Back Clinic Nerve Injury Team. Nerves are fragile and can be damaged by pressure, stretching, or cutting. Injury to a nerve can stop signals to and from the brain, causing muscles not to work properly and losing feeling in the injured area. The nervous system manages a great majority of the body’s functions, from regulating an individual’s breathing to controlling their muscles as well as sensing heat and cold. But, when trauma from an injury or an underlying condition causes nerve injury, an individual’s quality of life may be greatly affected. Dr. Alex Jimenez explains various concepts through his collection of archives revolving around the types of injuries and condition which can cause nerve complications as well as discuss the different form of treatments and solutions to ease nerve pain and restore the individual’s quality of life.
The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional or licensed physician and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified health care professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and support, directly or indirectly, our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request.
We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.
Most if not all of us have probably used heat and/or ice on a sprain, strain, or sore area of the body. Having a pinched nerve, however, has a different feeling than a sprain or strain. Chiropractic treatment for a pinched nerve is recommended, but if the pain isn’t too bad, then home care can work. Which is better for a pinched nerve, heat or ice? Both. Using heat and ice helps reduce swelling, increases blood flow to the area, and relaxes the muscles around the pinched nerve. The objective is to know when to use ice and/or heat.
Applying Heat on a Pinched Nerve
Applying heat on a pinched nerve is fine. The general guideline for a pinched nerve is to use heat only after the pain has subsided/reduced.
When pain presents or flares up, use ice before using heat.
Do not apply heat to the area directly after applying ice.
Wait 30 minutes to an hour.
Keep the heat on the affected area for 10 to 20 minutes at a time.
Take a minimum 30-minute break between sessions.
If the heat helps, make the heat moderate and use it on the area for an hour or more.
Extended heat therapy is beneficial for severe pain from a pinched nerve.
The equivalent is like soaking in a hot bath.
Heat for a Pinched Nerve Benefits
Heat soothes and relaxes both the muscles and the mind.
Heat increases healing abilities by circulating new blood to the injured/affected area, helping to flush toxins away.
Decreases tension and spasms in the muscles.
Increases the range of motion in the joints.
When Not To Use Heat Therapy
It can be dangerous for individuals with pre-existing conditions. Conditions include:
If home remedies don’t work, know when to consult a chiropractor.
Doctors of chiropractic specialize in pinched/compressed nerves. A chiropractor is trained in different techniques to relieve the pressure and release the nerve back to its proper position.
Body Composition
Peripheral Artery Disease
Peripheral artery disease or PAD is the narrowing of the arteries that carry blood away from the heart to the other areas of the body. What to know about PAD:
Peripheral artery disease risks increase with age.
Over half of affected individuals do not present with symptoms.
Around one-fourth of individuals with peripheral artery disease have diabetes mellitus.
Smokers have an increased risk of developing PAD.
This is why it’s important to monitor blood pressure.
References
Chandler, Anne, et al. “Using heat therapy for pain management. (clinical practice).” Nursing Standard, vol. 17, no. 9, 13 Nov. 2002, pp. 40+. Accessed 15 Sept. 2021.
Edzard Ernst, Veronika Fialka, Ice freezes pain? A review of the clinical effectiveness of analgesic cold therapy, Journal of Pain and Symptom Management, Volume 9, Issue 1, 1994, Pages 56-59, ISSN 0885-3924, doi.org/10.1016/0885-3924(94)90150-3.
Shu, Jun, and Gaetano Santulli. “Update on peripheral artery disease: Epidemiology and evidence-based facts.” Atherosclerosis vol. 275 (2018): 379-381. doi:10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2018.05.033
Pinched nerves occur when added pressure is applied to a nerve or set of nerves from surrounding tissues like bones, cartilage, muscles, or tendons. The pressure affects the nerve’s ability to function properly and usually causes pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness. A pinched nerve can occur at various sites in the body. Whether located in the neck, shoulder, arm, hand, back, or knees, they can lead to other debilitating conditions/injuries and permanent nerve damage if left untreated.
Pinched Nerves
The nerves are not actually being pinched but are being compressed. The added pressure on or around the nerve causes painful sensations that can also include:
Pinched nerves are nothing to dismiss. Individuals experiencing any of the above symptoms should get a proper diagnosis from a chiropractor.
Compression Goes Away By Itself
A compressed nerve can go away on its own if the pain has recently started or is not severe. In addition, home remedies like rest, heat, ice, and stretching can be utilized to help the compression subside on its own.
Length of Time It Takes for a Pinched Nerve to Heal
The length of time depends on the reason why the nerve is compressed and irritated. For example, some pinched nerves are brought on from poor posture and tight muscles. These can usually heal within 4 weeks. However, if the pain has been going on for some time, like more than 3 months, it will take longer, especially to identify the root cause/s and address them according to their severity.
Treatment Options
Chiropractic Adjustments and Massage
These two types of treatment/therapy highly complement each other. A chiropractor understands the importance of massage when it comes to healing and stress relief. Some cases of pinched nerves come from tight muscles and muscle spasms. Along with chiropractic adjustments, massage therapy is perfect for releasing and stretching the nerves back to their natural form.
Studies show that chiropractic massage therapy offers pain relief and also helps reduce any depression and anxiety that the pain symptoms can generate. In addition, comprehensive chiropractic treatment has been proven to be the best and fastest way to deal with pinched nerves.
Get More Sleep
Whenever the body is going through stress and needs repair, more sleep gives the body the time to heal itself. An extra hour of sleep also ensures that the injured area moves less. However, try to avoid sleeping on the stomach and make sure that the pillows being used provide plenty of support.
Warm/Hot Soothing Bath
Ice can really help lower swelling and inflammation, but if icing the area has not relieved the pain after 72 hours, it is time for a warm/hot bath. Warm water increases blood circulation, which delivers oxygen and nutrients to help heal and restore. In addition, heat relaxes the muscles of the body, which relieves pressure on the affected area.
Collagen Nerve Joint Repair
Collagen adds cushion to the spaces between the joints and bones while damaged tissues are being repaired. Collagen is the most plentiful natural protein in the human body. Supplements with glucosamine, chondroitin and hyaluronic acid can help and consume bone broth, a healthy collagen source. An anti-inflammatory diet can also help. Inflammation contributes to pain symptoms. Lowering inflammation lowers pain as well.
Proper Posture
Slouching and poor posture, whether sitting or standing, place added pressure/stress on the joints. When this goes on for long periods or when something traumatic occurs, a pinched nerve can result. A chiropractor will restore the body’s natural curvature. In addition, a chiropractor will discuss and show what proper posture should be and how to strengthen the core to maintain proper posture.
Other Treatment Options
Conventional treatments usually include:
Over the counter pain relievers
Prescription pain relievers for severe cases
Corticosteroids
Microdiscectomy spinal surgery
Regular surgery
Most individuals want to avoid any of the above treatment options. The body has a tremendous ability to heal itself. Chiropractic will reduce the amount of time that is required to heal a pinched nerve. It’s about treating the entire body, not just the symptoms. A customized treatment/recovery diet plan will be developed according to each individual’s needs. At Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic, we encourage anyone experiencing any pain to call us right away.
Composition of the Body
What happens to the body when you stop eating
Not eating for a few hours causes glucose levels in the blood to drop, and insulin release stops. Alpha cells in the pancreas produce a hormone called glucagon that helps the liver break down the body’s stored glycogen, converting it back into glucose. The liver can also produce glucose by utilizing fats, amino acids, and waste.
If the body’s blood sugar levels drop, too low a condition called hypoglycemia happens. It occurs a few hours after eating when there is too much insulin in the blood or certain medications. This is why an individual might feel dizzy, shaky, anxious, or irritable when they have not eaten for several hours. Eating at least 15 to 20 grams of carbohydrates will reverse the symptoms.
Dr. Alex Jimenez’s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that directly or indirectly support our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
References
Dubinsky RM, Miyasaki J.Assessment: Efficacy of transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation in treating pain in neurologic disorders (an evidence-based review). Report of the Therapeutics and Technology Assessment Subcommittee of the American Academy of Neurology.Neurology. 2010;74:173-176.
Shrier I. Does stretching help prevent injuries? Evidence-based Sports Medicine. Williston, VT: BMJ Books; 2002.
The body’s functionality, circulation, and communicationare significantly affected by the health of the nervous system. The brain, spinal cord, and nerve roots connect every part of the body into a massive communication highway. If circulation and communication are interrupted, interfered with, or completely blocked then the body’s health begins to breakdown. Chiropractic treatment and spinal alignment will clear the pathways and get the nerve energy flowing restoring overall health.
Nervous System Operations
The nervous system regulates all areas of the body in communication, coordination, and it functions in the control of all major bodily functions. This includes:
Basic cellular function
Organ processes
Higher-level brain functions that include
Learning
Thinking
Memory
The nerves within the nervous system communicate via chemical and electrical messages. Nerve cells primarily communicate through quick electronic pathways and signals.
Nerve Energy Compromised
The signals that pass between the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and rest of the body maintain connectivity, coordination, and proper organ function. The electrical energy necessary to keep the circulation/signals flowing smoothly happens with optimal nerve strength. Causes that can affect nerve integrity include:
Chronic inflammation
Injury
Mental health factor
Spinal misalignment
If the circulation/communication highway in the nervous system is compromised, it can rapidly turn into misinterpreted, crossed, false, or no signals being sent. Ultimately, the signals can turn into total confusion, making the body fall into a state of total dysfunction. The lines of communication need to remain clear and uninhibited. This allows the body to function with ease as all systems cooperate.
Spinal Misalignment Affects Nerve Energy
With all the signals traveling through the spinal cord, any misalignment will affect circulation. Common causes of misalignment include:
Misalignment can be addressed with professional chiropractic adjustments. A chiropractor will pinpoint any subtle changes, address them, and restore the nerves’ circulation, as well as restore the body’s balance.
Restore and Maximize Nerve Circulation
Chiropractic is a research-based systematic approach to whole-body care and is designed to yield optimal results non-invasively. Contact Injury Medical Chiropractic to see what they can offer in helping to achieve health goals.
The Body’s Composition
Stress is hard enough to handle, but chronic stress can have complex, detrimental effects on emotional health. Over time, stress can wear away at both mental and physical health. And it does not take weeks or months to start seeing the effects.
It can take as little as four days to notice a significant impact on energy, fatigue, and soreness levels. Remember that achieving healthy body composition is more than just building muscle and losing fat. Maintaining a proper diet and getting enough sleep is necessary to make consistent progress.
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
References
Lorei, M P, and E B Hershman. �Peripheral nerve injuries in athletes. Treatment and prevention.��Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.)�vol. 16,2 (1993): 130-47. doi:10.2165/00007256-199316020-00005
Weakness, pain, and numbness can find their root in the spine. It is known as radiculopathy. If left untreated, health problems will only continue to get worse, with the potential to become a chronic condition. When it comes to degenerative pain conditions they usually start small. There is occasional discomfort that gradually develops into pain, then weakness and numbness.
Usually, by the time an individual seeks help, the original condition has devolved into radiating pain. This is why it is important to address the issue right away.Chiropractic works with individuals to help them understand the degenerative nature of pain and how to address and prevent it. Early intervention will prevent minor discomfort from turning into debilitating, chronic pain.
Radiculopathy
Radiating pain root cause is a compressed or inflamed nerve. It happens at the site of compression and spreads outward growing larger with time. It can be a catalyst for different pain conditions and syndromes like sciaticaor complex regional pain syndrome. There are a variety of terms for nerve pain, they are typically a form of radiculopathy.
Stages
The pain can spiral as fast as the underlying condition/s that is causing it. A compressed nerve that generates pain but does not become worse in severity is usually because the compression stays the same. Conversely, minimal discomfort brought on from shifted vertebrae can rapidly progress into weakness, numbness, and reduced mobility as a nerve is continually and severely getting compressed. Radiculopathy pain usually follows a pattern. Understanding the signs and symptoms will help determine to what extent the condition has progressed, and how it can develop into a worsening nerve injury:
Discomfort is the first stage. Subluxation, rotation, or a spinal shift is what is occurring, with the nerve not yet affected.
The pain signals that come from nerve compression along with the severity can help determine the cause of the condition.
Weakness usually follows pain. The nerve that is affected begins to take on permanent damage and cannot function properly.
Numbness follows the weakness reaching the most severe level. Mobility is limited along with a high increase for permanent nerve pain.
Being aware of these radiculopathy symptoms will help an individual stay ahead of nerve injury. Acting on discomfort can prevent progression into pain, addressing pain can stave off weakness, and acting upon weakness may prevent permanent nerve damage. The sooner an individual seeks help for any type of pain, the better chance they have to prevent degeneration.
Long-Term Prevention
It is crucial to consult with a chiropractor at the first sign of discomfort in the spine or if there is radiating/spreading back pain. A chiropractor will be able to provide decisive treatment that will bring relief and prevent the pain from worsening. The pain, weakness, and numbness can be avoided, along with long-term damage to the nerves.
Sciatica Pain Therapy
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
References
Stochkendahl, Mette Jensen et al. �National Clinical Guidelines for non-surgical treatment of patients with recent-onset low back pain or lumbar radiculopathy.� The 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�vol. 27,1 (2018): 60-75. doi:10.1007/s00586-017-5099-2
Back or disc pain is becoming increasingly common for individuals of all ages. The spinal discs are prone to injury because of the extreme amount of pressure/stress placed on the lower back and neck. Fortunately, most cases of back pain heal on their own, while others can cause long-term chronic pain that can be difficult to manage, without proper treatment.
Different types of pain can be caused by problems with the spinal discs. The spinal discs are elastic sections of the spine that sit between the vertebrae. They are made up of materials called annulus fibrosus on the outside and a gel-like material called nucleus pulposus on the inside.
These discs are flexible, which allows for a range of motion to the spine and body shock absorption to increase comfort when in motion. When an individual visits a chiropractor, the practitioner will not know the exact cause of the pain, but only that it hurts around a certain area. Our spinal experts will help individuals understand the different types of ailments or conditions that could be affecting the spine. Then a customized treatment plan can be developed.
Disc problems
Spinal disc pain has two major sources of pain related to spinal discs: They are disc degeneration and nerve root pain. They are most common in the neck and the lower back. Individuals need to be informed of the difference to understand what is happening with the spine and potential treatment options to alleviate the pain and heal the problem.
Degenerative disc disease
Degenerative disc disease is when the spinal discs begin to dry out and deteriorate. The discs start to shrink and can tear, which leaves that segment with little or no cushioning. This can cause pain, as well as inflammation of the surrounding muscles and joints. Disc degeneration usually presents with low levels of consistent pain and occasional severe flare-ups.
A chiropractor can utilize spinal manipulation to restore alignment, function, and mobility of the affected joint. Massages stretches and exercises will help alleviate the tension in the surrounding muscles along with strengthening them for better support.
Nerve root pain
Nerve root pain does not take place within the disc but is usually caused by a bulging or herniated disc. This condition can be called a slipped disc or pinched nerve, affect the nerves that are in close proximity to the neck and lower vertebrae.
The pain can lead to numbness, tingling, and weakness along the path of the nerve, and radiate out to the arms and legs. A bulging disc is when the spinal disc progressively protrudes through a narrow opening.
This can irritate any nearby nerve roots causing inflammation and pain. If the disc herniates or breaks through then the outer protective material tears, letting the cushion/gel leak out and come in contact with the nerve root/s, which could also cause pinching and inflammation. Treatment for a bulging or herniated disc includes:
Spinal manipulation
Corrective exercises
Physical therapy
Massage
Diet adjustments
These treatments can help realign the disc/s, moving them away from any nerves, and minimizing inflammation.
Proper Identification and Diagnosis
Spinal disc problems can be similar in their pain and symptoms. For example, degenerative disc disease can weaken the spinal discs to such a degree that nerve root pain follows creating a dual combination of pain. The conditions require various approaches and treatment methods often done in combination. However, they require a proper diagnosis to create a proper and custom treatment program for every individual. This will ensure the root cause of the disc pain is properly identified and handled. Call us to learn more.
Skateboarding Injury Treatment
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
References
Browning, J E. �Chiropractic distractive decompression in the treatment of pelvic pain and organic dysfunction in patients with evidence of lower sacral nerve root compression.��Journal of manipulative and physiological therapeutics�vol. 11,5 (1988): 426-32.
Spinal disorders and injuries could cause a nerve injury through compression or damage causing Neurogenic Bladder Dysfunction also known as Bladder Dysfunction. Neurogenic bladder disorder means an individual is having problems with urination.
Neurogenic involves the nervous system and the nerve tissues that supply and stimulate the organs and muscles to function and operate correctly. Neurogenic bladder dysfunction causes the nerves that control the bladder and muscles in urination to be overactive or underactive. �
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Symptoms
Constant bathroom visits
Control in urination is limited
Complete involuntary urination
Sudden urge/s to urinate
The bladder is unable to hold urine
The bladder fails to empty completely
Overfilling of the bladder creates intense pressure causing accidental leakage
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Nerves of the Bladder
The brain and spinal cord function as the headquarters with the spine as the body’s highway that transmits and relays signals/messages to and from the bladder. In the low back, the spinal cord splits apart into a bundle of nerves called the cauda equina. �
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At the end of the lumbar spine is the sacrum this area is known as the sacral spine. The sacrum is the backside of the pelvis between the hip bones. The nerves in the sacral spine branch out and become part of the peripheral nervous system. �
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These nerves provide and stimulate bladder sensation and function. When these nerves become compressed, inflamed, injured, or damaged in some way, organ dysfunction can present. This is when any of the symptoms listed above can develop and progress. �
Potential Causes of Neurogenic Bladder Dysfunction
Spinal Cord Injury/s are a common cause of neurogenic bladder dysfunction. The spinal cord does not have to be severed to cause paralysis below the injured part of the spine. If the spinal cord gets bruised or there is improper blood flow, the spinal cord’s ability to send nerve signals can become inhibited. Cauda Equina Syndrome happens when the nerves spinal roots become pinched or compressed. It is rare, but it is a serious medical condition that requires immediate medical attention. Causes of cauda equina syndrome include:
Trauma like an auto accident, personal/work/sports injury
Spinal condition from injury or present from birth
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Treatment
The treatment depends on the cause or causes of neurogenic bladder dysfunction. A primary physician could call upon a bladder specialist like a urologist, nephrologist, or urogynecologist to collaborate and coordinate the treatment plan. If the dysfunction is caused by a nerve root compression, a spinal procedure (discectomy) is performed to decompress and relieve the pressure on the nerves.
Nutrition and Fitness During These Times
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
Burning, numbness, tingling, and pain can be felt in the back, lower back, legs, and feet. A lot of times these symptoms spread out/radiate from one part of the body into another area. Sciatica is an example of pain that radiates into an extremity, in this case, the back of the leg. Nerves originate from the spine and are divided/separated into sensory and motor nerves. The sensory nerve/s give the sensation to the skin known as dermatomes. Dermatomal patterns act as a map on the body.
Example: Dermatomes on the torso of the body react to the thoracic spinal nerve roots, the arms react to the cervical spine nerve roots, and the legs react to the lumbar spinal nerve roots.
Dermatome Location – Corresponding Spine Level
Shoulders – C4, C5
Inner/Outer Forearms – C6, and T1
Thumbs and Little Fingers – C6, C7, C8
Front of Thighs – L2
Middle, Sides of Both Calves – L4, L5
Little Toes – S1
A physician might use a piece of cotton, a swab, pin, or paperclip to test the symmetrical feelings in the arms and legs. Abnormal responses could be a sign of a nerve root problem.
Tendon Reflexes
Most individuals have experienced a physician tapping the knees with a rubber hammer. The normal response is a kick. This is a reflex, which is an involuntary muscular response generated by the hammer tapping the tendon. When the reflex responses do not present, this could mean that the spinal cord, nerve root, peripheral nerve, or muscle has been injured/damaged in some way. Absent reflexes are also clues to other conditions/injuries. An abnormal reflex response could also be caused by a disruption of the sensory (feeling) or motor (movement) nerves and sometimes both. Determining where the neural problem might be, a physician will test reflexes in various parts of the body.
Reflex Tested Areas – Corresponding Spine Level
Upper Arm Biceps – C5-C6 Cervical Spine
Forearm Distal Radius – C6-C7
Elbow Triceps – C7
Abdominal – T8, T9, T10, T11, T12, Thoracic
Knees/Thighs Patellar, Quadriceps – L3, L4 Lumbar
Ankles – S1 Sacral
Neurological Exams for Neck/Back Pain
Muscle Strength/Tone
Muscle strength and tone measurements are another way to diagnose nerve deficits. Depending on the symptoms/condition/injury/s there are different ways to evaluate muscle strength:
Stepping on a stool
Standing on the heels
Standing on the toes
Hopping in place
Performing knee bends
Gripping an item in each hand
Muscle strength is graded and recorded in the patient’s chart.
A physician will test the body’s muscle tone by passively flexing and extending the arms and legs. Normal muscle tone will respond with a slight resistance to passive motion. Other movements test for proximal (trunk/torso) and distal (distant) weakness. Muscle symmetry is also taken into account.
Neurological Tests
If necessary a spine specialist might order neurological studies like a Nerve Conduction Study (NCS) or Electromyogram (EMG), to measure nerve performance.
Imaging Studies
MRI and/or CT scans of the spine can be ordered to help the spine specialist/chiropractor make a correct diagnosis, as well as help in creating a plan of treatment.
Conclusion
A neurological exam, along with a mechanical examination consisting of movement of the arms, legs, and torso, can significantly help doctors in making the correct diagnosis. Examination results are then correlated with the patient�s history, illness, and diagnostic studies. Once the diagnosis is made an appropriate treatment plan is discussed. This will begin with non-surgical strategies but if those fail, then surgical intervention could be considered.
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