Back Clinic Screening Tests. Screening tests are typically the first assessment completed and are used to determine if further diagnostic testing might be needed. Because screening tests are the first step towards diagnosis, they are designed to be more likely to overestimate the true incidence of a disease. Designed to be different from diagnostic tests in that they might demonstrate more positive results than a diagnostic test.
This can lead to both true positives as well as false positives. Once a screening test is found to be positive, a diagnostic test is then completed to confirm the diagnosis. Next, we will discuss the assessment of diagnostic tests. Many screening tests are available for physicians and advanced chiropractic practitioners to utilize in their practice. For some tests, there is quite a bit of research demonstrating the benefit of such tests on early diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Alex Jimenez presents appropriate assessment and diagnostic tools used in the office to further clarify and appropriated diagnostic assessments.
Innovations in Sciatica Treatment in 2026: A Shift Toward Targeted, Minimally Invasive, and Integrative Care
Sciatica is one of the most common causes of chronic lower back and leg pain. It occurs when the sciatic nerve—the longest nerve in the body—is irritated or compressed, often due to disc herniation, spinal degeneration, inflammation, or biomechanical imbalance. For years, treatment options focused mainly on pain medications, steroid injections, or surgery when symptoms became severe.
In 2026, sciatica care has entered a new phase. Treatment is no longer just about “blocking pain.” Instead, the focus is on precision diagnosis, nerve healing, inflammation reduction, and functional recovery, with fewer complications and faster healing times. These advances also emphasize integrated, interdisciplinary care, combining chiropractic treatment with the diagnostic and clinical oversight of nurse practitioners (NPs).
This article explains the most important innovations shaping sciatica treatment in 2026, using easy-to-understand language while staying grounded in current clinical research and real-world outcomes.
Understanding Sciatica: Why Better Solutions Were Needed
Sciatica is not a single disease. It is a symptom caused by pressure or irritation along the sciatic nerve, usually beginning in the lower spine and traveling into the buttock and leg. Pain can feel sharp, burning, electric, or aching and may include numbness or weakness.
Common contributors include:
Herniated or bulging lumbar discs
Spinal stenosis
Degenerative disc disease
Muscle imbalance or pelvic instability
Inflammation around nerve roots
Traditional treatments often relied on:
Long-term anti-inflammatory or pain medications
Opioids for severe cases
Epidural steroid injections
Surgery as a last resort
While these approaches helped some patients, they did not always address the underlying cause, and many carried risks such as dependency, complications, or prolonged recovery (Stanford Health Care, n.d.).
What Has Changed in 2026?
By 2026, sciatica treatment emphasizes early, targeted, and minimally invasive care. Research and clinical experience now show that addressing nerve irritation early and restoring healthy movement patterns can prevent chronic pain and disability (BioSpace, 2025).
Key changes include:
Improved imaging and diagnostics
Precision-guided nerve procedures
Regenerative medicine options
Advanced neuromodulation technologies
Integrated chiropractic and NP-led care models
Advanced Diagnostic Imaging: Seeing the True Source of Pain
One of the biggest improvements in sciatica care is high-resolution MRI technology. Modern imaging allows clinicians to:
Identify the exact nerve root involvement
Distinguish disc-related pain from muscular or inflammatory causes
Detect subtle nerve inflammation missed in earlier imaging methods
Enhanced MRI protocols now guide treatment decisions more accurately, reducing unnecessary procedures and improving outcomes (Stanford Health Care, n.d.).
Nurse practitioners play a critical role here by:
Ordering and interpreting imaging
Correlating findings with physical symptoms
Coordinating referrals and follow-up care
Minimally Invasive Pain Procedures: Precision Without Surgery
Improved Nerve Blocks
Modern nerve blocks are no longer “blind injections.” In 2026, they are image-guided and highly targeted, delivering medication exactly where inflammation and irritation occur.
Benefits include:
Faster pain relief
Reduced medication dosage
Improved diagnostic clarity
Lower complication risk
Nerve blocks are now often used as diagnostic tools to help clinicians determine whether pain is mechanical, inflammatory, or neuropathic in origin (Apollo Spine & Pain, 2026a).
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
Radiofrequency ablation uses controlled heat to disrupt pain signals traveling through irritated nerves. Newer RFA systems are more precise and selective than earlier versions.
Key advantages:
Long-lasting pain relief
Minimal tissue damage
Short recovery time
Reduced reliance on medications
RFA is especially helpful for chronic sciatica that does not respond to conservative care (Apollo Spine & Pain, 2026b).
Spinal Cord Stimulation: Rewiring Pain Perception
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has evolved significantly. New devices are smaller, smarter, and more adaptive. They deliver gentle electrical signals that change how the brain interprets pain signals from the sciatic nerve.
Modern SCS systems offer:
Personalized stimulation patterns
Adjustable settings via external controllers
Reduced side effects compared to older models
SCS is now used earlier in care for select patients, helping many avoid surgery altogether (Pain and Spine Specialists, n.d.).
Regenerative Medicine: Supporting Nerve Healing
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
PRP therapy uses a patient’s own blood components to promote healing and reduce inflammation. In sciatica care, PRP is increasingly used around:
Inflamed nerve roots
Degenerative disc structures
Surrounding soft tissues
Research suggests PRP may:
Reduce inflammation
Support tissue repair
Improve long-term outcomes
While still evolving, regenerative therapies are driving growth in the global sciatica treatment market (Grand View Research, n.d.; PMC, 2024).
Therapeutic Exercise Innovations: Movement as Medicine
Nerve Flossing and Targeted Rehab
Exercise therapy in 2026 is more specific and personalized. One standout approach is nerve flossing, which involves controlled movements designed to improve nerve mobility and reduce irritation.
Benefits include:
Improved nerve glide
Reduced stiffness
Decreased pain during daily activities
Programs are now customized using imaging findings and functional testing, ensuring exercises match the patient’s specific condition (Goodman Campbell, 2026).
Chiropractic Care: A Drug-Free Foundation
Chiropractic care remains central to non-surgical sciatica treatment. Modern chiropractic approaches focus on restoring spinal alignment, reducing nerve compression, and improving movement patterns.
Common techniques include:
Spinal adjustments
Flexion-distraction therapy
Soft tissue mobilization
Low-level laser therapy
Research continues to associate chiropractic care with reduced opioid use and improved pain outcomes (ReachMD, 2024; UH Hospitals, 2025).
Integrated Care: Chiropractors and Nurse Practitioners Working Together
One of the most important shifts in 2026 is the collaborative care model. Instead of isolated treatment, patients benefit from coordinated care involving chiropractors and nurse practitioners.
This model allows for:
Accurate diagnosis and imaging oversight
Conservative, drug-free pain management
Monitoring of neurological symptoms
Reduced opioid exposure
Clinical observations from Dr. Alexander Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, highlight that patients receiving coordinated chiropractic and NP care often experience:
Faster recovery
Better functional improvement
Fewer invasive interventions
Greater long-term pain control
His integrative approach emphasizes treating the cause of nerve irritation, not just the symptoms (Jimenez, n.d.).
Why These Innovations Matter
Together, these advances represent a major shift in sciatica care:
From surgery-first to conservative-first
From symptom masking to root-cause resolution
From isolated care to interdisciplinary teamwork
Patients now have more options, fewer risks, and better long-term outcomes.
Conclusion: The Future of Sciatica Care Is Personalized and Precise
By 2026, sciatica treatment has become more effective, safer, and patient-centered. Innovations in diagnostics, minimally invasive procedures, regenerative medicine, and integrative chiropractic-NP–NP care are reducing the need for surgery and long-term medication use.
The focus is no longer just pain relief—it is nerve health, mobility restoration, and sustainable recovery. As research and technology continue to evolve, patients suffering from sciatica can expect even more targeted, evidence-based solutions in the years ahead.
Common Sports Injuries in El Paso and How El Paso Back Clinic Supports Full Recovery
Sports and physical activity are part of everyday life in El Paso. From running and weight training to football, soccer, and basketball, people of all ages stay active year-round. While this active lifestyle is healthy, it also leads to a high number of sports-related musculoskeletal injuries—especially when combined with the region’s heat, rough ground, and uneven terrain.
At El Paso Back Clinic, sports injury care focuses on restoring spinal alignment, joint mobility, muscle balance, and overall movement quality. When chiropractic care is combined with nurse practitioner (NP) support, athletes receive complete, coordinated care that promotes healing, performance, and long-term injury prevention.
Clinical observations from Dr. Alexander Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, show that athletes recover more efficiently when spine health, joint mechanics, muscle function, and medical oversight are addressed together rather than separately.
Why Sports Injuries Are So Common in El Paso
El Paso presents unique physical challenges for athletes and active individuals. The environment itself can increase stress on the musculoskeletal system.
Common contributing factors include:
High temperatures, which increase fatigue and dehydration
Hard and uneven surfaces, stressing feet, ankles, knees, and hips
Year-round activity, limiting rest and recovery
High-impact sports, such as football and basketball
Repetitive movement patterns, common in running and training
When the spine and joints are not moving properly, the body compensates. Over time, these compensations increase injury risk and slow healing (NIAMS, n.d.).
Common Sports-Related Musculoskeletal Injuries Seen in El Paso
Sprains and Strains
Sprains and strains are among the most frequently treated injuries at El Paso Back Clinic.
Sprains affect ligaments
Strains affect muscles or tendons
Common areas include:
Ankles
Knees
Hamstrings
Lower back
These injuries often occur during quick movements, twisting, jumping, or improper warm-ups (Orthospine Centers, n.d.).
Knee Injuries (ACL, Meniscus, Runner’s and Jumper’s Knee)
Knee injuries are especially common in sports that involve cutting, jumping, or sudden stops.
Typical knee problems include:
ACL tears
Meniscus tears
Patellar tendonitis (jumper’s knee)
Runner’s knee
Misalignment in the spine, hips, or feet can increase stress on the knee joint, making chiropractic care an important part of recovery (Spectrum Therapy Consultants, n.d.).
Tendonitis and Overuse Injuries
Tendonitis develops when tendons are repeatedly stressed without enough recovery.
Common forms include:
Tennis elbow
Golfer’s elbow
Achilles tendonitis
Patellar tendonitis
These injuries often worsen slowly and are common in athletes who push through pain (Woodlands Sports Medicine, n.d.).
Shin Splints and Stress Fractures
Lower-leg injuries are common in runners and field athletes.
These include:
Shin splints
Foot stress fractures
Tibial stress injuries
Hard surfaces, worn footwear, and poor biomechanics increase the risk of these injuries (CTX Foot & Ankle, n.d.).
Hip Labral Tears
Hip labral tears affect the cartilage that stabilizes the hip joint.
Common symptoms include:
Deep hip or groin pain
Clicking or locking sensations
Reduced range of motion
These injuries are common among athletes who frequently twist, pivot, or sprint (Texas Spine Clinic, n.d.).
Rotator Cuff and Shoulder Injuries
Shoulder injuries often occur in athletes who lift, throw, or absorb contact.
Common issues include:
Rotator cuff strains or tears
Shoulder impingement
Joint instability
Shoulder pain is often linked to spinal and postural imbalances that chiropractic care addresses (Marque Medical, n.d.).
Lower Back Pain and Sciatica
Lower back pain is one of the most common complaints among athletes.
Contributing factors include:
Muscle strain
Core weakness
Poor posture
Spinal joint restrictions
When spinal alignment is compromised, nerve irritation such as sciatica may occur (Marque Medical, n.d.).
How Chiropractic Care at El Paso Back Clinic Helps Sports Injuries
Chiropractic care at El Paso Back Clinic focuses on restoring proper motion to the spine and joints. This allows the nervous system, muscles, and joints to work together efficiently.
Improving alignment reduces stress on injured tissues and supports natural healing (Vista Hills Chiropractic, n.d.).
Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Athletes
Athletes receiving chiropractic care often experience:
Reduced pain and stiffness
Improved joint mobility
Better balance and coordination
Faster recovery times
Lower risk of repeat injuries
Clinical experience shows that addressing spinal alignment early improves outcomes across many sports injuries (Jimenez, n.d.).
The Role of Nurse Practitioners in Integrated Sports Injury Care
Nurse practitioners (NPs) play an important role in sports injury management by providing medical oversight and coordination of care.
NPs may assist by:
Performing initial evaluations
Ordering diagnostic imaging (X-ray, MRI)
Managing pain and inflammation
Coordinating physical therapy
Monitoring healing progress
This medical support ensures injuries are accurately diagnosed and treated safely (NIAMS, n.d.).
Functional and Preventive Approach to Recovery
NPs often use a functional approach that looks beyond the injured area.
This includes evaluating:
Movement patterns
Training load
Nutrition and hydration
Sleep and recovery habits
Inflammation levels
Addressing these factors helps athletes heal fully and return stronger.
Coordinated Care: Chiropractic, NP, and Rehabilitation
One of the strengths of El Paso Back Clinic is coordinated care. Chiropractic care and NP oversight work together with rehabilitation to create a clear recovery plan.
A coordinated plan may include:
Chiropractic adjustments for alignment
Rehabilitation exercises for strength and stability
Medical monitoring for healing progress
Gradual return-to-sport planning
This team-based approach improves outcomes and reduces setbacks (Southwest Chiropractors, n.d.).
PRP Therapy and Advanced Recovery Options
For certain injuries, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy may be recommended.
PRP may support healing for:
Tendon injuries
Ligament sprains
Knee injuries
Early osteoarthritis
NPs evaluate whether PRP is appropriate and coordinate care alongside chiropractic treatment and rehabilitation (Desert Institute of Sports Medicine, n.d.).
Clinical Example: Knee Injury Recovery at El Paso Back Clinic
Based on clinical observations from Dr. Jimenez, a typical knee injury recovery plan may include:
NP evaluation to diagnose the injury
Imaging to assess ligament or cartilage damage
Chiropractic care to improve spinal, hip, and knee alignment
Rehabilitation exercises to restore strength and stability
PRP therapy, when appropriate
Performance monitoring to prevent re-injury
This integrated approach supports long-term joint health and athletic performance.
Preventing Future Sports Injuries
Prevention is a major focus at El Paso Back Clinic.
Key strategies include:
Proper warm-ups and mobility work
Strengthening core and stabilizing muscles
Maintaining hydration in hot conditions
Correcting posture and movement patterns
Allowing adequate recovery time
Chiropractic and NP care help identify small problems before they become serious injuries (Texas Children’s Hospital, n.d.).
Long-Term Benefits of Integrated Sports Injury Care
Athletes who receive integrated care often experience:
Faster recovery
Fewer recurring injuries
Improved flexibility and strength
Better overall performance
Greater confidence in movement
Treating the spine, joints, muscles, and nervous system together leads to a more complete recovery.
Conclusion
Sports injuries are common in El Paso due to the climate, terrain, and high levels of physical activity. Injuries such as sprains, strains, knee injuries, tendonitis, back pain, and stress fractures can limit performance if not treated properly.
At El Paso Back Clinic, chiropractic care restores alignment and mobility, while nurse practitioners provide diagnostics, medical oversight, and coordinated treatment options. Together, this approach supports full recovery, injury prevention, and long-term performance.
Clinical experience from Dr. Alexander Jimenez shows that athletes recover best when care focuses on the whole musculoskeletal system—not just the painful area.
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.
Make Your Health Goals Stick in 2026: How El Paso Back Clinic’s Integrative Team Supports Real Change
The patient uses a weight machine for injury rehabilitation under the supervision of a doctor of chiropractic and a nurse practitioner.
Most people don’t fail at New Year’s goals because they “don’t want it enough.” They fail because life gets busy, pain flares up, energy crashes, and stress piles on. When your body hurts or feels stiff, even simple plans—like walking more, lifting weights, or sleeping better—can feel harder than they should.
At El Paso Back Clinic, the goal is to make health changes easier to achieve and maintain through a team-based, integrative approach. That means bringing together the strengths of chiropractic care (movement, structure, mobility, and recovery) with the strengths of nurse practitioner care and wellness coaching (nutrition, sleep, stress, and whole-body support). The clinic describes this as a blend of injury care, wellness strategies, mobility programs, and integrated medicine designed to improve function and quality of life. El Paso Back Clinic® • 915-850-0900+2El Paso Back Clinic® • 915-850-0900+2
This kind of care supports common goals like:
increasing fitness and mobility
managing pain so you can stay active
improving energy and sleep
lowering stress and improving your stress response
“Integrative care” means your plan isn’t built around only one angle. Instead, it connects the pieces that usually get separated:
How you move
How you recover
How you eat
How you sleep
How you manage stress
How do you build habits that fit your real life
El Paso Back Clinic describes integrative chiropractic benefits as going beyond traditional adjustments by combining care approaches that support overall wellness and function. El Paso Back Clinic® • 915-850-0900
Why this matters for resolutions
Many resolutions are difficult to maintain because the plans ignore the real barriers. For example:
You want to exercise more—but your back pain spikes.
You want to lose weight—but your sleep is poor and your stress is high.
You want more energy—but your nutrition is inconsistent, and you’re not recovering.
An integrative plan helps because it aims to reduce the friction that makes healthy habits feel impossible.
The Team Approach: Chiropractor + Nurse Practitioner Mindset
Many clinics talk about how chiropractic care supports goals such as mobility, stress reduction, better sleep, and improved performance. gotcore.net+2Freedom Chiropractic+2 At El Paso Back Clinic, that support is often strongest when chiropractic care is paired with whole-person planning.
The chiropractor’s lane: move better with less strain
Chiropractic care commonly focuses on:
joint motion and spinal mechanics
posture and movement habits
mobility and flexibility
recovery support when you start working out again
helping reduce strain patterns that keep pain looping
The descriptions of services at El Paso Back Clinic emphasize spine-focused care and the restoration of function for back and musculoskeletal concerns. El Paso Back Clinic® • 915-850-0900+1
The NP/wellness lane: build a plan that supports your body from the inside out
A nurse practitioner and wellness-minded team approach can support:
nutrition planning that fits your schedule
sleep improvement routines
stress management strategies
health screening and medical risk review when appropriate
coaching that makes change more realistic to sustain
This matches the habit-focused guidance many health organizations recommend: set realistic goals, build routines, and avoid extreme “all at once” changes. Prism Health North Texas
Dr. Alexander Jimenez’s clinical observations (El Paso context)
Dr. Alexander Jimenez (DC, APRN, FNP-BC) frequently describes a dual-scope approach that connects biomechanics (how you move) with broader health planning (nutrition, functional assessments, and recovery strategies). His published clinic content also highlights the use of assessments and, when needed, imaging and integrated care planning to support recovery and function. LinkedIn+3El Paso, TX Doctor Of Chiropractic+3El Paso, TX Doctor Of Chiropractic+3
Why Resolutions Often Fail (And How an Integrative Plan Fixes That)
Here are common “resolution killers” and what a coordinated plan can do differently:
Pain blocks movement → Address mobility limits and movement mechanics so activity feels doable. National Spine & Pain Centers+1
Low energy → Improve sleep, nutrition consistency, and recovery structure. gotcore.net+1
Stress overload → Add stress skills and routines that calm the system and support follow-through. NIH News in Health+1
No accountability → Regular check-ins and plan adjustments keep you from quitting after a setback. drmmalone.com+1
A key idea in habit-based care is that early wins create a “positive feedback loop”—you feel better, so it becomes easier to keep going. drmmalone.com
1) Increase Fitness and Mobility (Without Getting Injured)
If your goal is to work out more, the priority is often moving well enough to train consistently.
Many chiropractic resources emphasize mobility, flexibility, and injury prevention as people increase activity at the start of the year. 5280 Balanced Health Center+2Freedom Chiropractic+2 El Paso Back Clinic also emphasizes flexibility, mobility, and agility programs to improve ability and quality of life. El Paso Back Clinic® • 915-850-0900
A simple evidence-based target
For general health, adults are commonly advised to aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity per week, plus 2 days of muscle-strengthening activities. CDC+1 That can be split into smaller chunks—like 30 minutes, 5 days a week.
What the integrative plan can look like
Assess mobility limits (hips, spine, shoulders) and address movement friction
Build a realistic weekly schedule
Progress intensity slowly, so you don’t crash or flare
Easy “start small” movement ideas:
10–20 minute walk after meals
2 strength sessions per week (basic full-body)
5-minute mobility routine daily
Progression rules that keep people consistent:
Add time before you add intensity
Keep at least 1–2 recovery days weekly
Measure consistency, not perfection
2) Manage Pain So You Can Stay Active
Pain goals often work better when you focus on function—not “zero pain tomorrow.” A pain-focused plan might aim to reduce flare-ups and increase what you can do safely. National Spine & Pain Centers
El Paso Back Clinic positions its care around helping people with frustrating injuries and chronic pain syndromes improve mobility and function. El Paso Back Clinic® • 915-850-0900
Practical pain goals that tend to stick
“Walk 20 minutes, 4 days/week without a flare.”
“Lift twice/week with pain staying under a 3–4/10.”
NP-style wellness support can focus on sleep, stress, consistency in nutrition, and pacing habits that support recovery. Prism Health North Texas+1
Helpful pacing ideas (simple but powerful):
Use shorter workouts more often
Stop just before your “flare threshold”
Build capacity gradually rather than “weekend warrior” bursts
3) Boost Energy the Smart Way
Energy is not just “motivation.” If you’re tired, your plan needs better recovery.
Many chiropractic sources link better sleep and reduced tension with feeling more capable and consistent over time. gotcore.net+1 El Paso Back Clinic also describes a wellness-focused approach aimed at improving energy, sleep, and overall function. El Paso Back Clinic® • 915-850-0900
It’s common to hear people say they want to “boost immunity.” A safe and practical way to think about this is:
You can support overall wellness by improving sleep, physical activity, and stress management—foundations that matter for health.
Regular physical activity is widely recommended for health. CDC
Mindfulness-based approaches have evidence supporting their effectiveness for stress, sleep, and pain management. NIH News in Health
So instead of chasing extreme detoxes or perfect diets, an integrative plan often focuses on steady basics:
sleep routine
movement most days
nutrition consistency
stress skills
That’s the kind of “quiet consistency” that makes resolutions last.
5) Lower Stress and Improve Stress Response
Stress shows up in the body: tight shoulders, headaches, jaw tension, shallow breathing, gut tension, and poor sleep.
Mindfulness-based treatments have evidence supporting reduced anxiety/depression symptoms and improved sleep, and may help people cope with pain. NIH News in Health Many chiropractic sources also connect care with stress reduction and better sleep as part of overall wellness. gotcore.net+1
Pick one main goal (fitness OR pain, energy, OR stress)
Add two support habits
Track consistency weekly
Adjust every 2–4 weeks
Examples of “support habits”:
protein at breakfast
20-minute walk 4x/week
5 minutes of mobility daily
bedtime routine 5 nights/week
A Simple 4-Week Plan (El Paso Back Clinic Style: Practical, Not Perfect)
This is a general example you can personalize with your provider team.
Week 1: Reduce friction
Identify mobility limits and pain triggers
Set one realistic activity goal
Begin a simple nutrition and sleep routine
Week 2: Build consistency
Add a second strength or mobility day
Keep intensity moderate
Track sleep and energy patterns
Week 3: Progress carefully
Increase walking time or training volume slightly
Add a stress routine you can repeat
Adjust the plan based on how your body responds
Week 4: Lock in your system
Keep what’s working
Simplify what isn’t
Create a “busy week version,” so you don’t fall off
This approach fits the clinic’s overall theme of improving function through mobility, recovery, and whole-person planning. El Paso Back Clinic® • 915-850-0900+1
When to Get Checked Right Away
If you have severe or unusual symptoms, don’t “push through.” Seek urgent medical care for red flags like:
chest pain, severe shortness of breath, fainting
sudden weakness, facial droop, confusion
loss of bowel/bladder control
fever with severe spine pain
major trauma with worsening symptoms
Bottom Line: Your Best Results Come From a Whole Plan
At El Paso Back Clinic, an integrative model supports real-life resolutions by combining:
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!
Discover the importance of a clinical approach to opioid use disorder in developing effective intervention strategies.
Overcoming Barriers in Managing Opioid Use Disorder: Strategies for Effective Care
Many people today have a serious health problem called opioid use disorder (OUD). It is part of a bigger group of problems called substance use disorders (SUD). Treating OUD can be hard because everyone has different problems, such as other health issues or pain. Plans should be made for each patient by doctors and other health care workers. They also have to keep up with the latest laws, ethics, and ways to keep patient information safe. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996 is an example of a general rule that applies to all patients. However, there are extra rules for people who are getting help with drug or alcohol problems.
This guide talks about how to deal with problems that come up when managing OUD. We talk about patient-centered care, how to talk to patients, stigma, team-based approaches, and the law. Health care providers can help patients get better faster by using these methods. Keywords like “managing opioid use disorder,” “overcoming stigma in OUD,” and “patient-centered care for SUD” bring out important points that make it easier to find and understand.
Learning Objectives
Explain treatment planning methods that use patient-focused choices and proven ways to talk.
Name the three kinds of stigma and how they affect people with mental health issues, SUD, and especially OUD.
Talk about legal, ethical, and privacy concerns in caring for people with OUD.
Effective Treatment Planning with Patient-Centered Decisions
People with complex issues, like mental health problems, SUD, and pain, need special care. Each person shows up differently, so health systems are now focusing on care that puts the patient first.
Patient-centered care means building teams with doctors, patients, and families. They work together to plan, give, and check health care. This way ensures the patient’s needs are met, and their wishes, likes, and family situations are respected. It focuses on shared choices about treatments while seeing the patient as a whole person in their daily life (Dwamena et al., 2012; Bokhour et al., 2018).
Studies show key steps for a good patient-centered plan:
Take a full patient history and a check-up, reviewing old and new treatments.
Find all available drug and non-drug options.
Check the patient’s current health, recent changes, and patterns.
Look at risks for misusing or abusing opioids.
If starting opioids or if the patient is already on them, think about opioid stewardship. This means checking harms, benefits, risks, side effects, pain control, daily function, drug tests, stop plans, and ways to spot OUD. These programs, sometimes called analgesia stewardship, help manage opioids safely (Harle et al., 2019; Coffin et al., 2022). Guides exist to set them up (American Hospital Association, n.d.; Shrestha et al., 2023).
Integrative chiropractic care can play a big role here. It uses spinal adjustments and targeted exercises to get proper spinal alignment. This helps reduce pain without relying only on drugs, making it a good fit for OUD patients with pain. For example, adjustments fix spine issues that cause pain, and exercises strengthen muscles to keep alignment right.
A Nurse Practitioner (NP) adds full management and ergonomic advice. They look at work setups to prevent pain, such as how to sit or lift. NPs coordinate care by reviewing options such as therapy, meds, and lifestyle changes, ensuring everything works together.
Dr. Alexander Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, with over 30 years in chiropractic and as a family nurse practitioner, observes that blending these methods cuts opioid use. At his El Paso clinic, he uses functional medicine to address root causes through nutrition and non-invasive treatments. He notes that poor posture from modern life worsens pain, leading to OUD risks. His teams help patients with self-massage and VR for recovery, reducing drug needs (Jimenez, n.d.a; Jimenez, n.d.b).
Evidence-Based Ways to Communicate
Good talking skills are key to building a patient-centered plan (Schaefer & Block, 2009). There are proven methods for starting conversations and getting patients involved.
One method is BATHE:
Background: Ask, “How have things been since your last visit?”
Affect: Ask, “How does this make you feel?”
Trouble: Ask, “What bothers you most?”
Handling: Ask, “How are you coping?”
Empathy: Say, “That sounds hard.”
This uses open questions to let patients lead and feel supported (Stuart & Lieberman, 2018; Thomas et al., 2019).
Another is GREAT:
Greetings/Goals: Start with hello and set aims.
Rapport: Build trust.
Evaluation/Expectation/Examination/Explanation: Check and explain.
Ask/Answer/Acknowledge: Listen and respond.
Tacit agreement/Thanks: Agree and thank.
This guide talks well (Brindley et al., 2014).
Motivational interviewing is also useful. It’s a team-style talk to boost a patient’s desire to change. Build a bond, focus on the issue, spark a desire for change, and plan steps (Frost et al., 2018).
These methods emphasize listening, clear communication, and a structured approach to planning. For OUD patients with pain or mental issues, mix techniques for the best results.
Dr. Jimenez shares that in his practice, these talks help patients see non-drug options, such as chiropractic adjustments. He finds that empathy reduces stigma and fear, encouraging openness about OUD (Jimenez, n.d.a).
Understanding Stigma in Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders
Stigma blocks good talk for many with mental health or SUD. It’s attitudes, beliefs, actions, and systems that lead to unfair views and bad treatment (Cheetham et al., 2022).
Studies show stigmas like linking mental illness to violence (Perry, 2011). Media on shootings with mentally ill people strengthens this (McGinty et al., 2014; McGinty et al., 2016; Schomerus et al., 2022). For SUD, people think they’re more dangerous than those with schizophrenia or depression (Schomerus et al., 2011). Society blames people with SUDs more and avoids them (McGinty et al., 2015; Corrigan et al., 2012).
Views come from knowledge, contact with affected people, and the media. Public ideas are tied to norms on causes, blame, and danger. Race, ethnicity, and culture shape attitudes too (Giacco et al., 2014).
Health workers have biases. A survey of VA mental health providers showed awareness of race issues but avoidance of talks, using codes like “urban,” and thinking training stops racism (McMaster et al., 2021).
There are three stigma types:
Structural Stigma: The ways Society and institutions keep prejudice. In health, it’s worse care, less access to behavioral health. Less funding for mental vs. physical issues (National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 2016).
Public Stigma: General or group attitudes, like police or church norms. Laws reinforce it, like broad mental illness rules implying all are unfit (Corrigan & Shapiro, 2010).
Self-Stigma: When people internalize stigmas, it leads to low self-worth and shame. “Why try” affects independent living (Corrigan et al., 2009; Clement et al., 2015).
Dr. Jimenez observes that stigma makes OUD patients hide symptoms, delaying care. In his integrative work, he addresses this through education on holistic options, showing that recovery is possible without judgment (Jimenez, n.d.b).
Overcoming Stigma and Addressing Social Factors
To fight stigma, use education, behavior changes, and better care. Laws like the ADA and MHPAEA help ensure equal coverage and prevent discrimination (U.S. Congress, 2009; U.S. Congress, 2008; U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, n.d.; Busch & Barry, 2008; Haffajee et al., 2019).
These address social determinants of health (SDOH), such as coverage, access, quality, education, and stability (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, n.d.).
Community programs help too:
West Virginia’s Jobs and Hope: Training, jobs, education, transport, skills, record clearing for SUD people (Jobs and Hope, n.d.).
Belden’s Pathway: Rehab for failed drug tests, leading to jobs (Belden, n.d.).
Education boosts provider confidence in OUD meds, reducing barriers (Adzrago et al., 2022; Hooker et al., 2023; Campbell et al., 2021).
Overcoming stigma is key to success in mental health and SUD.
Interprofessional Team Work
Teams improve outcomes for patients with chronic pain and mental health or SUD (Joypaul et al., 2019; Gauthier et al., 2019).
Teams include doctors, nurses, NPs, pharmacists, PAs, social workers, PTs, therapists, SUD experts, and case managers.
Each helps uniquely:
Pharmacists watch meds, spot interactions.
Case managers link specialists, find resources, and support families (Sortedahl et al., 2018).
Teams set goals, max non-opioid treatments (Liossi et al., 2019).
Integrative chiropractic care includes adjustments and exercises for alignment, easing pain naturally.
NPs give full care, ergonomic tips to avoid pain triggers, and coordinate options.
Dr. Jimenez’s clinic shows this. As a DC and FNP-BC, he leads teams with therapists, nutritionists, and coaches. He observes interprofessional work cuts opioid use by addressing the roots with functional medicine, VR, and nutrition. For OUD, he blends chiropractic care for pain, NP coordination for plans, and stigma-fighting through team support (Jimenez, n.d.a; Jimenez, n.d.b).
The Power of Chiropractic Care in Injury Rehabilitation-Video
Legal and Ethical Issues in SUD Care
Providers must know laws and ethics for mental/SUD patients, like discrimination, aid, and privacy (Center for Substance Abuse Treatment, 2000).
Key Federal laws:
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990.
Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
Workforce Investment Act of 1998.
Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988.
ADA and Rehabilitation ban discrimination in government and in business services like hotels, shops, and hospitals. Protect those with impairments limiting life activities (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, n.d.).
Provisions:
Protect “qualified” people who meet the requirements.
Reasonable accommodations for jobs.
No hire/retain if there is a direct threat.
No denial of benefits, access, or jobs in funded places.
For SUD: Alcohol users are protected if qualified, no threat. Ex-drug users in rehab are the same. Current illegal drug users are protected for health/rehab, not others. Programs can deny if used during.
Workforce Act centralizes job programs; no refusal to SUD people (U.S. Congress, 1998).
Drug-Free Act requires drug-free policies for federal funds/contracts: statements, awareness, actions on violations (U.S. Code, n.d.).
States have their own laws; check the local laws.
Public Aid laws:
Contract with America Act (1996): No SSI/DI if SUD key factor (U.S. Congress, 1996).
Personal Responsibility Act (1996): Work after 2 years of aid, drug screens (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 1996).
These push work, sobriety.
Dr. Jimenez notes that legal awareness helps his practice by ensuring holistic plans comply and by reducing OUD risks through a non-drug focus (Jimenez, n.d.a).
Keeping Patient Info Private
Privacy is vital. Laws include:
HIPAA (1996): Protects PHI, sets use/disclosure rules (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, n.d.).
42 CFR Part 2: Extra for SUD records. No disclosure of name or status without consent. Fines for breaks. Applies to federal-aided programs (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, n.d.).
Consent needs: program name, receiver, patient name, purpose, info type, revoke note, expire date, signature, and date.
This fights discrimination fears, encouraging treatment (Center for Substance Abuse Treatment, 2000).
Wrapping Up
As we navigate the ongoing challenges of opioid use disorder (OUD), it’s clear that effective management requires a multifaceted approach that prioritizes patient well-being over quick fixes. From embracing patient-
It is clear that treating opioid use disorder (OUD) well requires a multi-faceted approach that puts the patient’s health and safety above quick fixes. Healthcare professionals play a pivotal role in transforming lives by implementing patient-centered decision-making and evidence-based communication, and by eradicating the three types of stigma—structural, public, and self—that hinder recovery. Interprofessional teams help people get the full treatment they need, and privacy laws like HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2 make sure that people with disabilities can get help without being discriminated against.
Chiropractic therapy focuses on spinal adjustments and specific exercises to support proper alignment. It is a non-invasive way to ease pain and reduce dependence on opioids. Nurse Practitioners (NPs) make this better by providing comprehensive care, offering ergonomic advice to prevent injuries, and coordinating multiple treatment options, such as lifestyle changes and therapy. Dr. Alexander Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, emphasizes in his clinical practice that these integrative approaches not only address physical symptoms but also empower patients through education and tailored strategies, leading to enduring recovery and diminished opioid consumption (Jimenez, n.d.a; Jimenez, n.d.b).
As we look ahead, new advancements in OUD therapy by 2025 show a trend toward making it easier to get and more tailored to each person. For instance:
Drugs like methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone that the FDA has approved are still the best way to treat OUD. They help with cravings and withdrawal symptoms and help people stay stable over time.
Precision medicine goes beyond one-size-fits-all methods by tailoring treatments to each person’s social, psychological, and genetic factors. This should lead to better results.
The World Health Organization’s 2025 updates put more emphasis on psychosocial support, with a focus on preventing overdoses in the community and making it easier for people to get care.
Declining Trends: The first yearly drop in opioid-related deaths since 2018 happened in 2023. This is a good sign because it shows that ongoing work in treatment, education, and lawmaking is having an effect.
We might be able to make OUD a treatable illness instead of a life sentence by combining these new ideas with collaborative care and reducing stigma. Policymakers, communities, and healthcare professionals must continue to advocate for equitable access to ensure that all individuals receive the evidence-based treatment they need. Overcoming problems in OUD management is about more than just getting better; it’s also about getting your dignity, hope, and a good quality of life back.
References
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Discover how a clinical approach to opioid therapy can transform pain management strategies for patients in a healthcare setting.
Key Points on Safe Pain Management with Opioids
Pain Affects Many People: Research suggests that about 100 million adults in the U.S. deal with pain, and this number might grow due to aging, more health issues like diabetes, and better survival from injuries. It’s important to address pain early to prevent it from becoming long-term (Institute of Medicine, 2011).
Non-Opioid Options First: Evidence leans toward starting with treatments like exercise, therapy, or over-the-counter meds before opioids, as they can be just as effective for common pains like backaches or headaches, with fewer risks (National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 2019).
Team-Based Care Works Best: Studies show teams of doctors, nurses, and therapists can improve pain relief and daily life, though results vary. This approach seems likely to help more than solo care, especially for ongoing pain (Gauthier et al., 2019).
Opioids When Needed, But Carefully: Guidelines recommend low doses, short times, and regular check-ins to balance relief with risks like addiction. It’s complex, so talk openly with your doctor (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022).
Alternatives Like Chiropractic and NP Support: Integrative methods, such as chiropractic adjustments for spine alignment and ergonomic tips from nurse practitioners, can reduce reliance on meds. Clinical observations from experts like Dr. Alexander Jimenez highlight non-invasive approaches to managing pain effectively.
Understanding Pain Types
Pain can be short-term (acute), medium-term (subacute), or long-lasting (chronic). Acute pain often lasts less than three months and comes from injuries. If not treated well, it might turn chronic, affecting daily activities. Always respect someone’s pain experience—it’s personal and influenced by life factors (Raja et al., 2020).
Assessing Pain Simply
Doctors use tools like questions about when pain started, what makes it worse, and how it feels. Scales help rate it, from numbers (0-10) to faces showing discomfort. For kids or elders, special tools watch for signs like faster heartbeats (Wong-Baker FACES Foundation, 2022).
Treatment Basics
Start with non-drug options like rest, ice, or physical therapy. For chronic pain, meds like acetaminophen or therapies like yoga help. Opioids are for severe cases but come with risks—use them wisely (Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, n.d.).
Role of Experts
According to clinical observations by Dr. Alexander Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, who runs a multidisciplinary practice in El Paso, Texas (https://dralexjimenez.com/), combining chiropractic care with exercises targets root causes, such as misaligned spines, reducing opioid needs. As a nurse practitioner, he coordinates care and offers ergonomic advice to prevent pain from daily habits (LinkedIn Profile).
Comprehensive Guide to Safe and Effective Pain Management Using Opioid Therapy
Millions of people struggle with pain, which affects everything from hobbies to employment. Finding safe strategies to deal with pain is crucial, whether it’s a recent injury or persistent discomfort. This comprehensive handbook examines how to measure pain, available treatments, and responsible opioid use recommendations. We’ll discuss team-based treatment, non-opioid alternatives, and perspectives from professionals like Dr. Alexander Jimenez, who prioritizes holistic approaches. To help you locate trustworthy information online, keywords like “pain management strategies,” “opioid therapy guidelines,” and “non-opioid pain relief” are interwoven.
Introduction to Pain in America
The Institute of Medicine estimates that around 100 million American adults face acute or chronic pain daily. This number is expected to climb due to an aging population, rising rates of conditions like diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, and cancer, plus better survival from serious injuries and more surgeries that can lead to post-op pain (Institute of Medicine, 2011).
As people learn more about pain relief options and gain better access through laws like the Affordable Care Act (ACA), more folks—especially older ones—seek help. Passed in 2010, the ACA requires insurers to cover essential pain management benefits, including prescription drugs, chronic disease care, mental health support, and emergency services (111th Congress, 2009-2010). To use these effectively, healthcare providers need a solid grasp of pain assessment, classification, and treatment.
What Is Pain?
The International Association for the Study of Pain defines it as an unpleasant feeling associated with real or potential tissue damage. It’s subjective, shaped by biology, emotions, and social life. People learn about pain through experiences—some seek help right away, others try home remedies first. Respect their stories (Raja et al., 2020).
Pain falls into three main types, though definitions overlap:
Acute Pain: Lasts less than 3 months, or 1 day to 12 weeks; often limits daily activities for a month or less.
Subacute Pain: Sometimes seen as part of acute, or separate; lasts 1-3 months, or 6-12 weeks.
Chronic Pain: Persists over 3 months, or limits activities for more than 12 weeks (Banerjee & Argáez, 2019).
Poorly managed short-term pain can become chronic, so early action is important (Marin et al., 2017).
Assessing Pain Thoroughly
Pain is complex, influenced by body, mind, and environment. A full check includes history, physical exam, pain details, other health issues, and mental states like anxiety.
Basic pain evaluation covers:
When it started (date/time).
What caused it (injury?).
How does it feel (sharp, dull?)?
How bad it is.
Where is it?
How long does it last?
What worsens it (moving?).
What helps it?
Related signs (swelling?).
Impact on daily life.
Mnemonics help remember these. Here’s a table comparing common ones:
Pain scales provide information but aren’t diagnoses because they’re subjective. Single-dimensional ones focus on intensity:
Verbal: Mild, moderate, severe.
Numeric: 0 (none) to 10 (worst).
Visual: Like Wong-Baker FACES®, using faces for kids, adults, or those with barriers (Wong-Baker FACES Foundation, 2022). An emoji version works for surgery patients (Li et al., 2023).
Multi-dimensional scales check intensity plus life impact. The McGill Pain Questionnaire uses words like “dull” to rate sensory, emotional, and overall effects; shorter versions exist (Melzack, 1975; Main, 2016). For nerve pain, PainDETECT helps (König et al., 2021). Brief Pain Inventory scores severity and interference with mood/life (Poquet & Lin, 2016).
For babies, watch heart rate, oxygen, and breathing. Tools like CRIES rate crying, oxygen need, vitals, expression, sleep (Castagno et al., 2022). FLACC for ages 2 months-7 years checks face, legs, activity, cry, consolability (Crellin et al., 2015). Older kids use Varni-Thompson or draw pain maps (Sawyer et al., 2004; Jacob et al., 2014).
Elders face barriers like hearing loss or dementia. PAINAD assesses breathing, sounds, face, body, and consolability on a 0-10 scale (Malara et al., 2016).
The Joint Commission sets standards across various settings, which affect tool choice (The Joint Commission, n.d.).
Building Treatment Plans
Plans depend on pain type, cause, severity, and patient traits. For acute: meds, distraction, psych therapies, rest, heat/ice, massage, activity, meditation, stimulation, blocks, injections (National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 2019).
Re-check ongoing acute pain to avoid chronic shift. Goals: control pain, prevent long-term opioids. Barriers: access to docs/pharmacies, costs, follow-ups.
For chronic: meds, anesthesia, surgery, psych, rehab, CAM. Non-opioids include:
Oral Meds:
Acetaminophen.
NSAIDs (celecoxib, etc.).
Antidepressants (SNRIs like duloxetine; TCAs like amitriptyline).
Anticonvulsants (gabapentin, etc.).
Muscle relaxers (cyclobenzaprine).
Memantine.
Topical: Diclofenac, capsaicin, lidocaine.
Cannabis: Medical (inhaled/oral/topical); phytocannabinoids (THC/CBD); synthetics (dronabinol) (Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, n.d.).
Opioid use has risen, raising concerns (National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 2019).
Key plan elements:
Quick recognition/treatment.
Address barriers.
Involve patients/families.
Reassess/adjust.
Coordinate transitions.
Monitor processes/outcomes.
Assess outpatient failure risk.
Check opioid misuse (Wells et al., 2008; Society of Hospital Medicine, n.d.).
Team Approach to Pain
Studies support the use of interprofessional teams for better results (Gauthier et al., 2019). Teams include docs, nurses, NPs, pharmacists, PAs, social workers, PTs, behavioral therapists, and abuse experts.
A 2017 report showed that teams improved pain/function from baseline, though not always compared with controls (Banerjee & Argáez, 2017). A meta-analysis found that teams were better at reducing pain after 1 month and sustained benefits at 12 months (Liossi et al., 2019).
Integrative chiropractic care fits here. It involves spinal adjustments—gentle manipulations to correct misalignments—and targeted exercises, such as core strengthening, to maintain alignment and reduce pressure on nerves/muscles. Dr. Alexander Jimenez observes that this helps sciatica/back pain without opioids, using tools like decompression (dralexjimenez.com).
Nurse Practitioners (NPs) provide comprehensive management, including ergonomic advice (e.g., better sitting postures) to prevent strain. They coordinate by reviewing options, referring to specialists, and overseeing plans, as seen in Dr. Jimenez’s practice, where his FNP-BC role includes telemedicine for holistic care (LinkedIn, n.d.).
Beyond Adjustments: Chiropractic and Integrative Healthcare- Video
Managing Opioids Safely
CDC’s 2022 guidelines cover starting opioids, dosing, duration, and risks (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022).
1. Starting Opioids:
Maximize non-opioids first—they match opioids for many acute pains (back, neck, etc.). Discuss benefits/risks (Recommendation 1, Category B, Type 3).
Review labels, use the lowest dose/shortest time. Set goals, exit strategy. For ongoing, optimize non-opioids (Recommendation 2, A, 2).
2. Choosing/Dosing Opioids:
Immediate-release (hydromorphone, etc.) over ER/LA (methadone, etc.). Studies show no edge for ER/LA; avoid for acute/intermittent (Recommendation 3, A, 4).
No rigid thresholds—guideposts. Risks rise with dose; avoid high if benefits dim (Recommendation 4, A, 3).
Taper slowly to avoid withdrawal (anxiety, etc.). Collaborate on plans; use Teams. If there is disagreement, empathize and avoid abandonment (Recommendation 5, B, 4).
3. Duration/Follow-Up:
For acute, prescribe just enough—often 3 days or less. Evaluate every 2 weeks. Taper if used for days. Avoid unintended long-term (Recommendation 6, A, 4).
Follow-up 1-4 weeks after start/escalation; closer for high-risk (Recommendation 7, A, 4).
4. Risks/Harms:
Screen for SUD/OUD. Offer naloxone for overdose risk (Recommendation 8, A, 4).
Check PDMPs for scripts/combos (Recommendation 9, B, 4).
Toxicology tests are performed annually to assess interactions (Recommendation 10, B, 4).
Caution with benzodiazepines (Recommendation 11, B, 3).
For OUD, use DSM-5 (2+ criteria/year); offer meds like buprenorphine (Recommendation 12, A, 1) (Hasin et al., 2013; American Psychiatric Association, 2013).
OUD signs: Larger amounts, failed cuts, time spent, cravings, role failures, social issues, activity loss, hazardous use, continued despite problems, tolerance, withdrawal.
Treatment: Meds, counseling, groups. Coordinate with specialists.
Conclusion
Finally, relying only on opioids is not necessary for efficient pain management. We can improve the lives of millions of people by giving priority to non-opioid alternatives like acetaminophen, physical therapy, or mindfulness and by taking opioids only when necessary under strict supervision. Teams of professionals, such as physicians, nurses, pharmacists, and specialists like chiropractors, collaborate to develop individualized strategies that lower dangers like addiction. By emphasizing spinal adjustments and targeted exercises, integrative chiropractic therapy may help restore normal alignment and reduce pain naturally, often eliminating the need for medication. Complete management, ergonomic guidance to prevent problems, and treatment coordination for optimal outcomes are all ways nurse practitioners provide value.
According to experts like Dr. Alexander Jimenez, these approaches target underlying issues using non-invasive treatments and functional medicine, promoting long-term well-being. Future developments in pain management seem promising, including FDA-approved non-opioid medications and distraction technologies such as virtual reality. In the end, everyone is empowered to address pain head-on, enhancing everyday activities and general health, when patients are included in decision-making and kept informed. Early evaluation and balanced treatment are crucial; discuss your options with your healthcare professional to determine what is best for you.
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