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.
Take frequent breaks to avoid overuse of muscles with little rest breaks of whatever muscles/ligaments you are using.
Regular exercise along with stretching and relaxation helps build strength, increase mobility, range of motion and prevent future injury.
Look at your posture to make sure it is correct for the task at hand. This helps the elbows, wrists, hands, and spine maintain alignment during repetitive motions.
Don’t stay in a single position for too long. Change your posture frequently during any type of activity to relax one set of muscles and use another set, then switch and so on and so forth.
Practicing correct form and technique will go a long way in preventing a repetitive injury.
Avoid over-reaching, stretching and twisting.
Use protective equipment and gear.
Have a properly designed workstation with office or work equipment at the proper height, distance and allows you to work safely and comfortably.
Staying Healthy
Staying healthy and avoiding RMD’s is first priority if you work at a job or regularly participate in activities where repetitive motion/s and movement/s are used.
Give yourself time to rest, exercise, and implement proper techniques. See a doctor or injury chiropractor if you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed. Ergonomically evaluating the causes is an important part of the diagnostic evaluation for patients with these conditions.
Therefore, mapping out a customized treatment plan for changing the way you work/perform these motions is the ultimate goal.
We focus on what works for you. We also strive to create fitness and better the body through researched methods and total wellness programs. These programs are natural and use the body�s own ability to achieve goals of improvement, rather than introducing harmful chemicals, controversial hormone replacement, surgery, or addictive drugs.
We want you to live a life that is fulfilled with more energy, a positive attitude, better sleep, less pain, proper body weight and educated on how to maintain this way of life. I have made a life of taking care of every one of my patients.
The “LIFE CHANGING” Foot Orthotics | El Paso, Tx (2020)
NCBI Resources
Barring traumatic injury due to an accident, working in a factory environment can cause problems with mobility, pain, and flexibility. The�nature of the job�places specific demands on the human body that can lead to certain types of injuries and health conditions, which include:
Repetitive motion injury � When a worker performs the same task that involves the same movements over and over, it can lead to certain types of injuries. Carpal tunnel is a common repetitive motion injury.
Overexertion � Lifting, pulling, even standing can take a toll on the body, especially when it is done without adequate breaks. The person can get muscle fatigue, pulled muscles, and pulled tendons.
Body movement injuries � When the worker is continuously reaching, twisting, crawling, and bending, it can cause problems with the muscles and joints.
Movement disorders are health issues that can cause abnormal and involuntary body movements. Many common movement disorders are frequently caused by problems in the transmission signals of the brain and they can ultimately affect quality, fluency, speed, and ease of movement. Movement disorders are also referred to as conversion disorders and/or psychogenic movement disorders. Damage, injuries or underlying conditions of the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system don’t necessarily cause movement disorders. We will discuss the most common movement disorders, including: �
Tremor: also known as an essential tremor or a resting tremor.
Ataxia: characterized by “jerky” movements and coordination problems.
Dystonia: characterized by abnormal, involuntary, and prolonged muscle contractions.
Huntington’s disease: also known as chronic progressive chorea.
Parkinson’s disease: one of the most “well-known” movement disorders, associated with tremor.
Multiple system atrophies: also known as Shy-Drager syndrome.
Myoclonus: characterized by rapid, brief, and irregular movements.
Tourette’s syndrome: another “well-known” movement disorder, associated with repetitive or unwanted sounds and movements.
Wilson’s disease: also known as an inherited health issue, associated with common symptoms and liver disease.
Progressive supranuclear palsy: also known as a rare health issue that affects movement.
Tremor
Tremor is a common movement disorder that is characterized by abnormal and/or involuntary shaking or “trembling”. It can generally affect single or multiple limbs and it can also frequently worsen with simple movements. Tremor affects approximately five million people in the United States. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, tremors most commonly develop in older adults, specifically in those over 65 years of age. It is commonly caused by problems in the regions of the brain that regulate and manage movement. Tremor is not associated with damage, injury, or an underlying condition.
Ataxia
Ataxia is a well-known movement disorder that affects the brain and/or spinal cord. Ataxia can cause common symptoms, such as instability, imbalance, clumsiness, tremor, and/or a lack of coordination. Normal movements associated with ataxia generally aren’t smooth and they may appear to be “jerky” or disjointed. People with ataxia may also fall down frequently due to an unsteady gait or walking cycle. Ataxia also can affect speech and eye movement.
Dystonia
Dystonia is a common movement disorder that is characterized by abnormal and/or involuntary muscle spasms. Dystonia is caused by basal ganglia dysfunction, a region of the brain that regulates and manages movement coordination to control the fluency and speed of movement and avoid unwanted movement. Dystonia can cause common symptoms, such as repetitive, abnormal and/or involuntary movements of any part of the body. General dystonia can ultimately affect the whole body while focal dystonias can ultimately affect a single area of the body, most commonly affecting the neck, known as spasmodic torticollis, eyelids, known as blepharospasm, lower face, known as Meige syndrome, or hand, known as writer’s cramp or limb dystonia.
Huntington’s Disease
Huntington’s disease is another well-known movement disorder that gradually deteriorates the brain cells. It can also often be fatal. Huntington’s disease affects approximately one in every 10,000 people in the United States and generally develops between 35 and 50 years of age, progressing without remission through 10 to 25 years. A juvenile form of the movement disorder affects approximately 16 percent of all cases and generally develops in people less than 20 years of age. Huntington’s disease can cause common symptoms, such as jerky, abnormal and/or involuntary movements of the face, limbs, and trunk, gradual brain dysfunction as well as mental health issues. Moreover, Huntington’s disease is well-known as a hereditary movement disorder.
Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease is another commonly well-known movement disorder caused by the deterioration of the brain cells in the area, known as the substantia nigra, that regulates and manages movement. The brain cells can become damaged and die, ultimately affecting their capability to create an essential substance known as dopamine. Parkinson’s disease can cause common symptoms, such as tremor, muscle stiffness, gradual loss of movement, gradual brain dysfunction, decreased facial expressions and/or voice changes, decreased blinking, swallowing frequency, and drooling, a stooped, flexed posture, unsteady gait or walking cycle, mental health issues, and/or dementia. According to the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation, approximately 60,000 new cases of Parkinson’s disease are diagnosed each year. Approximately four percent of people with Parkinson’s disease are diagnosed before 50 years of age.
Multiple System Atrophies (MSA)
Multiple system atrophies (MSA) are gradual movement disorders that can affect blood pressure, movement, and other structures and functions. Because of the different ranges of symptoms, MSAs were initially characterized as three different health issues, including Shy-Drager syndrome, striatonigral degeneration, and olivopontocerebellar atrophy. All of these health issues are currently characterized as MSA. Common symptoms include stiffness, slowed movements, instability, loss of balance, loss of coordination, a considerable decrease in blood pressure associated with dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting or blurred vision, known as orthostatic hypotension, male impotence, urinary problems, constipation, as well as speech and swallowing difficulties.
Myoclonus
Myoclonus is a common movement disorder characterized by abnormal or involuntary twitching or muscle spasms. There are several different forms of myoclonus. Cortical myoclonus develops in a region of the brain known as the sensorimotor cortex and it may be caused by a variety of health issues. Subcortical myoclonus affects various muscle groups and may be caused by unusually low levels of oxygen in the brain, known as hypoxia, or by a metabolic process, such as liver or kidney failure. Spinal myoclonus may be caused by damage, injury, or an underlying condition of the spine, such as multiple sclerosis, syringomyelia, ischemic myelopathy or an infection like herpes zoster, Lyme disease, E. coli or HIV. Peripheral myoclonus may be caused by the compression of a facial nerve or it may occur for no apparent reason. Furthermore, several other health issues associated with myoclonus can ultimately include celiac disease, Angelman syndrome, Huntington’s disease, Rett syndrome, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Tourette’s Syndrome
Tourette Syndrome is a hereditary movement disorder characterized by repetitive, abnormal, and/or involuntary movements and sounds known as tics. This health issue commonly develops between six and 15 years of age, however, it may develop as early as two years of age or as late as 20 years of age. Common symptoms include abnormal and/or involuntary movements of the face and body. Tics are generally frequent, repetitive, and quick. Verbal tics, known as vocalizations, generally occur with the movements and/or may replace single or multiple movement tics. Vocalizations can include grunting, throat clearing, and shouting, among others. Verbal tics may also include the abnormal and/or involuntary utilization of obscene, socially unacceptable words and phrases, known as coprolalia,� as well as obscene gestures, known as copropraxia. Tics disappear in about 70 percent of cases.
Wilson’s Disease
Wilson’s Disease is a common movement disorder that causes excess copper to accumulate in the brain or liver. Although copper can accumulate since birth, common symptoms can develop between six and 40 years of age. Wilson’s Disease affects approximately one in 30,000 people in the world. Wilson’s disease is also associated with mental health issues as well as liver disease. Other common symptoms can include jaundice, abdominal pain and swelling, vomiting, tremor as well as walking, talking or swallowing difficulties, suicidal or homicidal behavior, depression, and aggression, among others.
Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP)
Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is a rare but well-known movement disorder that causes gradual loss of certain brain cells, slowed movement, and balance, walking, swallowing, speech and eye movement difficulties. It may also affect cognition and personality, causing emotional outbursts and a decrease in intellectual capabilities. PSP commonly affects people between 40 to 60 years of age and it can generally run its full terminal course throughout six to 10 years. PSP is occasionally misdiagnosed as Parkinson’s disease because the symptoms are very similar. Although the cause of PSP is unknown, healthcare professionals understand that a protein, known as tau, can accumulate in unusual clumps in certain brain cells of people with PSP.
Common movement disorders are characterized as health issues that can cause common symptoms, such as abnormal and involuntary movements. Common movement disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease, tremor, ataxia, and dystonia, among others, are caused by problems in the transmitting signals of the brain and they can ultimately affect quality, fluency, speed, and ease of movement. Common movement disorders are also frequently referred to as conversion disorders and/or psychogenic movement disorders. In the following article, we discussed several of the most common movement disorders. Understanding common movement disorders and their common symptoms is fundamental for diagnosis and treatment. – Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
Movement disorders are health issues that can cause abnormal and involuntary body movements. Many common movement disorders are frequently caused by problems in the transmission signals of the brain and they can ultimately affect quality, fluency, speed, and ease of movement. Movement disorders are also referred to as conversion disorders and/or psychogenic movement disorders. Damage, injuries or underlying conditions of the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system don’t necessarily cause movement disorders. In the article above, we discussed the most common movement disorders.
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:
Stanford Health Care (SHC) – Stanford Medical Center. �Functional Movement Disorders.� Stanford Health Care (SHC) – Stanford Medical Center, stanfordhealthcare.org/medical-conditions/brain-and-nerves/functional-movement-disorders.html.
Swierzewski, Stanley J. �Movement Disorders Overview.� Movement Disorders Overview – Movement Disorders – HealthCommunities.com, 1 Jan. 2000, www.healthcommunities.com/movement-disorders/overview-of-movement-disorders.shtml.
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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
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 food sensitivities. 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.
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.
Part of understanding the body and treating symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, joint pain, and overall discomfort is realizing that the body is an intricate system that functions as one. In modern medicine, we have become used to seeing different specialists for different body systems ( i.e the endocrine system, the nervous system, etc.). However, in all reality, the body is made up of all these systems to work together to maintain homeostasis.
Wellness is best defined by the National Wellness Institute as, ” An active process through which people become aware of, and make a choice toward, a more successful existence (The Six Dimensions Of Wellness)”.
In general, wellness is applied in one’s life to incorporate all aspects of health. Similar to the systems in the body, wellness is not just isolated to one part. The National Wellness Institute has promoted and defined there to be six dimensions of wellness.
Emotional
Occupational
Physical
Social
Intellectual
Spiritual
These dimensions dive deep to incorporate mental health and physical health. Mental and physical health are closely intertwined and often times relate to each other. By applying the six dimensions of wellness into your life, you are treating the body as a whole and allowing yourself to embrace the mind-body connection for optimal wellness.
Emotional:
The ability to be alone and have your own feelings and thoughts not overwhelm you, expressing emotions in a healthy way, and to be able to be compassionate towards others’ emotional state.
Occupational:�
The work you put in every day and understanding that it has a purpose and point to fulfill not only the necessary job duties but also the soul.
Physical:
The practice of regular physical activity, healthy eating/nutrition, and a regular healthy sleep schedule. These are essential elements to fuel life and heal the body.
Social:
To be able to regularly socialize and react with others. This includes interacting with people in all aspects of life and engaging in a healthy living environment.
Intellectual:
Not only referring to education, but allowing the mind to open up and connect to the lively world around.� Intellectual wellness has a main focus of creativity while exploring problem-solving and critical thinking.
Spiritual:
Knowing that there is a purpose in life that the life you are living is meaningful.
Essentially, by applying these six dimensions of wellness into everyday life, a person becomes more aware of how each dimension is connected to another and how they contribute to healthy living. Emotional health has a lot to do with mental health. By aligning emotional health with mental health, the physical health the body receives is less inflammation, a healthier gut, and more mental clarity.
Similarly speaking, occupational health has a lot to do with physical health. If the occupation one has is constantly exhausting them and causing high levels of stress, the hormones in their body will start to become off balance. This will affect their health in the way that they will not be sleeping as well, causing fatigue and the body to react with inflammation because it is not getting an adequate amount of rest to properly heal.
Physical health is important because by incorporating regular physical activity into one’s life, endorphins will be released more often. Physical activity is used to treat many mental health disorders as well as prevent many physical disabilities.
Often times, anxiety or stomach issues can be brought on by social events. Social wellness works on healthy communications with others around you while also being able to be comfortable and confident.
Intellectual wellness happens as individuals explore and connect with others. If one is not complete or working on the intellectual wellness side of things, this can cause depression and poor health due to not being stimulated and interactive.
The last dimension of wellness is spiritual.� Spiritual wellness does not mean that you believe in a specific thing, but rather that your life has a meaning and you have a purpose.
By incorporating these six dimensions, it allows the human body to connect with itself. by opening up the communication between the systems, a new level of wellness can be achieved.
The six dimensions of wellness is a more holistic approach to healthy living. These dimensions will help individuals reach their full potential while learning and acknowledging their strengths and weaknesses when it comes to health. I highly recommend incorporating the six dimensions of wellness into everyone’s life as the healing benefits it can bring are remarkable. Treating the body as a whole and realizing that your gut health is related to your brain health is eye-opening and creates a lot of room for potential healing. – Kenna Vaughn, Senior Health Coach�
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.�
Keyboards and mice come in all sorts of colors and styles, which is great but for those that work on a computer for a job, using the right type is essential to prevent injury keeping the hands, wrists, and arms healthy and moving.
Overuse can cause painful musculoskeletal disorders like:
There are a variety of ergonomic designs for these devices. Keyboard designs include four separate key areas:
The alphanumeric area with letters, numbers, and control keys
An area with cursor keys
Numeric keypad
Function keys or the ‘F’ keys
Keyboard Key Combinations or The Mouse
Basic typing and many other actions can be performed on the keyboard using the:
Function keys
Cursor keys
Control keys
Keyboard macros
Pretty much all of these actions can be done with the mouse. Many users operate the computer with the mouse instead of using the key combinations.
To obtain correct posture when working align the center of your body with the center of the keyboard area used the most or during a task.
Keyboard Layout
The layout follows the original ASDF design from the first typewriter.
From the beginning of this design, there was a realization that angling and splitting the keys would reduce the bending of the hands. The first split keyboard typewriter was manufactured in 1886.
The idea of splitting and angling the keys was implemented into ergonomic keyboard designs with the alphanumeric keys being separated at an angle into two sloped sections. For a� non-touch typist, this can be difficult to use, as some keyboards only angle the keys without splitting into halves.
The split design reduces the sideways bending of the hand but also important is the reduction of vertical bending.
However, this can be overcome by taking some simple steps like:
Flattening the keyboard feet on the desk can keep the hands flat
Putting the keyboard on a vertical tilted tray can also help improve the hands’ posture
Keyboards are available in left and right-handed styles
Choosing a Mouse
The shape along with the location of the mouse in relation to the keyboard is important for maintaining a healthy hand posture. Here are some considerations when choosing a mouse. The mouse buttons should:
Have easy clickability
Is easy to move around/feels natural
The screen cursor should move accurately with your movements
There are mice with programmable buttons allowing you to control additional functions. Important things to check:
Make sure the size and shape of the mouse feels natural in your hand
Hold the mouse in a neutral position meaning your hand should not be bent up, down or sideways
Position and operate the mouse with your upper arm relaxed and close to your body, and don’t reach too far forward or too far out to the side
There are keyboards with a separate numeric pad that allows the mouse to be located closer to the keyboard. Some keyboards include a cursor positioning device like a trackball, touchpoint or touchpad. These types eliminate having to reach for a mouse. However, it is a good practice to mix it up using the keyboard for certain operations and the mouse for others. This allows different muscles and ligaments to work while the others take a break.
The Ideal Setup
All keyboards and mice are designed differently. The key is to find well-made products that are built with ergonomic injury prevention as the focus. You can use trackballs, touchpads, and pen mice instead of a regular mouse.
Find what works for you, is ergonomic, comfortable and easy to use and will keep your hands in a neutral posture. If you do a lot of typing and mouse movement, your hands are going to get tired even with top designed keyboards and mice. Take frequent short rest and stretch breaks to let your muscles recover. The stretching exercises should include the:
Wrist
Forearm muscles
Shoulders
Neck
Upper back muscles
Working like this will protect you against over-use injuries.
Carpal Tunnel Chiropractic Treatment
NCBI Resources
Chiropractic care is one of the most common forms of treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome. Foremost, a doctor of chiropractic will evaluate the extent of the condition as well as diagnose the individual to determine any underlying cause behind the condition. Through a series of chiropractic adjustments and manual manipulations, the hand, wrist, and arm are adjusted to reduce the pressure around the median nerve, and ultimately reducing the symptoms.
Movement disorders are characterized as health issues that cause abnormal and involuntary body positions or movements. Many neurological conditions are caused by brain signal problems and they can ultimately affect quality, fluency, speed, and ease of movement. Dyskinesia is characterized as abnormal and involuntary fluency and/or speed of movement while hyperkinesia is characterized as excessive movement and hypokinesia is characterized as slow or absent, abnormal and involuntary movements. Movement disorders are also referred to as conversion disorders and/or psychogenic movement disorders. � Injuries or underlying conditions to the brain, spinal cord, and nervous system don’t always cause movement disorders. Movement disorders can include: �
Tics, characterized as abnormal and/or involuntary contractions of the muscles,
Tremor, also referred to as a resting tremor or essential tremor,
Ataxia, characterized by “jerky” movements and coordination problems,
Dystonia, characterized as abnormal and/or involuntary, generally prolonged contractions of the muscles,
Huntington’s disease, also referred to as chronic progressive chorea,
Parkinson’s disease, a well-known movement disorder, including tremors,
Multiple system atrophies, also referred to as Shy-Drager syndrome,
Restless legs syndrome (RLS) and reflex sympathetic dystrophy/periodic limb movement disorder (RSD/PLMD),
Myoclonus, characterized by rapid, brief, irregular movements,
Tourette’s syndrome, another well-known movement disorder, including repetitive or unwanted sounds and movements,
Wilson disease, known as an inherited health issue that causes a variety of symptoms and liver disease, and
Progressive supranuclear palsy, characterized as a rare health issue that affects movement.
As previously mentioned in the list above, tics are a well-known, movement disorder characterized by abnormal and/or involuntary contractions of the muscles that can ultimately affect an individual’s regular physical activities as well as their overall quality of life. Tics are generally triggered by a powerful urge or sensation that is temporarily relieved after the contraction of the muscles. Several examples of common tics can involve the following, including: �
Twitching of the face,
Clearing of the throat,
Grunting,
Sighing,
Blinking, and/or
Shrugging of the shoulders.
Dystonia can include spasmodic torticollis, characterized by abnormal and/or involuntary movements of the eyelids, face, head, neck, and blepharospasm. � Tourette’s syndrome is another well-known movement disorder characterized as a health issue that causes a variety of vocal and motor tics or repetitive contractions of the muscles. Common symptoms of Tourette’s syndrome generally manifest during childhood and/or early adolescence and they can commonly vary in severity and frequency. Patients diagnosed with Tourette’s syndrome can also ultimately develop a variety of other behavioral problems, including inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, compulsions, and obsessions. A diagnosis is necessary to determine the presence of Tourette’s syndrome. �
What are the Symptoms of Movement Disorders?
Movement disorders are characterized by abnormal and involuntary movements. But, patients may also experience a variety of other symptoms, including: �
Jerky movements or twitching,
Spasms and/or contractures, characterized as limbs “freezing” in an abnormal or involuntary body position,
Tremors, characterized by abnormal or involuntary movement of a limb, can range from moderate to severe and occasional or constant, and
Gait problems, characterized as walking problems that can ultimately cause difficulty while standing or unsteady walking.
The symptoms of the movement disorders previously mentioned above can be treated. Treatment can help improve the symptoms of movement disorders. �
What are the Treatments for Movement Disorders?
Movement disorders can cause stress and ultimately affect an individual’s overall quality of life. Qualified and experienced healthcare professionals that specialize in a variety of movement disorders can help diagnose as well as develop a treatment program for every patient’s unique needs and symptoms. The goal of a doctor is to help improve the quality of life of patients with movement disorders through the use of lifestyle modifications, therapy, and medicines. According to the diagnosis, the healthcare professional will ultimately suggest treatments and possible referrals to other specialists, including: �
Referral to neurobehavioral healthcare professionals,
Physical therapy,
Chiropractic care,
Medication
Movement disorders are ultimately characterized as a variety of neurological health issues that can also generally cause various abnormal and involuntary body positions or movements. Many other neurological health issues are commonly caused by problems in the transmitting signals of the brain and they can ultimately affect quality, fluency, speed, and ease of movement. Movement disorders are also frequently referred to as conversion disorders and/or psychogenic movement disorders. Treatment of the symptoms of movement disorders will ultimately depend on the diagnosis of the patient. – Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
Movement disorders are characterized as health issues that cause abnormal and involuntary body positions or movements. Many neurological conditions are caused by brain signal problems and they can ultimately affect quality, fluency, speed, and ease of movement. Dyskinesia is characterized as abnormal and involuntary fluency and/or speed of movement while hyperkinesia is characterized as excessive movement and hypokinesia is characterized as slow or absent, abnormal and involuntary movements. Movement disorders are also referred to as conversion disorders and/or psychogenic movement disorders. �
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:
Stanford Health Care (SHC) – Stanford Medical Center. �Functional Movement Disorders.� Stanford Health Care (SHC) – Stanford Medical Center, stanfordhealthcare.org/medical-conditions/brain-and-nerves/functional-movement-disorders.html.
Stanford Health Care (SHC) – Stanford Medical Center. �Symptoms.� Stanford Health Care (SHC) – Stanford Medical Center, stanfordhealthcare.org/medical-conditions/brain-and-nerves/functional-movement-disorders/symptoms.html.
Stanford Health Care (SHC) – Stanford Medical Center. �Treatments.� Stanford Health Care (SHC) – Stanford Medical Center, stanfordhealthcare.org/medical-conditions/brain-and-nerves/functional-movement-disorders/treatments.html.
Swierzewski, Stanley J. �Movement Disorders Overview.� Movement Disorders Overview – Movement Disorders – HealthCommunities.com, 1 Jan. 2000, www.healthcommunities.com/movement-disorders/overview-of-movement-disorders.shtml.
Neurotransmitter Assessment Form
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
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 food sensitivities. 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. �
If you are experiencing any of these situations, then it might be your stress hormone affecting your mind-body connection.
By discovering how hormones and stress can alter the brain�s function, it is impressive how science and psychology are behind the mind and body connection and how it is disconnected due to two concept idealism. Amazingly though, hormones in the body can affect a person’s perception of the world as well as showing how stress is producing in the body while making visible changes in the brain by enhancing the neurological functions. In the previous article, it talks about how the mind-body connection was formed.
By exploring how stress can rewire the brain’s neural architecture, researchers can see how this is being done, understanding allostasis and how the body responds to stress, as well as seeing how five molecules are being required to help rebuild the brain in the body.
How Stress Remodels the Brain
Known as cognitive deficits, any altercations to the brain can make a person more susceptible to neurological dysfunction in their bodies. Studies show that people can become acutely sensitive to stimuli in their bodies, like having fearful facial expressions due to amygdala hyper responsivity. This condition can happen to schizophrenia patients, and recent research shows that the amygdala response can become hyperactive and can decrease over time gradually. With the bidirectional relationship between the environment and the mind, it shows the spheres of the brain can correspond with each other. When there is chronic or severe stress in the body and affecting the brain, it can result in behavioral abnormalities that can be manifested into cognitive impairments.
In a study, the research shows how animals were being exposed to stressful situations, and researchers are examining their stress response. The results show how animals are being exposed to different situations that are causing them to be stress, and the stress hormones are producing dendritic remodeling in the hippocampal neurons.
When the human body is continually adapting to its environment, the brain is being rewired since the brain is the center for regulating the cytoskeleton, epigenetic, and nongenomic mechanism for the body. Surprisingly, the stress hormone can remodel the neural architecture of the brain by gene expression that is continually being mediated by epigenetic mechanisms. This mechanism makes the human body to adapt to its environment and helps the response and corresponding changes in the body; there is a factor that can help mediate these changes.
BDNF or brain-derived neurotrophic factor is a factor that is being directly involved in the neurological function of the brain while also playing an essential role in the hippocampal aging so the brain can function correctly. So when stress is affecting not only the brain but the body as well, it can cause cognitive dysfunction to a person depending on the stress and the situation a person is in.
How Allostasis and The Body Responds To Stress
When the body achieves homeostasis, a process known as allostasis helps the body be adaptive and is connected to the entire human body. Since the HPA axis, the nervous system, the metabolic system, and the immune system are involved with the stress response and can become a stressor. If there is an overabundance of stress, the body can start to fail and cannot regulate these mechanisms, causing the body to burn out. This is known as “allostatic overload.”
With homeostasis, it is there to make sure that the body is doing okay by adapting to stressor mediators. These mediators include the endocrine system that produces hormones, the metabolic system that helps regulate glucose levels, and the immune system. With these meditators, they are there to help maintain the body, while allostasis and “allostatic overload” are the biological concepts that can describe how the body can adapt to stressors. When a person is overly stressed or is suffering from a high allostatic load, they may develop some bad habits in the future. Whether it is smoking, consuming alcohol, eating poorly, or even sleeping less, this can cause their body to develop chronic illnesses over time.
Good stress: This type of stress is an essential part of life that everyone has. What good stress does to the body is that it briefly increases the heart rate and mild hormone rate. This type of stress is a good motivation boost to anyone that is getting their work done.
Tolerable stress: This type of stress is a bit more severe and temporary in the body. What tolerable stress does is that it is associated with non-normative that can be presented from a more significant threat. This type of stress can be from experiences of the death of a family member, natural disasters, or an act of terrorism.
Toxic stress: This type of stress can cause prolong activation of the stress response and can cause chronic impairments to the body. Research at Harvard showed how toxic stress could alter the developmental process on kids, thus producing damaging effects that can affect a child’s development throughout their life. Toxic stress can produce long-lasting abnormalities to a person and can hinder them from being socially active.
The 5 Molecules To Remodel The Brain
Even though the body gets involved when there is a stressful experience, the brain becomes the primary target. The stress hormone can alter the brain’s function and structure, causing the body to have neurological impairments. Surprisingly though, the brain can rebuild itself, and many healthcare professionals can offer patients that have neurological dysfunction a positive therapeutic advancement through the correct internal, external, and environmental conditions that the patient is in.
There are five main groups of molecules that the brain needs, so it can be remodeled and can offer positive treatments for the person. They are:
With the mind-body connection being in a bidirectional relationship, it is essential to know that these two are not separate entities and that they affect the body by sending out hormones to the crucial organs to make sure that it is functioning correctly. When it comes to stress, however, it can cause the brain to rewire itself, and if there is prolonged stress in the body, it causes many disruptive factors that will impact not only the mind-body connection but the body’s system as well. Some products can help the mind-body connection by providing support to the endocrine system, the gastrointestinal system, as well as relieving temporary stress the body may encounter.
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.
References:
Team, Biotics Education. �Managing Inflammation through Gut Microbiota.� Biotics Research Blog, 7 May 2019, blog.bioticsresearch.com/managing-inflammation-through-gut-microbiota.
McEwen, Bruce S. �The Neurobiology of Stress: from Serendipity to Clinical Relevance.� Harold and Margaret Milliken Hatch Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, The Rockefeller University, 25 Sept. 2000.
Shi, Shou-Sen, et al. �Acute Stress and Chronic Stress Change Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) and Tyrosine Kinase-Coupled Receptor (TrkB) Expression in Both Young and Aged Rat Hippocampus.� Yonsei Medical Journal, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Sept. 2010, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2908888/.
Suslow, Thomas, et al. �Automatic Amygdala Response to Facial Expression in Schizophrenia: Initial Hyperresponsivity Followed by Hyporesponsivity.� BMC Neuroscience, BioMed Central, 13 Nov. 2013, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24219776.
Team, Biotics Education. �Stress – The Mind-Body Connection Part 2.� Biotics Research Blog, 12 Dec. 2019, blog.bioticsresearch.com/stress-the-mind-body-connection-part-2.
Team, Harvard University. �Toxic Stress.� Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University, 2019, developingchild.harvard.edu/science/key-concepts/toxic-stress/.
Most of us know what sciatica means and that is low back pain that radiates/spreads into the buttock down into the leg and sometimes into the foot. The pain can be mild to excruciating, but fortunately, if it is mild�sciatica can usually be alleviated in 3 months.�These are a few non-invasive conservative treatment therapies that can be done at the house.
Here are a few at the house sciatica remedies for people who started experiencing sciatic nerve pain or whose pain is not severe. But you should get a doctor�s approval before trying any of these at the house therapies.
If sciatica has been present for a few weeks or the low back and leg pain has become debilitating you should see a doctor.
House Tip 1. Exercise is OK & Beneficial
It might seem strange to exercise when you�re in pain, but research has shown that too much rest can aggravate back and leg symptoms.
Remember this is not a hardcore burning massive calories exercise, but a gentle exercise routine that you can work into your day.
These Exercises should not be painful or strenuous.
A walk around the house is a great form of physical activity that keeps your spine strong without worsening the injury.
Make your spine stronger with core exercises, but make sure they will not exacerbate your sciatica symptoms. And remember that exercise triggers the release of endorphins to reduce the pain.
House Tip 2. Start Stretching
Start doing gentle stretches regularly. Stretching will improve your spinal flexibility and motion range and also builds core strength. Most stretches can be done while watching your favorite show/movie.
House Tip 3. Ice Packs and Heating Pads Help
Alternating heat and ice therapy can bring relief from nerve pain. Ice helps reduce inflammation, and heat generates blood flow to the areas of pain that speeds up healing. Both help reduce muscle spasms that usually come with sciatica.
Apply the ice pack for 15 minutes once every hour, and then bring the heat for 15 minutes every 2 or 3 hours. Remember to protect your skin when using these pads, and never sleep with the heat or ice pads.
House Tip 4. Change Your Posture
If you are working at your desk or just relaxing, don’t stay in the same position too long, as it can make the pain spike.
Therefore move around and change your posture every 20 minutes. Using the correct posture for various activities will help take the pressure off your spine and reduce symptoms.
House Tip 5. If You Need To Use Medication Properly
Over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications can help ease symptoms when they present. These medications can relieve inflammation and pain, whereas acetaminophen (Tylenol) only reduces pain.
However, there are health risks, so make sure to discuss their safety with your doctor.
Examples include:
Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
Aspirin (Ecotrin)
Naproxen (Aleve)
The Remedies Are Not Working
Recognize when at the house remedies are not reducing your symptoms. When the treatments aren’t helping, it could be time to see a doctor, chiropractor or spine specialist.
People including myself want to avoid the doctor. It could be knowing how to use your health insurance or if you don�t have any. Whatever the reason do not opt for the ignorance is bliss and hope it will all go away.
If you need help figuring out how to use your insurance here at Injury Medical our staff are trained to help guide you through the process. And if you don’t have insurance we can still help and work out different types of plans.
Now there are sciatica symptoms that warrant immediate medical attention. In these rare cases, holding off medical care could cause permanent nerve damage.
If any of the following occur, please see your doctor as soon as you can:
There is severe throbbing/stinging pain in your low back and legs
Nerve associated symptoms like:
Weakness
Numbness
Tingling
Electric shock-like pain
The pain is not improving after 2 weeks
The pain gets worse, even with house therapies
Loss of bowel or bladder control
At the end of the day reducing sciatica symptoms doesn�t always mean having to use an extreme treatment approach. Relieving sciatica symptoms at the house with light exercise, ice/heat therapy, correct posture, and medication can help speed up recovery. The most important thing you can do is to take it seriously and call your doctor or chiropractor if relief is not happening.
Please contact our chiropractic team today to schedule an appointment if you are experiencing symptoms of sciatica. We are ready to help you feel better and get back on your feet again!
*Effective Treatment* for Sciatic Nerve Pain| El Paso, Tx
NCBI Resources
A study cited by the health magazine�Prevention�found that sixty percent of sciatica sufferers who failed to get relief from other treatments found their symptoms improved after chiropractic care. In fact, they got the same level of relief as those who went through surgery � without any of the serious side effects that so often come with surgical procedures.
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