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Athletes

Sports Spine Specialist Chiropractic Team: Athletes strive to achieve their body’s maximum performance by participating in numerous training regimens consisting of strenuous exercises and physical activity and ensuring they meet all of their body’s nutritional requirements. Through proper fitness and nutrition, many individuals can condition themselves to excel in their specific sport. Our training programs are designed for athletes that look to gain a competitive edge in their sport.

We provide sport-specific services to help increase an athlete’s performance through mobility, strength, and endurance. Occasionally, however, the excess workouts can lead many to suffer injuries or develop underlying conditions. Dr. Alex Jimenez’s chronicle of articles for athletes displays in detail the many forms of complications affecting these professionals while focusing on the possible solutions and treatments to follow to achieve overall well-being.


How To Choose Running Shoes For IT Band Syndrome

How To Choose Running Shoes For IT Band Syndrome

El Paso, TX. Chiropractor, Dr. Jimenez takes a look at top running shoes that are great for knee pain and Iliotibial (IT) Band Syndrome.

Running Shoes: Knee pain is one of the common problems with most active people. It could get worse for those who love running, especially the athletes. A majority of them suffer from knee pains each year. This pain hinders you from enjoying your daily sports activities and might even become worse with time if not treated correctly. There are causes and cures for such pains that this article is going to look at, but the main focus is on the best shoes for knee pain, also referred to as Iliotibial (IT) Band Syndrome.

This can happen due to various causes like overtraining, running many hills, and wrong running form, among others. These injuries are very frustrating as they can take up to months to go away. This is the reason different companies have designed shoes that will offer you support for any knee problem.

What Goes Wrong

The iliotibial band (ITB) is usually a structure whose job is to provide leg stability whenever you take a step. It works with the hip muscles in a thigh’s outward movement and also helps counter the movements within the knee joint. This band starts in the hip and ends just under the knee joint.

Repeated use of the ITB leads to stress, causing knee pain. You will also notice clicking sensations from the joint as ITB snaps across it. This pain is always experienced when the heel comes into contact with the ground; running slowly or downhill tends to make the symptoms worse.

ITBS will usually start as tightness while running but continues to a point where the pain is severe and unbearable. Although ITB continues to tighten when overstressed or injured from training, this is not the main problem. What causes the injury is how the ITB functions and the weakness around it.

The ITB is generally a weak structure and any weakness around it will lead to injury. Most runners have weak core muscles due to the fact that they don’t do strength training or have never been in any sports with side-to-side movement.

running shoes itb-syndrome3Signs Of IT Band Syndrome

Knee-Hurts-768x511If you are a runner, you will be able to distinguish ITBS by:

  • A swelling
  • A cracking feeling when stretching the knee
  • A feeling of burning, stinging and aching on the outer side of the knee that might migrate to the thigh. You will notice these discomforts especially, on your second half of the run.
  • Bending the knee at 45 degrees causes severe external knee pain

Criteria You Should Follow When Selecting The Best Running Shoes for ITBS

?There are various things that you should always consider when buying running shoes. Since most runners experience knee pain, it is wise to look for shoes that will help alleviate this pain without slowing them down. Below are some of the features to look out for in running shoes:

Stability/ Support

Since it is common to have knee pains due to lack of motion control and lack of stability, it is good to choose shoes that will offer you the support you need while running. If your running shoes don’t have any stability, you will end up stressing out your knee, which will result in pain and discomfort while running.

Fit

running shoes running2If you want to do away with pain, you might consider looking for a fit pair of shoes as they will reduce any pain, causing issues in the long run. Pay attention to small specifics like shoes that offer enough heel space, sufficient toe box room, and enough space for wide feet. Your toes should be able to move freely without being constricted.

If your foot cannot move freely and the toes are restricted from spreading, it could lead to painful issues in your feet, legs, and knees.

Motion control footwear is not the whole solution; you need to ensure your feet can still function naturally as they are supposed to.

Comfort

No one wants to wear uncomfortable shoes! Each of these selected best shoes come with upper and underfoot comforts to ensure you get to enjoy your run.

Most of these shoes are made with DNA technology, Gel cushioning, and REVlite midsole for ultimate comfort.

Durability

Your running shoes should run their course without falling apart as this will cause you pain in the long-run. If they promise to offer you support, they should do just that and not start peeling off and tearing when you are on the run.

The ??below 5 shoes have passed the durability test to ensure they give you maximum performance.

Breathability

Although this has nothing to do with knees, it is paramount that your running shoes have enough breathing space to avoid accumulating excess moisture, which might bring discomfort and other feet related problems.

There is no magical cure for knee pain and you should always know the root cause. This way, you will be able to come up with the best solution of minimizing or even eliminating the pain entirely. Although there are various causes of knee pain, this article is focusing on ITB syndrome which happens to be one of the causes.

Reviews Of The Top 5 Shoes

These shoes have been selected with the runner’s welfare in mind. They will help deal with the ITBS, which is a problem for most of them. Since one way of dealing with this condition is getting good running shoes, here is a review of such products.

Asics Gel Kayano 23

running shoes 41eQ53NInwL._SL250_This upgraded version is lightweight to help with any knee problems. It offers you comfort through cushioning that help absorb shock as you run as well as other features like grip, fit, and durability. The shoe has an added outer sole to ensure it lasts you as long as possible.

PROS

  • ?Gel cushioning will act as a shock absorber for more comfort
  • ?Has superb breathability feature
  • ?Is ideal for overpronation and knee pain
  • ?The outsole’s traction will offer the intended support on various surfaces

CONS

  • ?It is a bit pricey

New Balance 890v5

It tops the list of 5 best running shoes. Also, it has remained the first choice for most runners with knee pain issues. This pair offers all the above functionalities too, making it your best choice.

PROS

  • ?It comes with one of a kind breathability and fit due to its great FantomFit design
  • ?Its smooth upper construction will ensure no irritation occurs
  • ?The REVlite midsole will give you much needed cushioning

CONS

  • ?It has a narrow toe box and might not fit a person with a wide foot

?Puma Faas 600 V3

running shoes 41alXU8oEPL._SL250_Puma models have never disappointed, and this one is no exception. Puma Faas 600 is the solution to your knee pain. It is also an affordable option for the short-handed.

PROS

  • ?Great breathability
  • ?Comes at a reasonable price
  • ?It’s lacing system and fit offers you a secure and comfortable run
  • ?It is designed to fit perfectly

CONS

  • ?There have been reported concerns about the outsole’s durability

New Balance 1080v7

running shoes 51PjsjoRrgL._SL250_This is another great choice on the list. It is one of the New Balance Fresh Foam Series. Its midsole offers you the required support coupled with comfort to eliminate knee pains.

PROS

  • ?Very durable
  • ?Enough breathability for long runs
  • ?Good amount of cushioning and support from the Fresh Foam midsole
  • ?It fits like a sock giving you a confident use

CONS

  • ?The upper design is not seamless
  • ?Can be stiff

Saucony Hurricane 16

running shoes 41onfkrTORL._SL250_This is the 16th edition of the Saucony Hurricane, which offers a combination of steadiness and protection. Those with knee pain have agreed with the stability offered by this shoe. It is also cushioned to help you go for long runs without any pain or injury. It is perfect for heavy runners and those who are out of shape due to inactivity.

PROS

  • ?Superb stability
  • ?Lightweight rubber offers protection and cushioning
  • ?Great ground contact
  • ?Reflective parts allow you to have a safe run
  • ?Comes with Sauc-Fit Technology that enhances its comfortability

CONS

  • ?It is a bit narrow
  • ?Limited colors to choose from
  • ?Might be heavy for fast runners

If you are a long-distance runner, it is good to know that your shoes cushioning will wear out quite easily and you might be tempted to continue using them since they look good on the outside. This is a big mistake. The following will help you prevent any more ITBS recurrences:

  • Replace running shoes frequently to avoid wearing those with worn out inner cushioning
  • Always give your shoes time to rest so that the cushioning can get restored; it would be wise to have two pairs of running shoes.

Although shoes can offer you relief from ITBS, it is better to look out for other ways of helping you cope with or eliminate the pain entirely. Also, know what triggers the problem and avoid it at all costs.

These shoes have been tried and tested and found to offer support and help in managing the iliotibial band syndrome. Asics takes the lead on these best shoes. It comes with gel cushioning that will offer you the best shock absorption and maximum comfort as seen above. Its sole is also made to help you tackle any terrain and you can be assured that your knees will thank you later. The only drawback is the price, which is on the upper-side. However, always remember that cheap is expensive.

If you are an active person or an athlete suffering from ITBS, go ahead and get yourself a pair of these shoes as per your preference and choice.

in running

Zoey Miller

Zoey Miller

Hey there, I’m Zoey, founder and the main editor of The Babble Out. I know nobody’s life is smooth as they wish, and it�s the same with mine. I had some terrible news a few years ago and running was the way I got through these issues. This has given me enough motivation to create this blog, so that I can give you a helping hand for as many daily problems as I can. If you are curious why “babble out” is the? name of the blog, then check the “About” page and find out more about me.

 

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Yoga Standing Poses

Yoga Standing Poses

�By�Kyran Doyle�In�Yoga

Yoga is a great way to improve flexibility and strength in your body. In this article we will go over some standing poses to use in your practice.

YOGA: MOUNTAIN POSE (TADASANA)

The mountain pose is the foundation of all standing poses. It might not look like much but the mountain pose is an important starting position, resting pose and tool to improve posture which leads to many other standing poses in yoga.

yoga-standing-mountain-pose

STANDING FORWARD BEND (UTTANASANA)

Standing forward bend is a smooth transition from mountain pose and you will find a deep stretch in the entire back body.

yoga-standing-forward-bend-pose

WARRIOR I POSE (VIRABHADRASANA I)

There are three variations of the warrior pose of which this is number I.

yoga-standing-warrior-1-pose-1

WARRIOR II (VIRABHADRASANA II)

Warrior II stretches and strengthens the body in the one movement, allowing you to feel like a strong warrior. This pose will build strength your ankles, legs, glutes, core, back and shoulders.

yoga-standing-pose-warrior-2-1

REVERSE WARRIOR (VIPARITA VIRABHADRASANA)

Reverse Warrior is a variation of the warrior II pose that provide a great stretch in the side body.

yoga-standing-pose-reverse-warrior

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Gymnastics & Chiropractic

 

How To Use Occlusion Training To Enhance Your Workouts

How To Use Occlusion Training To Enhance Your Workouts

By�Kyran Doyle� In�Training

Occlusion training or blood flow restriction training has been getting a lot of attention lately.

You might be wondering if it is something that you should implement into your workouts or if it is something to steer clear of.

As with just about every fitness strategy there are two sides to the argument.

Some people say that is brings no benefits and then there are others that claim that it can enhance muscle growth and aid your workouts.

In this article you will learn exactly what blood flow restriction (occlusion) training is, how effective it is, and how you can use it in your workouts.

WHAT IS OCCLUSION TRAINING?

deload-week

Occlusion training involves restricting the flow of blood to a muscle group while training. That is why it is also commonly called �blood flow restriction training.�

Basically you take a wrap or band and apply it to the top of your limb.

The aim of this�isn�t�to completely cut off circulation to the area as that is dangerous and painful.

This means that you aren�t restricting arterial flow to the area, but you are restricting the venous return from the muscles.

Arteries are what takes the blood from your heart to your muscles and it is then returned to your heart through a system of veins.

Restricting the blood flow back to your heart causes a pooling of the blood in the area that you are working.

This is what occlusion training uses to create an�anabolic effect�on your muscles.

HOW DOES OCCLUSION TRAINING WORK?

blood-flow-resistance-training

The bloodstream is the network that connects the muscles in your body, providing oxygen and nutrients and carrying away waste products

Muscles require a steady flow of blood to operate.

That is why we aren�t cutting off the flow to the muscle, we are only slowing the rate at which the blood releases from it.

When performing any kind of resistance training your body directs more blood to your muscles performing the exercise.

The reason you get a �pump� when working out is that the speed at which your body is pumping blood into your muscles is faster than the amount of blood going out of them.

Your pump reduces when you rest between your sets as more blood is released from your muscle groups.

Blood flow restriction training prolongs and intensifies your pump.

This is done by placing wraps in one of two places during your working sets.

1. Above Your Bicep

Image source:�Bodybuilding.com

You wrap above your bicep for movements that involve your bicep�s, triceps, forearms, and even chest and back can benefit from this.

While wrapping in this position it makes sense that it would benefit your arms but how does it help your chest and back?

There is no possible way that you can restrict blood flow to your chest and back because of the positions they are located in.

However wrapping your arm allows you to pre-fatigue your arms and as a result chest and back exercises that you perform are going to require more involvement from those muscles rather than your biceps or triceps.

2. Upper Thigh

upper-thigh-blood-flow-restriction

Image source:�Bodybuilding.com

 

Wrap your upper thigh for movements that involve your quads, hamstrings, glutes and calves.

Building Muscle With Occlusion Training

During training you have two�types of muscle�that are responsible for all muscle growth in the gym.

Fast twitch fibers and slow twitch fibers.

Slow twitch muscle fibers are smaller muscle fibers and generate less power and strength than fast twitch fibers. However slow twitch fibers fatigue slower and can sustain activity for longer.

Fast twitch fibers are larger muscle fibers, generate more power and strength and have the most potential for growth.

Fast twitch fibers are recruited last during contractions and mostly don�t use oxygen. Slow twitch fibers on the other hand use oxygen and are recruited first in the movement.

This means that by restricting the blood flow to a muscle group you are pre-fatiguing the slow twitch fibers and forcing the fast twitch fibers to take control even when you�re using low weights.

Occlusion training seems to�trick your body�into thinking you are lifting heavy weights. This means you can get very�similar benefits�of heavy training by using 20-30% of your 1 rep max.

There are two main factors that lead to muscle growth during training. These are:

  • Metabolic Stress
  • Cellular Swelling

Metabolic Stress

When you�re working out your body is burning energy. As your body chews through its fuel stores, metabolic by-product accumulates in your muscles.

Metabolic by-products act as an anabolic signal, telling your body to increase size and strength.

Under normal training most of these by-products would be washed out by blood flow.

Occlusion training keeps them near the muscle helping to increase the anabolic effect that the by-products have on the muscles.

Cellular Swelling

During resistance training your cells expand and fill with fluid and nutrients. This is known as cellular swelling and has also been shown to be an anabolic�signal for muscle growth.

Using blood flow resistance training�increases the amount of time�that your muscle sells stay swollen.

Benefits Of Occlusion Training

occlusion-training-benefits

Occlusion training isn�t a better option than heavy training, but that said it is a nice supplement.

Regularly pushing your muscles to the point of failure or at least close to it (1-2 reps) is an important factor of increasing your strength and muscle mass.

Occlusion training allows you to replicate this without putting anywhere near as much strain on your joints, ligaments and tendons as you would to get the same result from lifting heavy.

This means that you can do more volume without the risk of�overtraining.

Here are a couple of scenarios where this could be really beneficial for you:

  • If you suffer from joint issues
  • If you�re travelling and only have access to hotel weights
  • If you�re injured or have nagging aches and pains.
  • If you are�deloading.

In short your body might not always feel up to another heavy training day. Occlusion training can be a great way to get a good workout in and help you maintain muscle mass.

How To Do Blood Flow Restriction Training

As I mentioned earlier you only ever wrap yourself at the top of your biceps and the top of your thighs.

Elastic knee wraps, medical tourniquets and exercise band �are good options to use for your wraps.

Here�s two videos explaining how to wrap your arms and legs

 

Blood flow restriction training works best when with isolation exercises. If you are going to do compound movements do them at the start of your workout and save the blood flow restricted exercises for the end.

Layne Norton recommends performing lifts at 20%-30% of your 1rm for 20-30 reps of the first set and then the next three sets at 10-15 reps. Have a 30 second rest between sets before going again.

You want to keep the cuffs on your limbs for the entire 4 sets and then release them at the end.

If you�re in pain before the exercise starts that�s a good sign that your wraps are too tight.

Also if you can�t complete the prescribed sets either the wraps are too tight or the weight is too heavy.

Conclusion

Blood flow restriction training has been getting a lot of hype lately.

While it isn�t better than regular strength training, it is a good supplement for it and can be beneficial when used in conjunction with your regular training.

This is more of an advanced training technique so if you are just starting out lifting it probably won�t give you any more benefits than your normal heavy training.

If you�re an advanced lifter, are injured, or don�t have access to heavier weights than this training technique could benefit you.

 

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Romanian Deadlift Vs. Standard Deadlift: Comprehensive Guide

Romanian Deadlift Vs. Standard Deadlift: Comprehensive Guide

By�Kyran Doyle�In�Training

Deadlifts are one of the best strength and mass building exercises that you can perform.

When performing the deadlift you are working more muscles than any other exercise, including the squat.

Deadlifts have many different variations and forms. In this article we are going to focus on the difference between the Romanian Deadlift and standard deadlifts.

There are lots of valid arguments as to which exercise is better in a Romanian Deadlift vs regular deadlift battle.

Keep reading to learn the differences.

Romanian Deadlift Vs. Standard Deadlift

The Romanian Deadlift is one of the most�commonly used among the various deadlift techniques.

In fact a lot of people that think they are performing a deadlift are sometimes actually doing a Romanian Deadlift.

Both the conventional and Romanian Deadlifts are great strength and muscle building exercises.

Even though they are both deadlifts�variations the setup, execution and muscles activated are different.

Here�s a quick video that highlights the differences in form and setup between the two.

Regular Deadlift

As the name suggests the deadlift is a strength training exercise that involves�lifting dead weight.

The regular deadlift is one of the best total body exercises you can do as it works just about every fiber in your body.

The deadlift requires you to lift a weight off the ground�and lower it back down again. Although it may sound simple there is a lot going on in the movement and incorrect form can cause injuries.

One of the most common causes for injury while deadlifting is rounding the back. Your lower back must stay neutral during the whole movement. Rounding your lower back during heavy deadlifts puts uneven pressure on your spine. Always lift with a neutral lower back, allowing for the natural inward curve of your lower spine.

romanian-deadlift-vs-deadlift 2

Original Image from Stack.com

Don�t try and rush to lift heavier weights. the quickest way to improve your deadlift is through correct form. By pulling more efficiently you can use more muscles and deadlift heavier. So start out practicing correct form and build your way up.

The best way to approach the exercise is to think as if you were leg pressing the floor as opposed to�using your upper body to lift something. This will help you mentally focus on using your legs rather than your back (which can cause rounding) for the exercise.

The �dead� in deadlift stands for dead weight so each rep must start on the floor, from a dead stop. �Deadlifts are different to other exercises like the bench press or squat where the weight starts at the top. The deadlift movement�starts from the bottom and and you pull the weight up then return it to the floor�for one rep.

Here are�Stronglifts�5 steps to proper deadlift form:

  1. Walk to the bar.�Stand with your mid-foot under the bar. Your shins shouldn�t touch it yet. Put your heels hip-width apart, narrower than on Squats. Point�your toes�out 15�.
  2. Grab the bar.�Bend over without bending your legs. Grip the bar narrow, about shoulder-width apart like on the Overhead Press. Your arms must be vertical when looking from the front.
  3. Bend your knees.�Drop into position by bending your knees until your shins touch the bar. Do NOT let the bar move away from your mid-foot. If it moves,�start from scratch with step one.
  4. Lift your chest.�Straighten your back by raising you chest. Do not change your position � keep the bar over your mid-foot, your shins against the bar, and your hips where they are.
  5. Pull.�Take a big breath, hold it and�stand up with the weight. Keep the bar in contact with your legs while you pull. Don�t shrug or lean back at the top.

Lower the bar by moving your hips back while keeping your legs almost straight. Once the bar is past your knees, bend your legs more. The bar will land over your mid-foot, ready for your next rep.

Rest a second between reps while staying in the setup position. Take a deep breath, get tight and pull again. Every rep must start from a dead stop on the floor. Don�t bounce the weight off the floor or you can end up lifting�with�bad form.

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Piriformis Syndrome

Piriformis Syndrome

Ever felt pain in your hip, the center of the buttocks, or pain down the back of the leg, you’re likely suffering, at least partly, with piriformis syndrome. The piriformis is a muscle which runs from the sacrum (mid-line base of spine) into the outer hip bone (trochanter). This muscle works overtime on runners.

The muscles in and about the gluteal area help with three areas

� rotation of the hip and leg;
� balance while one foot is off the ground
� stability of the pelvic region.

Needless to say, every one of these attributes are highly needed by runners and everyone else.

Piriformis Injuries

RMI or repetitive motion injury occurs when a muscle has to perform beyond the level of its capability, not given time to recover and doing it again and again. The normal response from a muscle in this situation is to tighten, which is a defensive response of the muscle. This stimulation, however, manifests itself several ways.

First Symptom�indicating piriformis syndrome could be pain in and about the outer hip bone. The tightness of the muscle generates increased pressure between the bone and the tendon which produces pain and either discomfort or an increased tension in the joint which produces a bursitis. A bursitis is an inflammation of the fluid filled sac in a joint caused by tension and strain within that joint.

Second Symptom suggesting piriformis syndrome would be pain right at the middle of the buttocks. Although this is not as common as the other two symptoms, this pain can be brought on within the fatty part of the buttocks region with direct compression. A tight muscle becomes a sore muscle upon compression because of reduced blood flow to that muscle.

Third Symptom indicating piriformis syndrome would be a sciatic neuralgia, or pain from the buttocks down the back of the leg and at times into different parts of the lower leg.

The sciatic nerve runs directly through the belly of the piriformis muscle and in the event the piriformis muscle contracts from being overused, the sciatic nerve now becomes strangled, producing pain, numbness and tingling.

Physiology

piriformis syndrome illustration of athlete runningAny muscle constantly used has to have an opportunity to recover. This recovery can be natural with time, or could be facilitated and sped up with treatment. Continuing use will make it even worse since the muscle is tightening due to overuse. This injured muscle needs to relax and have blood flow encouraged into it for a rapid recovery. The tightness� lessens the normal blood flow going to the muscle. To encourage new blood into the muscle is the way of getting the muscle to begin to unwind and operate normally. Massages daily to this area is greatly supported.

The next step in this “recovery” process is to use a tennis ball under the butt and hip area. Roll out from the side of engagement while sitting down on the ground and set a tennis ball inside the outer hip bone under the buttocks area. Note areas of pain and soreness, as you start to allow your weight onto the tennis ball. Trigger points will have a tendency to collect in a repetitively used muscle, and till these toxins are manually broken up and removed, the muscle will have an artificial well being concerning flexibility potential and recovery potential. Consequently, if it’s sore while your sitting on it, you’re doing a good job. Let the ball operate under every spot for 15-20 seconds before transferring it to a different place. After 4-5 minutes place cross legs with the ankle of the affected leg over the knee of the non-affected leg. Then place the tennis ball just inside the outer hip bone and work the tendon of the muscle. Although this pain requires some time to reduce and is excruciating, the advantages are enormous. Be patient and good things will happen.

Treatments

Due to how the sciatic neuralgia and the hip bursitis or tendonitis are both inflammatory in character, ice therapy, or cryotherapy, within the involved region 15-20 minutes at a time will be beneficial. This should be performed multiple times each day.

Once the acute pain is gone then start with gentle stretching, like a cross-legged stretch while pulling up on the knee. The muscle should have improved flexibility.

Finally the use of pharmaceutical anti-inflammatories are not encouraged. One the intestines are greatly aggravated by them, but they also suggest an artificial wellbeing that can lead to larger problems. Proteolytic enzymes, such as bromelain, extremely beneficial without any side effects and are organic.

Piriformis Syndrome & China-Gel

Nutrition and Exercise Improve Health and Wellness | Eastside Chiropractor

Nutrition and Exercise Improve Health and Wellness | Eastside Chiropractor

Clinicians recognize that lifestyle changes can be difficult for patients. Research is currently helping us understand what patients actually need to have in order to produce effective and sustainable changes in their diet and physical activity.

 

How is nutrition and exercise effective for well-being?

 

Two intervention studies suggest direct access to healthy food enhance emotional well-being and metabolism respectively. When patients with chronic disease learn by performing lifestyle modification behaviors, even over a brief period of time, both their well-being and wellness improve.

 

Nutrition & Exercise Research Study

 

At a randomized controlled trial over a two-week interval, researchers investigated the effects of giving a group of young people a $10 voucher for fruits and vegetables and twice per day text-reminders versus giving yet another group of young people received the real fruits and vegetables worth $10 with no reminders.

 

Despite both classes consuming relatively the same amount of fruits and vegetables, such as a greater amount than ordinary even, only the group who had been given fruits and veggies flourished and showed improvements in their vitality and motivation. This study suggests that direct access to healthy food might be necessary for successful dietary modification, even if the clinician is providing “high-touch” support. Quite simply, clinicians might wish to think about exploring their patients’ access to standard meals prior to giving them other tools to help them eat better.

 

In a different study, over a 12-week period, a randomized controlled trial of 24 breast cancer survivors split them to either a fitness program or a management group instructed to continue their regular exercise routines. The exercise group saw increased muscle strength and endurance, as well as decreased body fat percentage, waist circumference, visceral fat area, insulin levels, leptin/adiponectin ratios, and DKK1 and SFRP1 levels. The researchers indicate that DKK1 and SFRP1 may be useful biomarkers to ascertain both long-term exercise’s advantages along with the prognosis of patients. In addition they suggest exercise might have a therapeutic advantage in those with chronic illnesses.

 

Fortunately, many integrative and functional medicine practitioners find innovative methods to place new science into practice, and new programs make it possible for clinicians to apply the results from studies such as these right away from the clinic. Many integrative and functional medicine practitioners offer a toolkit containing more than 200 items that help enhance patient compliance to professionals. General ill-being and chronic disorder decreases, when patients learn lifestyle modification behaviors.

 

The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic and spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss options on the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900
 

By Dr. Alex Jimenez

 

Additional Topics: Wellness

 

Overall health and wellness are essential towards maintaining the proper mental and physical balance in the body. From eating a balanced nutrition as well as exercising and participating in physical activities, to sleeping a healthy amount of time on a regular basis, following the best health and wellness tips can ultimately help maintain overall well-being. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables can go a long way towards helping people become healthy.

blog picture of cartoon paperboy big news

 

TRENDING TOPIC: EXTRA EXTRA: About Chiropractic

 

 

Excessive Weight Gain, Obesity, And Cancer

Excessive Weight Gain, Obesity, And Cancer

Opportunities For Clinical Intervention

Even though the effects of overweight and obesity on diabetes, cardiovascular disease, all-cause mortality, and other health outcomes are widely known, there is less awareness that overweight, obesity, and weight gain are associated with an increased risk of certain cancers. A recent review of more than 1000 studies concluded that sufficient evidence existed to link weight gain, overweight, and obesity with 13 cancers, including adenocarcinoma of the esophagus; cancers of the gastric cardia, colon and rectum, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, corpus uteri, ovary, kidney, and thyroid; postmenopausal female breast cancer; meningioma; and multiple myeloma.1�An 18-year follow-up of almost 93?000 women in the Nurses� Health Study revealed a dose-response association of weight gain and obesity with several cancers.2

Obesity Increase

obesity man eating oversized burger outside el paso txThe prevalence of obesity in the United States has been increasing for almost 50 years. Currently, more than two-thirds of adults and almost one-third of children and adolescents are overweight or obese. Youths who are obese are more likely to be obese as adults, compounding their risk for health consequences such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. Trends in many of the health consequences of overweight and obesity (such as type 2 diabetes and coronary heart disease) also are increasing, coinciding with prior trends in rates of obesity. Furthermore, the sequelae of these diseases are related to the severity of obesity in a dose-response fashion.2�It is therefore not surprising that obesity accounts for a significant portion of health care costs.

Cancers

obesity cancer-cells microsope el paso tx

A report released on October 3, 2017, by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention assessed the incidence of the 13 cancers associated with overweight and obesity in 2014 and the trends in these cancers over the 10-year period from 2005 to 2014.3�In 2014, more than 630?000 people were diagnosed as having a cancer associated with overweight and obesity, comprising more than 55% of all cancers diagnosed among women and 24% of cancers among men. Most notable was the finding that cancers related to overweight and obesity were increasingly diagnosed among younger people.

obesity man sits at beach el paso txFrom 2005 to 2014, there was a 1.4% annual increase in cancers related to overweight and obesity among individuals aged 20 to 49 years and a 0.4% increase in these cancers among individuals aged 50 to 64 years. For example, if cancer rates had stayed the same in 2014 as they were in 2005, there would have been 43?000 fewer cases of colorectal cancer but 33?000 more cases of other cancers related to overweight and obesity. Nearly half of all cancers in people younger than 65 years were associated with overweight and obesity. Overweight and obesity among younger people may exact a toll on individuals� health earlier in their lifetimes.2�Given the time lag between exposure to cancer risk factors and cancer diagnosis, the high prevalence of overweight and obesity among adults, children, and adolescents may forecast additional increases in the incidence of cancers related to overweight and obesity.

Clinical Intervention

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Since the release of the landmark 1964 surgeon general�s report on the health consequences of smoking, clinicians have counseled their patients to avoid tobacco and on methods to quit and provided referrals to effective programs to reduce their risk of chronic diseases including cancer. These efforts, coupled with comprehensive public health and policy approaches to reduce tobacco use, have been effective�cigarette smoking is at an all-time low. Similar efforts are warranted to prevent excessive weight gain and treat children, adolescents, and adults who are overweight or obese. Clinician referral to intense, multicomponent behavioral intervention programs to help patients with obesity lose weight can be an important starting point in improving a patient�s health and preventing diseases associatedwith obesity. The benefits of maintaining a healthy weight throughout life include improvements in a wide variety of health outcomes, including cancer. There is emerging but very preliminary data that some of these cancer benefits may be achieved following weight loss among people with overweight or obesity.4

The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF)

obesity woman doctors office blood pressure taken el paso txThe US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends screening for obesity and intensive behavioral interventions delivered over 12 to 16 visits for adults and 26 or more visits for children and adolescents with obesity.5,6�Measuring patients� weight, height, and body mass index (BMI), consistent with USPSTF recommendations, and counseling patients about maintaining a healthy weight can establish a foundation for preventive care in clinical care settings. Scientific data continue to emerge about the negative health effects of weight gain, including an increased risk of cancer.1�Tracking patients� weight over time can identify those who could benefit from counseling and referral early and help them avoid additional weight gain. Yet less than half of primary care physicians regularly assess the BMI of their adult, child, and adolescent patients. Encouraging discussions about weight management in multiple health care settings, including physicians� offices, clinics, emergency departments, and hospitals, can provide multiple opportunities for patients and reinforce messages across contexts and care environments.

Weight Loss Programs

obesity young men working out in gym el paso txImplementation of clinical interventions, including screening, counseling, and referral, has major challenges. Since 2011, Medicare has covered behavioral counseling sessions for weight loss in primary care settings. However, the benefit has not been widely utilized.7�Whether the lack of utilization is a consequence of lack of clinician or patient knowledge or for other reasons remains uncertain. Few medical schools and residency programs provide adequate training in prevention and management of obesity or in understanding how to make referrals to such services. Obesity is a highly stigmatized condition; many clinicians find it difficult to initiate a conversation about obesity with patients, and some may inadvertently use alienating language when they do. Studies indicate that patients with obesity prefer the use of terms such as�unhealthy weight�or�increased BMI�rather than�overweight�or�obesity�and�improved nutrition and physical activity�rather than�diet and exercise.8�However, it is unknown if switching to these terms will lead to more effective behavioral counseling. Effective clinical decision support tools to measure BMI and guide physicians through referral and counseling interventions can provide clinicians needed support within the patient-clinician encounter. Inclusion of recently developed competencies for prevention and management of obesity into the curricula of health care professionals may improve their ability to deliver effective care. Because few primary care clinicians are trained in behavior change strategies like cognitive behavioral therapy or motivational interviewing, other trained health care professionals, such as nurses, pharmacists, psychologists, and dietitians could assist by providing counseling and appropriate referrals and help people manage their own health.

woman being tempted devil angel shoulder cake fruit obesity el paso txAchieving sustainable weight loss requires comprehensive strategies that support patients� efforts to make significant lifestyle changes. The availability of clinical and community programs and services to which to refer patients is critically important. Although such programs are available in some communities, there are gaps in availability. Furthermore, even when these programs are available, enhancing linkages between clinical and community care could improve patients� access. Linking community obesity prevention, weight management, and physical activity programs with clinical services can connect people to valuable prevention and intervention resources in the communities where they live, work, and play. Such linkages can give individuals the encouragement they need for the lifestyle changes that maintain or improve their health.

two men stomach cut out healthy obesity unhealthy el paso txThe high prevalence of overweight and obesity in the United States will continue to contribute to increases in health consequences related to obesity, including cancer. Nonetheless, cancer is not inevitable; it is possible that many cancers related to overweight and obesity could be prevented, and physicians have an important responsibility in educating patients and supporting patients� efforts to lead healthy lifestyles. It is important for all health care professionals to emphasize that along with quitting or avoiding tobacco, achieving and maintaining a healthy weight are also important for reducing the risk of cancer.

Targeting Obesity

Article Information

Greta M.�Massetti,�PhD1;�William H.�Dietz,�MD, PhD2;�Lisa C.�Richardson,�MD, MPH1

Author Affiliations

Corresponding Author:�Greta M. Massetti, PhD, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4770 Buford Hwy NE, Atlanta, GA 30341 (gmassetti@cdc.gov).

Conflict of Interest Disclosures:�All authors have completed and submitted the ICMJE Form for Disclosure of Potential Conflict of Interest. Dr Dietz reports receipt of scientific advisory board fees from Weight Watchers and consulting fees from RTI. No other disclosures were reported.

Disclaimer:�The findings and conclusions in this report are those of the authors and not necessarily the official position of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

References

1. Lauby-Secretan B, Scoccianti C, Loomis D, Grosse Y, Bianchini F, Straif K; International Agency for Research on Cancer Handbook Working Group. Body fatness and cancer�viewpoint of the IARC Working Group. N Engl J Med. 2016;375(8):794-798. PubMed Article

2. Zheng Y, Manson JE, Yuan C, et al. Associations of weight gain from early to middle adulthood with major health outcomes later in life. JAMA. 2017;318(3):255-269. PubMed Article

3. Steele CB, Thomas CC, Henley SJ, et al. Vital Signs: Trends in Incidence of Cancers Related to Overweight and Obesity�United States, 2005-2014. October 3, 2017. www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/66/wr/mm6639e1.htm?s_cid=mm6639e1_w.

4. Byers T, Sedjo RL. Does intentional weight loss reduce cancer risk? Diabetes Obes Metab. 2011;13(12):1063-1072. PubMed Article

5. Grossman DC, Bibbins-Domingo K, Curry SJ, et al; US Preventive Services Task Force. Screening for obesity in children and adolescents: US Preventive Services Task Force recommendation statement. JAMA. 2017;317(23):2417-2426. PubMed Article

6. US Preventive Services Task Force. Final Recommendation Statement: Obesity in Adults: Screening and Management. December 2016. www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/Page/Document/RecommendationStatementFinal/obesity-in-adults-screening-and-management. Accessed September 21, 2017.

7. Batsis JA, Bynum JPW. Uptake of the centers for Medicare and Medicaid obesity benefit: 2012-2013. Obesity (Silver Spring). 2016;24(9):1983-1988. PubMed Article

8. Puhl R, Peterson JL, Luedicke J. Motivating or stigmatizing? public perceptions of weight-related language used by health providers. Int J Obes (Lond). 2013;37(4):612-619. PubMed Article