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.
Back pain is widespread and can negatively impact an individual’s work productivity. The severity and location of where the pain can vary from acute to chronic, making it a complex problem that can be expensive to treat. Several factors can contribute to back pain, affecting the surrounding muscles, ligaments, and spinal discs in the spinal region. The most commonly affected area where back pain is causing issues is the lumbar region, which supports the upper body’s weight and stabilizes the lower body. Lower back pain can also cause radiating referred pain down to the legs, further affecting an individual’s quality of life. In this article, we will explore the economic cost and burden of chronic back pain and how spinal decompression can help alleviate the pain, allowing many individuals to return to work pain-free. We work with certified medical providers who use our patients’ valuable information to treat individuals with back pain and inform them about non-surgical treatments like spinal decompression that can help relieve them from back pain and get them back to their daily activities. We encourage patients to ask essential questions and seek education from our associated medical providers about their condition. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., provides this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
The Burden Of Chronic Back Pain
Back pain can range from acute to chronic, depending on the extent of the injury. It can affect the non-specific or specific area of the spine. Non-specific back pain doesn’t have an underlying cause, while specific back pain is due to environmental factors that increase the risk of compressing the spinal discs. Research studies revealed that back pain can be a burden because it is difficult to treat and costly, affecting millions of individuals in the workplace. It is a widespread musculoskeletal disorder that can be disheartening without relief.
The Economic Cost Of Back Pain
Back pain is a significant cause of work loss and limitations for many individuals, as reported by “The Ultimate Spinal Decompression” by Dr. Perry Bard, D.C., and Dr. Eric Kaplan, D.C., FIAMA. Working adults with back pain are more likely to utilize healthcare services, leading to costs of over $12 billion per year, making it one of the most expensive conditions in the U.S. Additional research studies revealed that back pain has a greater economic impact than most other health conditions due to its effect on work absenteeism, reduced productivity, and increased risk of leaving the labor market. This can leave working adults feeling disheartened, angry, depressed, and stressed. However, many cost-effective and safe treatments can help relieve individuals suffering from back pain, eliminating the need for expensive surgeries.
Reducing Soft Tissue Injuries With Chiropractic-Video
Are you suffering from pain that radiates from your back down to your legs? Do you experience stiffness in certain areas of your back or constant stress affecting your work productivity? If so, you may be dealing with back pain, a common complaint among many individuals in the workforce. Depending on its severity, back pain can be either specific or non-specific and is a complex condition that can be expensive to treat. Unfortunately, many working adults continue to work with back pain, which can cause them to take a leave of absence from work due to the pain. This can lead to more harm and disability since the pain can be unbearable. However, there are ways to reduce the effects of back pain and provide relief to many working individuals. Non-surgical treatments such as MET, chiropractic manipulation, traction therapy, and spinal decompression can help reduce the impact of back pain by relieving pain from the surrounding muscles, soft tissues, and ligaments affected by back pain. Additionally, individuals can combine non-surgical treatments with other therapies to prevent back pain from reoccurring and promote overall health and wellness. A video demonstrating these non-surgical treatments is available for your convenience.
The Effects Of Spinal Decompression On Back Pain
Many individuals choose non-surgical treatments to alleviate back pain for their cost-effectiveness, safety, and non-invasiveness. One such treatment is spinal decompression, which research studies have shown to improve lumbar spine conditions in individuals with associated back pain. Spinal decompression uses gentle traction to pull the spine and allow compressed spinal discs to return to their original position, restoring nutrients and oxygenated blood and reducing back pain’s effects. It also relieves nerve root compression, which can affect surrounding muscles. Through regular spinal decompression sessions, individuals can begin to feel relief from back pain while becoming more mindful of the environmental factors that cause it.
Conclusion
Many people in the workforce suffer from back pain, causing them to miss work frequently. This problem is common and expensive to treat due to its complexity. Back pain is often accompanied by other symptoms associated with various conditions that can cause chronic pain. Fortunately, cost-effective and safe treatments can help alleviate back pain and allow individuals to return to work. One effective treatment is spinal decompression, which involves gentle traction that pulls the spine and relieves associated symptoms. This non-surgical treatment is safe, affordable and helps the body heal naturally. After a few sessions, many individuals experience significant relief from back pain and reduced chances of recurrence.
References
Kaplan, E., & Bard, P. (2023). The Ultimate Spinal Decompression. JETLAUNCH.
The human body has various muscle groups, tendons, ligaments, and spinal structures that allow mobility, standing upright, and performing daily activities without discomfort. The spinal column is divided into three regions: cervical, thoracic, and lumbar, each with specific functions. Unfortunately, low back pain affects many working individuals worldwide and can significantly impact their daily lives and productivity. This pain can be caused by various injuries, conditions, and diseases affecting the muscles, tendons, and spinal discs. Enduring the pain and continuing daily activities can worsen the situation, causing more damage to the back and spine. This article explores the causes of low back pain and how non-surgical therapies like spinal decompression can prevent it from returning. We work with certified medical providers who use our patients’ valuable information to treat individuals with low back pain and inform them about spinal decompression’s benefits in alleviating it from reoccurring. We encourage patients to ask essential questions and seek education from our associated medical providers about their condition. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., provides this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
What Causes Low Back Pain To Return?
Are you experiencing pain in your lower body? Is it impacting your ability to work? Do you feel muscle stiffness when stretching your sides? In the U.S., 25-60% of people who experience low back pain report recurring pain within a year. Research studies revealed that most low back pain is non-specific, meaning no specific causes or structures can be identified as the pain source affecting the low back. Low back pain can be caused by many factors, such as improper lifting of heavy objects, physical inactivity, and excess body weight, which can strain the back muscles. Studies have also revealed that psychological factors like stress, anxiety, or depression can cause tension in the lumbar region, leading to repetitive motions that correlate with low back pain.
People who experience low back pain often take over-the-counter medications for temporary relief before returning to normal activities. However, this only provides short-term relief, and the pain often returns due to various factors like muscle, nerve, and bone issues and referred pain to the abdominal organs, as research studies revealed. To address this, individuals may seek treatment from their primary care doctor. However, as additional studies mentioned, treating low back pain can be difficult due to the specific or non-specific factors involved. Thankfully, non-surgical treatments are available to alleviate symptoms and reduce the likelihood of the pain returning.
The Benefits Of Stretching- Video
Are you someone who spends most of their day sitting down and experiencing muscle stiffness? Do you feel pain in your legs due to radiating pain? Or do you often feel discomfort after lifting or carrying heavy objects? These symptoms are often associated with low back pain, a common problem many people in the workforce experience at some point. The severity of low back pain can range from acute to chronic, depending on how badly the individual has hurt their low back. If left untreated, low back pain can harshly affect a person. However, there are many ways to prevent low back pain from occurring. Multiple treatments can help reduce the associated symptoms of low back pain and can help re-strengthen the muscles. The video above explains the benefits of stretching, how it can help relieve sore muscles affected by low back pain, and how stretching can be combined with other therapies to promote health and wellness.
How Spinal Decompression Can Relieve Low Back Pain
Many people experience low back pain at some point in their lives. If the pain is left untreated, it can develop into chronic back pain. According to “The Ultimate Spinal Decompression,” written by Dr. Eric Kaplan, D.C., FIAMA, and Dr. Perry Bard, D.C., reoccurring low back pain can lead to further degeneration of the lumbar spinal column or be the result of stress and trauma in adjacent muscles. Spinal decompression can provide relief for individuals experiencing this pain. Studies show that spinal decompression creates negative pressure in the spine, which can decrease pressure on the nerve root and hydrate the spinal disc, promoting the body’s natural healing process. Spinal decompression is a safe, gentle, and cost-effective solution for many individuals seeking relief from low back pain.
Conclusion
Low back pain is a common issue that affects many people. Depending on its severity, various factors can cause it, ranging from acute to chronic. Unfortunately, this pain can interfere with daily activities, including work. Thankfully, non-surgical treatments like spinal decompression may help relieve the symptoms associated with low back pain. This treatment involves gentle traction on the lumbar region of the spine, providing much-needed relief to the body. Spinal decompression is an excellent option for those who want to start their journey toward better health and wellness.
General health, diet, exercise, and lifestyle are important, but the importance of the spinal structure is often forgotten. The spine, or backbone, is the body’s central support structure that holds the body together, supports its weight, and protects the nervous system. It connects different parts of the musculoskeletal system to help sit, stand, walk, twist, and bend. When the spine is misaligned, injured, and/or damaged, it can lead to various health issues, from chronic conditions to organ dysfunction. Chiropractic spinal structure restoration benefits overall health and can help relieve symptoms and restore mobility, flexibility, and function.
Spinal Structure Restoration
Chiropractic care goes beyond relieving muscle or joint pain and discomfort. Although injury rehabilitation is a primary reason for going to a chiropractor, it is in its ability to reset and rebalance the body. Just like a vehicle or piece of equipment that needs regular maintenance, tune-ups, rotation, and realignment, chiropractic provides these benefits.
Improved Range of Motion
As the body ages or suffers from injuries or illnesses, the body’s mobility and flexibility decrease, which causes stiffness and a limited range of motion.
When the spine is not aligned correctly, it can cause restrictions in the range of motion.
Chiropractic techniques improve joint function, correct misalignments, and strengthen and stabilize the spine, improving mobility and flexibility.
Spinal structure restoration improves joint mobility and flexibility.
The improved range of motion helps relieve muscle tension, stiffness, and pain.
Improved Posture
Spinal misalignment typically leads to posture problems, neck and back pain, headaches, and other health issues.
Correcting the spinal structure will:
Correct posture.
Reduce the risk of health issues.
Provide more energy.
Enhance mental clarity.
Improve sleep.
Restore mobility.
Increase athletic and physical performance.
Pain and Discomfort Relief
Misalignments can cause nerve irritation, inflammation, and muscle tension, leading to chronic pain in various areas, like the neck, back, shoulders, and hips.
Chiropractic is a natural and non-invasive treatment that can help manage pain and discomfort without medication.
Specifically addresses the underlying cause of the pain rather than just the symptoms, resulting in long-lasting relief.
Chiropractic combines traditional techniques, such as adjustments, decompression, and traction, with advanced elements and a personalized approach.
Adjustments and customized spinal traction setups alleviate pain and restore proper function to the spine.
When the spine is properly aligned, the central nervous system’s electrical signals can travel more effectively.
Increased Nerve Function
Spinal misalignment can interfere with nerve function, leading to other musculoskeletal issues.
Chiropractic releases compressed, tangled, or trapped nerves and restores nerve circulation, improving nerve function.
Enhanced Musculoskeletal Performance
Individuals can benefit from chiropractic care, especially those involved in physically demanding occupations that place repeated stress on the body.
Chiropractic can help prevent injuries, improve alignment and balance, reduce inflammation, and speed recovery.
Spinal correction includes traction that targets and releases specific muscle groups and ligaments and stimulates detoxification that can enhance musculoskeletal performance.
Immune System Function
Spinal misalignments can disrupt immune system function.
The system relies on proper communication between the brain and immune organs.
Chiropractic improves nerve function and reduces spine and back stress, allowing the system to function optimally.
By taking a holistic and personalized approach to spinal structure restoration, individuals can prevent the development of chronic health conditions and improve their quality of life.
Fernández-de-Las-Peñas, César, and María L Cuadrado. “Physical therapy for headaches.” Cephalalgia: an international journal of Headache vol. 36,12 (2016): 1134-1142. doi:10.1177/0333102415596445
InformedHealth.org [Internet]. Cologne, Germany: Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG); 2006-. What are the organs of the immune system? [Updated 2020 Jul 30]. Available from: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279395/
Izzo, Roberto, et al. “Biomechanics of the spine. Part I: spinal stability.” European Journal of Radiology vol. 82,1 (2013): 118-26. doi:10.1016/j.ejrad.2012.07.024
Jenkins, Hazel J et al. “Current evidence for spinal X-ray use in the chiropractic profession: a narrative review.” Chiropractic & manual therapies vol. 26 48. Nov 21 2018, doi:10.1186/s12998-018-0217-8
McHardy, Andrew, et al. “Chiropractic treatment of upper extremity conditions: a systematic review.” Journal of Manipulative and physiological therapeutics vol. 31,2 (2008): 146-59. doi:10.1016/j.jmpt.2007.12.004
Sharrak, Samir. and Yasir Al Khalili. “Cervical Disc Herniation.” StatPearls, StatPearls Publishing, Aug 29, 2022.
Lying down on the couch or bed when the lower leg seizes with intense sensations and pain that doesn’t stop, and the muscle could be hard to the touch. When trying to move the leg, it feels paralyzed. Nocturnal leg cramps, called muscle spasms or Charley horses, occur when one or more leg muscles tighten involuntarily. Individuals can be awake or asleep when a leg cramp strikes. Chiropractic treatment, decompression, and massage therapies can help relieve symptoms, stretch and relax the muscles, and restore function and health.
Nocturnal Leg Cramps
Nocturnal leg cramps most often affect the gastrocnemius/calf muscle. However, they can also affect the muscles in the front of the thigh/quadriceps and the back of the thigh/hamstrings.
Often, the tight muscle relaxes in less than 10 minutes.
The leg and area can feel sore and tender afterward.
Frequent calf cramps at night can cause sleep problems.
Nocturnal leg cramps are more common among women and older adults.
Causes
There are no known exact cause/s, making most cases idiopathic. However, there are known factors that can increase the risk. These can include:
Prolonged Sitting and Position
Sitting with the legs crossed or the toes pointed for long periods shortens/pulls the calf muscles, which can cause cramping.
Prolonged Standing and Posture
Individuals standing for long periods are likelier to experience nocturnal cramps from the stressed muscles.
Muscle Overexertion
Too much exercise can create an overworked muscle and can contribute to cramps.
Muscles need to be stretched regularly to function correctly.
Lack of physical activity for long periods weakens the muscles, making them more susceptible to injury.
Shortening The Tendons
The tendons, which connect muscles and bones, shorten naturally over time.
Without stretching, this could lead to cramping.
Cramps may be related to foot position when sleeping, with the feet and toes extending away from the body, known as plantar flexion.
This shortens the calf muscles, making them more susceptible to cramping.
Leg cramps at night are unlikely a sign of a more serious medical condition, but they are associated with the following conditions:
Musculoskeletal disorders.
Structural issues – flat feet or spinal stenosis.
Metabolic disorders like diabetes.
Pregnancy.
Medications – statins and diuretics.
Neurological disorders, like motor neuron disease or peripheral neuropathy.
Neurodegenerative disorders.
Liver, kidney, and thyroid conditions.
Cardiovascular conditions.
Chiropractic and Physical Therapy
Rehabilitation with chiropractic, massage, and physical therapy depends on the severity of the injury and condition. A chiropractic treatment plan can include the following:
Calf muscle stretching.
Targeted Stretch Exercises.
Progressive calf stretching exercises – a regular stretching and flexibility program will increase the range of motion and prevent future calf injuries.
Foam rolling – gentle self-massage with a foam roller can help reduce spasms and improve blood circulation.
Percussive massage.
Muscle strengthening exercises will build muscle strength and coordination to prevent future strain injuries.
At-home therapy can include:
Maintain Hydration
Fluids allow for normal muscle function.
Individuals may need to adjust how much fluid is drunk based on weather, age, activity level, and medications.
Change Sleeping Position
Individuals should avoid sleeping in positions in which the feet are pointing downward.
Try sleeping on the back with a pillow behind the knees.
Self Massage
Massaging the affected muscles will help them relax.
Use one or both hands or a massage gun to knead and loosen the muscles gently.
Stretching
Various stretches will maintain the treatment, help keep the muscles relaxed and retrain the muscles.
Stationary Cycle
A few minutes of easy pedaling can help loosen the leg muscles before bed.
Walking on the Heels
This will activate the muscles on the other side of the calf, allowing the calves to relax.
Supportive Footwear
Poor footwear can aggravate issues with the nerves and muscles in the feet and legs.
Orthotics may help.
Heat Application
Heat can soothe tight muscles and increases blood flow to the area.
Apply a hot towel, water bottle, heating pad, or muscle topical cream to the affected area.
A warm bath or shower (if available, shower massage setting) can also help.
Sciatica Secrets Revealed
References
Allen, Richard E, and Karl A Kirby. “Nocturnal leg cramps.” American family physician vol. 86,4 (2012): 350-5.
Butler, J V et al. “Nocturnal leg cramps in older people.” Postgraduate medical journal vol. 78,924 (2002): 596-8. doi:10.1136/pmj.78.924.596
Garrison, Scott R et al. “Magnesium for skeletal muscle cramps.” The Cochrane Database of systematic reviews vol. 2012,9 CD009402. Sep 12, 2012, doi:10.1002/14651858.CD009402.pub2
Giuffre BA, Black AC, Jeanmonod R. Anatomy, Sciatic Nerve. [Updated 2023 May 4]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482431/
Handa, Junichi, et al. “Nocturnal Leg Cramps and Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: A Cross-Sectional Study in the Community.” International Journal of general medicine vol. 15 7985-7993. Nov 1 2022, doi:10.2147/IJGM.S383425
Hsu D, Chang KV. Gastrocnemius Strain. [Updated 2022 Aug 22]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534766/
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2019). Night leg cramps. mayoclinic.org/symptoms/night-leg-cramps/basics/causes/sym-20050813
Monderer, Renee S et al. “Nocturnal leg cramps.” Current Neurology and Neuroscience report vol. 10,1 (2010): 53-9. doi:10.1007/s11910-009-0079-5
Back pain is a common problem that affects people worldwide, but many individuals are unaware of it until they experience constant back muscle aches. Back pain can impact the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine and can even lead to referred pain in the arms and legs. Repetitive movements, poor posture, prolonged sitting, and physical inactivity are common causes of back pain. In some cases, traumatic incidents or accidents can also contribute to the development of back pain. To manage back pain, individuals often seek treatments to alleviate it and improve their quality of life. In this article, we’ll explore two treatments to help alleviate back pain and provide tips on managing the pain effectively. We work with certified medical providers who use our patients’ valuable information to treat individuals with back pain and find the right treatment to alleviate their pain. We encourage patients to ask essential questions and seek education from our associated medical providers about their condition. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., provides this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
Spine Surgery For Low Back Pain
Are you experiencing pain in your upper, middle, or lower back? Do you feel a radiating pain running down your arms or legs, or have you noticed that you are hunching over more than usual? These symptoms are often associated with back pain, which can be debilitating. Many people who suffer from back pain seek relief and may opt for surgery to alleviate their symptoms. Research studies revealed that spinal surgery could effectively reduce neurogenic pain and deficits that exacerbate spinal nerve root compression and may help individuals regain their functionality and mobility. However, as research studies stated, surgery is typically recommended only after conservative treatments have been tried for at least six months without success. Several surgical options are available, including injection therapy, non-fusion stabilization, facet and disc replacement, and spinal fusion surgery, which may relieve back pain.
Managing Back Pain After Surgery
Individuals who undergo surgery for back pain must follow a recovery plan to prevent the pain from recurring. Research studies suggest that the effects of spinal surgery for back pain should last for three days, after which adequate rest is essential. Following this, individuals should become pain-free and able to move again. To prevent back pain from returning, doctors often recommend changing daily habits and activities and creating a personalized treatment plan to strengthen back muscles. While surgery for back pain can be expensive, non-surgical treatments are available to alleviate the pain.
The Science Of Motion & Chiropractic Care- Video
Are you experiencing pain in your upper, middle, or lower back? Do you feel discomfort, stiffness, or aches when stretching? Have you engaged in activities that can strain your back muscles? These symptoms often indicate back pain, a common problem many people face at some point. Several factors contribute to back pain, including repetitive movements, spinal disc compression, and spinal nerve root irritation. Physical inactivity, prolonged sitting, heavy lifting, and poor posture are common causes of back pain that can lead to disability. However, various treatments can alleviate the effects of back pain and prevent it from recurring. The video above demonstrates how chiropractic care can help relieve back pain by using spinal manipulation to align the spine. Chiropractic care is a safe, gentle, and affordable non-surgical treatment that can be combined with other therapies to prevent future back pain.
Spinal Decompression For Back Pain
When relieving back pain, some people avoid surgery because it can be expensive. Fortunately, alternative treatments are safe, affordable, and gentle on the spine. Non-surgical options can relieve many individuals suffering from back pain without surgery. Research shows that spinal decompression is an effective treatment that uses gentle traction to create negative pressure in the spinal disc. This can increase hydration and reduce pressure on the nerve root, which can alleviate back pain. Spinal decompression can also help relax and stretch the back muscles by gently pulling the spine. This treatment is cost-effective and can be combined with other therapies to prevent the return of back pain.
The Effects Of Spinal Decompression On Back Pain
Dr. Eric Kaplan, D.C., FIAMA, and Dr. Perry Bard, D.C., wrote “The Ultimate Spinal Decompression,” which states that spinal decompression is safe and effective in reducing back pain. Through spinal decompression, the herniated disc causing back pain is pulled back to its original position, allowing the surrounding nerve roots to relax. Research studies have shown that spinal decompression can help increase spinal disc height and restore mobility to the back and spine, enabling individuals to return to their daily activities without pain.
Conclusion
Across the world back pain is a widespread problem that affects many people worldwide. It can be a significant problem if left untreated. Fortunately, numerous treatment options can alleviate the symptoms and allow individuals to resume their daily activities. The two main types of treatment are surgical and non-surgical therapies. While surgical treatment can be effective, it is also expensive. Non-surgical therapy, on the other hand, is cost-effective. Combining these treatments with other therapies is possible to decrease the likelihood of back pain returning. By listening to their bodies and taking preventive measures, individuals can avoid a reoccurrence of pain.
Individuals dealing with or managing chronic back pain should incorporate swimming exercises. Swimming is a low-impact aerobic conditioning exercise that’s easy on the back and healthy for the spine. When an individual struggles with back problems, they may be tempted to rest and avoid physical activity/exercise. Total rest is not recommended as it can cause the muscles that support the back to weaken or atrophy. When the muscles weaken, they cannot stabilize the spine or body correctly, which causes conditions to worsen or contribute to new injuries. Starting swimming exercises can expand the spine, relieve painful pressure or strain on the back and strengthen the muscles for spinal health.
Starting Swimming Exercises
Swimming does not impact the spine and other musculoskeletal structures because the water suspends the body.
Swimming is a full-body, low-impact exercise which is excellent for individuals of all ages and all body shapes and sizes.
Talk to a healthcare professional about any questions or concerns about how swimming may impact your body.
Swimming benefits include stress relief, a strengthened musculoskeletal system, and support in heart health.
Swimming for Back Problems
Relaxes The Nervous System
Tense muscles can cause or contribute to back problems and pain symptoms and aggravate spinal conditions.
Swimming exercises release endorphins to relax the nervous system and tense muscles.
Relieves Pressure on Joints
The water lightens the body relieving pressure on the joints and muscles.
Builds Muscle to Support the Spine
The resistance and movement strengthen the whole body with the joints and spine supported.
Swimming engages muscles not always used, specifically those needed to improve spinal stability.
Exercises for Back Relief
Checking with a physician before exercising is recommended, especially if starting a new exercise routine. When you meet with the Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Cline team, we can determine if starting swimming exercises would benefit you. Once cleared, here are some swimming exercises that could help bring relief:
Walking
Walking around the pool means movement that the body needs to heal and build muscle without aggravating symptoms.
Aerobics
Water aerobics is perfect for working on cardiovascular health needed to build strength.
Increase mobility and flexibility.
Swimming Laps
Start slow when swimming laps, maybe only twice a week at first.
The different types of strokes work various muscles in the hips, chest, and back.
Treading water is a great way to get the body used to the movements.
A swim coach can provide tips on the proper technique and form.
Swim Exercise Tools and Accessories
Proper swimming equipment can make the exercise sessions much more enjoyable.
Swim Cap
Swim caps protect the hair from the water’s elements and keep hair from blocking the view.
Goggles
Goggles protect the eyes and help to see better underwater.
Look for a comfortable pair that doesn’t leak.
Sun protection and clothing
A day in the sun and water increases the risk of exposure to UV rays.
Waterproof Headphones
For listening to music or podcasts while swimming.
Kickboard
Many pools can provide kickboards that swimmers can borrow during their time there.
Lean the upper body on the board and kick, focusing on lower body movements.
Pull Buoy
Pull buoys help focus on the upper body and arm work.
It is placed between the upper thighs to help the legs float as the individual pulls with their arms.
It is recommended to take some lessons to learn how the body moves through the water. Once a basic understanding of balance and buoyancy is met, individuals can propel through the water more efficiently.
Sciatica Secrets Revealed
References
Bartels, Else Marie, et al. “Aquatic exercise for the treatment of knee and hip osteoarthritis.” The Cochrane Database of systematic reviews vol. 3,3 CD005523. 23 Mar. 2016, doi:10.1002/14651858.CD005523.pub3
Cole, A J et al. “Spine pain: aquatic rehabilitation strategies.” Journal of Back and musculoskeletal rehabilitation vol. 4,4 (1994): 273-86. doi:10.3233/BMR-1994-4407
Ferrell, M C. “The spine in swimming.” Clinics in sports medicine vol. 18,2 (1999): 389-93, viii. doi:10.1016/s0278-5919(05)70153-8
Su, Yanlin, et al. “Swimming as Treatment for Osteoporosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.” BioMed research international vol. 2020 6210201. 15 May. 2020, doi:10.1155/2020/6210201
Wirth, Klaus, et al. “Strength Training in Swimming.” International Journal of environmental research and public health vol. 19,9 5369. 28 Apr. 2022, doi:10.3390/ijerph19095369
The neck is an extremely flexible part of the upper body that allows the head to move without causing pain or discomfort. It is part of the musculoskeletal system‘s cervical spinal region, which supports the spinal column and is surrounded by various muscles, tissues, and ligaments that protect the spinal cord. However, poor posture, spending too much time hunched over a computer, or looking down at our cellphones can cause neck muscles to become overstretched, leading to compression of the cervical spinal discs. This can cause the cervical discs to bulge or herniate, aggravating the spinal cord and causing neck pain and other associated conditions. This post will discuss how cervical disc compression affects neck pain and how decompression surgery and spinal decompression can help alleviate this condition. We work with certified medical providers who use our patients’ valuable information to treat individuals dealing with cervical disc compression affecting their necks and causes mobility issues. We encourage patients to ask essential questions and seek education from our associated medical providers about their condition. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., provides this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
What Is Cervical Disc Compression?
Have you been experiencing neck pain or muscle aches in your shoulders? Do you feel numbness or tingling running down your arms and fingers? These symptoms may be signs of cervical disc compression. The cervical spinal discs act as shock absorbers for the spine, preventing unwanted pressure and mobility issues. Research studies revealed that age-related degenerative properties like dehydration could cause herniated and compressed cervical discs, leading to posterior disc protrusion into the spinal cord. Trauma can also cause extreme hyperflexion or hyperextension of the posterior neck muscles, resulting in various neck symptoms. Additional research studies stated cervical disc displacement could cause compression or impingement on spinal nerve roots, leading to inflammation and neck pain.
How Is It Associated With Neck Pain?
When the spinal cord and nerve roots in the cervical region are affected by cervical disc compression, the pain can be dull or sharp, depending on how it affects many individuals. According to research studies, many people are unaware that repetitive normal factors or traumatic forces can cause a challenge in determining the origin of the pain from symptomatic or asymptomatic disc compression. Additional research studies mentioned that cervical disc compression could cause upper and lower extremities abnormalities, such as loss of deep tendon reflexes in the arms and legs, loss of motor function in the hands and feet, muscle weakness, headaches, and gait imbalances. However, various treatments can alleviate the pain-like symptoms associated with cervical disc compression and help the body’s natural healing process.
From Inflammation To Healing-Video
Are you experiencing inflammation and pain in your neck? Do you notice a tingling or numb sensation in your hands or feet? Or do you feel stiffness in your shoulders or neck? These symptoms can be caused by compressed cervical discs, which many people are unaware of. The compression of cervical discs is a common source of neck pain and can even cause referred pain in the upper and lower extremities. Repetitive motions to the neck can cause the posterior neck muscles to overstretch and lead to pain. Normal or traumatic factors can also lead to neck pain associated with cervical disc compression, resulting in disc herniation. Fortunately, non-surgical therapies like chiropractic care and spinal decompression can help alleviate the symptoms of pain, discomfort, and inflammation caused by cervical disc compression. Check out the video above for more information on these treatments.
Posterior Cervical Disc Decompression Surgery
If you experience cervical compression on your neck, it can lead to persistent neck pain and discomfort if left untreated. Many people opt for posterior cervical disc decompression surgery to alleviate the effects of disc herniation. According to “The Ultimate Spinal Decompression” by Dr. Perry Bard, D.C., and Dr. Eric Kaplan, D.C., FIAMA, cervical disc herniation can sometimes affect the back of the neck and cause persistent pain. In such cases, decompression surgery is often performed. During the procedure, a small incision is made at the back of the neck, and a portion of the damaged disc is removed to ease the irritated nerve. This brings relief to the individual suffering from neck pain.
Non-Surgical Decompression For Compressed Cervical Disc
If you’re not interested in surgery for cervical disc compression, consider non-surgical spinal decompression instead. Studies have shown that spinal decompression is a safe, non-invasive treatment involving gentle cervical spine traction to reposition the herniated disc. This treatment can also help rehydrate the spinal disc by bringing in nutrients and oxygenated blood to promote natural healing. Additionally, spinal decompression can alleviate any remaining symptoms of neck pain.
Conclusion
The neck is a highly flexible area that enables smooth head movement without discomfort or pain. However, it is also a part of the musculoskeletal cervical region that can be prone to injuries. Compression of the disc due to normal or traumatic factors can result in herniation, causing pain if left untreated. Fortunately, several treatments are available to alleviate neck pain caused by cervical compression and make the neck mobile again.
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