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.
Living in the desert means we don’t have to deal with digging/shoveling through snow and ice, but there are still proper techniques, tools, body mechanics, posture, and core strength that we should pay attention to and apply to guard our spines and general health. It is no surprise that when shoveling many individuals experience muscle fatigue, low back strain, vertebral disc damage (herniated disc), and even spinal fractures.
A great deal of these injuries come from excessive stress to spinal structures by slip and fall accidents. Shoveling is a frequent cause of back pain and injuries. Injuries are not only limited to the musculoskeletal system but excessive shoveling can also place added stress on the cardiovascular system.� Any hint of shortness of breath or chest pain, stop shoveling immediately but if symptoms continue, seek medical attention.
A study published indicated when handling heavy material with a shovel, the L5-S1 disc has been identified as the weakest link in the body. The most severe injuries along with pain are likely to occur in the back. Here are some tips to prevent injury.
Shoveling Basics
Shoveling can be compared to weight lifting and intense aerobic exercise. To help your body function correctly consider the following tips:
Eat long before shoveling so you have fuel but don’t cramp up.
Avoid caffeinated drinks/beverages. Stimulants can increase heart rate and cause blood vessels to constrict.
If you experience pain, stop immediately and get assistance.
Pace yourself when shoveling.
Take plenty of breaks.
Drink plenty of water to rehydrate your body.
For snow, if the ground is icy or slick, throw sand or salt to help create traction. But still be aware that some areas can still be uneven and cause you to slip, trip, or fall.
Proper Clothing
Consider the weather before beginning the job.
When it’s cold dress in layers, wear gloves, and a hat because a good amount of body heat is lost through the head. If icy cold, use a scarf.
Wear clothing that is easy to move around in.
Proper boots are essential for maintaining balance, traction and keeping feet warm/dry.
Choose specialized work/blister-free gloves or thicker gloves, that allow for a good grip on the handle.
The Shovel That’s Right for You and the Job
Shovels come in different materials, purposes, shapes, and sizes.
Choose an ergonomic shovel with a curved handle. These shovels help keep your back straight and reduce spinal stress.
Hardware stores stock ergonomically designed shovels of all types.
For snow maybe try a shovel with a plastic blade instead of metal as it’s lightweight.
Sometimes a smaller blade is the way to go. You don’t shovel as much per load, but it weighs less and puts less strain on the spine.
Don’t go for a cheap model if the job you are doing is heavy-duty. Your body will thank you.
Once you have your shovel take some time to learn the proper technique.
Technique is Key
Take some time to stretch and prepare your body as warm muscles work better.
Hand placement on the shovel is very important! Don�t grip with the hands close to each other.
Keep some distance between the hands. This will give you more leverage and make it easier to lift.
Think about proper posture and maintaining the natural curve of your spine.
Address the task directly.
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart to stay balanced.
Try to keep the shovel close to your body. Holding a shovelful with arms outstretched puts added weight on your spine.
Bend at the knees and not the waist or back.
Tighten your stomach muscles as you lift.
Lift with your legs and not your back.
Dump the material in front of you. If you need to move the material to the side, move your feet.
Do not twist your body.
Scoop small amounts into the shovel
Walk to where you want to dump it.
Do not throw over your shoulder.
Go forward with the material.
Pace yourself. Take frequent breaks and stretch your back and body.
Power Equipment
Power equipment is terrific, but if it’s not used correctly, you can still strain or injure your back.
Example: Snowblowers are designed to remove snow at a certain speed but pushing or forcing the equipment to go faster is defeating the purpose of the machine doing the work for you.
You may not realize that you hurt your back. But that little twinge you felt could change your life forever. Getting back to 100% of where you were before the injury could take time and treatment. So, do not take this activity lightly and remember prevention is the best defense.
El Paso, TX Lower Back Pain Chiropractic Care
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Injuries that are caused by repetitive movements often develop gradually.�It�s not until the symptoms get very painful and debilitating that the individual realizes that something is wrong. Don�t wait, as soon as you feel a tingle, slight pinch, or a little soreness and feel that it’s from your work, get in touch with a doctor or chiropractor.
Here are some tips to avoid stressing your back. Ergonomics breaks down how our work environment affects our work and body. Ergonomics looks for ways to improve our environment to decrease the risks of injury, ailments, enhance productivity, and improve the quality of our work.
The profession of ergonomics focuses on two areas:
Industrial ergonomics also called occupational biomechanics focuses on the physical aspects of work like
Force
Posture
Repetitive movement/s
Human factor ergonomics looks at the psychological aspects of work like mental well-being and efficient decision-making.
Minimize Stress at the Desk
Try not to lean over the desk for extended amounts of time.
Do not sit too far from the desk/workstation.
Do not sit with your back unsupported.
Adjust the chair to a proper height so the knees are bent at a 90-degree angle.
Keep the elbows bent at a 90-degree angle but also rest the elbows on the work surface or chair armrests.
Try not to bend or twist the neck while on the phone.
Maintaining a Neutral Spine While Standing
The feet should be slightly apart with the knees straight and chin tucked in. Try not to stand in one or the same position for extended amounts of time. Change and shift the weight from one foot to the other regularly. Use a footstool to elevate the foot/feet off and on, shifting the weight and continually moving can be helpful.
Proper Posture
Proper posture means maintaining the natural curve of the spine known as a neutral spine. Proper posture should be incorporated into all activities of daily living, which minimizes the amount of added stress to the spine. Proper posture is so important it’s what a chiropractor or physical therapist will first teach a patient.
Proper posture looks like
Imagine a plumb bob hanging from the ear lobe. With proper posture, the plumb bob will drop straight down the middle of the arm to the ankle.
Why is this so important?
Improper posture and incorrect body mechanics are two of the primary causes of neck and back pain.
Lifting/Carrying Objects
Observe the object to be moved, if the object looks too heavy or too big then please get help!
Before moving the object move any obstacles out of the path.
Get as close to the object as possible and bend at the knees.
Before lifting make sure the feet are slightly apart and flat. When turning, instead of twisting, pivot with the feet. This helps provide a stable base.
Take a long breathe and tighten the stomach muscles.
Smoothly lift the object using the arms and legs, not the back!
Try to hold the object at the side and bottom and keep it close to the body.
Keep your back straight.
Carry the object with the elbows slightly bent.
When carrying try to keep a balanced amount of weight in each hand. For example, shopping bags or luggage should have the loads divided in two.
Keep the shoulders held slightly back and level.
The ears should line up with the shoulders.
Keep the chin tucked in slightly.
Keep the pelvis shifted forward so that the hips are lined up with the ankles.
Reaching
Consider the size, weight, and location of the object.
Use a heavy-duty step ladder.
Directly face the object and get as close to it as possible.
One hand should be used for additional support.
Try not to look overhead for extended periods as this causes unnecessary stress to the neck.
Store items that are used all the time easy to reach. This could mean rearranging shelves etc.
There are almost as many causes of back pain as there are words to describe the pain and symptoms. Muscle spasms are the most common cause, the spine is susceptible to the same problems as other parts of your body. Poor posture and incorrect body mechanics are two of the leading causes of neck and back pain.
Through Dr.Alex Jimenez�s unique approach to healing, he continues being voted the best�Chiropractor in El Paso by the El Paso reviewing sites, clinical specialists, researchers and readers.��This is in part because he passionately accepts patients he feels are candidates for care. If he feels you need other treatment, then you will be referred to a clinic or Physician that is best suited for you.��Dr. Jimenez has teamed with the top surgeons, clinical specialists, medical researchers and premiere rehabilitation�providers to bring El Paso the top clinical treatments to our community.��Providing high non-invasive protocols is our priority.
Chiropractic Care For Migraine El Paso, TX
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Sitting places added�stress and pressure on your back because it transfers the body�s full weight onto the buttocks and thighs. Sitting for long periods can cause�pressure�to�increase on the discs, which can lead to severe/chronic back pain.�Sitting also takes a toll on the lower extremities. As the�blood stays�in the legs and feet this creates a sluggish return of blood to the heart.
Here are a few questions that most new patients have along with the answers about chiropractic adjustments, how they work, what they do and what to expect when visiting a chiropractor.
How do adjustments work?
Chiropractic adjustments are painless, but there is soreness from the massage, the working out of trigger points, knots and from the realignment of the spine into its proper position. New chiropractic patients sometimes involuntarily stiffen or fight the adjustment and feel some discomfort. However, once they relax the treatment will go very smoothly.
If the patient has gone through recent trauma like a car accident or personal injury where whiplash or inflammation has set in then there will be some pain. This is completely normal. However,�once the adjustment has been completed patients report feeling relief, calmness, a sense of well-being, and improved mobility.
During an adjustment what is that pop?
When the vertebrae are realigned, there are small pockets of gas that get released from the joints, which is what makes that pop. It is the same sound heard when knuckles are popped. This pop does not happen with all patients. But it does not mean that the adjustments are working/not working. It is not necessary to have a pop to mean that the treatment is working.
Professional Vietnamese chiropractor doing pushing motion to adjust the spine of a male patient
How safe are these adjustments?
There are several research studies documenting the safety and effectiveness of chiropractic treatment. Chiropractic is far safer than taking medication/s or surgery. Complications from chiropractic are very rare.
Question Is self-adjustment possible?
Absolutely not, chiropractic adjustments and treatment need to be performed by a qualified professional. Remember this is your spine when it’s out of place you don’t want to try to shove it back into place. A medical practitioner that knows the body’s anatomy, especially the spine is who you want working on your spine. This is exactly what chiropractors are specifically trained to do.�
Can other professionals perform these adjustments?
Yes, there are osteopaths or doctors of osteopathic medicineDO’s that are trained to perform these techniques. But usually, they are chiropractors themselves or have chiropractic training but are not using that title in their practice. Chiropractors perform 97% of all adjustments in the country. Be mindful of pain therapists, massage therapists, or so-called healers that claim that they can perform spinal adjustments but do not have the credentials, qualifications, and experience.
What conditions do adjustments help with?
Chiropractic medicine involves precise restoring/realignment of the spine that will allow for correct function and proper movement. Chiropractic helps with:
Repetitive Movement Injuries like carpal tunnel, golfer/tennis elbow
Sciatica
Scoliosis
Sports injuries
Sprained�muscles, joints, and ligaments
Stiffness in the neck, shoulders, back, arms, hands, chest, abdomen, hips, legs, feet
Strained�muscles, joints, and ligaments
Tendonitis� inflammation of soft tissues
Trauma to the body like whiplash from an accident, sports injury, personal injury
Work injuries, falls, slips, lifting, twisting
Question What if surgery is needed?
New guidelines have been issued�and emphasize that the first response for conditions and injuries should be conservative care. Because of the opioid crisis, non-invasive/surgical treatment has been deemed the approach to take with pain meds and surgery as a last resort. However, chiropractors are trained to recognize an injury that they are not able to work on and will refer a patient to the appropriate medical specialist when necessary.
Lower Back Pain Chiropractic Treatment El Paso, TX
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A chiropractic adjustment�can be a great way to improve multiple areas of the body, along with improving overall health with non-invasive treatment. Dr. Jimenez has teamed with the top surgeons, clinical specialists, medical researchers and premiere rehabilitation�providers to bring El Paso the top clinical treatments to our community.��Providing high non-invasive protocols is our priority. For any questions, you may have about treatments, please feel free to call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900 or 915-412-6677.
Individuals with chronic back and neck pain often have sleeping problems/disorders because of their pain. This is usually the case as the connection between chronic pain and not being able to sleep goes hand in hand. However, it goes a bit deeper than that. People that have chronic back or neck pain and struggle with sleep, assume it�s the pain that is keeping you from a sound sleep.
Around two-thirds of individuals with chronic pain have sleeping problems that usually lead to sleep disorders. Research is finding that pain and insomnia have a mutual relationship.
Managing chronic back pain is a tough challenge. Add to that poor sleep and your quality of life just goes down. Here we explore the relationship between chronic pain and insomnia and offer some strategies to get proper sleep while managing your pain.
Insomnia #1 Sleep Complaint
Insomnia is the number one sleep problem, but there is some misunderstanding as to what it is.
Insomnia is not just about not being able to fall and stay asleep.
Insomnia is not an isolated condition/disorder but a symptom.
It is characterized by waking up throughout the night.
It causes troubled sleep.
Understanding the root cause is the way to approach the problem.
About half of insomnia cases are a result of a mental or emotional condition, like anxiety or depression both are common in people with chronic back or neck pain. Insomnia affects sleep quality and the U.S. health care system. In the United States lost work productivity brought on by insomnia is estimated to run around $63.2 billion per year, as reported by the journal Sleep. It also takes a toll on work accidents at around $31 billion per year, according to the Archives of General Psychiatry.
Insomnia and Chronic Pain
Researchers have found it�s not as simple as chronic pain-causing insomnia but it does play a big role. Here are findings from three studies to illustrate the connection between chronic back pain and insomnia.
Chronic pain and insomnia are close.
Addressing your back pain early will benefit your spinal and body health tremendously. A study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery found that nearly half of the individuals had both chronic back pain and insomnia. They recommended�early�treatment of back pain to avoid worsening the injury and serious complications from insomnia.
Does poor sleep equal to more pain?
It is not the pain but the feelings of pain. A study in the journal of Sleep found insomnia can intensify your perception of how the pain is going to be the next day. The poor sleep does not cause added pain, but it can make you highly sensitive to the sensation of pain.
Can cognitive behavioral therapy work?
A study in Sleep Medicine followed patients who had chronic pain and used cognitive behavioral therapy for their insomnia. The results found that cognitive-behavioral therapy can effectively treat sleep problems in patients with chronic pain.
Being Able to Sleep with Chronic Pain
Insomnia treatment is broken down into two categories that are behavioral therapy and prescription meds. Behavioral therapy is preferred because it provides a long-term solution without the harmful side effects. If a doctor recommends prescription medications, it will more than likely be for treating occasional bouts of insomnia.
Those struggling to get proper sleep with chronic back or neck pain, cognitive behavioral therapy has become a first-line treatment as it addresses the thoughts and feelings that block restorative sleep. Chronic pain�along with anxiety and other worries can definitely keep you awake at night. That is why this therapy can improve sleep as the behaviors and negative thoughts�that interfere with sleep are changed.
Regular behavioral therapy has shown positive results, with as much as 80% of patients finding the ability to go to sleep and stay asleep. As an added bonus in the Annals of Internal Medicine reported that people who underwent behavioral therapy were able to fall asleep nearly 20 minutes faster and had 30 minutes less of being awake at night compared with those that did not utilize the treatment.
There is another technique that is being used to help insomnia called relaxation training. In relaxation training a professional trains you on how to relax your muscles and meditate to distract you from negative thoughts.
More get to sleep tips
Use the bedroom for sleep and sex only.
Television, reading, office work, and other activities keep to other rooms/areas of the house.
Wait until you feel sleepy before going to bed.
If you are unable to fall asleep in 20 minutes, go into another room until you feel drowsy.
Keep a set waketime regardless of when you fall asleep.
Stop napping until you can sleep through the night.
Chronic Pain and Proper Sleep Is Possible
Anyone with a pain condition will tell you, that it is not just physical, but mental and emotional as well. The relationship between chronic pain and sleep becomes more complex as it gets worse,� and it affects the other. Behavioral therapies are here to help break the cycle of negative thoughts and feelings that don’t allow the sleep needed. Talk to your doctor about the options available.
Chronic Pain Chiropractic Care El Paso, Texas
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Pain can prevent you from getting a decent night�s sleep, especially if you have chronic pain that lasts for three or more months. In fact, one�study�shows that 20 percent of people with chronic pain experience at least one symptom of insomnia, compared with only 7.4 percent of people without chronic pain. Chiropractic can alleviate pain associated with backaches, headaches, whiplash, migraines and more to help you get the sleep you need.
According to scientists, our gut microbiome may be associated with health issues like metabolic syndrome, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Scientists demonstrated that Akkermansia muciniphila, a culture of bacteria naturally found in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract of healthy people, may be associated with weight loss in humans. While diet and lifestyle modifications are recommended to help regulate metabolic syndrome and its associated health issues, recent research studies determined that using “beneficial” gut bacteria, such as A. muciniphila, may regulate excess weight and obesity.
How A. Muciniphila Can Help Improve Metabolic Syndrome
A research study in the Louvain Drug Research Institute of the University of Louvain and the Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc found that A. muciniphila supplements reduced the risk of developing metabolic syndrome and other health issues like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes in people with excess weight and obesity. Scientists are currently preparing larger-scale research studies to market A. muciniphila as a food supplement within the next few years.� Research studies demonstrated that A. muciniphila supplements are a safe and effective intervention for people with excess weight and obesity. �
Other research studies demonstrated the effects of Akkermansia muciniphila in overall health and wellness. In 2007, scientists demonstrated that A. muciniphila can improve the development of obesity and type 2 diabetes in a group of mice. Scientists also found that a pasteurized form of the beneficial gut bacteria improved risk factors, such as insulin resistance. Further research studies are required to determine if supplements of the pasteurized A. muciniphila have the same effects in humans. Scientists also need to evaluate the metabolic effects of A. muciniphila supplements in humans. �
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot research study included 40 participants with excess weight or obesity with insulin resistance. The participants were separated into three different groups which were given daily supplements of either placebo, live A. muciniphila, or pasteurized A. muciniphila, throughout three months. The participants were asked to follow their regular diets and lifestyles without changing what they ate and exercise or physical activity levels. The results of the research study concluded what other research studies had previously demonstrated in the groups of mice. �
According to the research studies, pasteurized A. muciniphila supplements helped improve essential metabolic parameters as well as helped reduce inflammatory markers in the participants. Pasteurized A. muciniphila also considerably helped improve approximately 30 percent of the participant’s insulin sensitivity index compared with the placebo group, however, the live A. muciniphila supplements helped improve insulin resistance score in the participants. The pasteurized A. muciniphila supplements were also associated with a small decrease in body weight and body fat mass in the participants. �
Recent research studies also found that A. muciniphila supplements can help reduce plasma cholesterol levels in mice as well as prevent the development of atherosclerosis in other animal models. Results from current research studies on humans demonstrated that pasteurized A. muciniphila considerably reduced approximately 8.68 percent total cholesterol levels compared with the placebo group while low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol decreased about 7.53 percent and triglycerides decreased about 15.71 percent, however, these results were not ultimately considered significant. �
Compared with the positive effects of A. muciniphila supplements on essential metabolic parameters, the participants in the placebo group had an increased risk of developing insulin resistance and hypercholesterolemia, among other health issues associated with metabolic syndrome as well as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Moreover, the research studies demonstrated that taking Akkermansia muciniphila supplements had no noticeable changes in the participant’s gut microbiome. The results show that pasteurized or live A muciniphila supplements did not affect the overall gut microbiome. �
Scientists currently understand that recent research studies did have several limitations, including that these were ultimately small-scale trials which mean that the results didn’t offer definitive conclusions associated with essential metabolic parameters in the participants. Scientists also determined that the results of the research studies didn’t find considerable changes in visceral adiposity and BMI in the participants. However, scientists concluded that the outcome measures did show the feasibility of administering A. muciniphila to humans with metabolic syndrome and its associated health issues. �
According to scientists, our gut microbiome may be associated with health issues like metabolic syndrome, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Approximately 50 million adults in the United States have metabolic syndrome. Fortunately, scientists demonstrated that Akkermansia muciniphila, a culture of bacteria naturally found in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract of healthy people, may be associated with weight loss in humans. Excess weight and obesity can ultimately lead to metabolic syndrome and other health issues like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. While diet and lifestyle modifications are recommended to help regulate metabolic syndrome and its associated health issues, recent research studies determined that using “beneficial” gut bacteria, such as A. muciniphila, may regulate excess weight and obesity as well as improve essential metabolic parameters. Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
According to scientists, our gut microbiome may be associated with health issues like metabolic syndrome, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Scientists demonstrated that Akkermansia muciniphila, a culture of bacteria naturally found in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract of healthy people, may be associated with weight loss in humans. While diet and lifestyle modifications are recommended to help regulate metabolic syndrome and its associated health issues, recent research studies determined that using “beneficial” gut bacteria, such as A. muciniphila, may regulate excess weight and obesity. �
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, and nervous health issues or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health protocols to treat injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. 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. To further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.�
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez �
References:
GEN Staff. �Bacterial Supplement May Cut Risk of Heart Disease in Obese People.� GEN, GEN Media, 3 July 2019, www.genengnews.com/news/bacterial-supplement-could-cut-risk-of-cardiovascular-disease-in-overweight-people/.
Cani, Patrice D., et al. �Akkermansia Muciniphila Helps Improve Features of Metabolic Syndrome in Overweight and Obese Subjects.� Gut Microbiota for Health, 16 July 2019, www.gutmicrobiotaforhealth.com/en/akkermansia-muciniphila-helps-improve-features-of-metabolic-syndrome-in-overweight-and-obese-subjects/.
Depommier, Clara, et al. �Supplementation with Akkermansia Muciniphila in Overweight and Obese Human Volunteers: a Proof-of-Concept Exploratory Study.� Nature Medicine, U.S. National Library of Medicine, July 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31263284.
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Additional Topic Discussion: Chronic Pain
Sudden pain is a natural response of the nervous system which helps to demonstrate possible injury. By way of instance, pain signals travel from an injured region through the nerves and spinal cord to the brain. Pain is generally less severe as the injury heals, however, chronic pain is different than the average type of pain. With chronic pain, the human body will continue sending pain signals to the brain, regardless if the injury has healed. Chronic pain can last for several weeks to even several years. Chronic pain can tremendously affect a patient’s mobility and it can reduce flexibility, strength, and endurance. �
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Neural Zoomer Plus for Neurological Disease
Dr. Alex Jimenez utilizes a series of tests to help evaluate neurological diseases. The Neural ZoomerTM Plus is an array of neurological autoantibodies which offers specific antibody-to-antigen recognition. The Vibrant Neural ZoomerTM Plus is designed to assess an individual�s reactivity to 48 neurological antigens with connections to a variety of neurologically related diseases. The Vibrant Neural ZoomerTM Plus aims to reduce neurological conditions by empowering patients and physicians with a vital resource for early risk detection and an enhanced focus on personalized primary prevention. �
Food Sensitivity for the IgG & IgA Immune Response
Dr. Alex Jimenez utilizes a series of tests to help evaluate health issues associated with a variety of food sensitivities and intolerances. The Food Sensitivity ZoomerTM is an array of 180 commonly consumed food antigens that offers very specific antibody-to-antigen recognition. This panel measures an individual�s IgG and IgA sensitivity to food antigens. Being able to test IgA antibodies provides additional information to foods that may be causing mucosal damage. Additionally, this test is ideal for patients who might be suffering from delayed reactions to certain foods. Utilizing an antibody-based food sensitivity test can help prioritize the necessary foods to eliminate and create a customized diet plan around the patient�s specific needs. �
Gut Zoomer for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
Dr. Alex Jimenez utilizes a series of tests to help evaluate gut health associated with small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). The Vibrant Gut ZoomerTM offers a report that includes dietary recommendations and other natural supplementation like prebiotics, probiotics, and polyphenols. The gut microbiome is mainly found in the large intestine and it has more than 1000 species of bacteria that play a fundamental role in the human body, from shaping the immune system and affecting the metabolism of nutrients to strengthening the intestinal mucosal barrier (gut-barrier). It is essential to understand how the number of bacteria that symbiotically live in the human gastrointestinal (GI) tract influences gut health because imbalances in the gut microbiome may ultimately lead to gastrointestinal (GI) tract symptoms, skin conditions, autoimmune disorders, immune system imbalances, and multiple inflammatory disorders. �
Formulas for Methylation Support
XYMOGEN�s Exclusive Professional Formulas are available through select licensed health care professionals. The internet sale and discounting of XYMOGEN formulas are strictly prohibited.
Proudly,�Dr. Alexander Jimenez makes XYMOGEN formulas available only to patients under our care.
Please call our office in order for us to assign a doctor consultation for immediate access.
If you are a patient of Injury Medical & Chiropractic�Clinic, you may inquire about XYMOGEN by calling 915-850-0900.
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For your convenience and review of the XYMOGEN products please review the following link. *XYMOGEN-Catalog-Download �
* All of the above XYMOGEN policies remain strictly in force. �
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Modern Integrated Medicine
The National University of Health Sciences is an institution that offers a variety of rewarding professions to attendees. Students can practice their passion for helping other people achieve overall health and wellness through the institution’s mission. The National University of Health Sciences prepares students to become leaders in the forefront of modern integrated medicine, including chiropractic care. Students have an opportunity to gain unparalleled experience at the National University of Health Sciences to help restore the natural integrity of the patient and define the future of modern integrated medicine. �
Around 70% of America’s workforce sits in an office chair for most of the day. Then we spend extended time sitting down eating, studying, watching T.V., and driving. All of this time spent sitting is taking its toll on our bodies.
Effects of When We Sit Too Long
Sitting places added stress and pressure on the back because it transfers the body’s full weight onto the buttocks and thighs. Sitting for long periods can cause pressure to increase on the discs, which can lead to severe/chronic back pain. Sitting also takes a toll on the lower extremities. As the blood stays�in the legs and feet this creates a sluggish return of blood to the heart.
In addition to sitting proper body mechanics are not implemented. Most of us sit with an improper posture, which can not only cause physical discomfort but also contributes to other health problems, which include:
Abdominal pain
Back pain
Eyestrain
Leg pain
Neck pain
Repetitive movement/motion injuries
Using a well-made ergonomic chair can help reduce fatigue, discomfort, increase blood flow, reduce injury, and increase job productivity.
An Ergonomic Chair
If it is to be used at a computer station or on a factory�machine, it needs to be able to handle the tasks and fit the worker’s size. Here are some recommendations to help you pick a quality chair that will increase comfort and reduce injury.
Casters
Use a chair with casters either in the form of a pivoting roller/with wheels and a 5-point base to make movement easier. There are different types of casters, some for carpet use, and soft wheel casters for hard surfaces like tile and linoleum. Rubber locking casters can help prevent tipping. Also, choose a chair that swivels easily.
Seat Pan
The seat pan supports the majority of your weight. A chair with the cushion made from a dense, foam padding or spring coils is better than a basic cushion that loses its shape and compresses which causes discomfort, imbalance, and hip/back fatigue. The pan should be at least one inch wider than the hips and thighs on each side. The front part of the seat should slope down a little and allow a fist-sized space between the back of your knees and the front edge of the seat pan to reduce pressure on the back of the thighs.
Also, a chair with tilting adjustments allows the individual the ability to a forward working posture or a properly reclined posture. Some seat pans also have a sliding mechanism that can be beneficial. This means small and tall users are able to adjust the distance of the seat pan from the backrest.
The Backrest
Adequate back support is the most essential element of a backrest. Inadequate back support places added pressure on the spine. The backrest should be small enough to fit the small of the back, the pelvis, and back of the rib cage or be curved. Both provide adequate support. A lot of the chairs come with a built-in adjustment, that can be adjusted by turning a knob on one side or under the chair. Chairs with back supports that are large enough to provide mid-back and upper back support are an added bonus.
Armrests
Chairs with adjustable height and width are necessary with a chair with armrests. The armrest should be made of soft comfortable material and be 2 inches wide for adequate surface area.
Seat Height
Pretty much all chairs come with a seat height adjustment. A properly�adjusted�seat means that your feet can rest properly on the floor while the upper body is aligned with the computer, display, and keyboard. Hydraulic adjustments are standard on most chairs, but there are pneumatic adjustments that allow you to adjust the seat height while sitting on the chair. Keep in mind the mechanism to adjust the seat should be easy to reach.
Chair Reclining and Tilt Adjustment
The chair recline/tilt adjustment changes the angle of the entire seat. Like with the backrest angle adjustability, a reclined chair transfers upper body weight to the backrest of the chair. However, locking the backrest in one position is not recommended or beneficial for the back.
Considerations
Footrests
For most a footrest is not necessary. But if additional foot support is necessary, a floor-mounted rest will allow you to rest your feet in a comfortable position.
Fabric Types
Keep in mind the cleaning and maintenance that goes into the chair when choosing which. Upholstery is the most common covering but is not the easiest to keep clean. Vinyl and leather covers are easy to clean but don’t breathe well and can generate heat in the legs.
Safe Sitting
Other than using an ergonomic chair, here are some precautions to minimize discomfort and injury while sitting:
Do not stay in one position for a long time.
Change postures often.
Shift between sitting and standing, 20 minutes of standing then 20 of sitting.
Try to keep your feet flat on the floor.
Sit with proper posture upright with your back and shoulders against the backrest.
Do not use the armrests to slouch.
Elbows and arms should rest lightly to promote circulation.
Make sure the shoulders are relaxed and slightly dropped when on the keyboard.
�Stay In a Neutral Posture
With the back supported and straight
The hips slightly higher than the knees
Keep between 2-4 inches of the chair edge and behind the knees
Maintain an equal balance of weight on the seat
Most Important
Take frequent breaks
Stand up and move around
Stretch
Be aware of your posture while your sitting
Correct yourself if you are slouching or moving out of the proper posture
Take deep breaths
This will increase blood flow and reduce fatigue.�Small changes will go a long way and keep you comfortable and healthy.
Work smarter not harder
Because we spend so much time in a chair we need to have the right one that will protect our spines. Think of the chair as a piece of�work�equipment to optimize productivity. Ergonomics utilized to the fullest means less back pain and better focus.
When your body is truly healthy, you will arrive at your optimal health and proper physiological state. �We want to help you live a new and improved lifestyle. Over the last two decades, while researching and testing we have learned what works effectively at decreasing pain while increasing human vitality.
Reduce Back Pain With Custom Foot Orthotics El Paso, TX.
NCBI Resources
Ergonomic chairs have come a long way, and they do help reduce spine problems, pain, and improve movement.�Improving spinal health and hygiene at work�is as simple as�taking breaks for light stretching,walking around, and utilizing ergonomic office products to stay fit and injury-free. Whatever you choose, understand how your back and neck are moving/functioning during the workday/night by using ergonomic fundamentals that will keep your body/mind healthy and prevent office injuries.
Heart disease is one of the most common health issues associated with metabolic syndrome. People with metabolic syndrome can have several conditions that may increase the risk of developing a variety of health issues, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Approximately 50 million adults in the United States have metabolic syndrome, however, scientists believe that people with mental health issues like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder have a higher chance of being diagnosed with the collection of health issues. Antipsychotic drugs/medications can also cause considerable weight gain. �
Other factors that may cause metabolic syndrome can include, poor diet, lack of exercise or physical activity, and smoking. Excess weight and obesity can ultimately lead to insulin resistance, a condition that occurs when the human body can’t use insulin or the essential hormone that helps convert sugar or glucose into energy. If left untreated, insulin resistance can cause the pancreas to work harder and become exhausted, causing tremendously high blood sugar levels. Diabetes can damage blood vessels throughout the human body and increase the risk of developing heart disease and stroke. �
Risk of Developing Metabolic Syndrome with Mental Health Issues
People with mental health issues like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder have a higher chance of being diagnosed with metabolic syndrome. Although excess weight and obesity are becoming more prevalent in the general population, people with severe mental health issues have a higher chance of developing a variety of other health issues compared with the general population. Poverty, reduced access to medical attention, and side-effects caused by psychotropic drugs/medications can increase the risk of developing metabolic syndrome and other health issues like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. �
Antipsychotic drugs/medications are also associated with weight gain and changes in lipid and sugar or glucose metabolism. Because of the increased risk of developing the collection of health issues in people with severe mental health issues, healthcare professionals recommend regular screening and monitoring of metabolic parameters, such as body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, blood pressure, and plasma lipids and sugar or glucose. Treatment should consider the increased risk of developing metabolic syndrome and other health issues in people with severe mental health issues. �
Metabolic Syndrome in People with Severe Mental Health Issues
Research studies evaluated changes in weight and other metabolic markers associated with antipsychotics. Olanzapine and clozapine tremendously increased metabolic markers while quetiapine and risperidone, as well as aripiprazole and ziprasidone, moderately increased metabolic markers. Long-term research studies demonstrated greater weight gain than short-term research studies and the weight gain rate was faster at the start until a peak plateau was reached. Increased risks are based on specific factors and the changes are often unpredictable, especially in antipsychotics with moderate effects. �
Aripiprazole and ziprasidone are least likely to contribute to metabolic syndrome. Excess weight and obesity are often considered to be the main factors in severe mental health issues, however, according to the International Diabetes Federation, factors for metabolic syndrome can include excess weight and obesity as well as elevated TG, LDL cholesterol, BP, and fasting plasma sugar or glucose. It is essential to remember that although BMI is important, central adiposity, or waist circumference and distribution of fat, can also increase the risk of metabolic syndrome in people with severe mental health issues. �
Treatment for Metabolic Syndrome and Mental Health Issues
Healthcare professionals prescribe the drug/medication metformin (Glucophage) to promote weight loss and improve insulin resistance in people with mental health issues. Metformin blocks the release of sugar or glucose from the liver into the bloodstream while decreasing the human body’s resistance to insulin. Only several research studies have evaluated the effects of the drug/medication on people with severe mental health issues. According to the research studies, metformin may also ultimately help people taking antipsychotics to lose weight and prevent insulin resistance from becoming worse. �
During a research study, people taking antipsychotics, who also took metformin, lost an average of 3 pounds while those taking placebo maintained the same weight. Moreover, insulin resistance remained unchanged in people who also took metformin but it increased in people taking placebo. In another research study, insulin resistance remained stable in people taking antipsychotics, who also took metformin, while it worsened considerably in people taking placebo. Other research studies have evaluated whether combining metformin with diet and lifestyle modifications may have even greater benefits. �
In one research study, scientists separated people with schizophrenia into four different groups: metformin alone, a placebo pill alone, diet and lifestyle modifications with metformin as well as diet and lifestyle modifications with placebo. Although both groups including diet and lifestyle modifications as well as the metformin alone helped improve metabolic syndrome and its associated health issues, the greatest improvement occurred in the combined treatment groups. The diet and lifestyle modifications with metformin group had 7 percent weight loss compared with 5 percent for the metformin alone. �
People with metabolic syndrome can have several conditions that may increase the risk of developing a variety of health issues, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Approximately 50 million adults in the United States have metabolic syndrome, however, scientists believe that people with mental health issues like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder have a higher chance of being diagnosed with the collection of health issues. Excess weight and obesity can ultimately lead to insulin resistance, a condition that occurs when the human body can’t use insulin or the essential hormone that helps convert sugar or glucose into energy. If left untreated, insulin resistance can cause diabetes which can, in turn, damage blood vessels and increase the risk of developing heart disease and stroke, especially in people with severe mental health issues like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
Heart disease is one of the most common health issues associated with metabolic syndrome. People with metabolic syndrome can have several conditions that may increase the risk of developing a variety of health issues, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Approximately 50 million adults in the United States have metabolic syndrome, however, scientists believe that people with mental health issues like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder have a higher chance of being diagnosed with the collection of health issues. Antipsychotic drugs/medications can also cause considerable weight gain. �
Other factors that may cause metabolic syndrome can include, poor diet, lack of exercise or physical activity, and smoking. Excess weight and obesity can ultimately lead to insulin resistance, a condition that occurs when the human body can’t use insulin or the essential hormone that helps convert sugar or glucose into energy. If left untreated, insulin resistance can cause the pancreas to work harder and become exhausted, causing tremendously high blood sugar levels. Diabetes can damage blood vessels throughout the human body and increase the risk of developing heart disease and stroke. �
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, and nervous health issues or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health protocols to treat injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. 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. To further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.�
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez �
References:
Newcomer, John W. �Metabolic Syndrome and Mental Illness.� AJMC, AJMC Media, 1 Nov. 2007, www.ajmc.com/journals/supplement/2007/2007-11-vol13-n7suppl/nov07-2657ps170-s177.
Harvard Health Publishing. �Metabolic Syndrome and Mental Illness.� Harvard Health, Harvard Health Media, Aug. 2011, www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/metabolic-syndrome-and-mental-illness.
Demler, Tammie Lee. �Metabolic Challenges in Mental Health.� U.S. Pharmacist � The Leading Journal in Pharmacy, 17 Nov. 2017, www.uspharmacist.com/article/metabolic-challenges-in-mental-health.
The following Neurotransmitter Assessment Form can be filled out and presented to Dr. Alex Jimenez. The following symptoms listed on this form are not intended to be utilized as a diagnosis of any type of disease, condition, or any other type of health issue. �
Additional Topic Discussion: Chronic Pain
Sudden pain is a natural response of the nervous system which helps to demonstrate possible injury. By way of instance, pain signals travel from an injured region through the nerves and spinal cord to the brain. Pain is generally less severe as the injury heals, however, chronic pain is different than the average type of pain. With chronic pain, the human body will continue sending pain signals to the brain, regardless if the injury has healed. Chronic pain can last for several weeks to even several years. Chronic pain can tremendously affect a patient’s mobility and it can reduce flexibility, strength, and endurance. �
Neural Zoomer Plus for Neurological Disease
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Dr. Alex Jimenez utilizes a series of tests to help evaluate neurological diseases. The Neural ZoomerTM Plus is an array of neurological autoantibodies which offers specific antibody-to-antigen recognition. The Vibrant Neural ZoomerTM Plus is designed to assess an individual�s reactivity to 48 neurological antigens with connections to a variety of neurologically related diseases. The Vibrant Neural ZoomerTM Plus aims to reduce neurological conditions by empowering patients and physicians with a vital resource for early risk detection and an enhanced focus on personalized primary prevention. �
Food Sensitivity for the IgG & IgA Immune Response
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Dr. Alex Jimenez utilizes a series of tests to help evaluate health issues associated with a variety of food sensitivities and intolerances. The Food Sensitivity ZoomerTM is an array of 180 commonly consumed food antigens that offers very specific antibody-to-antigen recognition. This panel measures an individual�s IgG and IgA sensitivity to food antigens. Being able to test IgA antibodies provides additional information to foods that may be causing mucosal damage. Additionally, this test is ideal for patients who might be suffering from delayed reactions to certain foods. Utilizing an antibody-based food sensitivity test can help prioritize the necessary foods to eliminate and create a customized diet plan around the patient�s specific needs. �
Gut Zoomer for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
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Dr. Alex Jimenez utilizes a series of tests to help evaluate gut health associated with small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). The Vibrant Gut ZoomerTM offers a report that includes dietary recommendations and other natural supplementation like prebiotics, probiotics, and polyphenols. The gut microbiome is mainly found in the large intestine and it has more than 1000 species of bacteria that play a fundamental role in the human body, from shaping the immune system and affecting the metabolism of nutrients to strengthening the intestinal mucosal barrier (gut-barrier). It is essential to understand how the number of bacteria that symbiotically live in the human gastrointestinal (GI) tract influences gut health because imbalances in the gut microbiome may ultimately lead to gastrointestinal (GI) tract symptoms, skin conditions, autoimmune disorders, immune system imbalances, and multiple inflammatory disorders. �
Formulas for Methylation Support
XYMOGEN�s Exclusive Professional Formulas are available through select licensed health care professionals. The internet sale and discounting of XYMOGEN formulas are strictly prohibited.
Proudly,�Dr. Alexander Jimenez makes XYMOGEN formulas available only to patients under our care.
Please call our office in order for us to assign a doctor consultation for immediate access.
If you are a patient of Injury Medical & Chiropractic�Clinic, you may inquire about XYMOGEN by calling 915-850-0900.
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For your convenience and review of the XYMOGEN products please review the following link. *XYMOGEN-Catalog-Download �
* All of the above XYMOGEN policies remain strictly in force. �
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Modern Integrated Medicine
The National University of Health Sciences is an institution that offers a variety of rewarding professions to attendees. Students can practice their passion for helping other people achieve overall health and wellness through the institution’s mission. The National University of Health Sciences prepares students to become leaders in the forefront of modern integrated medicine, including chiropractic care. Students have an opportunity to gain unparalleled experience at the National University of Health Sciences to help restore the natural integrity of the patient and define the future of modern integrated medicine. �
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