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.
Chronic back pain does not have to ruin the summer season. The best approach is planning ahead remembering a few self-care warm/hot weather tips. The hot weather can worsen pain symptoms. With all the family activities going on, maintaining back pain wellness can be difficult. This is where the planning/preparing for chronic pain comes in.
Individuals should begin thinking around April what they will be doing once the hot months arrive and plan accordingly. However, self-care should be implemented for all seasons. �
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Water Therapy
Depending on the condition, water can be a friendly sanctuary from the pain with the ability to do some spine exercises. Light stretching can bring relief and keeps the muscles and ligaments stretched. Outside of the pool, a misting fan can create a relaxing atmosphere along with ice packs during summer pain flares. �
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Avoid high heat
Sunburn or prolonged heat exposure can cause burning nerve pain. The changes in temperature and barometric pressure can trigger joint pain. Plan on doing activities in the morning or after the sun has set. Keep a hand-held fan close-by whenever going out. Wear loose light sun friendly clothing, comfortable shoes, possibly a hat to shield the face and keep an ice-cold water bottle with you. �
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Proper seating
Summer activities typically include uncomfortable seating, like small chairs, bleachers, and activities where everyone sits on the ground. Plan ahead for these situations and store a comfortable possibly therapeutic folding or travel chair that fits in an automobile. Add a lumbar cushion to support the lower back. �
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Immune system health
Fruits and vegetables can boost the body’s vitamin and mineral bank. Better quality food will make you feel so much better. Whatever you can get at the market, get it and turn it into a cold healthy smoothie. The USDA found that cherries contain pain-fighting and inflammation-reducing compounds that can help reduce pain, specifically arthritis. �
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Air quality
Pay attention to the air quality rating during the summer. Studies have shown that air pollution can increase inflammation, specifically for individuals with:
Don�t let summer vacation or road trips get in the way of your chiropractic treatment plan. Check-in before you go and ask for help to navigate the adventure with as little pain as possible. Self-sufficiency can be achieved by planning ahead. Reduce stress and increase your independence.
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Why Chiropractic Works
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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*
An individual may need to wear a neck brace or cervical collar after cervical spine surgery, or after experiencing a traumatic injury to the neck, from an automobile accident, sports, work, or personal injury. Neck braces are some of the most common spinal braces. A doctor might call these orthoses or orthotics. There are different types of neck braces also called cervical collars, and function for different purposes.
They can be utilized in stabilizing the neck after cervical/neck surgery.
They can provide non-surgical relief after experiencing trauma or injury to the neck
Neck braces or collars are used to limit movement, support the head, and take the load off the neck. This gives the muscles time to rest, recover, and heal properly and thoroughly. �
Soft braces are made to be flexible and are made of a polyurethane foam rubber. They easily wrap around the neck and are secured with Velcro.
Soft collars are usually worn for a minor injury that just needs to be worn for a short time or to transition from wearing a hard brace from a more serious injury or surgery. Soft braces are worn typically at the end or completion of the healing process. The main purpose is to help with the gradual transition to remove the brace.
Hard neck braces look sort of like soft braces. The difference is that they are made of hard polyethylene and are rigid/stiff to really keep the neck from moving. These braces provide support and pain relief for spinal conditions like cervical spondylosis and acute neck pain. �
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Philadelphia
A Philadelphia brace is made of stiff foam and is made in two pieces that attach with Velcro. The upper portion supports the lower jaw with the lower brace extending down to cover the upper back.
This brace is made to protect more of the neck area than a soft or hard brace. However, it does place a higher restriction on the neck and body’s range of motion. Because of its effectiveness for limiting movement, it is usually prescribed after cervical surgery for a healthy recovery. The Philadelphia neck brace is also used for stabilization of minor cervical fractures and to reduce pain brought on from neck muscle strain. �
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Sterno-Occipital-Mandibular Immobilization
The Sternooccipital mandibular immobilization brace is a highly rigid braceused to position the neck in straight alignment with the spine. This brace immobilizes the neck completely by preventing the head and neck from moving at all. This allows the injured/damaged structures to heal correctly and quickly. Sterno comes from the sternum. The brace has a front chest plate, and bars that go over the shoulder. �
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It is secured with straps that attach to the front chest plate. It also has a removable chin piece where the mandibular comes from, which is the lower jawbone. And there is an optional headpiece for added protection and support. Occipital is referring to the occipital bone at the back of the head. This type of brace is used for the treatment of severe neck injury/s or cervical pain caused by a chronic condition, like arthritis. It can also aid in recovery after cervical spine surgery.
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Halo
The halo brace is the most rigid of the neck braces. It completely immobilizes the head and neck from moving. Sometimes it is necessary to immobilize the spine after a major neck procedure or for stabilizing fractures in the neck or middle back area. Halo bracing is considered a form of spinal traction. Traction pulls the spine in 2 different directions.
The tension reduces the abnormal curvature associated with spinal conditions, like scoliosis. A halo brace has a metal ring secured to the head using pins. The ring is connected to bars that are attached to a properly weighted vest. The weight of a halo brace is different depending on the individual wearing it. A halo brace is worn at all times until completely healed and recovered. �
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Effectiveness
Neck braces are the most effective when they are used as directed by a doctor, chiropractor, or spine specialist. Working with an orthotist, or a specialist that designs and custom fits spinal braces can be extremely beneficial. Any questions about how to wear and care for a spinal brace should be brought up with a doctor or orthotist. They will help ensure a full understanding of how to get the most benefit from the treatment.
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Neck Pain Chiropractic 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*
Spinal meningitis does not just affect the brain. Most think of meningitis as a brain disease, but it can also affect the spine. We will discuss learning how to recognize it and find the right treatment to fix it within the spinal cord. Spinal meningitis can be a potentially deadly infection of the meninges. This is the protective tissue that covers the brain and spinal cord.
It can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi that are transmitted from person to person by sneezing, talking, and sharing food.Viruses and pathogens that cause other infections, like the mumps and measles, can also cause meningitis. The lining around the brain and the spine are connected, which means that infection can travel from one area to another, or remain in the brain or the spine.
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The Meninges
Meninges are the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. They are made up of three layers:
Dura mater is the thick and tough outer layer
Arachnoid mater is the middle layer made up of strands of connective tissue
Pia mater is the inner layer of cells
Spinal meningitis can develop when a virus, bacteria, or pathogen invade the meninges layers. This causes the immune system to react trying to remove the invading bacteria etc, which causes inflammation. These organisms usually take up residence in the nose and throat and never cause problems. Most individuals that come into contact with these viruses never get sick.
The reason for this is because the body produces fighting antibodies before the pathogens can invade the meninges. Others, possibly from age or underlying conditions, where they are not able to produce enough or any antibodies, makes them vulnerable to the illness. When the brain and spine’s tissue/s get infected with any one of these pathogens, the tissue swells, which constricts proper blood flow to the brain.
Types of Spinal Meningitis
The most common types of spinal meningitis in the United States include:
Viral meningitis
Viral meningitis is caused by enteroviruses, which are common viruses that enter the body through the mouth and travel to the brain and tissues where multiplication ensues. There are other viruses that can also cause meningitis. These include:
Viruses that cause mumps
Herpesviruses – like Epstein-Barr, measles, influenza, West Nile
Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus from rodents
Any of these viruses can spread to the meninges, causing spinal meningitis to develop. This is a less severe type than bacterial meningitis.
Bacterial meningitis
This is the type where dangerous bacteria invade the meninges. Individuals are at higher risk as this type can be fatal if not treated. Common types of bacterial meningitis include:
Haemophilus influenzae – can cause severe infection/s of the lining of the brain, spinal cord, and the blood.
Pneumococcal meningitis – is caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pneumonia and is the most common form of bacterial meningitis.
Meningococcal meningitis – also known as meningococcal disease, is a less common type. This type is caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitides. Around 2,600 people in the U.S. are affected yearly.
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Symptoms
Viral or bacterial spinal meningitis can cause a range of symptoms, including:
Neck and back stiffness
Muscle weakness
Headache
Drowsiness
Fatigue
Fever
Double vision
Sensitivity to light
Nausea
Vomiting
Hearing difficulty
Confusion
Seizures
Rash
Symptoms are often far more pronounced with the bacterial form. This is because it�s associated with more inflammation, compared to the viral type.
Complications
Depending on the type whether viral or bacterial the results can be serious, leading to:
Permanent brain damage
Permanent organ damage
Stroke
Loss of hearing
Loss of limbs
Death
Anyone who experiences symptoms of meningitis should see a doctor immediately for diagnosis and treatment options.
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Risk for Spinal Meningitis
Getting spinal meningitis depends on various factors like:
Age
Immune system status
If the individual lives in a group environment
Children younger than five
Individuals with weakened immune systems from taking medication/s for other conditions
Recent organ/bone marrow transplants
Babies younger than 1-month-old along with weakened immune systems are more likely to experience severe illness
These are factors that could increase the risk of viral meningitis. Fortunately, most cases are not serious and in children’s cases, most recover in one to two weeks. Meningitis can also occur very rarely after spine surgery where the lining around the dura is torn with an infection happening at the same time.
Diagnosis
Detecting spinal meningitis a doctor will utilize:
Blood tests
Imaging tests
Spinal tap to test the cerebrospinal fluid which surrounds the brain and spinal cord.
The fluid is collected and sent to a lab, where it is analyzed for bacteria or viruses.
Treatment
Antiviral medication can help with certain types of viral meningitis with other meds for treating meningitis symptoms. Doctors recommend bed rest, proper fluids, and medication for fever relief and headache relief. This is for viral meningitis.
Antibiotic medications can treat bacterial spinal meningitis. It is commonly treated with intravenous antibiotics in a hospital setting. Unfortunately, around ten percent of children with bacterial meningitis die from it yearly. Even with immediate antibiotic treatment a child’s body can become overwhelmed by the bacteria/organism. The Meningococcus bacteria can create a toxin that invades the blood. This can be fatal for a child or adolescent within hours. This is why it�s highly recommended to prevent bacterial meningitis than to treat it once it’s active.
Contagious
Proper hygiene like hand washing, not sharing food, beverages, utensils, or body care products like lip salve/balm can help stop the spread of bacterial and viral meningitis.
Neck Pain Chiropractic Care
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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*
Alexander Jimenez grew up knowing he was going to be a chiropractic doctor. As a child, Dr. Jimenez’s grandmother (Rebecca Tinoco of Bogota, Columbia)� experienced pain symptoms and would ask little Alex to massage the painful areas. His grandmother found relief and Dr. Jimenez began to think about how he could help others experiencing pain. �
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It was through this care that Dr. Jimenz realized being a health care chiropractic practitioner was the best way to help people. Like his grandfather, many others have experienced profound results thanks to chiropractic treatment. Dr. Jimenez knew that he wanted to be able to treat patients naturally. He would learn and develop the skills required to practice as a chiropractic physician. He enrolled in a university chiropractic program, graduated, has put in almost 30 years of work, and the rest is history. What to know about chiropractic physicians.
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A Chiropractic Physician*
A Doctor of Chiropractic also known as a D.C. is far more than a back doctor. Chiropractors study the same sciences as doctors of medicine or MDs. They are trained in the latest techniques and approaches, diagnostic tools, and developing effective treatment plans to manage various health conditions. However, chiropractic physicians specialize in non-invasive/non-surgical/non-pharmacological health care protocols and focus on whole-body health and natural healing. Wide range of factors that can impact an individual�s health like:
Biomechanical dysfunction
Diet
Genetics
Trauma
Hygiene
Emotions
Environment – Home/work
Infection/s
Lack of exercise
Posture
Stress levels
Based on these factors a chiropractor is able to determine the most effective, beneficial natural treatment plan.
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Work
Chiropractic physicians encourage individuals to look at natural, medication/surgery-free approaches to improve health, reduce, and alleviate painful symptoms. They are often called upon for preventive and rehabilitative health care. �
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Acupuncture
Functional medicine
Nutritional medicine
Physical rehabilitation
Provide supplements like vitamins and natural botanicals
Chiropractors utilize diagnostic tests like X-rays, ultrasound, and check blood pressure. They can order and interpret blood samples, urine samples, and other medical lab tests. Chiropractic physicians are able to:
Practice as primary-care physicians in most states
Doctors of chiropractic are able to treat individuals of all ages, and a variety of health conditions. Most know about chiropractors and their expertise in treating back pain, neck pain, and headaches. However, chiropractors can also treat many types of injuries and disorders involving the musculoskeletal system. They can:
Release tight muscles
Stretch out ligaments
Return joint mobility
Relieve overuse/repetitive injuries
Ease migraines
Rehabilitate/Prevent sports injuries
Treat automobile accident injuries
Reduce/Alleviate arthritis
The Most Effective Chiropractor
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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*
NOTICE: The Texas Board of Chiropractic and The Texas Supreme Court defines a Chiropractor as a Doctor. New Mexico State Bylaws and New Mexico Chiropractic State Board define a Chiropractor as a Chiropractic Physician*.
Both are the same however the bylaws require legal and literal defining.�
Surgery for sciatica is sometimes necessary if medications, chiropractic, and physical therapy are not working to relieve sciatica symptoms, but don�t worry. Individuals sometimes have sciatica that just does not respond to conservative treatment can find relief through surgical procedures.
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Questions begin to pop up, as to which procedure makes the most sense, what will the experience be like, and how long will it be until you can get back to a normal, pain-free life?
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Sciatica
Sciatica is pain that runs down the longest nerve in the body, known as the sciatic nerve. Pain starts in the lower back and spreads down one leg, into the calf and possibly the foot. It is rare but sciatica can occur in both legs. The pain is mild to severe and feels worse when sneezing, coughing, bending, and standing/sitting in certain positions. The pain is often accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness in affected legs. �
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Sciatica a set of symptoms caused by other medical problems like an injury, tumor, or the most common cause around 90% of the time is a herniated disc in the lower back. The soft-gel center of the disc pushes through the tough exterior, where it can pinch or press on the sciatic nerve causing pain.
Research shows that sciatica affects 1% to 5% of the population, and around 40% will experience sciatica at some point in their life. Men between the ages of 30 and 50 have a higher risk along with smokers, individuals that sit for a long time, and those that perform physically strenuous work. Doctors and chiropractors can diagnose cases of sciatica with a medical history and physical exam. Diagnostic imaging can also be used in some cases.
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When it’s Time to Consider Surgery for Sciatica
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Most individuals with sciatica respond positively with non-surgical treatments like chiropractic, physical therapy, acupuncture, medication, spinal injection/s, etc. This makes spine surgery a rarely needed treatment for low back and leg pain caused by sciatic nerve compression. But there are situations when surgery for sciatica could be beneficial.
Symptoms become severe and non-surgical treatment is no longer effective
There are different types of surgical procedures for spine surgery. A spine surgeon will recommend the best approach for each patient’s sciatica. Which procedure they recommend will be based on the disorder causing sciatica with the entire procedure clearly explained so that you understand completely. Ask any questions to better understand the surgeon’s recommendation. Remember, the final decision is always up to you. A second opinion is recommended before deciding.
Sciatica usually goes away on its own with the majority of cases managed with conservative treatment. Depending on the cause, this could be heat or ice packs, chiropractic, therapeutic massage, pain medication, stretching exercises, physical therapy, or injections. �
Sciatica for Surgery Options
Surgery for sciatica is performed to relieve the added compression/pressure on the nerves and relieve the pain. Options include a microdiscectomy and laminectomy. Each has its similarities and differences when it comes to the preparation, process, and recovery for the operation. �
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Microdiscectomy
During a microdiscectomy, part or all of the herniated disc is removed. Research has shown the effectiveness of relieving pain to be around 80 to 95 percent of patients. The operation is done in a hospital or surgery center and requires about one hour to complete. General anesthesia is administered during this procedure.
A surgeon will make an incision over the affected disc.
Skin and tissue covering the disc will be opened and moved for better access. Some of the bone could be taken out as part of the procedure called a laminotomy.
The surgeon will use various tools to remove all or part of the herniated disc.
Once the removal is done, the surgeon will close the incision and send you to a recovery room.
To quicken the healing process patients are encouraged to start walking within hours of the procedure.
Most go home the same day. Some patients will have to stay at the hospital for observation. This could be from other conditions present.
You will not be allowed to operate a vehicle the same day. Therefore a designated driver will be necessary.
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Laminectomy
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Preparation for a laminectomy is similar to a microdiscectomy. The lamina is the back part of the vertebrae, which protects the spinal canal. This procedure relieves pain by creating space for the nerves to move around.
The procedure takes about one to three hours from start to finish.
Both sides of the laminae are removed, along with the spinous process in the middle.
The patient lies face-down as the surgeon makes an incision near the affected vertebrae.
Skin and muscles are moved around and various tools/instruments are used to remove all or part of the lamina. Overgrowth of bone or spinal disc could also be removed.
The incision is stitched or stapled, bandaged, and sent to a recovery room.
Just like a microdiscectomy the individual will be encouraged to begin walking the same day.
Most individuals leave the hospital after surgery, however, a one to possible three-night could be required for others.
A driver does need to be designated for the ride home.
A microdiscectomy is recommended for stenosis caused by a herniated disc. However, if the stenosis is caused by another health issue/condition like bone spurs developed from arthritis, then a laminectomy could be the best approach. Laminectomies are usually performed on individuals in their 50s or 60s. While micro discectomies vary when it comes to age but are usually performed on younger individuals.
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Recovery
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At home, post-op rules need to be followed no matter what surgery for sciatica was performed. The incision area needs to stay clean and no lifting of heavy objects, bending and sitting for extended times. Surgery for sciatica is considered safe with complications being uncommon. All operations come with risks. These include nerve damage, blood clots, and infection.
The provider needs to know about unusual symptoms after the procedure. This could be fever, excess drainage, or pain around the incision area. Pain meds could be prescribed to ease the post-surgery pain, and chiropractic along with physical therapy could be implemented to speed recovery. Individuals are typically cleared to return to work two to four weeks after the procedure. It could be six to eight weeks if their job/occupation is physically demanding and strenuous.
Depending on how complex the spine surgery is an individual could be sitting upright the same day and walking within 24 hours. A course of pain meds could be prescribed to help manage postoperative pain. Instructions will be given on how to sit, rise, get out of bed, and stand in a careful manner. The body needs time to heal, so a doctor could recommend activity restriction. This could be anything that moves the spine too much. For sure contact sports, twisting, or heavy lifting during recovery are to be avoided. Report any problem/s like fever, increased pain, infection right away.
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Spine Surgery Relief
Many individuals benefit from sciatica surgery, but it doesn�t work for everyone. A small percentage of individuals continue to feel discomfort in the weeks/months after. And sciatica can return in the future and in a different location. Your healthcare provider can help you decide if surgery for sciatica is the right choice for you.
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Treating Severe & Complex Sciatica Syndromes
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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*
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