Back Clinic Chronic Back Pain Team. Chronic back pain has a far-reaching effect on many physiological processes. Dr. Jimenez reveals topics and issues affecting his patients. Understanding the pain is critical to its treatment. So here we begin the process for our patients in the journey of recovery.
Just about everyone feels pain from time to time. When you cut your finger or pull a muscle, pain is your body’s way of telling you something is wrong. Once the injury heals, you stop hurting.
Chronic pain is different. Your body keeps hurting weeks, months, or even years after the injury. Doctors often define chronic pain as any pain that lasts for 3 to 6 months or more.
Chronic back pain can have real effects on your day-to-day life and your mental health. But you and your doctor can work together to treat it.
Do call upon us to help you. We do understand the problem that should never be taken lightly.
Can incorporating these 7 exercises help individuals dealing with back pain help promote a healthy spine and functionality?
Introduction
Many individuals have dealt with back pain in their body’s upper, middle, and lower portions, which can correlate with other issues in the upper and lower body extremities. This is due to how many environmental factors affect a person’s daily routine. From stressful days that impact a person’s day to physical inactivity or even spinal issues that have developed over time can cause back pain. When individuals decide to make changes in their health and wellness journey to not only reduce back pain but also improve how they present themselves. Many individuals can start with exercises to reduce back pain and help their spinal health by making sure that they are doing it correctly to prevent injuries. Today’s article looks at how spinal issues correlate with back pain and how these seven simple exercises and stretches can help reduce lower back pain and help you have a healthy spine. We talk with certified associated medical providers who provide our patients’ information to assess back pain correlated with their spine. We also inform patients while asking their associated medical provider intricate questions to formulate customized treatment plans to reduce back pain by integrating exercises to help reduce the pain and promote wellness. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., includes this information as an academic service. Disclaimer.
Spinal Issues Correlating To Back Pain
Do you feel stiffness or muscle aches in your back’s upper, middle, or lower areas? Have you noticed that your posture is hunched more than normal when looking at the phone or being on the computer for an extended period? Or does your back ache from lifting a heavy object or sleeping incorrectly? More often than not, these pain-related scenarios are associated with back pain combined with spinal issues. As one of the leading causes of disability, loss of productivity, and more visits to a health clinic, back pain can impact the body and cause individuals to be miserable. (Bang et al., 2021) Back pain can be specific or non-specific and can cause a person’s spine to degenerate through the spinal disc. The spinal disc provides stability, flexibility, and mobility to the spine, which then helps keep the host upright. However, as the body ages, so does the spine, as lower back pain is multifactorial. When the spinal disc degenerates, the spine has a reduced capacity for intrinsic self-repair within the tissues. (Mohd Isa et al., 2022)
At the same time, when many individuals are dealing with low back pain, depending on the severity of the issue, theywill often change their gait mechanics by adapting different strategies to mitigate the loading on the primary muscles associated with the locomotion that protects the pain-producing tissues. (Smith et al., 2022) When that happens, the pain from the lower back muscles can aggravate the spine further and lead to more chronic issues; however, there are ways to reduce the effects of lower back pain and to help keep the spine healthy.
Can Core Exercises Help with Back Pain?-Video
The 7 Exercises To Incorporate For Back Pain
When it comes to making sure that lower back pain can be reduced and to help with keeping a healthy spine, many people often seek out physical therapy to reduce the pain. Since low back pain is costly in a clinical approach, physical therapy is cost-effective, non-invasive, and can help individuals get a kick start in their health journey. Physical therapy involves whole-body movement that emphasizes breathing coordination, reducing pain from the lower back, and helping stabilize the lumbar spine to improve physical function. (Li et al., 2023) By going through a treatment plan that incorporates physical therapy, many individuals will begin to notice their pain is improving and their quality of life is getting better. (Fischer et al., 2021) Additionally, stretching and core stability exercises can activate the deep and superficial spinal muscles by strengthening them and help stretch out sore muscles affected by low back pain to help many individuals recover. (Calatayud et al., 2019) Below are seven exercises that can help reduce back pain and, when done correctly and consecutively, can help many individuals have a healthier spine while being more mindful of their bodies.
Knee-To-Chest Exercise
This knee-to-chest exercise can help stretch the lower back muscles and can be done in the morning or evening.
Lying on your back with knees bent and feet flat for stability.
Pull one knee up with both hands and press it towards your chest.
Keep the stomach muscles tight while pressing your spine to the floor, holding for at least 30 seconds before returning to position.
Repeat with the other knee and do each stretch 2-3 times.
Lower Back Rotational Stretch (On the Floor)
This lower back rotational stretch can help stretch tight muscles in the lower back.
Laying on the mat, ensure you are on your back with knees bent and feet flat.
Make sure the shoulders are firmly on the floor, and slowly roll the knees to one side until 45 degrees.
Hold that position for 30 seconds before slowly rotating the knees back to the starting position.
Repeat on the other side and do each stretch 2-3 times.
Lower Back Flexibility Exercise
This lower back flexibility will help stretch and strengthen the lower back and core muscles.
Lay flat on the mat. For stability, make sure that the knees are bent with feet are flat on the floor.
Tighten the stomach muscles so the lower back can be pulled away from the floor.
Hold the position for 5 seconds and relax, slowly lowering to the floor.
Flatten the back as your belly button starts to go towards the floor, and hold the position for 5 seconds before relaxing.
Do five repetitions a day to slowly work up to 30 reps.
Bridge Exercise
The bridge exercise can help with core stability and help strengthen core muscles.
Laying flat on your back on the floor, with knees bent and feet flat. Make sure that your shoulders and head are relaxed.
Tighten the core and glute muscles while slowly raising from the hips to form a straight line from the knees to the shoulders.
Stay in that position for 30 seconds while taking deep breaths.
Slowly go down to the floor and relax.
Do five repetitions a day to slowly work up to 30 reps.
Cat-To-Cow Stretch
The cat-to-cow stretch helps with shoulders, upper back, and lower back muscles.
On your hands and knees, hip-width apart on the mat, be in a neutral spine position.
Slowly arch your back by pulling your belly towards the ceiling and your head down for 30 seconds.
Then, slowly let the back and belly sag towards the floor as the head rises for 30 seconds.
Return to the neutral spine position and repeat about 3-5 times twice daily.
Lower Back Rotational Stretch (Seated)
This lower back rotational stretch is seated if the floor is uncomfortable for individuals with severe back pain.
Sitting in an armless chair or stool in a seated upright position, cross one leg over the other.
Then, place the left elbow against the outside of the right knee and twist and stretch the side.
Hold the postion for 10 seconds before slowly returning to a seated position.
Repeat the stretch on the opposite side.
Do this stretch 3-5 times on each side to stretch tight back muscles about twice daily.
Shoulder Blade Squeeze
This shoulder blade squeeze helps individuals properly posture while stretching and strengthening tight upper back and shoulder muscles.
Start in a seated upright position on an armless chair or stool.
Slowly pull the shoulder blades together in the upright position and hold for 5-30 seconds.
Relax, return to the upright position, and repeat 3-5 times twice daily.
References
Bang, A. A., Bhojraj, S. Y., & Bang, A. T. (2021). Back pain and musculoskeletal pain as public health problems: Rural communities await solution. J Glob Health, 11, 01007. doi.org/10.7189/jogh.11.01007
Calatayud, J., Escriche-Escuder, A., Cruz-Montecinos, C., Andersen, L. L., Perez-Alenda, S., Aiguade, R., & Casana, J. (2019). Tolerability and Muscle Activity of Core Muscle Exercises in Chronic Low-back Pain. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 16(19). doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16193509
Fischer, S. C., Calley, D. Q., & Hollman, J. H. (2021). Effect of an Exercise Program That Includes Deadlifts on Low Back Pain. J Sport Rehabil, 30(4), 672-675. doi.org/10.1123/jsr.2020-0324
Li, Y., Yan, L., Hou, L., Zhang, X., Zhao, H., Yan, C., Li, X., Li, Y., Chen, X., & Ding, X. (2023). Exercise intervention for patients with chronic low back pain: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. Front Public Health, 11, 1155225. doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2023.1155225
Mohd Isa, I. L., Teoh, S. L., Mohd Nor, N. H., & Mokhtar, S. A. (2022). Discogenic Low Back Pain: Anatomy, Pathophysiology and Treatments of Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. Int J Mol Sci, 24(1). doi.org/10.3390/ijms24010208
Smith, J. A., Stabbert, H., Bagwell, J. J., Teng, H. L., Wade, V., & Lee, S. P. (2022). Do people with low back pain walk differently? A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Sport Health Sci, 11(4), 450-465. doi.org/10.1016/j.jshs.2022.02.001
Can individuals dealing with back pain find treatment to reduce gut pain associated with SIBO to improve body health?
Introduction
Many individuals have noticed that when it comes to improving their health and well-being, many will incorporate small changes into their daily routines. From exercising for at least 30 minutes to incorporating healthy nutritional foods into their diet, many people don’t realize that the best way to have a healthy style starts with the gut. The gut system helps the body digest food and nutrients to be transported to the body, helps regulate growth and metabolism, and provides immune support to all the organ systems. However, when harmful pathogens and environmental factors start to impact the gut, it can cause the development of harmful pathogens inside the gut system and, over time, cause overlapping risk profiles in the body. This leads to gut dysfunction and musculoskeletal issues in the individual and can cause pain and discomfort if not treated right away. Luckily, numerous ways exist to improve gut health and reduce musculoskeletal issues. Today’s article focuses on a gut issue known as SIBO, how SIBO is correlated with back pain, and what treatments can help reduce SIBO. We talk with certified associated medical providers who provide our patients’ information to assess and identify how SIBO is correlated with back pain. We also inform patients while asking their associated medical provider intricate questions to formulate customized treatment plans to reduce the effects of SIBO and help restore gut health. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., includes this information as an academic service. Disclaimer.
What is SIBO?
How often do you feel general aches or pain in your gut or around your lower back? Do you constantly feel tired throughout the day, even after a full night’s rest? Or have you been constantly feeling constipated or bloated after eating a meal? Many of these scenarios are associated with a gut issue known as SIBO or small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. Before diving into what SIBO is, it is important to see the gut’s main function to the body. Known as the second brain of the body, the gut system is home to trillions of good bacteria that help with food digestion and protect the body from bad bacteria. When environmental factors like poor dieting, physical inactivity, or inflammatory effects affect the body, the gut’s delicate ecosystem is also affected. This can cause gut dysfunction to the body and, over time, when it is not being treated, lead to SIBO.
SIBO is the presence of excess bad bacteria in the small intestines, which causes protective barriers that help the small intestines weaken. (Sorathia et al., 2024) Additionally, SIBO can correlate with conditions as it can accompany other gut issues by stimulating the immune system. (Banaszak et al., 2023) When the immune system becomes hyperactively stimulated by SIBO, it can cause the inflammatory cytokines to mass produce and cause a ripple effect on the entire body. Since inflammation is the body’s natural response to remove harmful pathogens that cause issues, mass production of inflammatory cytokines in the gut can cause toxins and bad bacteria to enter the bloodstream and travel to different body areas to cause pain. At the same time, SIBO can disrupt the gut-brain axis, which leads to intestinal motility changes and secretion, thus causing overlapping risk profiles like back pain to affect the body. (Carter et al., 2023)
Eating Right to Feel Better- Video
How Does Back Pain Correlate With SIBO?
Now, many people are wondering how back pain is correlated with SIBO. Since SIBO causes the immune system to be hyperactive and mass-produce inflammatory cytokines to reduce the integrity and function of the gastrointestinal barrier, it can cause chronic inflammation and induce pain, which includes musculoskeletal conditions like back pain. (Hui et al., 2023) Additionally, the gut-brain axis being over-runed by SIBO and chronic inflammation being an overlapping risk factor can cause negative influences on the gut microbiome composition, and how the individual reacts to the changes can lead to abnormal bone growth and reabsorption due to the excess bacteria. (Geng et al., 2023) The excess bacteria produced by SIBO can affect intervertebral disc homeostasis and, when combined with environmental factors, can further enhance the inflammatory damage to the back muscles. (Yao et al., 2023) However, there are ways to not only reduce the back pain but also treat SIBO from causing more issues in the gut.
Treatments To Reduce SIBO
When it comes to treating SIBO, it depends on what treatment a person will be combined. The main goals for creating a treatment plan for SIBO are:
Reducing the bad bacteria
Bio-transform the gut
Preventing a relapse
Additionally, many individuals can make small changes in their routine by making dietary changes that can modify the intestinal microbiota. (Souza et al., 2022) This, in turn, helps promote gut health and replenish the nutrients while restoring the good bacteria to the gut. Regarding back pain associated with SIBO, chiropractic care can help individuals decrease or alleviate musculoskeletal symptoms by realigning the spine while massaging the muscles. This can help increase circulation while soothing the inflammatory effects caused by SIBO. Chiropractic care can be implemented as part of a person’s customizable treatment plan through a whole body approach by incorporating lifestyle changes and restoring gut health. By making these small changes with the right treatments to manage the overlapping symptoms caused by SIBO, many individuals can make these small changes to their routine to prevent SIBO from reappearing and causing issues in the body.
References
Banaszak, M., Gorna, I., Wozniak, D., Przyslawski, J., & Drzymala-Czyz, S. (2023). Association between Gut Dysbiosis and the Occurrence of SIBO, LIBO, SIFO and IMO. Microorganisms, 11(3). doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms11030573
Carter, J., Bettag, J., Morfin, S., Manithody, C., Nagarapu, A., Jain, A., Nazzal, H., Prem, S., Unes, M., McHale, M., Lin, C. J., Hutchinson, C., Trello, G., Jain, A., Portz, E., Verma, A., Swiderska-Syn, M., Goldenberg, D., & Kurashima, K. (2023). Gut Microbiota Modulation of Short Bowel Syndrome and the Gut-Brain Axis. Nutrients, 15(11). doi.org/10.3390/nu15112581
Geng, Z., Wang, J., Chen, G., Liu, J., Lan, J., Zhang, Z., & Miao, J. (2023). Gut microbiota and intervertebral disc degeneration: a bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization study. J Orthop Surg Res, 18(1), 601. doi.org/10.1186/s13018-023-04081-0
Hui, J., Chen, Y., Li, C., Gou, Y., Liu, Y., Zhou, R., Kang, M., Liu, C., Wang, B., Shi, P., Cheng, S., Yang, X., Pan, C., Jia, Y., Cheng, B., Liu, H., Wen, Y., & Zhang, F. (2023). Insight into the Causal Relationship between Gut Microbiota and Back Pain: A Two Sample Bidirectional Mendelian Randomization Study. Adv Genet (Hoboken), 4(4), 2300192. doi.org/10.1002/ggn2.202300192
Souza, C., Rocha, R., & Cotrim, H. P. (2022). Diet and intestinal bacterial overgrowth: Is there evidence? World J Clin Cases, 10(15), 4713-4716. doi.org/10.12998/wjcc.v10.i15.4713
Yao, B., Cai, Y., Wang, W., Deng, J., Zhao, L., Han, Z., & Wan, L. (2023). The Effect of Gut Microbiota on the Progression of Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. Orthopaedic Surgery, 15(3), 858-867. doi.org/10.1111/os.13626
Are there blood tests for individuals with chronic and severe back pain symptoms that can help healthcare providers diagnose?
Blood Tests To Help Diagnose Back Pain
If a healthcare provider suspects an infection or inflammatory arthritis is the cause of back pain, blood tests may be used to diagnose. When trying to find the cause of back pain, a healthcare provider will examine the patient’s medical history, perform a physical examination, and, if necessary, order diagnostic tests. (Dansie E. J. and Turk D. C. 2013) For example, the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases says that MRIs can reveal abnormalities in the spine. Still, a person may not feel pain or experience any other symptoms. The NIAMS also says healthy, pain-free individuals can have elevated SED levels. A high sedimentation rate or sed rate, also known as an erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) test, can indicate inflammation in the body. (National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, 2023)
Commonly Used Tests
Blood tests that can help diagnose back pain include:
Complete Blood Count – CBC
This test can indicate inflammation or infections.
Sed Rate or Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate
This test measures inflammation by analyzing how red blood cells settle through plasma.
If the SED rate indicates that inflammation is present, the possibility of an underlying cause may be some form of arthritis or a tumor, which is rare.
A genetic marker in the blood that is more common in individuals with ankylosing spondylitis and reactive arthritis. (McMichael A. and Bowness P. 2002)
This marker may be tested if the healthcare provider suspects either disease.
Ankylosing spondylitis is an inflammatory arthritis affecting the sacroiliac joints, hips, and spine. (Sieper J. et al., 2002)
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic
At Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic, we focus on what works for you to relieve pain and restore function. Regarding musculoskeletal pain, specialists like chiropractors, acupuncturists, and massage therapists can help mitigate the pain through spinal adjustments that help the body realign itself. Our areas of practice include Chronic Pain, Personal Injury, Auto Accident Care, Work Injuries, Back Injury, Low Back Pain, Neck Pain, Migraine Headaches, Sports Injuries, severe sciatica, Scoliosis, Complex Herniated Discs, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Pain, Complex Injuries, Stress Management, Wellness and nutrition, Functional Medicine Treatments, and in-scope care protocols. They can also work with other associated medical professionals to develop a personalized treatment plan to help relieve muscle pain, improve the body’s flexibility and mobility, resolve musculoskeletal issues, and prevent future pain symptoms from reoccurring.
Integrative Medicine Approach
References
Dansie, E. J., & Turk, D. C. (2013). Assessment of patients with chronic pain. British journal of anaesthesia, 111(1), 19–25. doi.org/10.1093/bja/aet124
Harrison M. (2015). Erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein. Australian prescriber, 38(3), 93–94. doi.org/10.18773/austprescr.2015.034
Sproston, N. R., & Ashworth, J. J. (2018). Role of C-Reactive Protein at Sites of Inflammation and Infection. Frontiers in immunology, 9, 754. doi.org/10.3389/fimmu.2018.00754
McMichael, A., & Bowness, P. (2002). HLA-B27: natural function and pathogenic role in spondyloarthritis. Arthritis research, 4 Suppl 3(Suppl 3), S153–S158. doi.org/10.1186/ar571
Sieper, J., Braun, J., Rudwaleit, M., Boonen, A., & Zink, A. (2002). Ankylosing spondylitis: an overview. Annals of the rheumatic diseases, 61 Suppl 3(Suppl 3), iii8–iii18. doi.org/10.1136/ard.61.suppl_3.iii8
Hamdulay, S. S., Glynne, S. J., & Keat, A. (2006). When is arthritis reactive?. Postgraduate medical journal, 82(969), 446–453. doi.org/10.1136/pgmj.2005.044057
For individuals dealing with stress, back and neck pain, and wanting to improve overall health, can trying a Hatha yoga class help?
Hatha Yoga Class
A yoga class is great for moms, athletes, or anyone interested in low-impact exercise. Today, many practice yoga for its mind and body, health and wellness benefits. Research shows that hatha yoga helps to reduce stress, relieve back and arthritis pain, support healthy habits, and improve emotional health. (National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, 2023) Hatha classes stretch, unwind, and release tension, providing a healthy outlet for hectic lifestyles.
What Is It?
In Sanskrit, Hatha translates to force. Hatha yoga focuses on posture and breathing techniques to channel energy. Classes last 45 to 90 minutes and consist of breathing, poses, and meditation.
Yoga can help relieve everyday anxiety and depressive symptoms.
However, it may not be effective for clinically diagnosed mental health conditions.
The reviews and published studies on yoga did not find conclusive evidence to support its effectiveness in managing anxiety disorder, depression, or PTSD.
Arthritis and Fibromyalgia
According to the NCCIH, there is limited evidence to support yoga’s benefits for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and fibromyalgia.
Back Pain
The American College of Physicians recommends yoga as a non-pharmacological back pain treatment. (Qaseem A. et al., 2017)
A review of studies found that yoga improves low-back pain and function with both short-term and intermediate-term benefits, and its effects are similar to those of other types of exercise. (Skelly A. C. et al., 2020)
Balance
According to 11 out of 15 reviewed studies, yoga helps to improve balance in generally healthy individuals.
Emotional Health
Yoga has a positive impact on mental health. Ten out of 14 studies reviewed showed benefits in improving resilience or general mental well-being.
Menopause
Yoga can relieve physical and psychological symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes, according to the review of 1,300 study participants.
Mindfulness
In a survey of 1,820 young adults, participants attributed increased mindfulness, motivation to participate in other forms of activity, and eating healthier. (Watts A. W. et al., 2018)
Multiple Sclerosis
The NCCIH reports showed that yoga had short-term benefits on mood and fatigue in individuals with multiple sclerosis.
However, it did not affect muscle function, cognitive function, or quality of life.
Neck Pain
A 2019 meta-analysis, including ten studies and a total of 686 subjects, found that yoga can reduce neck pain intensity and disability pain while also improving the range of motion. (Li Y. et al., 2019)
Sleep
Several studies have found yoga can improve sleep quality and duration.
Populations found to experience sleep benefits include cancer patients, older adults, individuals with arthritis, pregnant women, and women experiencing menopause symptoms.
Stress Management
Yoga improved physical or psychological stress-related measures in 12 of 17 studies reviewed.
What to Expect
There are several different styles of yoga to choose from. Classes labeled yoga are likely the Hatha variety. Hatha is a gentle style that focuses on static poses and is great for beginners. However, it can still be physically and mentally challenging. Practitioners should wear athletic clothes and sports bras for maximum comfort and ease of movement. Each class varies depending on the instructor, but most last between 45 and 90 minutes.
Class Breakdown
Classes typically start with a gentle warm-up, advance to more physical poses, and end with a short meditation.
Breathing
Most Hatha classes start with a period of focus on breathing.
As you perform the poses, the instructor will continue to remind everyone to focus on breathing and may suggest different breathing exercises.
Poses
Yoga poses, also called postures or asanas, are a series of movements that help improve balance, flexibility, and strength.
Poses range in difficulty from laying flat on the floor to physically challenging positions.
If, during a class, a pose is too difficult, the instructor can provide a modified posture.
Meditation
Most classes end with a short period of meditation.
If you go into a Hatha class and it feels too slow or inactive, there are faster-paced, more athletic yoga classes, including flow, vinyasa, or power yoga classes. See if it’s more your speed.
Injury Medical Chiropractic Clinic
At Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic, we focus on what works for you and strive to create fitness and better the body through research methods and total wellness programs. These programs use the body’s ability to achieve health and fitness goals, and athletes can condition themselves to excel in their sport through proper fitness and nutrition. Our providers use an integrated approach to create personalized programs, often including Functional Medicine, Acupuncture, Electro-Acupuncture, and Sports Medicine principles.
Qaseem, A., Wilt, T. J., McLean, R. M., Forciea, M. A., Clinical Guidelines Committee of the American College of Physicians, Denberg, T. D., Barry, M. J., Boyd, C., Chow, R. D., Fitterman, N., Harris, R. P., Humphrey, L. L., & Vijan, S. (2017). Noninvasive Treatments for Acute, Subacute, and Chronic Low Back Pain: A Clinical Practice Guideline From the American College of Physicians. Annals of internal medicine, 166(7), 514–530. doi.org/10.7326/M16-2367
Skelly, A. C., Chou, R., Dettori, J. R., Turner, J. A., Friedly, J. L., Rundell, S. D., Fu, R., Brodt, E. D., Wasson, N., Kantner, S., & Ferguson, A. J. R. (2020). Noninvasive Nonpharmacological Treatment for Chronic Pain: A Systematic Review Update. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (US).
Watts, A. W., Rydell, S. A., Eisenberg, M. E., Laska, M. N., & Neumark-Sztainer, D. (2018). Yoga’s potential for promoting healthy eating and physical activity behaviors among young adults: a mixed-methods study. The international journal of behavioral nutrition and physical activity, 15(1), 42. doi.org/10.1186/s12966-018-0674-4
Li, Y., Li, S., Jiang, J., & Yuan, S. (2019). Effects of yoga on patients with chronic nonspecific neck pain: A PRISMA systematic review and meta-analysis. Medicine, 98(8), e14649. doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000014649
Can the effects of electroacupuncture reduce sciatica in individuals dealing with low back pain to restore their mobility?
Introduction
When many people start to overuse their muscles in the lower quadrants, it can lead to numerous issues that cause pain and discomfort. One of the most common pain issues in the lower quadrants of the musculoskeletal system is sciatica, which is associated with low back pain. This pain duo can affect a person’s daily routine and lead them to pain and discomfort. This musculoskeletal condition is common, and when it affects one of the legs and lower back, many people state that it’s a radiating shooting pain that doesn’t go away for a while. Luckily, there are treatments like electroacupuncture to reduce sciatica associated with low back pain. Today’s article looks at the sciatica-low-back connection, how electroacupuncture reduces this pain connection, and how electroacupuncture can restore mobility to the individual. We talk with certified medical providers who consolidate our patients’ information to assess how to reduce the sciatica-low-back connection with electroacupuncture. We also inform and guide patients on how electroacupuncture therapy can be combined with other therapies to restore mobility to the body. We encourage our patients to ask their associated medical providers intricate and important questions about incorporating electroacupuncture therapy as part of their routine to reduce sciatica associated with low back pain. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., includes this information as an academic service. Disclaimer.
The Sciatica & Low Back Connection
Do you feel muscle aches or pain in your lower back or your legs? Do you experience radiating, throbbing pain in your legs that affects your walking ability? Or have you noticed that your legs and lower back ache more when carrying a heavy object? Many of these scenarios are associated with sciatica, which correlates with lower back pain. Now, sciatica is often characterized by aggravating pain traveling along the sciatic nerve from the lower back region, impairing a person’s quality of life. In the musculoskeletal system, the sciatic nerve plays an important role by providing motor function to the legs. (Davis et al., 2024) Now, when the sciatic nerve, the lumbar region also has a pivotal role. The lumbar region in the musculoskeletal region also has a crucial role in providing support, strength, and flexibility to the body. However, both the sciatic nerve and lumbar spinal region are more prone to stress and injuries from traumatic injuries and environmental factors that can impact the lumbar spinal discs and the sciatic nerve.
Repetitive motions, obesity, improper lifting, degenerative spinal issues, and musculoskeletal conditions are a few causes and risk factors contributing to the development of sciatica associated with the lower back. What eventually happens is that the water content and the progressive loss of the proteoglycans of the spinal discs break down between the vertebrae and protrude out to press on the sciatic nerve, which then can become irritated and cause referred radiating pain in the legs and lower back. (Zhou et al., 2021) The combination of sciatica and lower back pain can become a socio-economic issue depending on the severity of the pain that the sciatic nerve is causing and can make individuals miss out on any activities they are participating in. (Siddiq et al., 2020) While sciatica pain-like symptoms often correlate with the lumbar region, many individuals can find the relief they are looking for through various treatments.
Sciatica Causes- Video
Electroacupuncture Reducing The Sciatica-Low Back Connection
When it comes to reducing the sciatic-low-back connection, many individuals seek out treatment that is affordable and effective in decreasing pain-like issues. Non-surgical treatments like electroacupuncture can be beneficial to many individuals who are experiencing sciatica pain correlated with the lower back. Electroacupuncture is another form of traditional acupuncture therapy that originates in China. Highly trained acupuncturists follow the same acupuncture principles by placing solid thin needles at different acupoints in the body to restore qui or chi (energy flow). Electroacupuncture combines needles and electrostimulation to reduce the central pain-regulatory mechanisms causing low back pain and sciatica by blocking the pain signals and providing pain relief. (Kong, 2020) At the same time, electroacupuncture offers analgesic properties to stimulate endorphins and reduce pain medication for low back pain safely. (Sung et al., 2021)
Electroacupuncture Restoring Mobility
When the lower extremities are experiencing limited mobility due to sciatica associated with low back pain, electroacupuncture can help relax the muscles that are aggravating the sciatic nerve and even help improve blood flow to the lumbar muscles. That is because electroacupuncture can stimulate specific body regions to reduce the somato-vagal-adrenal reflexes to relieve and restore mobility to the lower extremities. (Liu et al., 2021) Additionally, electroacupuncture can be combined with other non-surgical therapies to help strengthen the core and lower back muscles, allowing people to be more mindful of what factors are causing sciatica and lower back pain. By doing this, many people struggling with sciatica associated with low back pain can incorporate electroacupuncture as part of their treatment program combined with holistic approaches to improving their quality of life and providing a pathway to improving their mobility.
Kong, J. T. (2020). Electroacupuncture for Treating Chronic Low-Back Pain: Preliminary Research Results. Med Acupunct, 32(6), 396-397. doi.org/10.1089/acu.2020.1495
Liu, S., Wang, Z., Su, Y., Qi, L., Yang, W., Fu, M., Jing, X., Wang, Y., & Ma, Q. (2021). A neuroanatomical basis for electroacupuncture to drive the vagal-adrenal axis. Nature, 598(7882), 641-645. doi.org/10.1038/s41586-021-04001-4
Siddiq, M. A. B., Clegg, D., Hasan, S. A., & Rasker, J. J. (2020). Extra-spinal sciatica and sciatica mimics: a scoping review. Korean J Pain, 33(4), 305-317. doi.org/10.3344/kjp.2020.33.4.305
Sung, W. S., Park, J. R., Park, K., Youn, I., Yeum, H. W., Kim, S., Choi, J., Cho, Y., Hong, Y., Park, Y., Kim, E. J., & Nam, D. (2021). The effectiveness and safety of electroacupuncture for nonspecific chronic low back pain: A protocol for systematic review and/or meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore), 100(4), e24281. doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000024281
Zhou, J., Mi, J., Peng, Y., Han, H., & Liu, Z. (2021). Causal Associations of Obesity With the Intervertebral Degeneration, Low Back Pain, and Sciatica: A Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Study. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne), 12, 740200. doi.org/10.3389/fendo.2021.740200
Can individuals dealing with various musculoskeletal pain incorporate the positive benefits of electroacupuncture to restore function?
Introduction
As the world changes and more people try to make small changes to their health and well-being, they won’t experience pain or discomfort. Numerous treatments help many people dealing with various musculoskeletal pain that are associated with environmental factors. The human body has multiple muscle groups in the upper and lower body portions that protect the spinal structure and vital organs. When environmental factors correlate with pain and discomfort, it can significantly impact a person’s daily routine. At the same time, musculoskeletal pain can lead to referred pain-like symptoms that many individuals are experiencing pain in two different body locations. However, when the pain becomes unbearable, many will seek various treatment options to not only reduce the pain but also restore body functionality. Today’s article looks at the multiple factors of musculoskeletal pain, treatments like electroacupuncture that reduce musculoskeletal pain, and the benefits of electroacupuncture. We talk with certified medical providers who consolidate our patients’ information to assess how various factors can contribute to musculoskeletal pain in the body. We also inform and guide patients on how electroacupuncture therapy can help reduce the pain effects of musculoskeletal pain and help improve body functionality. We encourage our patients to ask their associated medical providers intricate and important questions about how to reduce the impact of musculoskeletal pain. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., includes this information as an academic service. Disclaimer.
The Various Factors That Correlate With Musculoskeletal Pain
Have you been dealing with areas of complaints within your neck, shoulders, or back after a long day? Do you feel numb or tingling in your upper and lower extremities? Or have you experienced muscle and joint pain that makes it difficult to do your daily routine? When it comes to many individuals experiencing musculoskeletal pain in their bodies can dampen their day due to how much pain they are in. Musculoskeletal pain is a multifactorial condition involving various environmental factors that many people in society have experienced. (Caneiro et al., 2021) Musculoskeletal pain can be chronic or acute depending on the ecological factors or traumatic injuries that the body occurs from and can affect not only the muscles but also the bones, ligaments, tendons, and nerve roots that provide sensory-motor functions that make the body mobile.
Some environmental factors that contribute to the development of musculoskeletal pain include:
Excessive sitting/standing
Fractures
Poor posture
Joint dislocation
Stress
Obesity
Repetitive movements
Additionally, many individuals dealing with musculoskeletal pain can be problematic when pain and chronic diseases could be predisposed, causing many people to deal with comorbidities, thus increasing their chances of being an issue. (Dzakpasu et al., 2021) Plus, when people are dealing with musculoskeletal pain, it can vary from person to person and can have a huge negative effect on their mental health. (Welsh et al., 2020) This is because many people are dealing with referred pain and their associated pain-like symptoms that they will try home remedies to reduce the musculoskeletal pain temporarily before making the repetitive motions again and being in more pain. To that point, many individuals will often seek various treatments to relieve musculoskeletal pain and restore their body function.
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The Benefits of Electroacupuncture
When it comes to reducing and treating musculoskeletal pain, many individuals seek out non-surgical treatments to relieve the pain-like symptoms. Non-surgical treatments are excellent for musculoskeletal pain as they can be personalized to the person’s pain and can be cost-effective. Non-surgical treatments range from chiropractic care to acupuncture. One of the various forms of non-surgical treatments is electroacupuncture therapy. Electroacupuncture therapy incorporates the application of electric and acupuncture stimulation to relieve acute or chronic musculoskeletal pain. (Lee et al., 2020) This therapy can activate the bioactive chemicals and block the pain signals from affecting the body.
Additionally, electroacupuncture can be effective and benefit the body by reducing neuropathic pain associated with musculoskeletal. Electroacupuncture provides additional benefits by stimulating the neurotransmitters from the central nervous system to minimize nociceptive pain caused by musculoskeletal pain. (Xue et al., 2020)
So, regarding musculoskeletal pain, electroacupuncture could be the answer to reducing its comorbidities. When a person is experiencing musculoskeletal pain, the affected areas where the pain is located can be inflamed. So when highly trained acupuncturists find the acupoints of the body and utilize electroacupuncture, the stimulation intensity varies from person to person. High-intensity stimulation activates the sympathetic nervous system, while low-intensity stimulation activates the parasympathetic nervous system. (Ulloa, 2021) Electroacupuncture can even help improve muscle function in the musculoskeletal extremities by relieving pain and adjusting the biomechanical properties to improve abnormal joint loading. (Shi et al., 2020) When people think about their health, they can consider electroacupuncture as part of their health and wellness routine to improve body functionality and live pain-free lives.
References
Caneiro, J. P., Bunzli, S., & O’Sullivan, P. (2021). Beliefs about the body and pain: the critical role in musculoskeletal pain management. Braz J Phys Ther, 25(1), 17-29. doi.org/10.1016/j.bjpt.2020.06.003
Dzakpasu, F. Q. S., Carver, A., Brakenridge, C. J., Cicuttini, F., Urquhart, D. M., Owen, N., & Dunstan, D. W. (2021). Musculoskeletal pain and sedentary behaviour in occupational and non-occupational settings: a systematic review with meta-analysis. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act, 18(1), 159. doi.org/10.1186/s12966-021-01191-y
Lee, Y. J., Han, C. H., Jeon, J. H., Kim, E., Kim, J. Y., Park, K. H., Kim, A. R., Lee, E. J., & Kim, Y. I. (2020). Effectiveness and safety of polydioxanone thread-embedding acupuncture (TEA) and electroacupuncture (EA) treatment for knee osteoarthritis (KOA) patients with postoperative pain: An assessor-blinded, randomized, controlled pilot trial. Medicine (Baltimore), 99(30), e21184. doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000021184
Shi, X., Yu, W., Wang, T., Battulga, O., Wang, C., Shu, Q., Yang, X., Liu, C., & Guo, C. (2020). Electroacupuncture alleviates cartilage degradation: Improvement in cartilage biomechanics via pain relief and potentiation of muscle function in a rabbit model of knee osteoarthritis. Biomed Pharmacother, 123, 109724. doi.org/10.1016/j.biopha.2019.109724
Ulloa, L. (2021). Electroacupuncture activates neurons to switch off inflammation. Nature, 598(7882), 573-574. doi.org/10.1038/d41586-021-02714-0
Welsh, T. P., Yang, A. E., & Makris, U. E. (2020). Musculoskeletal Pain in Older Adults: A Clinical Review. Med Clin North Am, 104(5), 855-872. doi.org/10.1016/j.mcna.2020.05.002
Xue, M., Sun, Y. L., Xia, Y. Y., Huang, Z. H., Huang, C., & Xing, G. G. (2020). Electroacupuncture Modulates Spinal BDNF/TrkappaB Signaling Pathway and Ameliorates the Sensitization of Dorsal Horn WDR Neurons in Spared Nerve Injury Rats. Int J Mol Sci, 21(18). doi.org/10.3390/ijms21186524
Can nonsurgical therapeutic options help individuals with chronic low back pain find the relief they are looking for to restore body function?
Introduction
Between the upper, middle, and lower back portions of the musculoskeletal system, many individuals have succumbed to traumatic injuries, repetitive motions, and overlapping environmental risk profiles that cause pain and disability, thus affecting their everyday routine. As one of the most common work conditions, back pain can cause individuals to deal with socio-economic burdens and can range from acute to chronic, depending on the injuries and factors that correlate with this issue. As part of the musculoskeletal system, the back has various muscles in the three quadrants that support the upper and lower extremities and have an outstanding relationship with the spine as each muscle group surrounds the spine and protects the spinal cord. When environmental factors and traumatic injuries start to cause pain-like symptoms in the back, it can put a person in excruciating pain, hence why many seek non-surgical treatments to reduce the pain-like effects of back pain and find the relief they are seeking. Today’s article looks at the impact of chronic low back pain and how non-surgical treatments can positively affect individuals dealing with chronic low back pain. We talk with certified medical providers who consolidate our patients’ information to provide numerous non-surgical treatment options to minimize chronic lower back pain affecting their extremities. We also inform and guide patients on how various non-surgical treatments can benefit their health and wellness as they can help reduce musculoskeletal conditions like chronic back pain. We encourage our patients to ask their associated medical providers intricated and important questions about their chronic low back pain and what small changes they can incorporate to reduce its pain-like symptoms. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., includes this information as an academic service. Disclaimer.
The Impact Of Chronic Low Back Pain
Do you constantly feel severe muscle aches or pains in your back after an excruciating long workday? Do you experience muscle tiredness from your back to your legs after carrying a heavy object? Or have you noticed that twisting or turning motions temporarily relieve your lower back, only to worsen after a while? Often, many of these pain-like scenarios are correlated with chronic low back pain, and it can be due to the various factors that correlate with this common musculoskeletal condition. When it comes to musculoskeletal conditions associated with chronic low back pain, they are prevalent while their impact is pervasive. To that point, they affect many individuals as they are the number one most common cause of severe long-term pain and physical disability. (Woolf & Pfleger, 2003) Since back pain can be either acute or chronic, it can become multifactorial as many other pain symptoms tend to cause overlapping risk profiles in the body. The impact of chronic low back pain has underlying pathological causes that are not well-defined but can be related to psychosocial dysfunction. (Andersson, 1999)
Additionally, degenerative changes within the spine can also cause an impact on the development of chronic lower back pain. The risk factors that cause overlapping risk profiles can range from smoking and obesity to various occupations that require excessive motions. (Atkinson, 2004) When that happens, it causes people to have unnecessary stress that impacts their lives and causes them to be miserable. This is where many individuals start seeking treatment to reduce the effects of chronic lower back pain and reduce the chances of seeking surgical intervention.
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Non-Surgical Treatments For Chronic Back Pain
When people deal with chronic lower back pain, many often don’t realize that various motions, ages, and pathologies can modify the spine, causing the spinal discs to go through degenerative changes that correspond to the development of chronic lower back pain. (Benoist, 2003) When degenerative changes start to cause pain-like symptoms in the back, many will begin looking for affordable and effective treatments. Hence, this is why non-surgical treatments can help reduce the pain-like symptoms of chronic lower back pain and help restore body mobility. Non-surgical treatments are personalized to the person’s pain and range from acupuncture to massage therapy and spinal decompression. Non-surgical treatments are also affordable and help reduce the overlapping risk profiles of chronic low back pain while reducing its associated conditions.
Spinal Decompression Effects On Chronic Low Back Pain
Spinal decompression, as stated before, is a form of non-surgical treatment that incorporates mechanical gentle traction on the spine to alleviate chronic low back pain and can reduce the pain-like symptoms associated with it. Spinal decompression helps reduce the friction of the lumbar muscles, affecting the lumbar spine but also provides pain relief and body function. (Choi et al., 2022) Spinal decompression is safe while being gentle on the spine, combined with stabilization exercises to enhance intra-abdominal pressure and spinal ability to the lumbar. (Hlaing et al., 2021) When a person incorporates spinal decompression as part of their health and wellness journey, their pain and disability will lower over time while strengthening weakened muscles that were affected by chronic lower back pain. Incorporating these non-surgical treatments can help a person be more mindful of the environmental impact they are inflicting on their backs and live a better and healthier life.
Choi, E., Gil, H. Y., Ju, J., Han, W. K., Nahm, F. S., & Lee, P. B. (2022). Effect of Nonsurgical Spinal Decompression on Intensity of Pain and Herniated Disc Volume in Subacute Lumbar Herniated Disc. International Journal of Clinical Practice, 2022, 6343837. doi.org/10.1155/2022/6343837
Hlaing, S. S., Puntumetakul, R., Khine, E. E., & Boucaut, R. (2021). Effects of core stabilization exercise and strengthening exercise on proprioception, balance, muscle thickness and pain related outcomes in patients with subacute nonspecific low back pain: a randomized controlled trial. BMC Musculoskelet Disord, 22(1), 998. doi.org/10.1186/s12891-021-04858-6
Woolf, A. D., & Pfleger, B. (2003). Burden of major musculoskeletal conditions. Bull World Health Organ, 81(9), 646-656. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14710506
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