Back Clinic Chiropractic. This is a form of alternative treatment that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of various musculoskeletal injuries and conditions, especially those associated with the spine. Dr. Alex Jimenez discusses how spinal adjustments and manual manipulations regularly can greatly help both improve and eliminate many symptoms that could be causing discomfort to the individual. Chiropractors believe among the main reasons for pain and disease are the vertebrae’s misalignment in the spinal column (this is known as a chiropractic subluxation).
Through the usage of manual detection (or palpation), carefully applied pressure, massage, and manual manipulation of the vertebrae and joints (called adjustments), chiropractors can alleviate pressure and irritation on the nerves, restore joint mobility, and help return the body’s homeostasis. From subluxations, or spinal misalignments, to sciatica, a set of symptoms along the sciatic nerve caused by nerve impingement, chiropractic care can gradually restore the individual’s natural state of being. Dr. Jimenez compiles a group of concepts on chiropractic to best educate individuals on the variety of injuries and conditions affecting the human body.
What is the body’s center of gravity to understand and maintain a healthy posture and balance?
Center of Gravity
The human center of gravity, or COG, also known as the center of mass, with the two terms being interchangeable, is where the body’s weight appears to be concentrated. It’s a point in space where the entire body’s mass can be concentrated. When standing upright, the COG is generally located behind the navel and in front of the sacrum, around the level of the second vertebra. (Le Huec, J. 2011) The center of gravity is related to posture, including issues such as swayback, the design of posture exercise programs, and much more.
Gravity is a downward pull or force the Earth exerts on the body, creating weight. (NASA, 2013)
The center of gravity (COG) is where a body’s weight is equally balanced in all directions. (Physiopedia, 2025)
When the COG is defined, it is done from the reference of a static, standing position.
Because the body is in motion when we change positions, the COG is located in a new position with each new position.
The center of gravity is the point around which all the parts balance, which may be inside or outside the body.
Even slight changes in position can change where the COG is. (Physiopedia, 2025)
Key aspects of the COG
Location
When standing upright, the COG is typically found at the second vertebral level, behind the navel and in front of the sacrum. (Le Huec, J. 2011)
Shifting COG
The COG can shift depending on body position, posture, and movements like bending forward or backward. (Physiopedia, 2025)
Balance Impact
The relationship between the COG and the base of support (the area of the body in contact with the ground) is fundamental to maintaining balance.
Variations
There can be variations in the COG location based on factors like gender (men tend to have a slightly higher COG), body shape, and even conditions like obesity or chronic low back pain. (Physiopedia, 2025)
Biomechanics
Understanding the COG is crucial in biomechanics and movement analysis, as it’s an index of total body motion and how the body responds to external forces.
The Human Center
The center of gravity is the point at which the body’s mass is equally balanced. This point changes depending on one’s position:
Arms up/down
Leaning
Turning
With strength and flexibility training, the human body can change its center of gravity, as gymnasts and dancers do.
When standing, the center of gravity is normally located behind the navel and in front of the sacrum bone (made up of five vertebrae fused vertically) at about the second vertebra level. (Hasegawa K. et al., 2022)
Because the body has moving parts, its overall shape changes every time it moves. Carrying something like a suitcase or grocery bag or wearing a backpack adds weight to some areas but not others, changing the center of gravity as it does.
The center of gravity is a continually changing point inside or outside the body that represents where the weight or mass of the rest of the body is equally balanced in every direction.
This point can and does change based on what is being carried and how it is carried, as well as body position and movements.
Chronic Lower Back Pain
A study in the Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation found that individuals with chronic lower back pain tend to have their center of gravity located excessively towards the back. (Kim D. H., Park J. K., & Jeong M. K. 2014)
In the study, the individuals had decreased low back strength upon extension and a reduced normal low back curve.
The researchers found that those with chronic lower back pain whose center of gravity was too far back may need physical therapy to retrain the body to overcome strength and balance challenges to re-establish and maintain a healthy posture.
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic
As a Family Practice Nurse Practitioner, Dr. Jimenez combines advanced medical expertise with chiropractic care to address various conditions. Our clinic integrates Functional Medicine, Acupuncture, Electro-Acupuncture, and Sports Medicine to create customized care plans that promote natural healing, mobility, and long-term wellness. By focusing on flexibility, agility, and strength, we empower patients to thrive, regardless of age or health challenges. At El Paso’s Chiropractic Rehabilitation Clinic & Integrated Medicine Center, we passionately focus on treating patients after injuries and chronic pain syndromes. We focus on improving your ability through flexibility, mobility, and agility programs tailored for all age groups and disabilities. We use in-person and virtual health coaching and comprehensive care plans to ensure every patient’s personalized care and wellness outcomes.
Enhance Your Lifestyle Today with Chiropractic Care
References
Le Huec, J. C., Saddiki, R., Franke, J., Rigal, J., & Aunoble, S. (2011). Equilibrium of the human body and the gravity line: the basics. European spine journal: official publication of the European Spine Society, the European Spinal Deformity Society, and the European Section of the Cervical Spine Research Society, 20 Suppl 5(Suppl 5), 558–563. doi.org/10.1007/s00586-011-1939-7
Hasegawa, K., Amabile, C., Nesme, M., & Dubousset, J. (2022). Gravity center estimation for evaluation of standing whole body compensation using virtual barycentremetry based on biplanar slot-scanning stereoradiography – validation by simultaneous force plate measurement. BMC musculoskeletal disorders, 23(1), 22. doi.org/10.1186/s12891-021-04948-5
Kim, D. H., Park, J. K., & Jeong, M. K. (2014). Influences of posterior-located center of gravity on lumbar extension strength, balance, and lumbar lordosis in chronic low back pain. Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, 27(2), 231–237. doi.org/10.3233/BMR-130442
Can Affect Lower Back Muscles and Cause Hamstring Spasms
Lower back muscles, including those like the quadratus lumborum, can be affected by paraspinal spasms. (Hospital for Special Surgery, 2024)
The spasms can cause these muscles to tighten or spasm, potentially pulling on the hamstring muscles.
This can lead to hamstring spasms and tightness, further contributing to pain and potential nerve irritation.
Entrapment of the Sciatic Nerve
Piriformis syndrome is a common condition where the piriformis muscle (located in the buttock) spasms and compresses the sciatic nerve. (Cedars-Sinai, 2025)
The sciatic nerve runs from the lower back down the back of the thigh and into the leg, making it vulnerable to compression by surrounding muscles.
If the paraspinal and hamstring spasms create enough tension on the piriformis muscle or surrounding tissues, it can lead to sciatic nerve entrapment. (Hospital for Special Surgery, 2024)
How acupuncture helps relieve sciatica
Acupuncture can help relieve sciatica pain by stimulating specific points on the body, which can trigger the release of endorphins, reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, and relax tight muscles that could be compressing the sciatic nerve. By modulating the nervous system and promoting the body’s natural healing processes, acupuncture can help alleviate pain and improve overall function. (Qin, Z. et al., 2015)
Releases endorphins
Acupuncture stimulates the nervous system, triggering the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers.
Reduces inflammation
Acupuncture can help reduce inflammation in the area surrounding the sciatic nerve, which can contribute to pain and nerve irritation. (Natural Care Chiropractic, 2022)
Improves circulation
By increasing blood flow to the affected area, acupuncture can help deliver nutrients and oxygen to the sciatic nerve and surrounding tissues, promoting faster healing.
Relaxes tight muscles
Sciatica pain can be exacerbated by tight muscles compressing the nerve. Acupuncture can help relax these muscles, reducing pressure on the sciatic nerve and alleviating pain.
Regulates the nervous system
Acupuncture can help regulate the nervous system, positively impacting pain perception and overall well-being. (Qin, Z. et al., 2015)
Promotes regeneration
Some evidence suggests that acupuncture can promote sciatic nerve regeneration, potentially leading to long-term pain relief. (Natural Care Chiropractic, 2022)
Needling Types
Distal needling
Acupuncture can also involve using points that are further away from the site of pain, which can also help to reduce pain and inflammation.
Local needling
Points are also selected on or near the sciatic nerve’s path, which can help directly address the source of pain and inflammation. (Qin, Z. et al., 2015)
Holistic approach
Acupuncture is often viewed as a holistic approach to pain management, addressing the symptoms of sciatica and the underlying causes and imbalances in the body.
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic
As a Family Practice Nurse Practitioner, Dr. Jimenez combines advanced medical expertise with chiropractic care to address various conditions. Our clinic integrates Functional Medicine, Acupuncture, Electro-Acupuncture, and Sports Medicine to create customized care plans that promote natural healing, mobility, and long-term wellness. By focusing on flexibility, agility, and strength, we empower patients to thrive, regardless of age or health challenges. At El Paso’s Chiropractic Rehabilitation Clinic & Integrated Medicine Center, we passionately focus on treating patients after injuries and chronic pain syndromes. We focus on improving your ability through flexibility, mobility, and agility programs tailored for all age groups and disabilities. We use in-person and virtual health coaching and comprehensive care plans to ensure every patient’s personalized care and wellness outcomes.
Noonan, A. M., & Brown, S. H. M. (2021). Paraspinal muscle pathophysiology associated with low back pain and spine degenerative disorders. JOR spine, 4(3), e1171. doi.org/10.1002/jsp2.1171
Qin, Z., Liu, X., Wu, J., Zhai, Y., & Liu, Z. (2015). Effectiveness of Acupuncture for Treating Sciatica: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine: eCAM, 2015, 425108. doi.org/10.1155/2015/425108
What is pseudoarthrosis of the cervical and lumbar spine?
Pseudoarthrosis of the cervical and lumbar spine
Individuals may need a spinal fusion to treat a fractured vertebra, scoliosis, or conditions like spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, and spondylolisthesis/slipped vertebrae. A spinal fusion reduces pain and stabilizes the spine by limiting movement between vertebrae. Pseudoarthrosis happens when the bones don’t heal after a fracture or bone surgery. When pseudoarthrosis affects the cervical or lumbar spine, it means that two vertebrae did not heal and grow together after spinal surgery to fuse them (spinal fusion). Reasons for a failed spinal fusion include:
Issues with the instruments used to stabilize the bone
Lack of bone growth
The number of vertebrae being fused.
The patient’s health and lifestyle play a role in failed fusions, which can include
Diabetes
Inflammatory health conditions increase the risk
Smoking
Long-term steroid use
In many cases, revision surgery is needed.
Surgery-Related
During a spinal fusion, surgeons insert a bone graft between two vertebrae and then apply spinal fixation hardware (instrumented spinal fusion) that includes:
Plates
Rods
Screws
The bone graft promotes growth between the two bones.
The hardware stabilizes the vertebrae and prevents movement while they fuse and grow together.
The hardware goes inside, or internal fixation.
Although rare, a severe spinal fracture or deformity may need external fixation.
A rigid frame secured outside the body helps to stabilize the bones.
If the fusion fails, it could be caused by one or more of the following surgical issues:
The surgeon must carefully plan and use the right hardware.
The type of hardware used during a spinal fusion may influence bone healing.
The instruments can come loose or break, interfering with the fusion process.
Spinal osteoporosis, having thin, weak bones, can affect fixation.
Even with the optimal surgical preparedness, weak bones significantly increase the chance of the instruments loosening and pseudoarthrosis developing.
Bone Graft
The type of bone graft used may affect the fusion.
For example, in cervical/neck spinal fusions, an autograft, which uses a small piece of bone from the patient’s body, has a higher success rate. (Verla T. et al., 2021)
Other graft options include specialized steel cages that fit between vertebrae and contain bone growth factors.
The surgeon recommends the optimal bone graft for the type of surgery, the number of vertebrae involved, and risk factors.
Risk Factors
The patient’s overall health and lifestyle impact the results of spinal fusion. Smoking increases the risk. (Berman D. et al., 2017)
Nicotine restricts blood circulation, decreases bone density, reduces new bone formation, and delays bone healing. (Hernigou J., & Schuind F., 2019)
The primary sign of pseudoarthrosis is pain in the same area as before the fusion surgery.
If the bones pinch a spinal nerve, one arm may experience pain, tingling, burning, or numbness.
Rarely does a pinched nerve affect both arms.
The pain may return shortly after the procedure.
The pain may develop gradually or not appear for many months.
However, it’s more likely to appear after several months when the individual returns to their usual activities.
Diagnosis
The healthcare provider will learn about symptoms and perform a physical exam to evaluate the back.
They’ll assess mobility and the type of movement that causes pain.
Then, they order diagnostic imaging to see the spine and identify the cause of pain.
Individuals may need a CT scan, MRI, and/or X-rays to evaluate the spinal structures and instrumentation fully.
Treatment
Treatment for pseudoarthrosis will likely start with:
Physical therapy
Pain management – especially in cases where it is important to rule out other sources of back or neck pain.
Medication
Injections
If symptoms don’t improve with conservative care or if there is severe pain, the healthcare provider may recommend revision surgery.
Revision surgery is another procedure to treat complications or correct issues that arise after the initial pseudoarthrosis surgery.
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic
As a Family Practice Nurse Practitioner, Dr. Jimenez combines advanced medical expertise with chiropractic care to address various conditions. Our clinic integrates Functional Medicine, Acupuncture, Electro-Acupuncture, and Sports Medicine to create customized care plans that promote natural healing, mobility, and long-term wellness. By focusing on flexibility, agility, and strength, we empower patients to thrive, regardless of age or health challenges. At El Paso’s Chiropractic Rehabilitation Clinic & Integrated Medicine Center, we passionately focus on treating patients after injuries and chronic pain syndromes. We focus on improving your ability through flexibility, mobility, and agility programs tailored for all age groups and disabilities. We use in-person and virtual health coaching and comprehensive care plans to ensure every patient’s personalized care and wellness outcomes.
Enhancing Health Together
References
Boonsirikamchai, W., Wilartratsami, S., Ruangchainikom, M., Korwutthikulrangsri, E., Tongsai, S., & Luksanapruksa, P. (2024). Pseudarthrosis risk factors in lumbar fusion: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC musculoskeletal disorders, 25(1), 433. doi.org/10.1186/s12891-024-07531-w
Verla, T., Xu, D. S., Davis, M. J., Reece, E. M., Kelly, M., Nunez, M., Winocour, S. J., & Ropper, A. E. (2021). Failure in Cervical Spinal Fusion and Current Management Modalities. Seminars in plastic surgery, 35(1), 10–13. doi.org/10.1055/s-0041-1722853
Berman, D., Oren, J. H., Bendo, J., & Spivak, J. (2017). The Effect of Smoking on Spinal Fusion. International journal of spine surgery, 11(4), 29. doi.org/10.14444/4029
Hernigou, J., & Schuind, F. (2019). Tobacco and bone fractures: A review of the facts and issues that every orthopaedic surgeon should know. Bone & joint research, 8(6), 255–265. doi.org/10.1302/2046-3758.86.BJR-2018-0344.R1
Torres, H. M., Arnold, K. M., Oviedo, M., Westendorf, J. J., & Weaver, S. R. (2023). Inflammatory Processes Affecting Bone Health and Repair. Current osteoporosis reports, 21(6), 842–853. doi.org/10.1007/s11914-023-00824-4
Jiao, H., Xiao, E., & Graves, D. T. (2015). Diabetes and Its Effect on Bone and Fracture Healing. Current osteoporosis reports, 13(5), 327–335. doi.org/10.1007/s11914-015-0286-8
For individuals dealing with or experiencing muscle pain and stiffness, how long does it take to loosen tight muscles?
Length Of Time to Loosen Tight Muscles
Tight muscles are often caused by overuse or strain, combined with muscle soreness, a common symptom of tight muscles. The soreness peaks around the third day and begins to subside, typically resolving within a few days. But if tightness persists or is accompanied by other symptoms like numbness, inability to move, or swelling, it’s important to consult a medical provider. (Spine Medicine and Surgery of Long Island, 2024) However, it can take much longer for individuals who have never stretched and have had tight muscles for years, depending on the severity, injury history, and underlying causes.
Factors Influencing Timeline
Consistent stretching can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to noticeably loosen tight muscles and improve flexibility. The specific time frame depends on factors like the severity of the tightness, underlying causes, and individual consistency with stretching. (Peterson Physical Therapy, 2024)
Severity of Tightness
Muscle knots and significant limitations in range of motion may take longer to resolve than minor stiffness.
Underlying Causes
If tightness is due to a specific injury or condition, addressing that cause is important for lasting and maintaining improvements. (Healthline, 2023)
Individual Factors
Genetics, age, and overall health can influence how quickly muscles adapt to stretching.
Consistency
Regular stretching, ideally daily or several times a week, is essential for feeling progress. (Mayo Clinic, 2023)
Stretching Routine
The length of time can vary based on the starting flexibility level and the specific stretching routine. (Mayo Clinic, 2023) It typically takes several weeks of consistent stretching, at least 3-4 times a week, to notice flexibility improvements. Longer-term changes, beyond the initial feeling of being looser, usually take 8 to 12 weeks.
Longer holds (1-2 minutes) can provide deeper benefits.
Long-term Gains
For substantial and sustained improvements, stretching consistently for several months is recommended. (Mayo Clinic, 2023)
Initial Changes
Individuals may notice small improvements in the first few weeks, especially starting from a more inflexible position.
Influencing Factors and Results
Individual genetics, current flexibility level, and the specific exercises can affect how quickly improvements are seen and felt. (Peterson Physical Therapy, 2024)
What To Expect
Improvements
Within a few weeks, individuals might notice a decrease in the sensation of tightness or increased ease in reaching a stretch. (Peterson Physical Therapy, 2024)
Longer-Term Changes
Significant muscle length and flexibility improvements may take several weeks to months of consistent effort.
Consider professional guidance for specific concerns or limitations. Consult a physical therapist or healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
The length of time to see results means consistency and patience are important.
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic
As a Family Practice Nurse Practitioner, Dr. Jimenez combines advanced medical expertise with chiropractic care to address various conditions. Our clinic integrates Functional Medicine, Acupuncture, Electro-Acupuncture, and Sports Medicine to create customized care plans that promote natural healing, mobility, and long-term wellness. By focusing on flexibility, agility, and strength, we empower patients to thrive, regardless of age or health challenges. At El Paso’s Chiropractic Rehabilitation Clinic & Integrated Medicine Center, we passionately focus on treating patients after injuries and chronic pain syndromes. We focus on improving your ability through flexibility, mobility, and agility programs tailored for all age groups and disabilities. We use in-person and virtual health coaching and comprehensive care plans to ensure every patient’s personalized care and wellness outcomes.
Learn about the relationship between migraines associated with neck pain and how to alleviate discomfort through various techniques.
Introduction
Having a busy day with routine may lead to a number of problems, including headaches, stress, and physical exhaustion in the many parts of the body, including the skeletal system, muscles, and organs. The combination of pain and discomfort may result in overlapping risk profiles linked to long-term problems. Do you, for instance, get headaches that throb in different parts of your brain all the time, making it hard to focus on your task? Does moving your shoulders or neck provide momentary relief from stiffness? Or do you need a dark, quiet environment to feel better because you have sensitive light or sound issues? Many people who have neck discomfort and headaches may also be suffering from migraines that affect their lifestyles. In this post, we’ll examine the relationship between migraines and neck pain, the relationship between migraines and fibromyalgia, and holistic approaches to migraine symptom management.
The Migraine & Neck Connection
When it comes to headaches and migraines, many people will begin to feel tension in their heads from various areas and notice that their neck is stiff. This unilateral pain usually starts in the neck and then is accompanied by a reduced range of motion called a cervicogenic headache that can be confused with a migraine. (Al Khalili et al., 2025) Migraines are often a full-body experience with numerous symptoms that can make anybody’s daily life feel unmanageable. This is because the extra-cranial autonomic nervous system activates the trigeminal autonomic reflex, which is a physiological response that follows harmful stimuli that cause migraines to develop. (Vicente et al., 2023) Additionally, migraines can cause the individual to develop increased pain sensitivity and cervical musculoskeletal impairments like neck pain correlating with environmental factors that lead to its development. (Di Antonio et al., 2023) Many environmental factors can trigger migraines associated with neck pain, including:
Poor posture
Cervical spine misalignment
Muscle tension from stress or overuse
TMJ dysfunction
Inadequate sleep
How Fibromyalgia Connects With Migraines
Now, how would fibromyalgia be correlated with migraines for individuals? Since this link is a bit complex, both fibromyalgia and migraines are due to mitochondrial dysfunction that causes the body not to function properly. Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes the central nervous system to be affected chronically and is frequently present with other chronic pain syndromes like migraines. (Janssen et al., 2021) Fibromyalgia is often characterized by widespread pain and heightened pain sensitivity from central sensitization, causing the central nervous system to become hyperresponsive. Migraines are familial, episodic, and complex sensory processing disturbances associated with various symptoms mimicking fibromyalgia. (Aguilar-Shea et al., 2022) However, many individuals with fibromyalgia can experience the following symptoms:
Intense and frequent migraines
Musculoskeletal tenderness in the neck and upper back
Amplified severity and frequency of migraine attacks
When this happens, many people who are dealing with migraines associated with fibromyalgia will seek essential integrative treatments to manage the symptoms and find relief.
Tension Headaches Explained- Video
Holistic & Functional To Reduce Migraine Symptoms
When it comes to looking for treatments that can help reduce migraine symptoms, a holistic functional treatment approach is often the best approach. By incorporating this approach, many healthcare professionals can look beyond and understand the root causes of migraines. Many migraine treatments are cost-effective and non-surgical and can help reduce the pain-like symptoms associated with migraines and help restore neck functionality.
Chiropractic Care & Manual Therapies
When the body is dealing with misalignment from the cervical area of the spine, neck pain and migraines can develop. Many individuals take chiropractic care to help with cervical mobilization and suboccipital release, which reduces tension in the muscles while increasing the range of motion in the neck. Chiropractors utilize manual and mechanical manipulation to help realign the spine and help stretch and strengthen weak muscles. Chiropractors also incorporate myofascial release and MET maneuvers to help release tension and reduce inflammation affecting the body’s soft tissue, especially within the muscles and fasciae, by allowing contraction and relaxation methods to improve somatic dysfunction within the cervical spinal area. (Jara Silva et al., 2022) Additionally, cervical spinal manipulation can be effective by reducing the pain intensity of migraines and improving the symptomatic days when individuals are experiencing migraine associated with neck pain. (Mayo & Keating, 2023)
Postural & Ergonomic Interventions
Many individuals don’t realize that some of the sources that cause their neck pain could be due to everyday motions that can lead to poor posture. Being hunched from looking down at their phones or leaning forward to look at the computer can strain the neck muscles, thus compressing the cervical nerves, leading to migraines and headaches. Incorporating craniocervical exercises can provide beneficial results for individuals with migraines correlated with neck pain, therefore reducing the frequency and improving disability that is affecting the body. (de Almeida Tolentino et al., 2021) When people start doing postural retraining and neck mobility exercises as part of their daily routine, they reduce the chances of migraines returning.
Anti-Inflammatory & Nutritional Support
Migraines can be triggered or worsened by inflammation and blood sugar instability through improper dieting. When it comes to dieting, many individuals can often see that certain foods can trigger different reactions in the body. Certain foods can trigger migraines to develop; however, by figuring out which food causes the triggers that lead to the migraine to establish, many individuals can make various changes in what they eat. Many people are encouraged to try the elimination diet to identify the food trigger causing the migraines and avoid it. (Gazerani, 2020) Hence why, incorporating foods rich in omega-3s can help not only reduce migraine headaches but also reduce chronic inflammation that is affecting the body.
Additionally, many individuals can incorporate magnesium supplements, which can help decrease migraine attacks by altering the neurotransmitter secretion in the central nervous system (Shin et al., 2020). This can help many individuals feel better over time.
Final Thoughts
There is a common route between migraines and neck pain when determining the relationship between the two conditions. Many people might have a personalized treatment strategy to control migraine symptoms and regain neck mobility by comprehending this overlapping link. The objective is to provide patients with resources that will lessen the frequency and intensity of migraines, increase energy, and enhance their quality of life, whether this is accomplished by physical treatments, dietary assistance, or lifestyle modifications.
Injury Medical & Functional Medicine Clinic
We associate with certified medical providers who understand the importance of assessing individuals dealing with neck pain associated with migraines. When asking important questions to our associated medical providers, we advise patients to incorporate numerous techniques to reduce migraines from reappearing and causing neck pain. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., uses this information as an academic service. Disclaimer.
References
Aguilar-Shea, A. L., Membrilla Md, J. A., & Diaz-de-Teran, J. (2022). Migraine review for general practice. Aten Primaria, 54(2), 102208. doi.org/10.1016/j.aprim.2021.102208
de Almeida Tolentino, G., Lima Florencio, L., Ferreira Pinheiro, C., Dach, F., Fernandez-de-Las-Penas, C., & Bevilaqua-Grossi, D. (2021). Effects of combining manual therapy, neck muscle exercises, and therapeutic pain neuroscience education in patients with migraine: a study protocol for a randomized clinical trial. BMC Neurol, 21(1), 249. doi.org/10.1186/s12883-021-02290-w
Di Antonio, S., Arendt-Nielsen, L., & Castaldo, M. (2023). Cervical musculoskeletal impairments and pain sensitivity in migraine patients. Musculoskelet Sci Pract, 66, 102817. doi.org/10.1016/j.msksp.2023.102817
Janssen, L. P., Medeiros, L. F., Souza, A., & Silva, J. D. (2021). Fibromyalgia: A Review of Related Polymorphisms and Clinical Relevance. An Acad Bras Cienc, 93(suppl 4), e20210618. doi.org/10.1590/0001-3765202120210618
Jara Silva, C. E., Joseph, A. M., Khatib, M., Knafo, J., Karas, M., Krupa, K., Rivera, B., Macia, A., Madhu, B., McMillan, M., Burtch, J., Quinonez, J., Albert, T., & Khanna, D. (2022). Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment and the Management of Headaches: A Scoping Review. Cureus, 14(8), e27830. doi.org/10.7759/cureus.27830
Mayo, Z., & Keating, C. (2023). Manual Therapy and Exercise for the Management of Chronic Neck Pain With Multiple Neurovascular Comorbidities: A Case Report. Cureus, 15(3), e36961. doi.org/10.7759/cureus.36961
Shin, H. J., Na, H. S., & Do, S. H. (2020). Magnesium and Pain. Nutrients, 12(8). doi.org/10.3390/nu12082184
Vicente, B. N., Oliveira, R., Martins, I. P., & Gil-Gouveia, R. (2023). Cranial Autonomic Symptoms and Neck Pain in Differential Diagnosis of Migraine. Diagnostics (Basel), 13(4). doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics13040590
For individuals experiencing back pain, can lying in the supine position help bring relief?
Supine Position
The supine position describes the body’s position when lying on your back with your face up. The individual is flat on their back with no incline, arms at their sides or bent at a 90-degree angle. It’s commonly used in medical settings for examinations, surgeries, and procedures, particularly when access to the anterior/front of the body is needed. It can benefit certain conditions, like helping relieve pain, but exacerbate others, like acid reflux. The term is also used as a modifier for exercises and stretches that begin with the individual on their back. (ScienceDirect Topics, 2009)
Medical Uses
Examinations
Healthcare providers often use the supine position for physical examinations, including vital signs, palpation of the abdomen, and chest inspection. (Nurse.com, 2024)
Procedures
It’s also used for various procedures, such as lumbar punctures and injections. (Steris Healthcare, 2025)
Surgery
Due to its accessibility to the front of the body, the supine position is frequently used for surgeries such as cardiac, abdominal, thoracic, and cranial procedures.
It allows for easy access to the airway, facilitates anesthesia choices, and can be readily converted to an open procedure if necessary. ScienceDirect Topics, 2009)
Overall Health
Natural Position
Many individuals naturally fall asleep in the supine position, finding it comfortable and conducive to spinal alignment.
Back Pain Relief
Sometimes, lying supine with proper support can relieve back pain, particularly in individuals with lumbar spinal issues. (MedicalNewsToday, 2022)
Acid Reflux
However, the supine position can exacerbate acid reflux, as gravity allows stomach acid to travel up the esophagus. (MedicalNewsToday, 2022)
Sleep Apnea
The supine position can worsen sleep apnea in some individuals.
Clinical Uses
A physical therapist, trainer, or clinician may use supine to describe positions used for manual therapy or when having the patient do stretching and back exercises as part of a home exercise program.
If the therapist or personal trainer is training the individual on core stabilization exercises for the first time, the individual will most likely start in the supine position.
This is because when the body is supine, the muscles have the least work to do to maintain correct posture and position against the force of gravity.
Many bed exercises begin in this position for rehabilitation.
Back Care
Here are a few recommendations to relieve low back pain using the supine position.
First, individuals can release the tension in the back by assuming the hook-lying position, a modification of the supine position in which the knees are bent and the feet are resting flat on the floor (Aurora BayCare Medical Center, N.D.).
Start breathing and relaxing, allowing the tension to drain out of the muscles.
In a hook-lying position with the fingertips on the lower belly, inhale deeply, then exhale naturally and puff out the remaining air.
At that point, the fingertips should feel the transverse abdominal muscle engage.
Release and repeat 10 times.
After the body is warmed up, move on to actual exercise. For example, beginners may be given hip stretches to help relieve back pain. These might be done to maintain or prevent back pain. Individuals can do yoga for their back while in the supine position. As with any exercise program, not all yoga poses involve lying on the back, but many beginners and restorative ones do.
For example, the supine spinal twist involves lying on the back, bending the knees, and gently placing them to one side. The idea is to stay in that position for a few moments—and breathe—to allow the oblique abdominal and back muscles to release.
Variations
Lawn Chair Position
This variation involves slightly bending the hips and knees and elevating them above the heart, which can help relieve lower back pain.
Frog-Leg Position
The frog-leg position involves lying on the back with bent knees pushed out to the sides, providing access to the groin and perineum. (Steris Healthcare, 2025)
Injury Medical Chiropractic & Functional Medicine Clinic
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to develop an optimal health and wellness solution. We focus on what works for you to relieve pain, restore function, and prevent injury. Regarding musculoskeletal pain, specialists like chiropractors, acupuncturists, and massage therapists can help mitigate the pain through spinal adjustments that help the body realign itself. They can also work with other medical professionals to integrate a treatment plan to resolve musculoskeletal issues.
Dr. Alex Jimenez: Pioneering Integrative Care as a Chiropractor and Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Alex Jimenez, a licensed chiropractor and board-certified nurse practitioner based in El Paso, Texas, brings over 25 years of expertise to his Injury Medical & Chiropractic Clinic practice. His dual licensure provides unique insights into the etiologies, pathogenesis, and treatment of complex clinical conditions, enabling him to deliver patient-centered, integrative care that bridges physical medicine, functional medicine, and advanced diagnostics. Combining chiropractic expertise with nurse practitioner-driven medical management, Dr. Jimenez offers comprehensive treatment protocols tailored to acute and chronic conditions, promoting metabolic resilience, longevity, and whole-person wellness.
Dual Expertise: Chiropractic and Nurse Practitioner Roles
Dr. Jimenez’s practice stands out due to his ability to integrate the biomechanical focus of chiropractic care with a nurse practitioner’s diagnostic and therapeutic scope. As a chiropractor, he specializes in restoring musculoskeletal function, particularly after trauma, neck, back, spine, and soft tissue injuries. His chiropractic interventions emphasize non-invasive techniques, such as spinal decompression, manual adjustments, and functional rehabilitation, to alleviate pain and enhance mobility.
As a board-certified nurse practitioner, Dr. Jimenez employs evidence-based medicine to address systemic and metabolic dysfunctions. His expertise extends to managing chronic degenerative disorders, hormonal imbalances, weight loss, sexual health, and pain syndromes. This dual perspective allows him to identify underlying disease causes, from biomechanical misalignments to physiological imbalances, and design treatment regimens that address symptoms and root causes.
The synergy of these roles enables Dr. Jimenez to offer a holistic approach that is particularly effective for complex conditions such as sciatica, fibromyalgia, disc herniation, spondylolisthesis, and chronic neck or back pain. His integrative protocols combine functional medicine assessments, lifestyle interventions, and advanced diagnostics to achieve homeostasis and physiological balance.
Treatment Protocols: Evidence-Based and Patient-Centered
Drawing from integrative protocols outlined on his website, www.chiromed.com, Dr. Jimenez employs a multidisciplinary approach to patient care. His treatment plans are grounded in evidence-based medicine, functional medicine, and lifestyle wellness strategies, tailored to each patient’s unique health profile, lifestyle, and medical history. Below are key components of his integrative care model:
1. Chiropractic Care and Functional Rehabilitation
Spinal Decompression: Non-surgical decompression therapy is used to relieve pressure on spinal discs, addressing conditions like disc herniation, sciatica, and spinal stenosis. This modality promotes healing by improving blood flow and nutrient delivery to affected areas.
Manual Adjustments: Targeted adjustments correct spinal misalignments, reduce nerve compression, and restore joint mobility. These are particularly effective for whiplash, scoliosis, and poor posture.
Functional Strength Training: Dr. Jimenez designs conditioning programs to enhance recovery and prevent re-injury. These programs are tailored for athletes and individuals seeking optimal performance and incorporate mobility, flexibility, and agility training.
2. Functional Medicine Assessments
Functional medicine tools evaluate metabolic, hormonal, and nutritional status. These assessments identify the root causes of conditions such as fatigue, weight gain, or chronic pain, enabling precise interventions.
Advanced diagnostic protocols, including blood panels and imaging, provide data-driven insights into etiologies and pathogenesis. This allows Dr. Jimenez to address underlying dysfunctions rather than merely masking symptoms.
3. Lifestyle and Nutritional Interventions
Weight Loss and Metabolic Resilience: Dr. Jimenez integrates nutritional counseling and metabolic optimization strategies to support sustainable weight loss and prevent chronic diseases like diabetes or cardiovascular disorders.
Hormone and Sexual Health: Personalized regimens address hormonal imbalances and sexual dysfunction, improving quality of life and overall wellness.
Pain Management: Nutritional and lifestyle modifications complement physical therapies to manage chronic pain syndromes, reducing reliance on pharmaceuticals.
4. Specialized Care for Complex Conditions
Sciatica and Disc Injuries: Dr. Jimenez employs targeted decompression and rehabilitation protocols to alleviate nerve compression and restore function.
Chronic Degenerative Disorders: Conditions like fibromyalgia, arthritis, and spondylolisthesis are managed through integrative plans that combine physical therapy, nutritional support, and metabolic optimization.
Sports and Auto Accident Injuries: Tailored rehabilitation programs address soft tissue damage, shoulder injuries, and whiplash, ensuring rapid recovery and long-term resilience.
5. Advanced Wellness Programs
Dr. Jimenez’s clinic offers comprehensive wellness programs on longevity, skin care, and hair loss. These programs integrate nutritional supplementation, lifestyle coaching, and cutting-edge therapies to promote vitality and aesthetic health.
High-level conditioning programs optimize performance for athletes, incorporating functional strength training and recovery-focused interventions.
Integrative Team and Clinic Highlights
Injury Medical & Chiropractic Clinic is El Paso’s largest mobility, flexibility, and agility center, integrating chiropractors, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, nutritionists, and physical performance trainers. The clinic’s multidisciplinary team collaborates to deliver personalized care, ensuring patients achieve measurable health outcomes. Key services include:
Acupuncture: A Complementary therapy to reduce pain and promote relaxation.
Advanced Nutritional Programs: Evidence-based dietary plans to support metabolic health and recovery.
Physical Performance Training: Programs to enhance fitness, prevent injuries, and optimize athletic performance.
The clinic accepts major insurances, including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, and First Health, making care accessible to a broad patient base.
Insights from Dual Licensure
Dr. Jimenez’s licensure as both a chiropractor and nurse practitioner provides him with a comprehensive understanding of disease processes and treatment modalities. His chiropractic training equips him to address biomechanical dysfunctions, while his nurse practitioner expertise allows him to manage systemic conditions with a medical lens. This dual perspective enhances his ability to:
Clarify Etiologies: By combining musculoskeletal assessments with metabolic and hormonal evaluations, Dr. Jimenez identifies multifactorial causes of conditions, ensuring targeted interventions.
Understand Pathogenesis: His knowledge of disease progression informs proactive treatment plans that halt or reverse degenerative processes.
Design Appropriate Regimens: Integrating physical, nutritional, and medical therapies, Dr. Jimenez creates synergistic treatment plans that address both symptoms and underlying dysfunctions.
This integrative approach is particularly valuable for patients with chronic or multifactorial conditions, as it addresses the interplay between physical, metabolic, and lifestyle factors.
Patient-Centered Care: In-Person and Online
Dr. Jimenez’s practice emphasizes personalized attention, whether patients visit in person at 11860 Vista Del Sol, Suite 128, El Paso, TX 79936, or engage through telehealth. His functional medicine series, accessible via www.dralexjimenez.com, educates patients on holistic health principles, covering topics from spinal health to metabolic optimization. The website features:
Informative Content: Blog posts, articles, and videos provide insights into chiropractic care, functional medicine, and injury rehabilitation.
Patient Testimonials: Success stories highlight the transformative impact of Dr. Jimenez’s care, showcasing outcomes for conditions like sciatica, sports injuries, and chronic pain.
Appointment Booking: A user-friendly interface allows patients to schedule in-person or online consultations, with clear guidance on what to expect during their first visit.
Commitment to Education and Community Health
Dr. Jimenez is dedicated to empowering patients through education. His website is comprehensive, offering evidence-based information on health conditions, treatment options, and wellness strategies. By fostering health literacy, Dr. Jimenez enables patients to make informed decisions and take charge of their well-being.
His commitment extends to the El Paso community, where he aims to expand access to integrative care. Dr. Jimenez promotes proactive health management and preventive care through workshops, online content, and community outreach.
Conclusion
Dr. Alex Jimenez’s dual expertise as a chiropractor and nurse practitioner positions him as a leader in integrative medicine. His ability to bridge physical medicine with systemic health management allows him to address complex clinical issues with precision and compassion. Dr. Jimenez delivers personalized care that promotes healing, resilience, and longevity by leveraging evidence-based protocols, advanced diagnostics, and lifestyle interventions.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit www.dralexjimenez.com or contact the clinic at +1-915-412-6677.
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