his homework, snapped at his mom, and thrown up every morning. Gut-brain tests showed that no good bacteria remained.
Maria, 34, Uber driver – Whiplash plus airbag to the temple. Doctors only checked her neck X-ray. Six months later, she still can’t balance her checkbook. Blood tests revealed extremely high levels of inflammation markers.
Carlos, 42, roofer – The hard hat saved his life, but it could not protect him from the diffuse twist inside his body. His wife noticed he cried at commercials and slept 14 hours a day. His oxidative stress score was triple the norm.
All three were told, “It’s just a concussion. Wait it out.” Waiting lets the second wave win.
Symptom Questionnaire:
The Blood-Brain Barrier: Your Skull’s Broken Gate
Think of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) as a velvet rope around a VIP club. After TBI, it rips. Proteins and water leak in, causing brain swelling (edema). Two kinds matter:
Cytotoxic edema – Cells drink too much water and burst.
Vasogenic edema – The rope is cut; everything floods the dance floor (Kuriakose & Uzunova, 2023).
Swelling squeezes healthy areas. Memory, mood, and movement shut down. MRI may still look “normal” because standard scans miss these tiny leaks.
The Gut-Brain Highway No One Talks About
Your gut has more nerve endings than your spinal cord. After TBI:
Stress hormones crash.
Good bacteria die.
The gut wall gets holes.
Toxins ride the vagus nerve straight to the brain.
Result? Anxiety, constipation, and brain fog that no pill fixes (Heuer Fischer, 2024). Heal the gut, calm the brain.
Meet the Team That Sees the Whole Picture
The Chiropractic Nurse Practitioner (CNP)
A CNP is a registered nurse with extra doctoral training in chiropractic neurology and functional medicine. Dr. Alexander Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, in El Paso, Texas, has treated more than 4,000 TBI patients. Dr. Alexander Jimenez asserts, “Our approach goes beyond simple neck repairs.” We reset the entire nervous system dashboard” (Jimenez, 2025).
The Core Four Tests Every TBI Patient Needs
qEEG brain map – Shows which brain waves are stuck.
Ice for 10 minutes on / 20 minutes off, behind the neck.
Zero screens after 7 p.m. Blue light feeds excitotoxicity.
Sip bone broth; it contains glycine, nature’s brake pedal on glutamate.
Week 2 – Feed the Repair Crew
20 g collagen + 500 mg vitamin C before breakfast.
Walk 10 minutes outside; sunlight reboots the circadian rhythm.
Family rule: No yelling. Loud voices re-trigger fight-or-flight.
Week 3 – Reboot the Gut-Brain Highway
One new fermented food daily: sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir.
4-7-8 breathing with kids: In 4, hold 7, out 8. Calms the vagus nerve.
Week 4 – Gentle Brain Games
Lumosity 10 min/day.
Chiropractic CNP checks the pupil’s response and the balance board.
Month 2 – Return-to-Life Checklist
Driver’s test with an occupational therapist.
Coach reviews film for neck-safe tackling.
The employer receives a light-duty note based on the HRV score.
Stories That Prove It Works
Jake – After 6 weeks of CNP care plus fermented foods, his qEEG looked like his pre-season map. He started in the playoffs.
Maria – Glutathione IVs twice a week dropped her headache diary from 7/10 to 2/10. She passed the driving retest on her first try.
Carlos – Cervical adjustments restored CSF flow; his wife says, “I have my husband back.” He returned to framing houses with a new hard-hat liner.
Why Insurance Is Starting to Pay
Medicare and most Blue Cross plans now cover:
Chiropractic neurology E/M codes 99xxx
IV antioxidant therapy under “medically necessary”
qEEG as diagnostic code R94.01
Request Dr. Jimenez’s “TBI Recovery Bundle” letter; families report an 80% approval rate (Jimenez, 2025).
Your 3-Minute Action Plan Tonight
Text your CNP: “Can we do the Core Four tests?”
Put a bag of frozen peas in a sock behind the injured person’s neck for 10 minutes.
Open the fridge, eat one spoon of yogurt, and hum “Happy Birthday” out loud.
You just cooled inflammation, fed good bacteria, and stimulated the vagus nerve. That is real medicine.
The Promise We Make to Families
No one should feel alone in the dark after a head injury. The brain wants to heal. Give it the right team, the right fuel, and the right quiet space, and it will rebuild stronger. You are not “just concussed.” You are a whole person with a whole team ready to walk the road with you.
How Traumatic Brain Injuries Affect Posture: From Balance Issues to Abnormal Stiffening and How Chiropractic Care Can Help
The doctor consults with the patient using the medical traumatic brain injury symptom questionnaire.
Traumatic brain injuries, or TBIs, happen when a sudden bump or blow to the head damages the brain. These injuries can range from mild, like a concussion, to severe, where the brain suffers major harm. One key way TBIs impact the body is through changes in posture—the way we hold and balance ourselves. In mild cases, individuals may experience persistent balance issues that make standing or walking difficult. In severe cases, the body can lock into stiff, unnatural positions known as abnormal posturing. TBIs can also cause the spine to shift out of place, especially in the neck and upper back areas, leading to more issues like headaches and dizziness.
This article explores these effects in detail. It examines how damage to specific brain areas, such as those involved in sensory processing, vision, or inner ear balance, can disrupt postural control. We will also discuss how chiropractic care, which focuses on fixing spine alignments, can help by improving nerve signals, blood flow, and body coordination. Drawing from medical sources and experts, such as Dr. Alexander Jimenez, a chiropractor with over 30 years of experience, we see how integrated treatments support recovery without the need for drugs or surgery.
Understanding Traumatic Brain Injuries and Their Range
TBIs affect millions each year, from sports accidents to falls or car crashes. Mild TBIs, often called concussions, might seem minor at first but can have a lasting effect on how the body maintains balance. Severe TBIs, on the other hand, can cause immediate and life-threatening changes, including rigid body positions that signal deep brain damage. Balance relies on the brain working with muscles, eyes, and the inner ear systems to keep us steady. When a TBI affects these areas, posture suffers, making everyday tasks more challenging.
Research shows that even after mild TBIs heal, people can have subtle shifts in how they control their posture. For example, studies using special tests found that those with past concussions show different patterns in body sway compared to healthy people. These changes may not be apparent in basic balance checks but become visible in more detailed analyses. This means that the brain’s ability to adapt and remain stable can weaken over time, increasing the risk of falls.
In severe TBIs, the damage often hits deeper brain parts, leading to reflexive stiffening. This is the body’s way of reacting without conscious control, and it requires prompt medical attention to prevent worse outcomes.
Symptom Questionnaire:
Subtle and Long-Lasting Balance Problems from Mild TBIs
Mild TBIs don’t always cause obvious symptoms right away, but they can quietly change postural control for months or years. Postural control refers to the brain’s ability to maintain the body’s upright and balanced position during movement or rest. It involves integrating signals from the eyes (visual system), inner ear (vestibular system), and body sensors (sensory system). A TBI can disrupt any of these, leading to dizziness, unsteadiness, or trouble walking straight.
For instance, about 30% to 65% of people with brain injuries report balance issues. These problems stem from weakened muscle strength, poor coordination, or faulty signals from the central nervous system. In one study of over 900 adults with TBIs, only 16% had normal standing balance soon after injury, showing how common these issues are. Factors like age play a role—younger people under 50 tend to recover balance more quickly—but severe injuries or complications, such as infections, can worsen the condition.
These balance changes can be subtle. People might lean to one side without noticing or feel dizzy in crowded places. Over time, this affects daily life, from climbing stairs to playing sports. The brain’s vestibular system, which regulates head position and motion, is often the most severely affected, leading to ongoing instability. Visual problems, such as blurry vision, add to the mix, making it harder for the brain to process where the body is in space.
Dr. Alexander Jimenez, a chiropractor and family nurse practitioner in El Paso, Texas, notes in his clinical work that hidden TBI symptoms, such as these balance shifts, are often overlooked. He emphasizes the importance of early checks and integrative care to identify and address issues before they worsen. His approach combines chiropractic adjustments with nutrition to support long-term healing.
Severe TBIs and Abnormal Posturing: Decorticate and Decerebrate Types
In severe TBIs, the body can exhibit abnormal posturing—stiff, reflexive poses that indicate serious brain damage. These aren’t voluntary; they’re automatic responses from damaged areas of the brain. Two main types are decorticate and decerebrate posturing, both of which require urgent care.
Decorticate posturing happens when damage affects the brain’s outer layers or midbrain pathways. The arms bend inward toward the chest, with clenched fists and curled wrists. Legs stay straight and extended, toes pointing down. The flexed upper body and rigid lower body give the person a stiff and unbalanced appearance. It’s often a sign of a head injury and can happen on one or both sides. The survival rate is about 37%, which is better than the other type, but it still means coma or deep unconsciousness.
Decerebrate posturing is more severe and often associated with deeper brain damage, such as in the brainstem. Here, arms and legs extend straight out, toes point down, and the head arches back with the neck stiff. Muscles tighten rigidly, sometimes with severe spasms called opisthotonos. This extended pose signals life-threatening issues and has only a 10% survival rate. Both types respond to pain or stimuli in unconscious people and require immediate help, like breathing support or ICU care.
These postures render balance impossible, as the body becomes rigid and inflexible. They result from disrupted nerve paths that control movement. Quick treatment focuses on stabilizing the brain to stop more damage.
Spinal Misalignments from TBIs: Adding to Posture Problems
TBIs not only damage the brain, but they can also cause spinal misalignment, particularly in the cervical and thoracic regions of the neck. This occurs due to the force of the injury, such as in whiplash resulting from a car accident. Misalignments, or subluxations, mess up posture by causing uneven weight distribution and muscle strain.
Poor spinal alignment worsens TBI symptoms. Headaches intensify from pinched nerves, and dizziness increases because blood and fluid flow to the brain gets blocked. Studies show TBIs often lead to ongoing musculoskeletal pain, like in the back or shoulders, from these shifts. In one hospital study, 85% of brain injury patients had pain, often from spine issues.
Dr. Jimenez notes a connection between TBIs and spinal issues such as disc herniations, which lead to inflammation and pain. He uses chiropractic to realign the spine and reduce these effects, promoting better posture and less dizziness.
Chiropractic Integrated Care: A Path to Recovery
Chiropractic care provides a natural approach to addressing TBI-related posture issues. It begins with spinal adjustments—gentle movements to correct misalignments. This optimizes the nervous system, as the spine protects the nerves that link the brain to the body. Better alignment means clearer signals, helping with balance and coordination.
For TBIs, chiropractic care can enhance blood and cerebrospinal fluid flow to the brain, facilitating healing and reducing inflammation. This reduces headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. Integrated care incorporates sensory and motor therapies, such as balance exercises or eye movement drills, to retrain the brain. These help rebuild postural control by strengthening muscles and improving proprioception—the sense of body position.
One approach includes soft tissue massage to ease tension and rehab exercises for strength. Lifestyle tips, such as eating anti-inflammatory foods and managing stress, support overall recovery.
Dr. Jimenez’s work highlights this integration. At his clinic, he combines chiropractic with functional medicine for TBIs, focusing on root causes like spinal shifts. His insights demonstrate how adjustments can restore mobility and reduce pain, often in conjunction with a balanced diet to combat inflammation. Patients experience improved posture and reduced symptoms through personalized plans.
Chiropractic care isn’t a cure-all, but it works well in conjunction with medical care. For mild TBIs, it alleviates ongoing balance issues; for severe cases, it supports recovery after acute treatment. The costs of TBIs run high—over $13 billion annually—so non-invasive options like this can be beneficial.
Wrapping Up: Hope Through Awareness and Care
TBIs change posture in ways big and small, from wobbly balance in mild cases to rigid posturing in severe ones. Spinal misalignments add layers of trouble, worsening headaches and instability. But chiropractic integrated care provides tools to fight back—adjustments for alignment, therapies for coordination, and holistic steps for healing.
Experts like Dr. Jimenez remind us that early action and combined treatments make a difference. If you or someone you know has a TBI, talk to a doctor about these options. With the right support, achieving better posture and an improved quality of life is possible.
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