Back Clinic Sciatica Chiropractic Team. Dr. Alex Jimenez organized a variety of article archives associated with sciatica, a common and frequently reported series of symptoms affecting a majority of the population. Sciatica pain can vary widely. It may feel like a mild tingling, dull ache, or burning sensation. In some cases, the pain is severe enough to make a person unable to move. The pain most often occurs on one side.
Sciatica occurs when there is pressure or damage to the sciatic nerve. This nerve starts in the lower back and runs down the back of each leg as it controls the muscles of the back of the knee and lower leg. It also provides sensation to the back of the thigh, part of the lower leg, and the sole of the foot. Dr. Jimenez explains how sciatica and its symptoms can be relieved through the use of chiropractic treatment. For more information, please feel free to contact us at (915) 850-0900 or text to call Dr. Jimenez personally at (915) 540-8444.
When the weather begins to change and that cold feeling starts to creep into the bones, especially down the back. That’s when sciatica symptoms can flare-up in the worst way.
Cold weather really make sciatica worse
Of the many patients that I’ve treated, those with sciatica firmly state that cold weather makes it worse.
There are bonafide reasons why sciatica acts up when the temperature goes down.
Sciatica
It is a type of radiculopathy, caused by pressure on one or more of the five nerve roots in the lower back;
This is known as the lumbar region of the spine.
The nerves run from the lower spine under buttocks and down each hip into the legs.
Several conditions can compress these nerves at one or more spots along the way:
Numbness
Weakness in the
Lower back
Buttock
Legs on one or both sides
Research Study
Cold weather affects sciatica because it affects different types of pain.
Researchers found that the men who worked in low temperatures reported higher cases of neck and low back pain.
This was compared with those working in warmer temperatures.
Cold Weather & the Spine
Pain and discomfort can increase because the muscles stiffen up in cold weather.
The spine’s muscles also become tight and tense.
Tension and stress, can make the pain worse and increase the risk of muscle strains/sprains.
Barometric Pressure
Air pressure drops before a storm or when the temperature changes.
These changes seep into the sensitive nerves of the lower back and cause swelling/inflammation and pain.
Physical Stress
Any type of movement can wreak havoc on a healthy spine.
This is due to the cold weather causing individuals not to:
Use correct posture
Use correct movement when performing tasks/chores
Hurrying tasks/chores
There is also the chance of a slip and fall accident or twisting your back.
All of this is the perfect set-up for spine and sciatic injury/s.
So How to reduce sciatic pain?
Keep Warm
Wear warm clothing and in layers.
A few thin layers can keep the body warmer than a single thick layer.
Keep the lower back warm
Tuck your shirt into your pants to make sure that your back doesn’t get a cold draft when you reach for something and then put a sweater on over that.
A couple of blankets or an electric blanket on your bed can help keep your muscles from tightening.
Keep home as warm as possible.
Run the car a few minutes to preheat it before heading out.
Wear Proper Shoes or Boots
Proper footwear should have enough tread to prevent slips and falls.
Proper shoes for walking in cold weather. Don’t do the flip-flop thing, that’s just asking for foot/back problems.
Orthotics can help with posture, pronation, and gait.
Warm-Up Before Starting Outdoor Activity
Stretch and loosen the muscles and joints before you go out to:
Trim the lawn/bushes
Take a walk
Play with the kids
Take a few minutes to stretch and warm up inside before going outside.
Do It Right
As previously mentioned use correct form, meaning, lift with your legs, not the back.
Move smaller amounts if landscaping etc., Do it in small increments instead of one or two heavy loads.
Don’t twist your back while lifting.
Face the direction you are going in.
Ask for Help
If sciatica is affecting the task at hand, do not be too proud or afraid to ask for help. Stubbornness can lead to severe injury/s that could have been avoided.
Stay Active
When cold weather starts to make itself known, most of us want to get on the couch, binge watch our favorite movies, sleep, get snuggly, etc.
Exercising and staying in shape is a top remedy for sciatica symptoms.
Consult with a chiropractor, physical therapist/trainer that can offer exercises that won’t present/exacerbate symptoms
Watch your weight when the cold weather kicks in and keep up with your exercise.
El Paso, TX Chiropractor Sciatica Symptoms
Sandra Rubio discusses sciatica, its causes, and its symptoms. Sciatica is the collection of symptoms caused by the compression of the sciatic nerve, the longest nerve in the human body which extends from the lower back to the feet. Sandra Rubio describes how she’s witnessed many patients come into Dr. Alex Jimenez’s office feeling painful and often severe symptoms of sciatica caused by a variety of spinal health issues. Fortunately, Dr. Jimenez is the non-surgical choice for the safe and effective treatment of sciatica symptoms.
Based upon how it’s defined, approximately 2 percent to 40 percent of individuals will experience sciatica symptoms at some point in their lifetime. It is most frequent during people’s ’40s and ’50s, and men are more frequently affected than women. About 90 percent of the time, sciatica symptoms are because of a disc herniation. Other issues that may bring about sciatica comprise of spondylolisthesis, spinal stenosis, piriformis syndrome, pelvic tumors, and compression by a baby’s head during pregnancy, among other spinal health issues.
NCBI Resources
Chiropractic care is a popular, alternative treatment option commonly utilized to help treat symptoms of sciatica. Sciatica is characterized as a collection of symptoms, rather than a single injury or condition. A chiropractor can help diagnose the source of a patient�s sciatic nerve pain, or sciatica, in order to properly determine the best treatment for their specific health issue.
Spinal adjustments and manual manipulations can be utilized to help carefully correct the alignment of the spine, restoring the natural integrity of the spine and allowing the body to heal itself, without the need for drugs and medications or surgery. In certain individuals, sciatica may fix itself, possibly happening just once or a few times throughout their lifetime. But, it�s important to remember that if an injury and/or aggravated condition is not treated effectively, symptoms may worsen.
Sciatica doesn�t have to prevent you from being able to travel.
Sometimes a journey can create a series of challenges for people with sciatic nerve pain in the low back and leg.
A common issue among individuals is to prevent sciatica from flaring up when on the road or in the air.
A solution for this is to find ways to keep moving. However, easier said than done, but it can be done!
Flying and driving often mean long periods of sitting and sitting in a position typically not friendly with sciatic pain.
“When we drive or fly for an extended trip, it means long sitting times, and sitting in a position that can cause sciatica to flare up at any time,” says Dr. Alexander Jimenez, D.C. in El Paso, Texas, and member of the American Chiropractic Association (ACA).
Dr. Jimenez shares some basic tips for keeping mobility up, all the while pain-free, when flying and driving with sciatica.
He also offers additional advice to keep radiating pain from starting, upon arrival.
Flying with Sciatica
Sciatica pain radiates through the lower body meaning:
The low back
Hips
Buttocks
Legs
So when a flight anchors you to a seat, this can aggravate the area and cause pain.
The first thing to consider is the seat choice.
An aisle seat allows you the easiest access out of the seat, allowing you to move more during the flight.
Also when flying with sciatica, tell the flight crew about your condition.
When the seatbelt off light comes on, get up, stretch your legs and move around anywhere you can find room.
With a good portion of the population suffering from sciatica, most crews have seen people with this condition, and will usually let you do some stretching if they’re not busy.
A good sciatica stretch is to put your hands on something stable and do some deep knee bends.
This will use the upper body weight to stretch the lumbar spine comfortably.
Do a few and make sure you feel and return to your seat stretched and refreshed.
When taking a long flight, do this every hour to feel better when landing.
Sciatica Road Trip
Road trips, on the other hand, are easier to stop and move around. However, it can also create over-concentration on the drive and forgetting how much you are hurting until the pain is unbearable.
Dr. Jimenez advises frequentstops, if possible every hour is best to prevent pain.
On the stops walk two or three laps around the car/Suv/truck.
Rear bumper stretching prop
Place one foot on the bumper, and the other a few feet behind, lean into the bumper and square the hips with the lead foot.
This is like a hurdle stretch.
Stretch both legs on each break.
Regular stretching helps relieve the pressure on the low back so you can drive comfortably.
Arrival
Packing light is a healthy tip because hauling heavy luggage will aggravate sciatic nerve pain.
There are a few things that Dr. Jimenez recommends packing or getting upon arrival.
Gel ice pack you can keep in the refrigerator or freezer in a hotel.
Apply the cold pack to the low back for 20-minute increments will go a long way toward relieving pain.
Topical agent/cream/gel that has menthol or camphor, that you can apply to any area of tenderness or pain before the ice gel pack.
This increases the ice pack’s power by helping relax muscles and decreasing pain.
Supportive shoes or custom foot orthotics
People with sciatica should choose footwear or orthotics that support all three arches of the foot.
Leg length is usually not equal on each side, and proper arch supports can be custom made for you by your chiropractor to compensate for the difference.
Even a 5mm difference can cause chronic back pain.
And if possible, ask your chiropractor or primary physician if they can recommend a chiropractor, physical/massage therapist,� or acupuncturist that you can see in case you need emergency treatment.
This can give you some peace of mind.
Keep Your Exercise/Stretching Routine When Traveling
When we travel especially on vacations it can be easy to let healthy lifestyle habits you practice at home slide.
All are sciatica�s natural enemies make sure to bring these healthy practices with you to your destination.
Use the same good sense when you travel just like at home getting:
Get plenty of rest
Drink plenty of water
Don’t overeat
You will need more rest when you travel and don’t forget when you travel to:
Walk
Stretch
Stay mobile
Difference Foot Orthotics Make to *REDUCE FOOT PAIN* & Correct Posture | El Paso, TX (2019)
Custom made foot orthotics can help control foot motion and posture. Healthcare professionals prescribe custom foot orthotics to help patients focus on their foot posture and mobility control. Research studies have ascertained that using custom foot orthotics for posture and mobility control can help fix excessive foot pronation and supination to prevent a variety of foot health problems. The subsequent video describes how custom foot orthotics will help control foot posture and mobility to improve health and wellness.
NCBI Resources
Sciatica is generally caused by the compression of lumbar or sacral nerves or by compression of the sciatic nerve. When sciatica is caused by compression of a dorsal nerve root, it’s known as lumbar radiculopathy. This can occur because of a spinal disk bulge or spinal disk herniation (a herniated intervertebral disc), or by roughening, enlarging, or misalignment (spondylolisthesis) of the fascia, or as a consequence of degenerated discs which can reduce the diameter of the lateral foramen by which nerve roots exit the spine.
What exercise/stretches help reduce sciatic nerve pain?
Here are 4 exercise/stretches that your chiropractor/physical therapist may recommend to help you reduce sciatic nerve pain:
Pelvic tilt
Knee to chest
Lower trunk rotations
Arm and leg extensions
Pelvic Tilt
Its purpose is to strengthen the lower abdominal muscles and stretch the lower back.
How to do it:
Lie on back
Exhale and tighten abdominal muscles while pushing the belly button toward the floor and flatten the lower back
Hold the position for 5 seconds
Repeat 10 times holding the position for 5 seconds each
Am I doing it right?
Place the pinky finger on the hip bone and thumb on the lowest rib (same side).
When tightening the abdominal muscles, the amount of space between the pinky finger and thumb should get smaller.
Pelvic tilts help strengthen the lower abdominal muscles and stretch the low back.
Knee to Chest
Its purpose is to help reduce nerve compression in the low back, that can help alleviate lower back pain.
Lie on back
Start with either� left or right knee and use hands to gently pull the bent knee toward chest
Hold for 10 seconds
Repeat movement on opposite knee
Perform 3 to 5 times holding position for 10 seconds each
Use hands to gently pull both knees toward chest
Hold for 10 seconds
Repeat movement with both knees 3 to 5 times holding position for 10 seconds each
Knee to chest exercise/stretches can help reduce nerve compression on the lumbar spine alleviating lower back pain.
Lower Trunk Rotation
Its purpose is to increase the spine�s mobility and flexibility.
Lie on back with both knees bent upright and both feet flat on the floor (aka the hook lying position).
Hold both knees together, rotate knees to one side
Hold for 3 to 5 seconds
There will be a gentle stretching sensation on the opposite side of lower back and hip area
Contract abdominal muscles and rotate both knees to opposite side
Hold for 3 to 5 seconds
Repeat 10 times on each side
Lower body rotations can help you strengthen your lower abdominal muscles and stretch your low back.�
All Fours Opposite Arm and Leg Extensions
Its purpose is to strengthen the abdominal muscles, low back and stabilize the areas.
Get in crawling position on all fours.
Contract abdominal muscles to keep back flat and straight
Raise one leg upward behind you and straighten outward
Hold for 3 to 5 seconds
Repeat the movement on the opposite side
Once this�exercise/stretch can be performed 10 times with functional pain, add arm movement with each leg extension:
Extend the arm (opposite side of leg) upward and outward in front of body
Hold for 3 to 5 seconds
Repeat on the opposite side
Perform 10 times
How do these exercise/stretches reduce sciatic pain
Abdominal and spinal muscles are essential components of the spine�s system.
These exercises/stretches can help:
Strengthen the spine
Increase flexibility
Increase range of motion
These exercises can help keep the spine�s structural components strong and healthy along with reducing pain and speeding up healing.
Regular exercise causes the body to release endorphins or hormones that interact with the pain receptors in the brain that reduce the perception of pain.
Will exercising with sciatica cause/exacerbate injury
Do not to perform any of these exercises without consulting your doctor,� spine specialist or chiropractor.
Whatever level of fitness, remember even trained professional athletes exercise with a doctor, physical therapist, or other healthcare expert’s approval and clearance.
Obtaining an accurate diagnosis for the exact cause of the sciatic pain
Is essential before considering any exercise program
Be gentle with your spine, don�t push too hard while doing exercises. This is to avoid exacerbating sciatic pain or creating a new injury.
If exercise increases pain or causes nerve-related symptoms like:
Weakness
Tingling sensation
Numbness
Stop and contact your doctor or chiropractor immediately!
El Paso, TX Best Sciatica Chiropractor Treatment
Sandra Rubio discusses Dr. Alex Jimenez and his team will help relieve your sciatica symptoms. Chiropractic care can improve pain and discomfort as well as reduce irritation and inflammation brought on by sciatica. Additionally, a chiropractor such as Dr. Jimenez can also offer nutritional and fitness tips for sciatic nerve pain. Other treatment procedures, such as deep-tissue massage, can help alleviate sciatica symptoms. Dr. Alex Jimenez is the homeopathic, noninvasive option for sciatic nerve disease and its related symptoms.
Sciatica is generally caused by the compression of lumbar or thoracic nerves or by compression of the sciatic nerve. When sciatica is caused by compression of a lower back nerve root, it’s called lumbar radiculopathy. This can happen due to a spinal disc bulge or spinal disk herniation (a herniated intervertebral disc), or by roughening, extending, or misalignment (spondylolisthesis) of the fascia, or as a result of degenerated discs that could reduce the diameter of the lateral foramen by which nerve roots exit the spine.
NCBI Resources
Sciatica is characterized by a shooting pain that originates in the lower back and travels down through the hip, buttock, and back of the leg. The pain can be so severe that it inhibits mobility and can prevent people from working, taking care of their home, or just enjoying their life. Doctors have treated the condition with medications and some invasive therapies, but chiropractic treatments have been found to be extremely effective in alleviating the pain and curing the condition.
Runner’s knee is a term commonly utilized to characterize a variety of health issues which can ultimately cause pain, discomfort, and other symptoms around the kneecap also referred to as the patella. These health issues include anterior knee pain syndrome, patellofemoral malalignment, chondromalacia patella, and iliotibial band syndrome. �
Runner’s knee commonly occurs in athletes, especially runners, however, any type of exercise or physical activity which repeatedly stresses the knee joint could cause the health issue. This may include walking, skiing, biking, jumping, cycling, and playing soccer. According to the Harvard Medical School, runner’s knee is more prevalent in women than in men. �
What are the Symptoms of Runner’s Knee?
The most common symptoms associated with runner’s knee includes is a dull, aching pain around or behind the kneecap, also referred to as the patella, especially where it meets the lower region of the thighbone or femur. You may feel pain when: �
Walking
Climbing (or descending) stairs
Squatting
Kneeling
Running
Sitting down or standing up
Sitting for extended periods of time with the knee bent
Other symptoms include swelling and popping or grinding in the knee.
In the case of iliotibial band syndrome, the pain is most intense on the exterior region of the knee. This is where the iliotibial band, which runs from the hip to the lower leg, connects to the tibia, or the thicker, inner bone of the lower leg. � Moreover, the symptoms commonly associated with runner’s knee can also ultimately affect an individual’s gait, or manner of walking, and even their posture while standing or walking. These changes can cause the structures of the human body to compensate for the altered functions, resulting in a variety of health issues, such as low back pain and sciatica. �
What are the Causes of Runner’s Knee?
The pain and discomfort of runner’s knee may be brought on by the irritation of the complex soft tissues or lining of the knee, and worn or torn cartilage, as well as strained tendons. Any of the following causes can cause runner’s knee, including: �
Overuse
Trauma or injury to the kneecap
Misalignment of the kneecap
Complete or partial dislocation of the kneecap
Flat feet
Weak or tight thigh muscles
Insufficient stretching before exercise or physical activity
Arthritis
A fractured or broken kneecap
Plica syndrome or synovial plica syndrome, where the lining of the joint becomes thickened and inflamed
Occasionally, the painful symptoms can originate in the lower back and hip into the knee. This is known as “referred pain.” �
How is Runner’s Knee Diagnosed?
To determine a diagnosis of runner’s knee, the healthcare professional requires a complete medical history and a thorough physical evaluation which may often include blood tests, X-rays, MRI scans, or CT scans for an accurate diagnosis. �
What is the Treatment for Runner’s Knee?
The healthcare professional will determine the best treatment approach depending on the cause of runner’s knee, however in most instances, runner’s knee can be treated without surgery. Most often, the initial step in treatment is to utilize RICE: �
Rest: Avoid repetitive pressure on the knee.
Ice: Decrease pain and swelling by applying an ice pack and prevent heat to the knee.
Compression: Wrap the knee utilizing an elastic bandage or sleeve to restrict swelling.
Elevation: Place a pillow under the knee when sitting or bending down to prevent further swelling. If there is considerable swelling, maintain the foot raised above the knee and the knee above the level of the heart.
Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen can also help further reduce pain, discomfort, and swelling. Acetaminophen can also help reduce symptoms. You may want to speak with your doctor before taking these medications, especially if you have other health issues or take other prescription drugs. � The healthcare professional may also recommend stretches and exercises to improve strength and range of motion. They may tape your knee or provide you with a brace to offer additional pain relief. You may also utilize custom foot orthotics to support your knee. Surgery may be recommended if your cartilage is damaged or if your kneecap has to be realigned. �
How Can Runner’s Knee be Prevented?
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends these methods and techniques to prevent runner’s knee: �
Stay in form. Ensure that your overall health and wellness is good. If you are overweight, speak with your healthcare professional about developing a customized weight loss program.
Stretch. Do a five-minute warmup followed by stretching exercises before you run or perform any physical activity which adds pressure to the knee. Your doctor can show you how to improve your knee’s flexibility.
Gradually increase training. Never suddenly increase the intensity of your workout. Instead, make gradual changes.
Use proper footwear. Purchase quality shoes with good shock absorption, and be sure they fit properly and comfortably. Don’t run in shoes which are too worn out. Wear custom foot orthotics if you’ve got flat feet.
Use the proper running form. Keep a tight core to prevent yourself from leaning too far forward or backward and keep your knees flexed. Attempt to run on a soft, smooth surface. Prevent running on concrete. Walk or run in a zigzag pattern when moving down a steep incline to avoid adding unnecessary pressure on your knees and feet.
Runner’s knee is a well-known term utilized to describe a variety of health issues associated with a similar collection of painful symptoms. Runner’s knee generally includes patellofemoral pain syndrome, or PFPS, and/or iliotibial band syndrome, or ITBS, both of which are considered repetitive stress injuries. It’s essential to seek immediate medical attention to determine an accurate diagnosis of runner’s knee and continue with the proper treatment approach.� – Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
Low Back Pain
�
The purpose of the article is to understand how runner’s knee can be associated with sciatica and other symptoms. Sciatica is a collection of symptoms characterized by pain, tingling sensation, and numbness. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal and nervous health issues as well as functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. To further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 . �
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez �
Additional Topic Discussion: Foot Orthotics
Low back pain and sciatica are common health issues which affect many individuals worldwide. However, did you know that chronic pain may be due to foot problems? Health issues originating in the foot may ultimately cause imbalances in the spine, such as poor posture, which can cause the well-known symptoms of low back pain and sciatica. Custom foot orthotics, individually designed with 3-arch support can help promote overall health and wellness by supporting and promoting good posture and correcting foot problems. Custom foot orthotics can ultimately help improve low back pain and sciatica. �
Formulas for Methylation Support
XYMOGEN�s Exclusive Professional Formulas are available through select licensed health care professionals. The internet sale and discounting of XYMOGEN formulas are strictly prohibited
Proudly,�Dr. Alexander Jimenez makes XYMOGEN formulas available only to patients under our care.
Please call our office in order for us to assign a doctor consultation for immediate access.
If you are a patient of Injury Medical & Chiropractic�Clinic, you may inquire about XYMOGEN by calling 915-850-0900.
�
For your convenience and review of the XYMOGEN products please review the following link.*XYMOGEN-Catalog-Download �
* All of the above XYMOGEN policies remain strictly in force. �
Foot drop is a health issue which identifies a weakening of the muscles which allow for flexing of the ankle and toes. This health issue causes the patient to drag the front part of the foot when walking. To compensate for this dragging, the patient will often flex the knee to raise the foot higher than in a standard stride, frequently referred to as high steppage gait. �
Foot drop generally affects the muscles in charge of moving the ankle and foot upward, especially the anterior tibialis, the extensor halluces longus, and the extensor digitorum longus. Although foot drop is a neuromuscular disorder which affects the muscles and the nerves, it’s not a disease. It is a symptom of an underlying health issue, perhaps a spinal health issue. �
What are the Symptoms of Foot Drop?
The most well-known symptom of foot drop, high steppage gait, is commonly characterized by raising the thigh up in an exaggerated manner while walking, similar to climbing the stairs. High steppage gait is associated with one of the following: �
Dragging of the foot and toes
Scraping of the toes throughout the floor
Uncontrolled slapping of the toes against the floor
The affected muscles are often utilized to maintain the foot off the ground during the swing-through phase of walking. If these are weak, they can’t maintain the foot up and the foot will scrape throughout the floor if the foot is not raised high. Aside from the common symptoms above, additional problems typically associated with foot drop can ultimately include: �
The inability to raise the foot at the ankle
The inability to point the toes upward in the human body, frequently referred to as dorsiflexion
Struggling to walk normally in a heel-to-toe manner
Other well-known symptoms also associated with foot drop may ultimately include one or a combination of the following: �
Excessive, swinging hip motion. With foot drop, the hip may swing out to prevent the toes from hitting the floor.
Limp foot. The affected foot may flop away from the individual.
Pain, tingling sensations, and numbness in the foot. The intensity of the symptoms can vary from person to person. Symptoms can make regular tasks, such as walking or driving, difficult. The foot pain may be associated with sciatica.
Difficulty engaging in exercise and/or physical activities requiring the utilization of the front of the foot. By way of instance, climbing stairs may become challenging for patients with foot drop.
Muscle atrophy in the lower extremities. Muscle atrophy refers to a muscle decreasing in mass and weakening. Because the anterior tibialis, the extensor halluces longus, and the extensor digitorum longus muscles are affected by foot drop, muscle atrophy may occur and make it more challenging to exert force in the lower extremities.
Foot drop may be experienced in one or both feet. Foot drop is generally experienced in a single foot.
What are the Causes of Foot Drop?
Foot drop is a symptom of an underlying health issue. Foot drop causes fall into one or a combination of three categories: �
Muscle damage or injury
Skeletal or anatomical abnormalities affecting the foot
Nerve damage
Specific conditions or diseases and other health issues which may cause foot drop may also include: �
A lumbar spine health issue
A stroke or tumor
Parkinson’s disease
Diabetes
Motor neuron disease
Multiple sclerosis
Adverse reactions to drugs and/or medications as well as alcohol
An injury to the leg or foot
There’s a variety of lumbar spine health issues which can ultimately affect the nerve roots, including the peroneal nerve and the sciatic nerve. Any compression or impingement of the nerve roots in the lower back may cause foot drop. Common lower back or lumbar spine health issues which can cause foot drop and a variety of other symptoms, such as sciatica, may include: �
Lumbar herniated disc
Lumbar spinal stenosis
Spondylolisthesis
Bone fractures or lacerations
It should be known that determining the underlying cause of foot drop is often necessary to be able to effectively treat it. �
How is Foot Drop Diagnosed?
Foot drop is generally diagnosed through a physical evaluation. The healthcare professional will watch the patient walk and check their leg muscles for weakness. The doctor should also check for pain, tingling sensation, and numbness on the foot. �
Imaging Tests
Foot drop is sometimes caused by an overgrowth of bone in the spinal canal or by a tumor or cyst pressing on the nerve roots in the lumbar spine. Imaging tests will help pinpoint these kinds of health issues. These imaging tests can include: �
X-rays. Plain X-rays utilize a minimal amount of radiation to show a soft tissue mass or even a bone lesion.
Ultrasound. This technology, which utilizes sound waves to create images of internal structures, may check for tumors or cysts on the nerves or demonstrate swelling on the nerves due to compression or impingement.
CT scan. This combines X-ray images from distinct angles to form cross-sectional perspectives of structures.
Magnetic resonance imaging or MRI. This test utilizes radio waves and a strong magnetic field to produce detailed images. MRI is very useful in showing soft tissue lesions which may be irritating a nerve.
Nerve Tests
Electromyography, or EMG, and nerve conduction studies measure electrical activity in the muscles and nerves. These tests can be uncomfortable, but they’re helpful in determining the region of the damage or injury along the affected nerve. �
What is the Treatment for Foot Drop?
Treatment for foot drop depends on the cause of the health issue. If the cause is successfully treated, foot drop may improve or even disappear. If the cause can’t be treated, foot drop may be irreversible. Treatment for foot drop may include:
Braces or splints. A brace or splint on your ankle and foot which fits a shoe can maintain the foot in a normal position.
Chiropractic care or physical therapy. Alternative treatment options including stretches and exercises can help strengthen the lower extremities and their range of motion which may improve gait problems associated with foot drop. Stretching stretches and exercises are especially important to protect against stiffness in the heel. The healthcare professional may also provide custom foot orthotics to provide additional support, stability, and shock absorption.
Nerve stimulation. Occasionally stimulating the nerve which lifts the foot can help improve foot drop.
Surgery. Depending on the cause and if the patient’s foot drop is comparatively new, surgical interventions may be useful. If the patient’s foot drop is long-standing, the healthcare professional may suggest surgery which fuses the ankle and foot bones or a process which transfers an attached muscle and tendon to another region of the foot.
Foot drop is a health issue in which the raising of the front part of the foot is difficult. Foot drop is not a condition or disease but rather, a symptoms of an underlying health issue. Muscle and/or nerve damage caused by injury and/or an aggravated health issue, such as a lumbar herniated disc, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, and/or fractures can ultimately cause foot drop. These health issues can also cause low back pain and sciatica as well as other painful symptoms.� – Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
Low Back Pain
The purpose of the article is to understand how foot drop can be associated with sciatica and other symptoms. Sciatica is a collection of symptoms characterized by pain, tingling sensation, and numbness. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal and nervous health issues as well as functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. To further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 . �
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez �
Additional Topic Discussion: Foot Orthotics
Low back pain and sciatica are common health issues which affect many individuals worldwide. However, did you know that chronic pain may be due to foot problems? Health issues originating in the foot may ultimately cause imbalances in the spine, such as poor posture, which can cause the well-known symptoms of low back pain and sciatica. Custom foot orthotics, individually designed with 3-arch support can help promote overall health and wellness by supporting and promoting good posture and correcting foot problems. Custom foot orthotics can ultimately help improve low back pain and sciatica. �
Formulas for Methylation Support
XYMOGEN�s Exclusive Professional Formulas are available through select licensed health care professionals. The internet sale and discounting of XYMOGEN formulas are strictly prohibited.
Proudly,�Dr. Alexander Jimenez makes XYMOGEN formulas available only to patients under our care.
Please call our office in order for us to assign a doctor consultation for immediate access.
If you are a patient of Injury Medical & Chiropractic�Clinic, you may inquire about XYMOGEN by calling 915-850-0900.
�
For your convenience and review of the XYMOGEN products please review the following link.*XYMOGEN-Catalog-Download �
* All of the above XYMOGEN policies remain strictly in force. �
Heel spurs are a health issue which causes the development of a bony-like expansion, known as a calcium deposit, which develops between the heel bone and arch. Heel spurs generally begin in the front of the heel and may affect other regions of the foot. They’re generally about a quarter of an inch in length and they may not necessarily be visible to the naked eye. �
Diagnosing heel spurs can be challenging for healthcare professionals because these don’t necessarily trigger painful symptoms and not all heel pain is associated with heel spurs. The purpose of the following article is to discuss the symptoms, causes, treatment, and prevention of heel spurs as well as their association with radiating pain and sciatica symptoms. �
What are the Symptoms of Heel Spurs?
Common symptoms of heel spurs may include pain, discomfort, swelling, and inflammation in the front of the heel. Alongside the painful symptoms previously described, the affected region may also feel warm to the touch. The painful symptoms can also radiate or spread to the back of the foot. Over time, a small bony protrusion may become observable to the naked eye. �
Some heel spurs may also cause no painful symptoms. However, approximately 50 percent of people with heel spurs will experience heel pain.� Some heel spurs may also not result in any changes to the bones or soft tissues surrounding the heel. Moreover, the painful symptoms may affect an individual’s gait and posture, causing compensation which can ultimately result in a variety of other health issues. A spinal misalignment, or subluxation, may cause low back pain and sciatica. �
Heel spurs are frequently diagnosed utilizing X-rays and other clinical evaluations for foot health issues. Heel spurs are difficult to diagnose because the symptoms are similar to other types of heel pain. It’s fundamental to visit a healthcare professional to receive a proper diagnosis. The healthcare professional can then diagnose a heel spur utilizing X-rays. �
What are the Causes of Heel Spurs?
Heel spurs are caused by long-term muscle and ligament strain. The excess strain can affect the soft tissues of the heel and wear them out. Heel spurs generally develop over an extended period of time and often after the individual ignores early signs, such as heel pain.�Repetitive pressure from walking, running, or jumping on hard surfaces is a common cause of heel spurs. These may also develop from wearing shoes which don’t properly support the foot. Heel spurs may also be caused by: �
Arthritis
Bruising of the heel
Excess body weight
Poorly fitted shoes
Walking gait problems
Using flip-flops too often
Worn-out shoes
What is the Treatment for Heel Spurs?
Fortunately, there are a variety of treatment approaches for heel spurs. Treatment choices for heel spurs can include: �
Cold compresses. Applying ice packs after exercise and/or physical activity may be especially beneficial.
Anti-inflammatory injections. This helps alleviate pain and inflammation in the heel of the foot and arch.
Over-the-counter pain drugs and/or medications. These could include acetaminophen, aspirin, or ibuprofen.
Chiropractic care and physical therapy. These, alongside stretches and exercise, can help improve symptoms.
Rest. It is essential to rest the feet after standing or engaging in physical activities for an extended period of time.
Orthotic shoe inserts. These may help provide you arch support.
Healthcare professionals may recommend surgery as a last resort if other alternative treatment options don’t help improve heel spurs. This surgical intervention involves the removal of the heel spur. Sometimes it also involves releasing the plantar fascia muscle. Heel spur surgery can reduce painful symptoms and help boost mobility in the foot. Due to the safety and effectiveness of other alternative treatment options, surgery is generally not recommended for the treatment of heel spurs. �
Heel spurs are characterized as a degenerative outgrowth of bone on the calcaneus, or the heel bone. Although heel spurs may be commonly associated with heel pain and discomfort, not all cases of heel spurs cause painful symptoms. Long-term stress and/or pressure can cause heel spurs. Heel spurs can also cause low back pain and sciatica. Because of the altered gait during heel strike and foot-off due to the painful symptoms, heel spurs can cause hip imbalances and compensation health issues. Spinal misalingments, or subluxations, due to altered posture can ultimately cause low back pain and sciatica.� – Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
Low Back Pain
The purpose of the article is to understand how heel spurs can be associated with sciatica and other symptoms. Sciatica is a collection of symptoms characterized by pain, tingling sensation, and numbness. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal and nervous health issues as well as functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. To further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 . �
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez �
Additional Topic Discussion: Foot Orthotics
Low back pain and sciatica are common health issues which affect many individuals worldwide. However, did you know that chronic pain may be due to foot problems? Health issues originating in the foot may ultimately cause imbalances in the spine, such as poor posture, which can cause the well-known symptoms of low back pain and sciatica. Custom foot orthotics, individually designed with 3-arch support can help promote overall health and wellness by supporting and promoting good posture and correcting foot problems. Custom foot orthotics can ultimately help improve low back pain and sciatica. �
Formulas for Methylation Support
XYMOGEN�s Exclusive Professional Formulas are available through select licensed health care professionals. The internet sale and discounting of XYMOGEN formulas are strictly prohibited.
Proudly,�Dr. Alexander Jimenez makes XYMOGEN formulas available only to patients under our care.
Please call our office in order for us to assign a doctor consultation for immediate access.
If you are a patient of Injury Medical & Chiropractic�Clinic, you may inquire about XYMOGEN by calling 915-850-0900.
�
For your convenience and review of the XYMOGEN products please review the following link.*XYMOGEN-Catalog-Download �
* All of the above XYMOGEN policies remain strictly in force. �
Achilles tendinitis is a common health issue which occurs when the large tendon that runs down the back of the lower leg becomes irritated and inflamed. The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the human body. It connects the calf muscles to the heel bone which allows you to walk, run, climb stairs, jump, and stand on your tiptoes. Although the Achilles tendon can withstand tremendous amounts of pressure, it can be prone to tendinitis, a state associated with overuse and degeneration. �
Achilles tendinitis is the inflammation of the Achilles tendon. Inflammation is the human body’s natural reaction to injury, infection, or disease and it generally causes pain, discomfort, irritation, swelling, and inflammation, among other symptoms. According to research studies, Achilles tendinitis can even cause low back pain and sciatica. The purpose of the article is to help understand Achilles tendinitis and how it can be associated with low back pain and sciatica, among other health issues. �
Achilles Tendinitis Causes
Achilles tendinitis is generally not associated with a specific injury and/or condition. The health issue commonly results from stress associated with overuse and degeneration. This frequently occurs when we push ourselves too much, too soon, however other factors may also ultimately increase the risk of developing Achilles tendinitis. These factors can include: �
Sudden increase in the intensity or amount of exercise� and physical activity
Having tight calf muscles and abruptly starting a fitness program can place additional stress on the Achilles tendon
Bone spurs or extra bone development where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel bone
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
Achilles tendinitis can be characterized by a variety of common symptoms. These symptoms can include: �
Pain, discomfort, and stiffness along the Achilles tendon in the daytime
Painful symptoms throughout the tendon or back of the heel that worsens with activity
Severe pain and discomfort after exercise or physical activity
Thickening of the Achilles tendon
Bone spurs, also referred to as insertional tendinitis
Swelling and inflammation which worsens throughout the day with exercise or physical activity
Low back pain and sciatica due to compensation or altered gait and posture
If you experienced a sudden”pop” in the back of your calf or heel, you may have ruptured or torn your Achilles tendon. Make sure to seek immediate medical attention for a proper diagnosis if you feel that you may have damaged your Achilles tendon. �
The association between Achilles tendinitis, low back pain and sciatica have been investigated in a variety of research studies. According to one specific research study, in 138 patients who experienced Achilles tendinitis and in a group of individuals nominated by the patients, matched for age, sex, and occupation, low back pain and sciatica had been experienced by 63 of the patients and by 91 of the individuals in the control group. However, 35 of the patients had experienced sciatica before Achilles tendinitis. Researchers found a significant association between Achilles tendinitis, low back pain, and sciatica. This association may be due to impaired afferent signals from the lower extremities or to similar collagen or vascular anomalies of the intervertebral disc and the Achilles tendon, associated with compensation or altered gait and posture. �
Achilles Tendinitis Diagnosis
Once you seek immediate medical attention to receive a proper diagnosis for your Achilles tendinitis, the healthcare professional will examine your ankle and foot. Moreover, the healthcare professional will look for these symptoms: �
Swelling and inflammation along the Achilles tendon or at the back of the heel
Thickening or augmentation of the Achilles tendon
Bony spurs in the lower part of the tendon in the back of your heel
Points of maximum tenderness
Pain in the center of the tendon
Pain in the back of the heel at the lower portion of the tendon
Restricted range of motion in the ankle and foot, including a diminished ability to flex the foot
The healthcare professional may also order imaging tests, such as X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI,� to make sure that symptoms are due to Achilles tendinitis. Differential diagnosis for Achilles tendinitis may cause similar symptoms. �
Achilles Tendinitis Treatment
In most instances, non-surgical treatment approaches may help provide Achilles tendinitis pain relief. Chiropractic care and physical therapy may also help decrease symptoms as well as increase strength and performance to promote faster recovery. The chiropractor or physical therapist may utilize a combination of treatment methods and techniques to improve overall health and wellness. Furthermore, because the bones and soft tissues of the ankle and foot are utilized throughout the various stages of walking and running, improper movement patterns of the ankle and foot can cause a variety of health issues, including Achilles tendonitis. Custom foot orthotics can provide support, stability, and shock absorption to prevent excess stress and pressure on the feet. For acute cases, your doctor may suggest that you consider surgery. �
Achilles tendinitis is commonly characterized as the swelling and/or inflammation of the Achilles tendon which runs from the calf muscles to the back of the heel bone. As previously mentioned above, Achilles tendonitis generally occurs due to overuse and degeneration. Achilles tendinitis is commonly reported among athletes, especially runners. Common symptoms associated with Achilles tendinitis includes pain and discomfort along the length of the Achilles tendon. – Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
Low Back Pain
The purpose of the article is to understand Achilles tendinitis and its association with sciatica and other symptoms. Sciatica is a collection of symptoms characterized by pain, tingling sensation, and numbness. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal and nervous health issues as well as functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. To further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 . �
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez �
Additional Topic Discussion: Foot Orthotics
Low back pain and sciatica are common health issues which affect many individuals worldwide. However, did you know that chronic pain may be due to foot problems? Health issues originating in the foot may ultimately cause imbalances in the spine, such as poor posture, which can cause the well-known symptoms of low back pain and sciatica. Custom foot orthotics, individually designed with 3-arch support can help promote overall health and wellness by supporting and promoting good posture and correcting foot problems. Custom foot orthotics can ultimately help improve low back pain and sciatica. �
Formulas for Methylation Support
XYMOGEN�s Exclusive Professional Formulas are available through select licensed health care professionals. The internet sale and discounting of XYMOGEN formulas are strictly prohibited.
Proudly,�Dr. Alexander Jimenez makes XYMOGEN formulas available only to patients under our care.
Please call our office in order for us to assign a doctor consultation for immediate access.
If you are a patient of Injury Medical & Chiropractic�Clinic, you may inquire about XYMOGEN by calling 915-850-0900.
�
For your convenience and review of the XYMOGEN products please review the following link.*XYMOGEN-Catalog-Download �
* All of the above XYMOGEN policies remain strictly in force. �
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