Back Clinic Spinal Hygiene. The spine is the protective housing for the nervous system, a system so powerful that it controls every function in the human body. The nervous system tells your body to breath, tells your heart to beat, tells your arms and legs to move, tells your body when and how to produce new cells and it even has the power to control healing. A damaged or misaligned spine can dramatically interfere with the signals constantly being sent through the nervous system, eventually resulting in bodily pain, internal deterioration and loss of many of the everyday functions we take for granted.
Spinal hygiene is extremely important, yet 89 percent of the world’s population does not realize the importance of maintaining proper alignment of the vertebrae through chiropractic adjustment, as well as protecting the spine from injury through healthy living practices. Instead we neglect our spines. As children we start our lives with tumbles and trips that jar our spines, we grow into adults with poor posture, we lift things that are too heavy, carry overloaded back packs, and we suffer injury through car accidents, sports impacts and stress.
Get in on the health trend of the future-today. Join the growing percentage of the population that enjoys greater health and wellness through regular care of their spines. Talk to your chiropractor today about ways you can improve your spinal hygiene.
Individuals believe that a straight spine is a healthy spine. This is a misconception, a chiropractor knows that a healthy spine has the proper curvature, specifically an S curve from the top to the bottom. This curve allows/enables the spine to properly function for balancing and stabilizing the body. There are three primary curves that make up the S shape. These are:
Lordosis is defined as an inward curve, while kyphosis is an outward curve.
Curvature Significance
When the spine is properly curved and aligned there is flexibility and optimal support of the body. The curves of each section/area create a spring structure that enables the spine to perform as a natural shock-absorber. If the spine was straight, it would take a significant toll with all the wear and tear from constant vibration and shock. This would lead to fractures and other injuries. The curvature is important in aiding with weight distribution and the weight of gravity. Each curve works to distribute weight evenly throughout the spine so that the different muscle groups do not get overworked. This happens during dynamic movement.
Lifting
Bending
Reaching
Twisting
Turning
All require the spine to move harmoniously with the rest of the body, supporting the body’s weight and energy transfer.
The curves help reduce pressure between the individual vertebral discs. Because the discs are not stacked on top of each other, the weight from the above vertebra is not completely placed on the one below. So the lower vertebra takes only a portion of the weight, allowing the discs to perform as an absorbing cushion.
Maintaining The Curvature
An adult spine gradually becomes an S curve and is formed through development. Children are born with a C curve, with an outward curve until they begin to crawl. When the child begins to raise their heads up, the cervical portion of the proper S shape begins to take form. As the child learns to walk upright, the spine continues on its ultimate role of support. However, because spinal curvature is formed in the developmental stages, natural curvature formation has a limited time frame. Issues that happen at this time can disrupt the proper formation of the curves. This can result in malformations that could require long-term chiropractic treatment/rehabilitation to correct.
For adults that develop a normal S curve, spinal maintenance is critical. When subluxations/misalignments occur bulging, herniated discs, pinched nerves, and sciatica are sure to follow. Chiropractic adjustments will ensure the spine is reset and properly supported. As natural spinal development has passed maintenance is essential. Using precision tools and techniques, chiropractic treatment realigns the spine returning the natural S curve. Treatment plans and adjustments are customized to the individual and applied specifically to their unique spinal shape. This makes it possible to maintain a spine with precise curvature.
Body Composition
Fruit and Plant Antioxidants
Regular inclusion of antioxidant-rich foods in an individual’s diet will help reduce free radicals and prevent oxidative stress from accumulating. Fruits and veggies like:
Berries
Dark-colored grapes
Spinach
Kale
Sweet potatoes
Carrots
All are great sources of antioxidants.
Purple-colored fruits like blueberries and dark grapes contain an antioxidant called resveratrol that has therapeutic properties for heart disease. Beta-carotene is an orange-colored carotenoid with antioxidant properties that can also protect against heart disease. Orange, yellow-colored plant foods, and leafy greensare a solid source of the antioxidant carotenoid beta-carotene or pro-vitamin A. Minerals like zinc and selenium have antioxidants that can be found in vegan sources. And minerals found in fruits and veggies contain blood pressure-lowering potassium, magnesium, and calcium.
Disclaimer
The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional, licensed physician, and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified health care professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the musculoskeletal system’s injuries or disorders. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and support, directly or indirectly, our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.
Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, CTG*
email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com
phone: 915-850-0900
Licensed in Texas & New Mexico
References
Yang, Feng et al. “Balance chiropractic therapy for cervical spondylotic radiculopathy: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.” Trials vol. 17,1 513. 22 Oct. 2016, doi:10.1186/s13063-016-1644-2
Taylor, J A. “Full-spine radiography: a review.” Journal of manipulative and physiological therapeutics vol. 16,7 (1993): 460-74.
Fedorchuk, Curtis et al. “Improvements in Cervical Spinal Canal Diameter and Neck Disability Following Correction of Cervical Lordosis and Cervical Spondylolistheses Using Chiropractic BioPhysics Technique: A Case Series.” Journal of radiology case reports vol. 14,4 21-37. 30 Apr. 2020, doi:10.3941/jrcr.v14i4.3890
Eating healthy and spinal health are interconnected. Eating healthier will help to lose weight, and provide a healthier body mass index. This means more muscle mass, especially when integrated with more protein. The spine sustains and supports the whole torso and upper body. When weight increases in these areas it can cause an array of issues like subluxations, curvature problems, sciatica, and more. The extra muscle mass takes the added stress from any extra weight off of the spine. Strong muscles can carry the weight of the body, taking the pressure off the spine and keeping it healthy and operating in top form.
Making Healthy Adjustments
No matter where an individual is on their healthy eating plan, there are common practices that work for many and helps improve their diet. This involves integrating healthy food groups into the diet in different ways, and not giving up when mistakes are made, but learning from them. When developing new healthy habits it takes time, diligence, practice, and research to eat the right foods.
Fruits and Veggies
It is easier and tastier to forget the nutritious foods and go for the carbs, fats, etc. Rather than trying to add more vegetables, or eating fruit as a snack every day can be tough. An easier, and better way to integrate fruits and vegetables into one’s diet is to substitute the carbs and fats for fruits and veggies in the main meals every day.
This could be spiralized zucchini, squash, or no-carb spaghetti instead of pasta spaghetti.
Instead of ice cream try real fruit sorbet.
Mashed cauliflower instead of white rice or mashed potatoes.
There are plenty of substitutes that are healthier and just as tasty and as the real thing.
Healthy recipes out there that can give you ideas on how to do this.
The benefit of substituting fruits and vegetables, rather than just adding them to a diet is individuals increase their health by reducing unhealthy dietary elements and adding healthy new ones at the same time. However, this does not mean doing it all at once. The goal is to gradually substitute these nutritious foods into everyday dishes for maximum health benefits.
More Fiber and Protein
It is important that the body gets enough fiber and protein as a healthy energy source. Many individuals can become dependent on:
Ingesting unhealthy foods all day every day takes a significant toll on the body. This includes:
Blood sugar
Weight
Energy
Mood
Fiber and protein are important because the two regulate the body’s systems to promote healthy bodily functions.Fiber helps the digestive system and regulates carbohydrate breakdown. This means the energy obtained from any carb will last longer and will not increase blood sugar when integrated with fiber. Most individuals know that protein builds muscle. But it also makes the body feel full much longer than carbs or sugars do. This allows for natural regulation of how much is eaten during the day so an individual does not eat more than the body needs. Carbs and sugars are not filling and can become addictive. This means that they can be eaten all day long without feeling full and just load up with empty calories. A few ways to integrate fiber and protein into a diet:
Breakfast
Eggs
Turkey bacon
Whole wheat/multigrain toast
Lunch
Whole wheat wrap or sandwich
Dinner
Brown rice and beans are loaded with protein and fiber.
A great substitution for vegetarians/vegans for more protein or fiber
Reduce Sugar Intake
Reducing sugar intake or switching to balanced sugars from fruits, yogurt, etc. A diet high in sugar can wreck the body, causing:
Weight gain
Mood swings
Overeating
Other unhealthy effects
Sugar is fine when practiced in moderation. But when it becomes a daily habit, that’s when it can start affecting the body. The objective is to drink more water, and use substitutions when cravings present. Try:
Yogurt instead of ice cream
Healthy fruit drinks instead of soda
Tea instead of wine
Keep the indulgences to once or twice a week if possible.
Eating Healthy Benefits
A few of the benefits from eating healthy that will improve quality of life:
Improved digestive health
Weight loss
Reduced to no back pain
Reduced to no foot pain
Healthy sleep patterns
Less fatigue
Improved focus
Improved brain health
Clear skin
Reduced to no irritability
Body Composition
New Health Issues
Steady weight gain throughout life can lead to adult diabetes. This is brought on by more body fat and muscle loss. Loss of skeletal muscle mass is linked to insulin resistance. The less muscle is available, the less insulin sensitive the body becomes. Loss of muscle can cause other problems with age. One damaging condition, especially for women, is osteoporosis. This happens when old bone is reabsorbed rather than new bone being created. Both men and women can have decreased muscle mass with thinner, weaker bones. This increases the risk of osteoporosis and the risk of serious injury from falls. Prevention includes
Eat sufficient protein throughout the day. It is often best to space out protein intake across meals and not consume all at once to ensure the proper amount is being met daily. Regular body composition monitoring can help. The goal is to minimize muscle mass loss and fat mass gain as the body ages.
Disclaimer
The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional, licensed physician, and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified health care professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the musculoskeletal system’s injuries or disorders. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and support, directly or indirectly, our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.
Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP, CIFM, CTG*
email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com
phone: 915-850-0900
Licensed in Texas & New Mexico
References
Cena, Hellas, and Philip C Calder. “Defining a Healthy Diet: Evidence for The Role of Contemporary Dietary Patterns in Health and Disease.” Nutrients vol. 12,2 334. 27 Jan. 2020, doi:10.3390/nu12020334
Locke, Amy et al. “Diets for Health: Goals and Guidelines.” American family physician vol. 97,11 (2018): 721-728.
Warensjö Lemming, Eva, and Liisa Byberg. “Is a Healthy Diet Also Suitable for the Prevention of Fragility Fractures?.” Nutrients vol. 12,9 2642. 30 Aug. 2020, doi:10.3390/nu12092642
When a machine isn’t working correctly because the mechanism’s parts have slipped, shifted, become loose, and are on the verge of breaking down, an expert/professional is called in to repair the damaged parts. The same can be said of the spine. From all the movement at home, work, shopping, activities the spine also compresses and falls out of place becoming misaligned. That’s when individuals need to call a chiropractor to repair/realign the spine. The spine is an integral component of the body’s functionality and health. This includes:
For the spine to operate at its best proper alignment is necessary. The spine is impacted by everyday activities that shift, jolt, bounce, and stress the spine. Exacerbating the regular wear and tear includes:
The head, shoulders, and spinal curves align from the side in general creating an S shape
Every individual’s spine varies significantly. This is why a professional chiropractic examination, diagnosis, and customized treatment plan will maximize spinal alignment and overall health.
Chiropractors are the Expert Repair Specialists
Chiropractors are specially trained at spotting spinal misalignment/s and repair. This is done non-invasively through manual adjustments and mobilization techniques. When the spine is in optimal alignment it will prevent and activate the body’s natural healing abilities. Once spinal alignment is achieved the chiropractor can help maintain proper alignment with exercise, health coaching, lifestyle adjustments, and nutrition to maximize individual health.
Body Composition
A partner, spouse, friend, co-worker, professional for maintaining health
Finding someone to share the highs and lows during an individual’s health journey will significantly help relieve stress and continue to be motivated. It can be a spouse, best friend, coworker, or licensed professional. When an individual vocalizes their thoughts and feelings, they gain confidence in their ability to handle whatever comes their way. This is an individual that will help navigate the negative emotions by listening and providing advice and encouragement.Take some time every week to share successes, failures, goals, etc. Whatever comes to mind to just get it out there so it can be evaluated and broken down into manageable parts. The great thing about sharing is that it can inspire positive changes.
Disclaimer
The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional, licensed physician, and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified health care professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the musculoskeletal system’s injuries or disorders. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and support, directly or indirectly, our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.
Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP, CIFM, CTG*
email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com
phone: 915-850-0900
Licensed in Texas & New Mexico
References
Diebo, Bassel G et al. “Sagittal alignment of the spine: What do you need to know?.” Clinical neurology and neurosurgery vol. 139 (2015): 295-301. doi:10.1016/j.clineuro.2015.10.024
Caprara, Sebastiano et al. “Spinal sagittal alignment goals based on statistical modeling and musculoskeletal simulations.” Journal of biomechanics vol. 102 (2020): 109621. doi:10.1016/j.jbiomech.2020.109621
Senzon, Simon A. “The Chiropractic Vertebral Subluxation Part 10: Integrative and Critical Literature From 1996 and 1997.” Journal of chiropractic humanities vol. 25 146-168. 6 Apr. 2019, doi:10.1016/j.echu.2018.10.008
Self-cracking and popping the spine can feel good but should it be done without professional/chiropractic assistance? We’ve all done it getting up from bed or the couch, lean back, and wait for the sound of the spine cracking/popping. Some even have a friend help pop the spine to get that satisfying feeling. There are proper stretching techniques to follow, but cracking the spine without professional help is not recommended as it could lead to problems or worsen any underlying spinal issues.
Sounds
Self cracking, popping the spine refers to the sounds the neck or back make with certain movements. The joints in the spine contain fluid and gas. When the body moves, stretches can create cracking popping sounds as different pressures are exerted. The sound is known as joint cavitation, is the normal exchange of gases like oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide around the joints.
Spaces form in the synovial fluid that surrounds the joints. These spaces make an audible sound when the pressure changes/cavitation causing the gases to be released. The gases are naturally present in the body. A doctor of chiropractic mobilizes the joints very carefully through adjustments using their hands or specific instruments to increase the spine’s range of motion and stability. When adjustments and manipulations are not performed by a professional, problems can happen, that can include:
Loss of strength
Soft tissue swelling
Muscle spasms
When it’s done properly and safely injuries are prevented and any issues like swelling and tightness around the neck and spine are also avoided.
Self-cracking performed incorrectlycan lead to excessive force bringing the joints to excessive ranges of motion that can potentially cause injury. Individuals need to be careful even when self-cracking as the spine can make sounds for other reasons.
Age-related arthritis can generate a crunching type of sound when moving known as crepitus
A ligament or tendon can rub over a bone or bone spur, creating different sounds
These sounds are usually not problematic, but when they are consistent with certain movements they could cause inflammation and/or pain.
Chiropractic Professional Adjustments
The primary reasons most individuals seek chiropractic help are for problems, like pain, tightness, and weakness. Individuals can voluntarily see a chiropractor or they could be referred to one by a different doctor. Doctors routinely work with chiropractors to help patients recover from musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. A chiropractor performs manipulations in a safe, controlled manner. They are familiar with the sounds that the joints make and know they are safe. They usually have a multidisciplinary team that is involved in the management of various musculoskeletal conditions.
Why chiropractic care is so helpful?
All doctors of chiropractic are trained to diagnose and treat neuro-musculoskeletal conditions. During the diagnosis, the chiropractor will go through the individual’s medical history and conduct a physical exam to determine what treatment plan is best for the individual and their injury or condition. Many are now flocking to chiropractic care to avoid taking pain medications. Scientific evidence supports the health benefits of adjustments for various types of musculoskeletal pain, as well as to improve function and mobility
It is also recommended to work with a chiropractor in addition to other health professionals, like orthopedic specialists and physical therapists. They can help decrease pain, provide increased mobility and stability. If there is a constant need to self crack the back, or are having other issues with pain and tightness, talk with a doctor to see if chiropractic adjustments and manipulation will help. This will ensure that the right diagnosis is made and will help to create the optimal treatment plan to develop a stronger healthier body.
Body Composition
Increasing muscle mass is a recommended way to improve body composition and increase immune system function. Research shows senior adults with a higher skeletal muscle mass have an increased number of immune cellsin the blood. This indicates that the muscles and the immune system are connected. When working out myokines or hormone-type proteins are released that strengthen the immune system to help protect and fight diseases. Regular exercise with moderate intensity increases the release of T lymphocytes/T cells improving the body’s immunity. Regular exercise also helps reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases like:
Type 2 diabetes
Obesity
Different types of cancer
Cardiovascular diseases
Improved body composition with regular exercise and a well-balanced diet helps maintain a healthy proportion of muscle and fat mass. The more developed the body’s muscle mass becomes strengthens the immune system and lowers the risk of diseases and various health conditions.
Disclaimer
The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional, licensed physician, and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified health care professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the musculoskeletal system’s injuries or disorders. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and support, directly or indirectly, our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.
Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP, CIFM, CTG* email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com phone: 915-850-0900 Licensed in Texas & New Mexico
“The Prevalence, Patterns, and Predictors of Chiropractic Use Among US Adults: Results From the 2012 National Health Interview Survey.” Spine. Dec 2017. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28459779/
“Chiropractic Use in the Medicare Population: Prevalence, Patterns, and Associations With 1-Year Changes in Health and Satisfaction With Care.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. Oct 2014. www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0161475414001444
For individuals getting up with pain and stiffness in the back, neck, shoulders practically every morning becomes frustrating and depressing. For most, the pain wears off throughout the day but having to deal with it at the start of the day. Dr. Jimenez of Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic offers some suggestions for pain reduction and prevention.
The body spends around a third of each night sleeping because it is a vital part of life. Sleeping means it is time to relax and prepare for the next day. For many, sleeping can be uncomfortable and can be a cause of back and neck pain when getting up. There are steps an individual can take to ensure that correct sleep is achieved while preventing neck and back pain.
Sleep Position Is Important
Sleeping in a position that maintains the natural curves of the spine is essential. It is recommended not to sleep on the stomach, as this places the spine in an unnatural position and allows the pelvis and lower back to sink into the mattress with no support. This position can also cause neck pain and headaches when getting up. If this is a position that can’t be changed from years of practice, place a pillow under the stomach and or pelvis to keep the lower back and pelvis straight.
Sleeping on the side or back is highly recommended.
Side sleepers should also place a pillow between the knees.
Back sleepers should place a pillow underneath the knees.
Placing a pillow between and underneath the knees gives the spine proper support to maintain the natural curves.
Check How The Bed Is Set Up
Make sure the bed/sleeping equipment is set up correctly. For example, most pillows do not provide the proper amount of neck support. This can cause neck soreness even if sleeping in the recommended side and back positions. If getting up with neck pain or headaches a cervical pillow can bring relief. A cervical pillow is designed to support the natural curves of the neck while sleeping and places the neck in the proper position. Cervical pillows are designed for side and back sleepers, but make it difficult to sleep on your stomach, which is an added perk to using them.
Using the proper mattress is equally important. The type of mattress being slept on can be a significant contributor to back and neck pain. Individuals that use a medium-firm mattress have less back pain compared to individuals that use too firm or too soft mattresses. Research has shown that mattresses should be replaced every 10 years. Mattresses that are 10 years old and beyond are shown to be a possible cause of back pain while you sleep.
Getting Up and Out of Bed In A Way That Doesn’t Cause Pain
Getting up and out of bed properly will help as well. Most individuals sit up, twist their back to get into a standing position and use the back to stand. This is like lifting with the back and not the legs, which will cause back pain and a possible spinal injury like a herniated disc.
The recommended way to get up and out of bed after waking is to roll onto the side and use the arm to push up and off from the side-lying position.
From this position, scoot to the very edge of the bed and get up using the legs, and not the back.
Implementing these suggestions into your routine can be a great way to decrease pain while sleeping and increase getting up without experiencing stiffness, soreness, and feeling refreshed.
The Body’s Composition
Muscle Mass and Workout Recovery
Looking at muscle mass and the intake of certain nutrients into the evening can be beneficial. Protein intake is essential in muscle formation and muscle recovery after working out or engaged in physical activity. Research has shown that a little protein before sleep helps stimulate muscle protein synthesis.
In a study, ingested proteins were shown to cause a rise in circulating amino acid levels, increased whole-body protein rates, and improved net protein balance. Following exercise, the muscles need to be able to recover properly and protein intake is essential. To achieve weight management goals, an individual must achieve a healthy amount of Lean Body Mass. Lean Body Mass is based on Skeletal Muscle Mass, and protein intake is essential.
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
Chiropractic prevention for degenerative disc disease. In between the bones of the spine or the vertebrae are the protective shock-absorbing intervertebral discs. These protective cushions naturally begin wearing down or degenerating as the body ages. The common term for this is degenerative disc disease or DDD. It is not a disease, but the body’s natural aging process. The reason it is called degenerative disc disease is that it is a condition of the spine with deteriorating effects.
One of the things seen in degenerative disc disease and aging of the spine is that the soft disc, made up of a vast amount of water, slowly begins to dry out and dehydrate. The protein/sugar that is within the disc begins to dry out and that starts a degenerative domino effect along with tearing of the outside rings of the disc.
Causes and Risk Factors
The most common cause of disc degeneration is aging. With age comes the loss of fluids/water. This means the discs get thinner and provide less protection. The shock absorbers don�t absorb weight, impact, pressure like they used to. However, disc degeneration does not always occur later in life. Genetics can be a catalyst for development when young.
Individual environment vs. genetics
Stresses
Strains
Wear
Tear
Discs dry out
Rings crack or tear
If involved in an occupation that requires heavy lifting, twisting, and bending, this can generate disc damage, but physical stressors do not automatically enhance disc erosion. An individual can do this type of work their entire life and not experience problems. It depends on the environment and the overall health of the individual that can be assessed through chiropractic prevention and body composition analysis.
Chiropractic Prevention and Preserving The Discs
Individuals need training on proper body posture and body mechanics. A major contributing factor that increases the risk of nerve, spine/back pain due to disc damage. The back/spine should be moved like a crane. This means not bending over at the waist, but squatting down with the hips and knees when lifting an object. Not everything can be done this way, but if an individual can eliminate too much bending at the waist, it will definitely help.
Do not neglect the core muscles. Core exercises will maintain the muscles around the waist, which also strengthens the rest of the body. All the muscles front, back, around the trunk, hips, and knees to the chest are all the core muscles.
Healthy Weight Less Spinal Stress
Beyond physical stressors, another important factor in preventing degenerative disc disease is maintaining a proper weight. Society has adapted more and more to a sedentary lifestyle. And home quarantine means being more sedentary. Emotional factors like:
Boredom
Anxiety
Depression
Fatigue
This can cause excessive junk food consumption and rapid weight gain.
Lifestyle Adjustments Health Coaching
Implementing a preventive lifestyle to prevent degenerative damage is challenging. Everyone really should try to live as healthy a lifestyle they can.
Smoking accelerates the aging process by drying out the tissue, especially the spinal discs. It is known as desiccation and is why smoking is a major risk factor for degenerative disc disease.
Disc stress
Anything that stresses the discs for any amount of time can generate pain. For example, standing too long even carefully standing straight can induce discomfort and pain. Sitting can help, but caution needs to be observed. Sitting too long places more pressure on the low back than when standing. There must be a balance between sitting and standing. Experts suggest getting up and moving every 20 to 30 minutes. This is a perfect time to get up and do in-home walking exercises, physical chores, anything that gets the body up and moving around.
Stretching
Regular bending and stretching need to become a natural reflex. When the body begins to feel sore, stretch out the area.
The good news is that everyone, even those with a genetic predisposition to greater disc loss or fusion, there are options for slowing down and minimizing disc damage. Maintaining a healthy weight, strengthening the core, and learning proper techniques for lifting for work, exercise, or sports will all help. If diagnosed with disc degeneration, talk to a doctor, physical therapist about developing a chiropractic prevention treatment plan. They�ll be able to develop a program specifically designed to help.
Bodily Composition
Human Immune System
The immune system is highly complex and essential in maintaining optimal health. The main function of this system is to neutralize pathogenic microorganisms like bacteria that get into the body and affect the body’s homeostasis, eliminate any harmful substances from the environment, and fight the body�s own cells that can cause illnesses like cancer. The defense system consists of innate and adaptive immune processes. The innate system includes exterior defenses like the:
Any organisms that get past the first line of defense, have to face the adaptive system, which is made up of T and B cells. The adaptive immune system is a learning defense that constantly adapts and evolves to be able to identify changes in pathogens that mutate over time. Together, these systems provide a fortified resistance to any long-term survival of infectious agents in the body. Healthy lifestyle adjustments can help strengthen and boost these systems working to keep the body safe.
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
The immune system is made up of a network of cells and proteins that defend the body against infection/s. It is made up of specialized organs, and chemicals that fight microorganisms, specifically that are bacterial and can cause infection/disease. The system keeps a record of every germ so it can recognize and destroy any microbes if they enter the body again.
Immune system abnormalities can lead to:
Protection from viruses and bacterias requires a long term solution/s for building and strengthening immunity. Chiropractic adjustments along with health coaching can help. The main organs of the immune system are:
The health and variety of bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract have been shown to have significant effects on overall health, including immunity. When gut health is optimized, it helps thebody�s natural processes for detecting and fighting microorganisms. Simple ways to strengthen gut health include:
Diet
A healthy diet rich in a variety of whole foods and vegetables will promote diversity in the gut.
Supplements
Probiotics can significantly help strengthen gastrointestinal health.
Get Out In the Sun
Being outside provides the microbiome vitamin D which helps fight inflammation and strengthens the sense of well-being.
Nerve Signal Optimization
The central nervous system has a primary role in gastrointestinal motility and overall balance. Proper spinal alignment will help blood and nerve synapse circulation.
Maintaining Body Balance
A strengthened immune system is about maintaining whole-body balance. The body is a complicated system that operates/functions in top form when tuned up and in proper alignment.
Spinal Alignment
Chiropractic can provide expert treatment to restore spinal misalignment/s. This keeps the body functioning at an optimal level.
Exercise
A moving body is a healthy body. Regular exercise will benefit the immune system and keep it strong.
Stress Management
A high level of stress can compromise the immune system’s health. Regular physical activity/exercise, chiropractic, being aware of any health issues can help manage stress. Chiropractic immune system management will help promote a healthy gastrointestinal tract, help manage stress, get in more physical activity, and stay pain-free. Chiropractic can help kick in the body’s natural immune response and keep the flow going. Call today to see how we can help build a healthy immune system.
Lower Back Pain Chiropractic Treatment
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
Reference
Colombi, Andrea, and Marco Testa. �The Effects Induced by Spinal Manipulative Therapy on the Immune and Endocrine Systems.��Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania)�vol. 55,8 448. 7 Aug. 2019, doi:10.3390/medicina55080448
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