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.
The body’s core muscles are used for stability, balance, lifting, pushing, pulling, and movement. Engaging the core muscles means bracing and tightening the abdominal muscles, which include the latissimus dorsi/lats, paraspinal muscles, gluteus maximus/glutes, and trapezius/traps. When engaged, the trunk muscles help maintain spinal stability, support the spine and pelvis in sitting and resting positions and during dynamic movements, and help prevent injury.
Engaging The Core
To know how to engage the core, individuals need to understand what the core is. The most important muscles for engaging the core include: These muscles are involved every time the body inhales and exhales, in posture control, and when using the bathroom, they start and stop the process.
Rectus Abdominis
The rectus abdominis muscle is responsible for the six-pack.
It’s a long, flat muscle that extends from the pubic bone to the sixth and seventh ribs.
The rectus abdominis is primarily responsible for bending the spine.
External Obliques
These are the muscles on either side of the rectus abdominis.
The external obliques allow the torso to twist, bend sideways, flex the spine, and compress the abdomen.
Internal Obliques
The internal obliques lie below the external obliques.
They work with the external obliques in the same functions.
Transverse Abdominis
This is the deepest layer of muscle in the abdomen.
It completely wraps around the torso and extends from the ribs to the pelvis.
The transverse abdominis are not responsible for spine or hip movement but for stabilizing the spine, compressing the organs, and supporting the abdominal wall.
Latissimus Dorsi
Commonly known as the lats, these muscles run along both sides of the spine from just below the shoulder blades to the pelvis.
The lats help stabilize the back, especially when extending the shoulders.
They also contribute to body ability when twisting from side to side.
Erector Spinae
The erector spinae muscles are on each side of the spine and extend down the back.
These muscles are responsible for extending and rotating the back and side-to-side movement.
These are considered postural muscles and are almost always working.
What Not To Do
Individuals learn from mistakes, which might make learning how to engage the core easier by understanding what not to do. Common examples of failing to or not engaging the core correctly.
The back slumps when sitting down – the upper body lacks strength and stability.
When bending, the stomach sticks out more.
Swaying or leaning far to one side when walking – lack of lower body strength causes balance and stability problems.
The lower abdomen and back present with discomfort and pain symptoms.
Training
Engaging the core decreases the chance of sustaining an injury at home, work, or exercising and can help with chronic back pain. It creates a stable musculature around the spine that keeps the vertebrae from over-flexing, over-extending, and bending too far to one side. Engaging the core muscles can mean different things, depending on what is trying to be achieved.
For example, if doing bending work, the muscles needed, and the order in which they contract differs from when trying to maintain balance while standing on one leg.
The muscles engaged will differ in their movement depending on whether an individual is:
Trying to move the spine or stabilize it.
Pushing or pulling weight.
Standing, sitting, or lying down.
For a strong and functional core, the objective is to be able to engage the core in any situation. Engaging the core can be challenging, but with training and practice, the body becomes stronger. Practice engaging the core throughout daily activities that include.
Bracing the core while standing, sitting at a workstation or desk, and walking.
Day-to-day activities, like reaching for something from a high shelf, grocery shopping, and taking the stairs.
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic can create a personalized program to address musculoskeletal issues, core training, targeted exercise, stretching, nutrition, massage, and adjustments to get the body to optimal health and maintain health.
The Non-Surgical Solution
References
Eickmeyer, Sarah M. “Anatomy and Physiology of the Pelvic Floor.” Physical Medicine and rehabilitation clinics of North America vol. 28,3 (2017): 455-460. doi:10.1016/j.pmr.2017.03.003
Lawson, Samantha, and Ashley Sacks. “Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy and Women’s Health Promotion.” Journal of Midwifery & Women’s Health vol. 63,4 (2018): 410-417. doi:10.1111/jmwh.12736
Seaman, Austin P et al. “Building a Center for Abdominal Core Health: The Importance of a Holistic Multidisciplinary Approach.” Journal of gastrointestinal surgery: official journal of the Society for Surgery of the Alimentary Tract vol. 26,3 (2022): 693-701. doi:10.1007/s11605-021-05241-5
Vining, Robert, et al. “Effects of Chiropractic Care on Strength, Balance, and Endurance in Active-Duty U.S. Military Personnel with Low Back Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” Journal of Alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.) vol. 26,7 (2020): 592-601. doi:10.1089/acm.2020.0107
Weis, Carol Ann, et al. “Chiropractic Care for Adults With Pregnancy-Related Low Back, Pelvic Girdle Pain, or Combination Pain: A Systematic Review.” Journal of Manipulative and physiological therapeutics vol. 43,7 (2020): 714-731. doi:10.1016/j.jmpt.2020.05.005
Zachovajeviene, B et al. “Effect of the diaphragm and abdominal muscle training on pelvic floor strength and endurance: results of a prospective randomized trial.” Scientific Reports vol. 9,1 19192. 16 Dec. 2019, doi:10.1038/s41598-019-55724-4
It’s not unusual for runners to experience tingling, pins and needles, and numbness in their feet while running. Running foot numbness is a relatively common problem for runners and can be easily remedied. Numbness will present in one part of the foot or just the toes. Sometimes it can spread throughout the whole foot. Different causes, most of which are not serious, can be easily dealt with. Serious causes can be treated with chiropractic, massage, decompression therapy, and functional medicine.
Running Foot Numbness
Reasons, why the feet experience numbing sensations when running, include:
Improper footwear.
Laces that are tied too tightly.
Foot strike pattern.
Foot structure.
Training schedule.
Muscle tightness.
Compressed nerve.
Medical conditions like neuromas or peripheral neuropathy.
Footwear
A common cause of running foot numbness is having overly tight shoes that place added pressure on nerves.
If this could be the reason, the remedy is to get new shoes.
Try to find a store that specializes in running shoes and ask for help.
Footwear professionals look at the size of the foot, the shape, and running gait.
For example, individuals with a wide foot may need a style with a wider/larger toebox or the front of the shoe that houses the forefoot.
Get a pair that’s one-half to a full size larger than a regular everyday shoe size.
This is because when running, the feet swell, especially in hot and humid weather.
Going up a half or whole size will also accommodate thicker socks for individuals that run in cold weather.
Sometimes numbness can result from biomechanical issues that can be corrected with the proper shoe.
Tight Laces
Sometimes it’s not the shoes but the laces that are too tight.
Pulling a little tighter to get a firm fit around the ankle is common, but this can entrap nerves on top of the foot at the ankle/anterior tarsal tunnel, similar to the carpal tunnel in the wrist.
This can be problematic for individuals with high arches.
Loosening the laces are recommended.
However, runners may feel insecure with looser laces.
Experimenting with different lacing techniques is recommended to find one that keeps the shoes comfortable without creating undue pressure over the top of the foot.
Using padding under the tongue of the shoe can help.
Foot Fall Pattern
Sometimes running form can put pressure on nerves that, lead to numbness.
Overstriding– Landing heel first with the foot ahead of the body’s center of gravity places the feet on the ground for too long.
Correcting this issue can be achieved by shortening the stride and focusing on landing on the midsole.
This way, the feet will land directly under the body.
Running like stepping on hot coals is recommended, keeping the movements light and quick.
Correcting overstriding saves energy and lowers the risk of shin splints.
A sports chiropractor, physical therapist, or running coach can help fine-tune form for specific guidance.
Foot Structure
The anatomy of the feet, specifically the arches, can contribute to running foot numbness.
Flat feet mean the entire bottom of each foot is in contact with the floor when barefoot.
Overly flexible feet are more likely to experience nerve compression.
This can be corrected with shoe orthotic inserts.
Over-the-counter orthotics may work, but custom orthotics are another option if they don’t.
Muscle Tightness
Stiff, inflexible muscles can lead to anatomical conditions that generate nerve pressure.
Warm-up exercises before running will get the muscles loose and ready.
Stretching is very important before and after running.
Individuals prone to muscle tightness should include flexibility exercises.
Yoga can improve flexibility and body alignment.
Foam rollers and other massage tools will work out kinks in areas where tightness forms and affects nerves, like the quadriceps, calves, hamstrings, and I.T. band.
Regular sports massage and chiropractic can help keep the body pliable.
Sciatic Nerve Issues
A compressed nerve causes a decrease in the sensation to the areas the nerve supplies.
Foot numbness, especially around the heel or the sole, can be caused by sciatic nerve compression.
The pain from sciatica might originate in the back but can end up causing numbness in the feet and/or toes.
Poor posture, tight piriformis muscles, or other back injuries can also cause sciatica.
A chiropractor or physical therapist can prescribe decompression therapy, MET stretches, and rehabilitative exercises.
Prevention
Most of the time, running foot numbness can be treated by adjusting footwear or technique. Here are a few tips for injury prevention:
Evaluate Shoes
First, make sure the shoelaces are not overly tight.
If the shoes are uncomfortable when running, look for another set and get a custom fitting.
Running Form
Avoid overstriding by focusing on landing on the midsole instead of the heel.
This will take the pressure off of the feet.
Foot Orthotics
Individuals with flat feet, high arches, or overly flexible feet should consider orthotics.
Avoid Overtraining
Work rest days into the training schedule and gradually build up to avoid overuse injuries.
Stretch to prevent muscle imbalances, keep muscles loose, and improve the range of motion.
Chiropractic and Physical Therapy
If symptoms don’t improve, see a doctor, podiatrist, or chiropractor so they can rule out conditions and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Benefits of Custom Foot Orthotics
References
Aldridge, Tracy. “Diagnosing heel pain in adults.” American family physician vol. 70,2 (2004): 332-8.
Atik, Aziz, and Selahattin Ozyurek. “Flexible flatfoot.” Northern Clinics of Istanbul vol. 1,1 57-64. 3 Aug. 2014, doi:10.14744/nci.2014.29292
Jackson, D L, and B L Haglund. “Tarsal tunnel syndrome in runners.” Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.) vol. 13,2 (1992): 146-9. doi:10.2165/00007256-199213020-00010
Souza, Richard B. “An Evidence-Based Videotaped Running Biomechanics Analysis.” Physical Medicine and rehabilitation clinics of North America vol. 27,1 (2016): 217-36. doi:10.1016/j.pmr.2015.08.006
Sridhara, C R, and K L Izzo. “Terminal sensory branches of the superficial peroneal nerve: an entrapment syndrome.” Archives of physical medicine and Rehabilitation vol. 66,11 (1985): 789-91.
Supplements To Ease Headaches: Individuals dealing with headaches or migraines should consider incorporating supplements to ease headaches’ severity and frequency. Nutrition and food habits affect all systems in the body. Although slower to take effect than medications, if a diet is used correctly to heal the body and maintain health, other treatments may not be necessary or require less. Many health providers understand that food is a medicine that can assist healing therapies like massage and chiropractic care, which makes the treatment more effective when used with dietary adjustments.
Supplements To Ease Headaches
An unhealthy lifestyle and diet are not the only contributing factor to headaches. Others include:
The goal of functional medicine is to help individuals reach their health and wellness goals that, include:
Regularly active lifestyle.
Optimal breathing patterns.
Quality sleep patterns.
Thorough hydration.
Healthy nutrition.
Improved digestive health.
Improved mental health.
Improved musculoskeletal health.
Pain Receptors – Headache
Pain and discomfort symptoms present when various head structures become inflamed or irritated. These structures include:
Nerves of the head and neck.
Muscles of the neck and head.
The skin of the head.
Arteries that lead to the brain.
Membranes of the ear, nose, and throat.
Sinuses that form part of the respiratory system.
The pain can also be referred, meaning that pain in one area can spread to nearby areas. An example is headache pain developed from neck stiffness and tightness.
Causes
Foods
Determining whether food sensitivities cause or contribute to headaches or migraines can be challenging. Nutritionists and dieticians recommend keeping a food journal to keep track of foods, snacks, drinks, alcohol intake, how the body reacts, and how the individual feels.
This process can help recognize foods or eating patterns that may contribute to headaches.
An integrative health practitioner can support this process and help identify sensitivities.
By eliminating and avoiding processed foods, headaches may be alleviated. This includes limited exposure to artificial colors, sweeteners, flavors, and other unnatural additives.
Foods naturally high in magnesium include legumes, almonds, broccoli, spinach, avocados, dried figs, and bananas.
Ginger Root
Ginger root is a natural remedy for nausea, diarrhea, upset stomach, and indigestion.
Ginger root extract can be taken in supplement form or fresh ginger added to meals and teas.
Coriander Seeds
Coriander syrup is effective against migraine pain.
A method to relieve a headache is to pour hot water over fresh seeds and inhale the steam.
To increase the effectiveness, place a towel over your head.
Celery or Celery Seed Oil
Celery can reduce inflammation and lower blood pressure.
However, pregnant women or individuals with kidney conditions, low blood pressure, taking thyroid medication, blood thinners, lithium, or diuretics should not use celery seed.
Peppermint and Lavender Essential Oils
Both have a natural numbing and cooling effect that helps relieve headache pain.
Peppermint oil has also been found to be a natural antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, antiparasitic, and pain reliever.
Lavender oil can eliminate nervous tension, enhance blood circulation, and relieve pain.
Both are effective pain relief tools for headache and migraine sufferers.
Butterbur
This shrub grows in Europe, some parts of Asia, and North America.
A study found that individuals who consumed 75 mg of the extract twice daily reduced migraine attacks’ frequency.
Feverfew
A herb plant whose dried leaves have been found to relieve symptoms associated with headaches, migraines, menstrual cramps, asthma, dizziness, and arthritis.
Feverfew can be found in supplements.
It can alter the effects of certain prescription and non-prescription medications.
There is plenty of evidence to support the benefits of healthy nutrition. Combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle, these supplements can help relieve headaches. As with any supplement, talk to a doctor before starting a supplement regimen.
Chiropractic Care For Migraines
References
Ariyanfar, Shadi, et al. “Review on Headache Related to Dietary Supplements.” Current Pain and headache report vol. 26,3 (2022): 193-218. doi:10.1007/s11916-022-01019-9
Bryans, Roland, et al. “Evidence-based guidelines for the chiropractic treatment of adults with headache.” Journal of Manipulative and physiological therapeutics vol. 34,5 (2011): 274-89. doi:10.1016/j.jmpt.2011.04.008
Diener, H C et al. “The first placebo-controlled trial of a special butterbur root extract for the prevention of migraine: reanalysis of efficacy criteria.” European Neurology vol. 51,2 (2004): 89-97. doi:10.1159/000076535
Kajjari, Shweta, et al. “The Effects of Lavender Essential Oil and its Clinical Implications in Dentistry: A Review.” International Journal of clinical pediatric dentistry vol. 15,3 (2022): 385-388. doi:10.5005/jp-journals-10005-2378
Maier, Jeanette A et al. “Headaches and Magnesium: Mechanisms, Bioavailability, Therapeutic Efficacy and Potential Advantage of Magnesium Pidolate.” Nutrients vol. 12,9 2660. 31 Aug. 2020, doi:10.3390/nu12092660
Mansouri, Samaneh, et al. “Evaluating the effect of Coriandrum sativum syrup on being migraine-free using mixture models.” Medical Journal of the Islamic Republic of Iran vol. 34 44. 6 May. 2020, doi:10.34171/mjiri.34.44
Pareek, Anil, et al. “Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium L.): A systematic review.” Pharmacognosy Reviews vol. 5,9 (2011): 103-10. doi:10.4103/0973-7847.79105
Skypala, Isabel J et al. “Sensitivity to food additives, vaso-active amines and salicylates: a review of the evidence.” Clinical and translational allergy vol. 5 34. 13 Oct. 2015, doi:10.1186/s13601-015-0078-3
Throughout the world, pain and stress are related to musculoskeletal disorders affecting joints and muscles. Many musculoskeletal disorders will have correlating symptoms with overlapping risk profiles that can make a person’s life difficult. Pain and stress have two forms: acute and chronic, which are associated with numerous everyday factors that a person goes through. Even though pain and stress can impact a person’s life, there are multiple ways to reduce these two by calming the mind and doing meditative breathing techniques to relax the body and clear the mind. What is truly amazing is that meditative breathing techniques can be combined with stretching techniques like MET (muscle energy techniques. Today’s article looks at how stress and pain affect the musculoskeletal system, the breathing connection for musculoskeletal pain, and how MET therapy is combined with breathing exercises. We utilize and provide valuable information about our patients to certified medical providers who use soft tissue stretching methods like MET to reduce musculoskeletal stress on the body. We encourage patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their findings. We support that education is a marvelous way to ask our providers the most interesting questions at the patient’s acknowledgment. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., incorporates this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
Stress & Pain Affect The Musculoskeletal System
Have you been dealing with shoulder, neck, or back pain? What about feeling an overwhelming pressure that is causing you to stress out? Or do you feel muscle pain and joint stiffness affecting your daily routine? Many of these issues correspond with stress and pain from numerous factors associated with the musculoskeletal system. Research studies revealed that pain and stress are considered two sides of the same coin regarding the musculoskeletal system. Pain and stress are two distinguished symptoms that overlap each other when musculoskeletal disorders affect the body. Pain is a collection of emotional and sensory perceptions that work with musculoskeletal motor behavior. At the same time, stress is characterized by challenging emotional or physiological events that cause adaptive or maladaptive changes to regain homeostasis. With these two factors working together to affect the musculoskeletal system, the body may develop symptoms and cause the individual to be miserable.
The Breathing Connection For Musculoskeletal Pain & Stress
One of the major correspondents that work with pain and stress is anxiety. In “Clinical Applications of Neuromuscular Techniques,” authors Dr. Leon Chaitow, N.D., D.O., and Judith Walker DeLany, L.M.T., mentioned that anxiety aggravates all chronic pain and stress. However, there is a solution to reduce pain and stress in the musculoskeletal system. When pain and stress are combined with anxiety, it can cause breathing disorders and produce inflammatory cytokines and elevated cortisol levels to contribute. But incorporating some deep breathing techniques can help reduce stress and pain affecting the body. Research studies have revealed that slow deep breathing has been known to reduce the effects of musculoskeletal pain and help lower cortisol levels. Breathing techniques are popular in meditation and yoga practices. Deep breathing and mindfulness can help the body relax from everyday factors and calm the individual. Additional studies have mentioned that breathing exercise programs effectively improve lung function, reduce musculoskeletal pain associated with the back, and help improve a person’s quality of life.
The Natural Way To Heal- Video
Have you been dealing with musculoskeletal pain throughout your entire body? Do you feel constantly stressed throughout your whole life? Or have you felt anxious that it is making your muscles tense constantly? When many people feel constant stress and are in pain, it can lead to musculoskeletal disorders that can cause many individuals to be miserable. When this happens, overlapping risk profiles affect the musculoskeletal, organs, and nervous systems. At the same time, fortunately, numerous treatments can help reduce pain and stress that is affecting the body. Chiropractic care is non-invasive and can help many individuals be mindful of their bodies. The video above explains how chiropractic care can help realign the body from spinal subluxation and mitigate the effects of muscle pain and stress in the muscle fibers.
MET Therapy Combined With Breathing Exercises
When the body has been dealing with musculoskeletal pain on top of stress, it can cause the individual to be miserable and try to find some relief. Luckily there are available treatments that can help restore the body naturally and reduce the effects of stress and pain. Treatment like MET (muscle energy technique) and breathing exercises allow the muscles to relax and properly stretch to relieve muscle pain. Research studies have revealed that breathing exercises and MET therapy can reduce a person’s symptoms and help regain the muscle and joint range of motion. These two combined treatments can help many individuals dealing with musculoskeletal pain associated with stress to be more aware of what is affecting their bodies. They can help them along their health and wellness journey without medicine.
Conclusion
Overall, pain and stress are part of numerous conditions and disorders that can affect the musculoskeletal system and cause overlapping risk profiles that can cause the individual to be miserable. When pain and stress affect the body, it can cause the muscles, tissues, ligaments, joints, and organs to work harder than before and develop chronic musculoskeletal disorders. Fortunately, treatments like MET (muscle energy technique) and breathing exercises allow the body to relax and help reduce muscle pain symptoms affecting the body. When a person incorporates these treatments as part of their daily routine, they can become more aware of what is affecting their bodies and improve what is going on in their daily lives. This allows them to continue their health and wellness journey pain-free.
References
Abdallah, Chadi G, and Paul Geha. “Chronic Pain and Chronic Stress: Two Sides of the Same Coin?” Chronic Stress (Thousand Oaks, Calif.), U.S. National Library of Medicine, Feb. 2017, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5546756/.
Anderson, Barton E, and Kellie C Huxel Bliven. “The Use of Breathing Exercises in the Treatment of Chronic, Nonspecific Low Back Pain.” Journal of Sport Rehabilitation, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 24 Aug. 2016, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27632818/.
Chaitow, Leon, and Judith Walker DeLany. Clinical Applications of Neuromuscular Techniques. Churchill Livingstone, 2003.
Joseph, Amira E, et al. “Effects of Slow Deep Breathing on Acute Clinical Pain in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.” Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2022, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8891889/.
Zaccaro, Andrea, et al. “How Breath-Control Can Change Your Life: A Systematic Review on Psycho-Physiological Correlates of Slow Breathing.” Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 7 Sept. 2018, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6137615/.
Around the world, many individuals will have some reaction to the foods they consume. This type of reaction can lead to a series of unwanted symptoms that affect not only the vital organs of the body but also the musculoskeletal system. This allergic reaction can cause inflammatory effects that lead to joint pain and swelling while affecting a person’s quality of life. Inflammation is the body’s natural defense response from the immune system to repair the body inside and out. When food allergies start to affect the entire body, it can cause the individual to be in constant pain, and many individuals will go to treatments to reduce the symptoms caused by food allergic reactions; however, the residual effects of the allergic reaction can still interfere with the body and affect the musculoskeletal system. Today’s article focuses on food allergies, how they are associated with inflammation in the musculoskeletal system, and how MET therapy can help relieve inflammation associated with food allergies. We utilize and provide valuable information about our patients to certified medical providers who use soft tissue stretching methods like MET to reduce inflammation associated with food allergies affecting the musculoskeletal system. We encourage patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their findings. We support that education is a marvelous way to ask our providers the most interesting questions at the patient’s acknowledgment. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., incorporates this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
What Are Food Allergies?
Have you been dealing with muscle swelling in different locations of your body? Do you see redness or feel a burning sensation in your muscles? Or do your muscles and joints feel achy throughout the day? Many of these pain-like symptoms are associated with inflammatory effects caused by food allergies. Research studies have revealed that food allergies are often defined as an immune reaction to food proteins that many individuals worldwide and, when indigested, are responsible for various symptoms that involve the skin, gastrointestinal tract, and respiratory tract. Many individuals would often confuse a food allergy with food intolerance since the musculoskeletal and gastrointestinal systems are caused by inflammation. Research studies have found that food intolerances are non-immunological responses that cause numerous symptoms and hypersensitivity to the body. Many factors correlate to food intolerances, and food allergies can affect the musculoskeletal system with pain-like symptoms like inflammation.
Food Allergies Associated With Inflammation In The Musculoskeletal System
When food allergies or food intolerances occur in the body, it can cause the individuals to have unwanted pain-like symptoms to cause inflammation to appear in the body. When it comes to inflammation in the body, it is produced by the immune system. It helps repair old cells and attack foreign invaders affecting the musculoskeletal system. In “Clinical Applications of Neuromuscular Techniques,” Dr. Leon Chaitow, N.D., D.O., and Dr. Judith Walker DeLany, L.M.T. stated that specific individualized pathophysiological responses exist to many foods and liquids that are being taken accounted for a significant amount of overlapping symptoms being produce. The book also states that it includes pain and discomfort to the musculoskeletal system. To that point, to figure out these presenting symptoms, whatever allergic pathogen is being derived from the food itself could be the result. Additional studies mentioned that food allergies and tolerances are sometimes not established when inflammation from the GI tract and causing pain-like symptoms associated with the musculoskeletal system. Fortunately, there are various treatments to reduce the effects of food allergies and intolerances while restoring the musculoskeletal system.
The Benefits Of A Healthy Diet & Chiropractic Care-Video
Have you been dealing with gut inflammation that is affecting your musculoskeletal system? Are you experiencing aches and pains throughout your entire body? Or do you have joint issues that are causing you limited mobility? Many of these issues are associated with food intolerances and allergies that can cause inflammation of the musculoskeletal system leaving the individual in pain. Fortunately, there are many ways to reduce the effects of inflammation associated with food allergies. The video above explains how eating the right foods while being considerate of food allergies can be combined with treatment like chiropractic care, which can help reduce inflammation while realigning the body through manual manipulation. Chiropractors also use soft tissue techniques like MET to help regain joint mobility and reduce the effects of inflammation-causing muscle and joint stiffness.
MET Therapy Relieving Inflammation Associated With Food Allergies
Therapies like soft tissue massages, massage therapy, physical therapy, or chiropractic care all work together with having a nutritional diet plan to prevent flare-ups from food allergies and intolerances. Research studies have found that MET helps stretch the affected muscles induced by inflammation associated with food allergies. This technique allows the body to naturally heal itself and prevent inflammation from exceeding more into the body. Combined with anti-inflammatory foods, many individuals know what food they can and can not consume. Additionally, it allows them to be more mindful of their bodies and sends them on the right track of their health and wellness journey.
Conclusion
Overall, many individuals often confuse food allergies and food intolerances, which can cause the musculoskeletal system to be dealing with symptoms of inflammation and pain. Since inflammation is the body’s natural defense system, it is important to be mindful of what is consumed to prevent overlapping risk profiles from causing muscle and joint pain. Luckily, numerous treatments are available to reduce the effects of chronic inflammation associated with food allergies and help the body naturally heal itself. Combining treatments like MET and a healthy nutritional diet can help the body reduce the effects of inflammation from affecting the musculoskeletal system while also allowing the individual to make smart choices in their health and wellness journey.
References
Chaitow, Leon, and Judith Walker DeLany. Clinical Applications of Neuromuscular Techniques. Churchill Livingstone, 2003.
Lopez, Claudia M, et al. “Food Allergies – Statpearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 31 Jan. 2023, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482187/.
Ohtsuka, Yoshikazu. “Food Intolerance and Mucosal Inflammation.” Pediatrics International : Official Journal of the Japan Pediatric Society, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2015, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25442377/.
Sbardella, Silvia, et al. “Muscle Energy Technique in the Rehabilitative Treatment for Acute and Chronic Non-Specific Neck Pain: A Systematic Review.” Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland), U.S. National Library of Medicine, 17 June 2021, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8234422/.
Tuck, Caroline J, et al. “Food Intolerances.” Nutrients, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 22 July 2019, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6682924/.
Breathing nourishes the whole body and regulates important functions like heart rate and blood pressure. It also reinforces proper body mechanics to lessen the stress on the body when moving. Busy lives combined with sedentary work and lifestyle can condition the body to take only quick, shallow breaths, which can weaken lung muscles and cause tension to build, worsening posture and leading to other adverse symptoms and conditions. Learning deep breathing can positively affect heart rate, mental alertness, and blood pressure and improve posture. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic can create personalized postural treatment and training plans.
Breathing and Posture
Inhalation causes the lungs to get filled with air, and exhalation releases and empties the lungs. For the lungs to work optimally, the rib cage needs to expand constantly in a gentle, rhythmic way. The respiratory muscle/diaphragm muscle needs to go up and down with each breath cycle. This can only happen when the muscle is not contracted or tense. Tension in the upper body can increase unhealthy postures and undermine health. Continued unhealthy postures at school, work, and home will compress the ribs, intercostal muscles, diaphragm, and base of the neck. This prevents the ribcage from expanding fully, which impairs optimal breathing. Over time, the strength of the respiratory muscles weakens.
Healthy Posture
Proper body alignment reduces strain on supportive structures like ligaments, muscles, joints, and discs. A healthy posture allows individuals to breathe more easily, move more efficiently, relax, and sleep better.
Symptoms Of Unhealthy Posture
Research shows that prolonged practice of unhealthy posture can lead to health problems, including:
Aching and chronic pain in the back, neck, and shoulders.
Tight, sore muscle knots/trigger points.
Tension headaches, limited sleep, and digestive problems.
Brain fog.
Shifting moods.
Digestive problems.
Breathing from the chest relies on secondary muscles around the neck and collarbone instead of the diaphragm. Shallow breathing patterns accompanied by unhealthy postures cause muscles in the upper body to function improperly. The longer the body sits, the less the body can resist the force of gravity and maintain a stable core. Tight muscles around the chest cause rounded shoulders and forward head posture, further weakening the muscles that help maintain an upright posture. Chest and rib discomfort symptoms can result from the tight intercostal muscles and inadequate expansion of the ribs.
Chiropractic Treatment
Shallow breathing can be reversed by regular physical activity, and sessions of respiratory muscle training will help to improve posture and quality of life. Deep or belly breathing involves learning to use the abdominal muscles. Inhaling slowly and deeply through the nose fills the lungs with air and expands the stomach. Learning to breathe deep regularly provides benefits like stress reduction, improved cardiovascular health, stronger lungs, and improved cognitive performance.
Posture correction techniques relieve back and neck pain, improve muscle and joint function, maintain brain health, increase mood stability, and improve spinal health.
Learning how to breathe deeply takes practice.
One beginning technique is to breathe deeply and count to 4 before slowly releasing the breath with another count to 4.
Individuals will notice their abdomen, ribs, and chest push forward as they breathe.
The shoulders, neck, and spine properly align during this action.
Place a hand on the abdomen to check for correct breathing.
It should move outwards slightly as air fills the lungs.
Real Patients, Real Results
References
Albarrati, Ali, et al. “Effect of Upright and Slouched Sitting Postures on the Respiratory Muscle Strength in Healthy Young Males.” BioMed research international vol. 2018 3058970. 25 Feb. 2018, doi:10.1155/2018/3058970
Aliverti, Andrea. “The respiratory muscles during exercise.” Breathe (Sheffield, England) vol. 12,2 (2016): 165-8. doi:10.1183/20734735.008116
Pickering, Mark, and James F X Jones. “The diaphragm: two physiological muscles in one.” Journal of Anatomy vol. 201,4 (2002): 305-12. doi:10.1046/j.1469-7580.2002.00095.x
Sheel, A William. “Respiratory muscle training in healthy individuals: physiological rationale and implications for exercise performance.” Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.) vol. 32,9 (2002): 567-81. doi:10.2165/00007256-200232090-00003
As humans, there are a variety of stressors experienced daily. Stress collects in various body areas, most commonly the upper back, jaw, and neck muscles. Stress leads to tension in the muscles. The built-up tension can cause the spinal bones to shift out of alignment, irritating the nerves between the spinal bones. A cycle begins as increased nerve tension causes the muscles to continue to contract/tighten. The extra muscle tension continues to pull the spinal bones out of alignment, making the spine stiff and less flexible affecting posture, balance, coordination, and mobility, causing the spine to become further unstable. Chiropractic treatment at regular intervals is recommended to help realign and maintain proper position.
Why The Spine Goes Out of Alignment
The nerves in the body are intricately linked to the spinal cord, and small distortions in the alignment can cause nerves to misfire and malfunction. When the spine goes out of alignment, the nervous system/brain and nerves get stuck in a stressed or tense state. Even a minor misalignment can cause a series of discomfort symptoms to travel throughout the body.
Causes
Causes of misalignment that creates tension in the nerves and muscles include:
A chiropractor will feel/palpate the spine to see if the bones are in alignment, move well, or are out of alignment and not moving correctly or moving at all.
Posture Exam
If the head, shoulders, and hips are uneven or the shoulders and head are pulling forward, the spinal bones are out of alignment/subluxations.
Balance and Coordination
Unhealthy balance and coordination can indicate the brain, nerves, and muscles are malfunctioning by spinal misalignment.
Range of Motion
A loss of spinal movement flexibility can show tension in the nerves, muscles, and misalignments.
Muscle Test
Loss of strength in a muscle can indicate the nerve signals are weak.
Orthopedic Tests
Tests that put the body in stressful positions focus on what tissue/s may be injured and the causes.
X-rays
X-rays look for abnormalities, dislocations, bone density, fractures, hidden/invisible injuries, and infections.
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic provide personalized treatment plans. These specific therapies are made to generate long-term spine benefits. Spinal manipulation, deep tissue massage, MET, and other manual therapy techniques, combined with exercise, help get the bones moving properly, the muscles functioning correctly, and the spine back into proper form. Treatment relieves muscle spasms, tension, and joint dysfunction, increases circulation, and retrains the muscles to remain relaxed.
The Natural Way to Heal
References
Ando, Kei et al. “Poor spinal alignment in females with obesity: The Yakumo study.” Journal of Orthopaedics vol. 21 512-516. 16 Sep. 2020, doi:10.1016/j.jor.2020.09.006
Le Huec, J C et al. “Sagittal balance of the spine.” The European spine journal: official publication of the European Spine Society, the European Spinal Deformity Society, and the European Section of the Cervical Spine Research Society vol. 28,9 (2019): 1889-1905. doi:10.1007/s00586-019-06083-1
Meeker, William C, and Scott Haldeman. “Chiropractic: a profession at the crossroads of mainstream and alternative medicine.” Annals of internal medicine vol. 136,3 (2002): 216-27. doi:10.7326/0003-4819-136-3-200202050-00010
Oakley, Paul A et al. “X-Ray Imaging is Essential for Contemporary Chiropractic and Manual Therapy Spinal Rehabilitation: Radiography Increases Benefits and Reduces Risks.” Dose-response: a publication of International Hormesis Society vol. 16,2 1559325818781437. 19 Jun. 2018, doi:10.1177/1559325818781437
Shah, Anoli A, et al. “Spinal Balance/Alignment – Clinical Relevance and Biomechanics.” Journal of biomechanical engineering, 10.1115/1.4043650. 2 May. 2019, doi:10.1115/1.4043650
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Why The Spine Goes Out of Alignment
