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.
I have worked with several chiropractors in the professional area and he’s (Dr. Alex Jimenez) very good as a doctor, he’s awesome. He educates you and he really cares about his patients, along with the staff. Dr. Alex Jimenez makes you feel very welcomed.
Araceli Norte
Balance is something which many people take for granted throughout the majority of their life. In the early stages, as infants become toddlers, they learn to keep their balance, we cheer and then celebrate. They�also learn how to develop their balance when riding a bike. As we age, however, our balance becomes a little bit less reliable, where we often need to work to remain on our own two feet. When our equilibrium starts to falter, we realize just how much we heavily depend on our ability to stay balanced.
Reduction of equilibrium will happen to even the most powerful of individuals. For some, this means having to use a walking stick to help them move around or spending time in a wheelchair. As is correct with balance and gait disorders caused by neurological health issues, equilibrium issues can become worse over time. Problems like vertigo can block you from ever feeling genuinely secure. It is essential to concentrate on regaining your balance by focusing on improving your gait while this occurs.
Slip and fall injuries or accidents are a constant worry for seniors as well as for those who have physical difficulties or balance and gait disorders. Most of the time, those concerns aren’t unfounded. As a matter of fact, falls have been accounted as a�significant cause of severe injury-related health issues in the United States. In this article, we will discuss equilibrium and the type of treatment options available which can help improve balance.
Causes of Balance & Gait Disorders
The speed and style in which you walk are referred to as your gait. It is fundamental to seek proper treatment if you have to work on your walking. It’s also very common among athletes, although this is a process which many individuals often only have to do after suffering an injury in their lower extremities. Runners use treatment as a means to improve leg and foot motion as well as to increase stability and pace.
An individual’s ability to maintain balance while moving along with your gait is interrelated; you can not master one without focusing on the other. Chiropractic care will help you learn these skills to decrease your risk of injury, while at the same time increasing your confidence and independence. Before seeking treatment for balance and gait disorders, however, it’s essential to understand the causes of these health issues.
There are numerous factors which might affect your ability to keep balance. One of which is muscle atrophy. In this case, it is not an injury that holds you back. Instead, it’s often a natural process resulting in structural and functional weakness. Loss of balance stems from the sensation of “running out of steam.” The increased fatigue means that you are more likely to injure yourself, creating a flow of imbalance. Exhaustion, poor posture, and slow reflexes can ultimately make moving more difficult than it is.
Your ability to keep equilibrium depends on far more than a pair of healthy feet and caliber sneakers. Your balance and gait are also connected to your nervous system. Each of the following body parts listed below can play a significant role in your ability to stay balanced, these include:
Inner ears
Eyes
Joints
Muscles
Nervous system
Cognitive functions
Treatment which enhances balance and gait works with the different�parts listed above to keep them functioning correctly. Balance and gait treatment�comes with a selection of advantages, with preventing injuries being at the top of the list. You’re also more inclined to feel confident beyond lessening your chances of falling or feeling dizzy. Besides, those aches and pains caused by poor posture are also likely to decrease.
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Maintaining balance in your body is essential but when you have balance and gait disorders, this can often be difficult to achieve. Chiropractic care can help keep balance in your life. Spinal adjustments and manual manipulations can help improve overall health and wellness. For balance, chiropractic care can help provide strength, flexibility and mobility, making sure the body is functioning properly.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T.
Chiropractic Care for Balance & Gait Disorders
Chiropractic care, along with physical therapy, is considered to be one of the most effective treatments for balance and gait disorders. Working with an experienced chiropractor can enable you to regain your stamina by adopting new approaches regarding posture and movement. Exercises can help you feel more confident and more aware on your feet, and strength to the muscles will lessen fatigue as well as decreasing your chance of injury.
The very first thing to expect when meeting a chiropractor for the treatment of balance and gait disorders is a complete evaluation. You’ll be asked to walk, and the healthcare professional will take notes concerning your step style, foot placement, and pace. Possible health issues associated with your own strength will be identified and a treatment plan will be designed to ascertain which exercises will be ideal for your specific requirements. Checking balance is also a part of this assessment.
Hip and ankle problems frequently lead to balance and gait disorders, as does poor posture. Strength and flexibility exercises can help. These usually�involve leg lifts while seated in a chair, or “knee marching.” Chiropractors and physical therapists may even have you practice walking heel-to-toe, standing on one leg, or they may monitor�the movement of your thumb with your eyes as you move it in various positions.
It’s essential to seek immediate medical attention to find a proper diagnosis and continue with treatment for balance and gait disorders. A qualified and experienced chiropractor and can restore your confidence as well as to promote appropriate recovery. Contact a healthcare professional to regain your freedom. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic as well as to spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at�915-850-0900�.
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Acute Back Pain
Back pain�is one of the most prevalent causes of disability and missed days at work worldwide. Back pain attributes to the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience back pain at least once throughout their life. The spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles, among other soft tissues. Because of this, injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as�herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of back pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of back pain, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have painful results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease back pain through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
The human body is an intricate machine, and everything is connected so when something goes wrong in one area, it can cause problems in other areas. The back carries a lot of the stress in the body so when there is a problem with the hips, knees, or a foot dysfunction, the spine can bear at least some of the brunt of the pain and other effects.
Pronation describes the way that the foot rolls inward during its normal motion. The foot turns inward, flattening out, as the heel�s outer edge strikes the ground.
For the foot to function correctly, there must be a significant degree of pronation. However, excessive pronation, or overpronation, can cause injury and damage to the foot and ankle. It creates the arch in the foot to flatten, and the ligaments, tendons, and muscles under the foot overstretch.
What is Supination and Oversupination
Supination describes the way the foot rolls outward during its normal motion. It occurs during the push off part of the gait, mainly when running when the heel lifts. The heel leaves the ground, and the movement carries through as weight transfers to the forefront and toes. It moves the body in a forward direction.
When there is excessive supination or oversupination, it strains the tendons and muscles that provide stabilization for the ankle. Causing the ankle to roll, causing injury to the ankle including overpronation sprain, a torn tendon, or ligament rupture.
Conditions and Injuries Caused by Overpronation and Oversupination
Overpronation and oversupination can cause a variety of injuries and conditions that affect not only the feet and ankles, but also the knees, hips, and back as well. Some of the more common injuries and conditions include:
Flat feet or posterior tibial tendon dysfunction
Ankle Sprains
Achilles tendinitis
Arch pain
Plantar fasciitis
Corns
Shin splints
Heel pain
Tight calves
Calluses
Knee pain
Patellar tendonitis
Hip pain
Tight hip flexors
Back pain
Sciatica
Herniated disks
How Foot Problems can Cause Back Pain
Foot Dysfunction can very easily cause a domino effect that extends all the way to the back. The feet are the foundation of the body and when there is a problem with the way they function it can cause the entire body to shift out of alignment.
For instance, overpronation of the foot causes a series of internal changes that extend up through the leg. The femur may rotate causing hip pain and inflammation of the sacroiliac joint which leads to back pain. Other misalignments in the body that are caused by foot problems can also lead to chronic lower back pain as well.
Chiropractic to Treat Foot Problems
Chiropractic seeks to find the cause of the conditions it is used to treat, including pain, instead of just treating symptoms. Because of this, the chiropractor will work to find the cause of the pain, in this case, overpronation and overpronation, and correct it � or the effects of the condition � in addition to treating the back pain.
Typically, overpronation and oversupination, are caused by muscle imbalances in the foot, ankle, and lower leg. Improper shoes, misalignment in the body, and other issues can cause these muscle imbalances. The chiropractor will work with the patient to find the cause of the foot problem so that can be corrected, then work to the damage or injury done.
Foot Dysfunction & Back Pain Chiropractic Treatment
Of course, I’m prone to injuries and Dr. Alex Jimenez has been helping me. I’ve known him for about six years and every time something comes up, either it’s a small injury or a major one, he’s always been there and he’s always helped me get back to my feet to start playing sports again really fast.
Madison Hill
Ankle pain refers to any type of pain or discomfort in the ankle. This pain could generally be due to an injury, such as a sprain, or due to another health issue. As stated by the National University of Health Sciences, or NUHS, an ankle sprain is one of the most frequent causes of foot pain, making up 85 percent of all ankle injuries. A sprain occurs when the ligaments tear or are overstretched.
Most ankle sprains are lateral sprains, which occur when the foot rolls, causing the ankle to twist toward the ground. This action rips or stretches the ligaments, which connect two bones or cartilages and holds a joint together. A sprained ankle often swells and lumps for a temporary amount of time. However, it might take a couple of weeks to get a severe injury like this to�heal completely.
Once healed, the sprained ankle is occasionally permanently weaker and less stable compared to the other ankle. According to a paper released by the American Academy of Family Physicians, or AAFP, the highest risk for ankle sprains includes a previous ankle sprain. Although, ankle sprains are not the only cause of foot pain. Below, we will discuss several common causes of foot and ankle pain as well as their treatment.
Causes of Ankle and Foot Pain
The ankle is a hinge joint formed by the assembly of three bones: the tibia, the fibula, and the talus. The bony knobs on both sides are called the malleoli. Overall, the ankle is an intricate structure. These constructions provide support for walking and standing. Also, stability is provided by the ligaments on the surface of the ankle. Additionally, some tendons also attach to the muscles of the ankle.
Ankle pain may be brought on by various ailments, such as sprain, strain, arthritis, gout, and tendinitis, among others. These kinds of injuries can occur on both sides of the joint. There can be pain and discomfort as well as swelling. A sprain is considered to be the most frequent cause of foot pain. As�mentioned above, a sprain is generally caused when the ankle rolls or twists so the ankle moves toward the ground, tearing or overstretching the ligaments of the ankle that hold the bones together.
An x-ray is typically done to rule out a fracture. The remedy for an ankle strain or sprain generally includes restricting the total amount of weight-bearing on the ankle, getting rest and applying ice. Drugs and/or medications can reduce symptoms. Chiropractic care can also help diagnose and treat ankle sprains and strains. Ankle and foot pain may also be due to:
Arthritis, specifically osteoarthritis,
Gout
Tendinitis
Nerve injury or disease, such as sciatica
Blocked blood vessels
Infection from the joint
While ankle strains and sprains are the most common form of foot pain, arthritis can also frequently lead to ankle pain. Arthritis is the inflammation of the joints, although multiple kinds of arthritis may lead to pain in the joints. Foot pain can be caused by three common forms of arthritis: osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis.
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition where the cartilage slowly begins to wear away. Osteoarthritis�causes the natural wear and tear of the joints associated with age. Older adults are more inclined to develop osteoarthritis. In most cases, an individual’s pain and discomfort, including swelling and�stiffness, among other symptoms may worsen over time.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease. This health issue may severely impact the foot and ankle joints. With rheumatoid arthritis, the human body’s immune cells attack the synovium covering the foot joints. Joint deformity is common with rheumatoid arthritis. A fungal or bacterial infection causes septic arthritis. If the septic arthritis is among the ankle regions, this may result in foot pain.
Following an injury, post-traumatic arthritis can develop from trauma or damage to the ankle or foot. Previous fractures and dislocations are the most common ailments that may lead to post-traumatic arthritis. Like gout, which we will discuss further below, the joints begin to wear away, although it may take several years for this to happen after the injury.
Gout occurs when uric acid accumulates in the human body. This higher than average concentration of uric acid, which is generally a by-product of the human body’s normal breakdown of older cells, can deposit crystals in the joints, causing sharp pain. Pseudogout is a similar illness where calcium deposits build up in the joints. Indicators of gout and pseudogout include soreness, swelling, and redness.
Tendinitis is a swelling of the tendon. In the ankle, it may frequently involve the anterior tibial tendon or the Achilles tendon. Tendinitis can result from an overuse injury or disorders like rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. All types of tendinitis trigger pain, inflammation, and tenderness. Drugs and/or medications, applying ice and immobilizing the region are often the first line of treatment for tendinitis. Chiropractic care can also be helpful in the treatment of tendinitis. Casting may be required if the patient’s tendinitis is severe or advanced.
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Foot pain can commonly occur due to ankle injuries. In the United States alone, approximately 2 million acute ankle sprains occur every year, one of the most prevalent causes of ankle pain. Chiropractic care is a popular alternative treatment option which can help treat a variety of health issues, including foot and ankle pain.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T.
Chiropractic Care for Foot and Ankle Pain
Chiropractors utilize a mixture of treatment techniques and methods to ease ankle and foot pain. Chiropractic care is a safe and effective, alternative treatment option which focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of a variety of injuries and conditions associated with the musculoskeletal and nervous system, including foot and ankle pain.
Soft tissue and joint mobilizations are done to restore proper mechanics and muscle activation. Manual therapy may be used to improve the mobility of the ankle and foot along with reducing pain. Furthermore, a chiropractor may recommend a series of lifestyle modifications to help promote a faster recovery process. Exercises are targeted to the areas that were affected. Balance training might also be implemented.
Some treatment modalities that chiropractors utilize to treat injuries to the foot and ankle include ultrasound, electrical stimulation, heat and ice treatment, and massage. These treatment methods increase circulation to enhance recovery, decrease inflammation, reduce pain and improve mobility. When you visit a healthcare professional, a full evaluation is done, goals are discussed along with an individualized treatment program which is intended to target your specific treatment requirements.
Home Treatment for Ankle and Foot Pain
For immediate at-home treatment of foot and ankle pain, the RICE system is generally recommended. The RICE treatment includes:
Rest: Avoid putting weight on the ankle. Try to move as little as possible for the first couple of days. If you have to walk or run, consider using a cane or crutches.
Ice: Begin by putting a bag of ice in your ankle for a minimum of 20 minutes at a time. Repeat this three to five times every day for three days. This�treatment helps decrease pain. Give yourself about 90 minutes between sessions.
Compression: Wrap your injured foot with an elastic bandage, such as an ACE bandage. Don’t wrap it too tightly to where your feet turn blue or your ankle becomes numb.
Elevation: Whenever possible, keep your ankle raised over heart level on a pile of pillows or another type of support arrangement to promote healing.
It’s possible to take over-the-counter drugs and/or medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to relieve swelling and pain, however, these are often only offer temporary relief from the symptoms. Make sure to talk to a certified and qualified healthcare professional regarding any home treatment options to prevent further injury and symptoms.
If�you are suffering from foot pain or ankle pain, do not delay anymore. Chiropractors can help patients who suffer from foot, and ankle pain and they can help you, too. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic as well as to spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at�915-850-0900�.
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Acute Back Pain
Back pain�is one of the most prevalent causes of disability and missed days at work worldwide. Back pain is attributed�to the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience back pain at least once throughout their life. The spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles, among other soft tissues. Because of this, injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as�herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of back pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of back pain, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have painful results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease back pain through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
Ever since he started chiropractic care with Dr. Alex Jimenez and continued rehabilitation at Push, Bobby Gomez has experienced great improvements on his back and hip pain. Since birth, Bobby had problems walking due to an uneven pelvic tilt. However, treatment has helped him gain more muscle on his legs, giving him more strength, flexibility and mobility to further improve his gait. Thanks to chiropractic care and rehabilitation, Bobby Gomez has become more confident and at peace with himself, highly recommending Dr. Alex Jimenez as the non-surgical choice for hip pain.
Chiropractic Hip Pain Treatment
Pain in the hip is the experience of pain from the joints or muscles in the hip region, a condition arising from any of a number of variables. Occasionally it is associated with back pain. Causes of pain around the hip joint may be extra-articular, or referred pain from neighboring structures, including the sacroiliac joint, spine, symphysis pubis, or the inguinal canal. Clinical tests are accommodated to identify the source of pain as intra-articular or extra-articular. The flexion-abduction-external spinning (FABER), internal range of motion with overpressure (IROP), and scour tests reveal sensitivity worth in identifying individuals with intra-articular pathology.
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Chiropractic treatment is dedicated to finding and correcting spinal misalignments. Many seek chiropractic care to alleviate pain and other health-related symptoms. One condition that is sought out constantly, is relief from lower back pain.
31 million Americans experience low back pain at any given time. This condition affects many, but finding the exact cause can be a challenge. Chiropractors are spinal specialists that are trained to not only alleviate pain but also find and help correct the cause of the problem.
Prevention Is The Best Defense
Prevention is the best cure for any condition/ailment. When a someone sees a chiropractor, they not only find relief for their condition, but they learn ways to prevent they symptoms in the future. Using proper exercise and ergonomics, they can ease the discomfort before it starts. Great results are gained by individuals that listen to instructions.
Treatment Options
Treatment options are plentiful. Based on the diagnosis they will suggest the ones that will benefit you the most. These treatments may include one or more of the following:
Spinal adjustments delivered either by hand or instrument like an Activator
Hot or cold compresses
Physical therapy modalities like Interferential Therapy or TENS
Massage Therapy or some other form of soft tissue work
Spinal decompression therapy
Relief
Prescription medication could still be required to help reduce levels. The good news is that the meds can be decreased quicker than usual, as the spine misalignments are corrected, nerve compression is alleviated and the inflammation is reduced. This alone is well worth the investment of time and money to see a chiropractor.
Exercise & Physical Rehabilitation
As the treatment progresses from pain relief to rehabilitation, a chiropractor will recommend exercises to help strengthen the core muscles. These muscles help stabilize and protect the lower back. These exercises are performed at the office or specialized fitness center with certified physical therapists/trainers to make sure you understand how to do them without re-aggravating the original condition. Once educated on the purpose and how to perform them correctly, you�ll be able to continue at home in conjunction with spinal adjustments during maintenance care.
Surgery Options
Depending on the condition, surgery can be avoided if chiropractic treatment is implemented before injury/s or pain worsen. A chiropractor can help avoid surgery by correcting the problem.
Make sure you follow the recommendations after a consultation and examination are performed. The examination may require X-rays or MRIs.
A chiropractor is the ideal medical professional to consult with for any unexplained pain in the musculoskeletal system. They are highly qualified professionals that their specialty is treating conditions like lower back pain and they are very affordable. If you or a loved one have pain in the lower back, gives us a call. We�re here to help!
Dr. Alex Jimenez is excellent, he’s patient, he gets right to the point of the situation, and then helps you with your stretching and therapy to make sure that it doesn’t continue. I recommend him for everybody in El Paso, the whole state of Texas. He should be in every town, move to San Antonio. -�Ottis Hamlet
Are you aware of how dependent you are on the use of your hands for everyday tasks? As humans, we rely tremendously on the proper function of our hands, wrists and elbows to perform many physical activities. Many people may not understand how essential this can be until they encounter an injury or condition which impedes them from using their hands.
Hand, wrist and elbow pain can cause a wide variety of problems, preventing you from being able to take part in even some of the simplest, ordinary chores without experiencing painful symptoms. Based on the severity of the pain, health issues affecting your hands, wrists or elbows can prevent people from driving, utilizing a computer or other electronic devices, cooking dinner and it can even make working difficult.
To make matters worse, the condition of your hands can ultimately affect the entire condition of your upper extremities. An injury or aggravated condition along a single part of the hand, such as a finger, could cause pain to radiate through the wrist and elbow, into the arm and shoulder. Below, we will discuss the common causes of hand pain and their treatment.
Common Causes of Hand Pain
While many instances of hand pain, wrist pain and elbow pain may resolve on their own, a minor inconvenience can quickly become a much bigger health issue if left untreated. Painful symptoms can slow us down as we’re attempting to go about our day and chances are that the need to finish a job will continue to aggravate the pain and cause discomfort. If you experience chronic hand pain symptoms, you may want to visit a doctor immediately.
Because our arms and hands are interconnected, an injury or condition to any part of the upper extremities can end up causing anything from tingling sensations and numbness in the fingers to pain and discomfort in the arms. A qualified and experienced healthcare professional, such as a chiropractor, can help you understand the source of your hand pain as well as determine the best treatment option for your specific health issue.��
There are many health issues which might lead to pain and discomfort in the hands, elbows and wrists. Common causes of hand pain include:
Joint pain
Arthritis
Tendonitis
Tennis/Golf Elbow
Fractures
Sprains
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
One of the most common causes of hand pain is the result of a chronic condition called carpal tunnel syndrome. Carpal tunnel syndrome, or CTS, is a painful syndrome caused by a pinched nerve in the wrist which causes pain, tingling sensations and numbness in the hand and arm. The pain usually feels like a�profound and intense hand cramp although cramping is not a common symptom associated with carpal tunnel syndrome.
Carpal tunnel syndrome develops due to heightened stress and pressure on the median nerve, frequently due to highly repetitive movements with the hand and wrist. Some of the most common tasks in today’s society,�such as writing, typing on a keyboard, playing with video games, gardening, and anything else which requires repetitive alternative or lifting hand motions, have become one of the leading causes of carpal tunnel syndrome.
As mentioned above, several common symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, or CTS, may cause�severe pain in the hand, wrist and elbow, as well as result in tingling sensations and numbness which may radiate from the fingers up to the arm. Research studies have also found that patients who may be experiencing hormone fluctuations are at an increased risk of developing the condition. However, people who are most at risk of developing CTS have been found to be those who work in a position that requires them to engage in repetitive motions with their hands.
Many healthcare professionals recommend surgical interventions to treat carpal tunnel syndrome but many patients have experienced relief from their hand pain through the use of alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care,. Moreover, wearing a brace, working to counteract repetitive motions and taking steps to decrease stress and pressure on the hand can help improve pain associated with carpal tunnel syndrome.
While a number of these treatment techniques and methods can be performed at home by the patient, it’s essential to seek immediate medical attention from a qualified and experienced healthcare professional to avoid further damage. A chiropractor can help treat hand pain. Below, we will describe how chiropractic care may improve chronic hand pain symptoms.
Because we depend tremendously on the use of our hands, injuries and/or conditions which result in hand pain, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, can be very debilitating, ultimately affecting every aspect of an individual’s quality of life. Chiropractic care is a safe and effective, alternative treatment option which can help treat hand pain. Through a series of exercise and physical activity programs, chiropractic care can help restore normal hand function and reduce hand pain. -�Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T.
Chiropractic Care for Hand Pain
Chiropractic care is a healthcare profession which utilizes spinal adjustments and manual manipulations to treat a variety of injuries and conditions associated with the musculoskeletal and nervous system. For a doctor of chiropractic, or chiropractor, the first step for managing hand, wrist or elbow pain is to evaluate the source of the symptoms.�
After the diagnosis, the chiropractor’s next priority is to use a series of alternative treatment options to relieve the patient’s hand pain as soon as possible. A chiropractor may use spinal adjustments and manual manipulations to carefully correct any spinal misalignments, or subluxations, which may be causing referred hand pain.
After that, a chiropractor may recommend a series of lifestyle modifications, including exercise and physical activity programs, in order to promote recovery and begin focusing on building the patient’s assortment of motion, particularly flexibility maneuvers. Stretches and exercises for building strength will be included following the patient’s treatment plan, in order to ensure no additional damage occurs.
When you’re ready to start, contact a chiropractor to set up an appointment to get yourself on the road to relieving your hand, wrist and/or elbow pain.�The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic as well as to spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at�915-850-0900�.
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Acute Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most prevalent causes for disability and missed days at work worldwide. As a matter of fact, back pain has been attributed as the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience some type of back pain at least once throughout their life. The spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments and muscles, among other soft tissues. Because of this, injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of back pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of back pain, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have painful results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease back pain through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
On my first visit, I automatically felt better but along came with soreness. I did continue treatment, I saw him (Dr. Alex Jimenez) maybe two or three times out of the week. Shortly after that I started noticing change.�
Denise
The shoulder consists of a number of joints which merge together with other complex structures, including muscles, tendons and ligaments, to provide a wide range of movement in the arm, like scratching your back.
This increased range of motion, however, can cause a variety of health issues. It might lead to problems with impingement or it might even result in instability on the bony structures or the soft tissues of the shoulder. Shoulder pain might be felt continuously or it might occur through movements of the shoulder. Moreover, shoulder pain can be temporary or it might become chronic and require proper diagnosis and treatment.
The article below describes a few of the common causes of shoulder pain and discusses various treatment approaches to help improve shoulder pain. A qualified and experienced healthcare professional may be able to provide you with more information regarding your shoulder pain.
Anatomy of the Shoulder
The shoulder is a complex structure which is made up of three bones: the upper arm bone, also known as the humerus, the shoulder blade, also known as the scapula, along the collarbone, also known as the clavicle.
The head of the upper arm bone fits into a round socket on the shoulder blade, called the glenoid. A variety of ligaments, tendons and muscles then function by holding the upper arm bone. These collection of soft tissues are referred to as the rotator cuff. The main function of the rotator cuff is to both attach and cover the head of the upper arm bone in the shoulder.
Causes of Shoulder Pain
Most health issues that cause shoulder pain fall into four big categories:
Tendon inflammation, bursitis and tendinitis, or a tendon tear
Instability
Arthritis
Fracture or broken bone
Other much less common causes of shoulder pain can include factors such as tumors, disease or aggravated conditions, and nerve-related problems. Below, we will discuss the common causes of shoulder pain in detail.
Bursitis
The bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs which are found between joints throughout the entire body, including the shoulder. These function by decreasing friction between the bone and the muscles as well as act as cushions between the soft tissues and the bones.
Occasionally, excessive utilization of the shoulder can contribute to the swelling and inflammation of the bursa between the rotator cuff and a part of the shoulder blade called the acromion. The outcome measure of this health issue is a condition known as bursitis.
Bursitis often occurs in association with rotator cuff tendinitis, discussed below. The soft tissues in the shoulder can then become painful and inflamed. As a result, daily tasks, such as cleaning or brushing your hair and getting dressed, can become challenging to perform.
Tendinitis
A tendon is a cord which connects the muscles to the bones at different sites. Tendinitis is a consequence of inflammation in this soft tissue.
Ordinarily, tendinitis is frequently categorized as one of two types:
Acute. Overhead physical activities or ball projecting during a sport game or work may result in acute tendinitis.
Chronic. Degenerative diseases like arthritis or degenerative wear and tear as a result of age, may lead to chronic tendinitis.
The joints in the shoulder most commonly affected with tendinitis include the four rotator cuff tendons, particularly the shoulder tendons. The rotator cuff consists of four muscles and their respective tendons which keep the shoulder stable and protect the head of the upper arm bone. The rotator cuff provides equilibrium and shoulder movement.
Tendon Tears
The splitting and tearing of the tendons may by caused by severe damage or trauma from an injury as well as from degenerative changes in the joints due to the normal aging process, long-term overuse and the general wear-and-tear of the joints. These tears may divide the tendon completely out of its attachment or they may only be partial. Normally of tears, the tendon is entirely separated from the bone. Rotator cuff and biceps tendon injuries are among the most common types of tendon tears.
Impingement
Shoulder impingement happens when the cap of the shoulder blade, known as the acromion, places pressure on the underlying soft tissues once the arm is raised away from the torso. When the arm is raised, the acromion rubs, or “impinges” on, the rotator cuff tendons and bursa. This may result in tendinitis and bursitis, restricting motion and causing pain.
Instability
Shoulder instability occurs when the head of the upper arm bone is forced out from the shoulder socket. This can occur as a consequence of a sudden injury or even due to the excessive use of the shoulder.
Shoulder dislocations may only be partial, where only a part of the head of the upper arm may come out partially from the socket. This is also referred to as a subluxation. A complete dislocation usually means that the ball of the upper arm at the shoulder comes out all of the way from the socket.
When the ligaments, tendons, and muscles around the shoulder become torn or loose, dislocations can happen differently. Dislocations, which might be complete or partial, cause unsteadiness and pain when the arm is moved or lifted. Episodes of dislocations or subluxations result in an increased chance of developing arthritis in the shoulder joint, among others.
Arthritis
Health issues resulting in shoulder pain may also lead to arthritis. There are various kinds of arthritis. The most common kind of arthritis in the shoulder is osteroarthritis, also called the “wear-and-tear” arthritis. Osteoarthritis symptoms can include pain, stiffness and swelling which may begin during the day and may worsen throughout the day.
Osteoarthritis might also be associated with work or sports accidents as well as chronic wear-and-tear problems. Other kinds of arthritis could be linked to rotator cuff tears or an inflammation of the joint lining.
Many times, individuals who already have arthritis in the shoulder joints will attempt to prevent moving their shoulder in an effort to reduce arthritis pain and discomfort, However,�this often contributes to the stiffening or the tightening of the soft tissues surrounding the shoulder joints, leading to a painful restriction of movement.
Fracture
Fractures are frequently referred to as broken bones. Shoulder fractures commonly involve the clavicle, or the collarbone, the humerus, or the upper arm bone, and the scapula, or the shoulder blade.
Shoulder fractures in elderly patients are frequently the consequence of a fall from standing height. In the average person, harm from a motor vehicle accident or a sports accident often causes shoulder fractures.
Fractures frequently cause acute pain, swelling, and bruising concerning the shoulder. If a shoulder fracture is suspected, it’s important for the person to seek immediate medical attention by a healthcare professional.
Diagnosis for Shoulder Pain
In the instance of any of the health issues mentioned above resulting in extreme shoulder pain, seek medical attention as soon as possible to receive a proper diagnosis. While many cases of shoulder pain may resolve on their own, make sure to see a doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.
A healthcare professional will conduct a comprehensive evaluation so as to ascertain the cause of the patient’s shoulder pain before providing them with the appropriate treatment options for their health issues.
Medical History
The first step for diagnosis is a comprehensive look at the patient’s medical history. The doctor will ask how the problem has been previously treated and how the pain began, if they are aware of that information. Moreover, additional questions will help determine the causes of the patient’s shoulder pain. Since certain actions may improve or worsen symptoms, a record may be an important tool in discovering the origin of shoulder pain.
Physical Evaluation
A thorough examination will help to discover the source of a patient’s shoulder pain. A doctor will assess for tender places and will try to find physical abnormalities, swelling, deformity or muscular fatigue. They will also observe the shoulder’s strength, flexibility and movement.
Tests
The healthcare professional may additionally order certain tests to help identify the reason for the patient’s shoulder pain and help determine if the symptoms are due to other health issues. The following list demonstrates the variety of tests which can help determine the diagnosis.
X-rays. These images will reveal bone injuries.
Magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI and ultrasound. These imaging studies produce images of soft tissues. MRI can help your doctor identify injuries to the ligaments and tendons.
Computed tomography, or CT, scan. This instrument joins computer technologies and x-rays to make a better, much detailed image of the bones located in the shoulder region.
Electrical studies. The doctor may order an evaluation, including an EMG, or electromyogram, to assess neural function.
Arthrogram. In this study, dye is injected to show the joint and its surrounding soft tissues. It might be used together with an MRI.
Arthroscopy. During this procedure, a doctor looks inside the joint using a camera. Arthroscopy may reveal soft tissue injuries that aren’t apparent in evaluations along with the exam. Arthroscopy can be used to fix the problem and help find the reason for symptoms.
Dr. Alex Jimenez’s Insight
As the most mobile joint in the human body, the shoulder joint is often vulnerable to experience a variety of problems which can result in shoulder pain. Shoulder pain can tremendously affect an individual’s ability to perform everyday tasks and, if lest untreated, it can progress into neck and back pain as well as cause other severe symptoms. Understanding the cause of a patient’s shoulder pain can help diagnose their problem in order to recommend the best treatment option.
Treatment for Shoulder Pain
Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care is a safe and effective, alternative treatment option which can help manage shoulder pain by relieving discomfort and swelling, among other painful symptoms. A chiropractor will utilize chiropractic adjustments and manual manipulations to reduce joint restrictions and correct spinal misalignments, in an effort to improve function.
Lifestyle Modifications
Furthermore, a doctor of chiropractic, or chiropractor, will recommend a series of lifestyle modifications to help promote a faster recovery process. Changing a patient’s actions through a balance of rest and physical therapeutics can help improve shoulder endurance. Avoiding overexertion can also help prevent further harm and shoulder pain.�
Drugs & Medications
A doctor may also prescribe drugs and/or medications to decrease shoulder pain and inflammation. It needs to be taken only as directed, however, if medicine is prescribed to ease pain. A physician can also recommend shots of numbing steroids to alleviate pain.
Surgery
Surgical interventions can be used to help treat the causes attributing to shoulder pain, however, it should only be considered as a last resort. A majority of patients will react positively to alternative treatment options like chiropractic care and through lifestyle modifications.�
For certain types of shoulder problems, like recurring dislocations and a few rotator cuff tears, alternative treatment options may not be recommended and surgery may be considered, in this instance.�The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic as well as to spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at�915-850-0900�.
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Acute Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most prevalent causes for disability and missed days at work worldwide. As a matter of fact, back pain has been attributed as the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience some type of back pain at least once throughout their life. The spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments and muscles, among other soft tissues. Because of this, injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of back pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of back pain, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have painful results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease back pain through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
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