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.
Discitis affects around 1 out of every 100,000 people. This means that it is not a common spinal disease. Discitis can occur in adults and children, however, it is more common in children. �
�
Discitis mostly occurs in the low back region of the spine
Followed by the neck region
Finally the middle-back region
It accompanies vertebral osteomyelitis. Both types of infections share many of the same symptoms/characteristics. Although these are uncommon conditions, they can produce severe symptoms affecting an individual’s quality of life. This is why early diagnosis and treatment are essential.
�
Discitis Causes
There are two recognized causes of discitis. The rarest form comes from a prior surgical or diagnostic procedure. This usually happens when a needle or other tool/device transfers the infection. The other is the more common, and it is known as spontaneous discitis. Here the infection develops from a bacterial or viral organism that travels to the disc/s via the blood supply from another part of the body.
When an infection starts somewhere else and then travels to the disc, it is called transient bacteremia, which is bacteria in the bloodstream that has a short life. Ear infections along with skin infections are perfect examples of infections that can lead to transient bacteremia and discitis. �
After a disc becomes infected, it can be quite difficult for the body to fight the infection. The disc/s are the largest avascular organs in the body, which means they do not have their own blood supply. The discs get their nutrition and blood supply, which includes the white blood cells for fighting infections, from the vertebral endplates. Because the discs lack the resources to fight infections on their own, there is a struggle when trying to protect against infection.
Because discitis is usually caused by an infection that developed in another area of the body, individuals with medical conditions are at a higher risk for developing discitis. These conditions include:
Diabetes
A.I.D.S
Cancer
Chronic kidney disease
�
Symptoms
Intense back pain that starts gradually is the distinctive characteristic symptom of discitis. The pain is usually localized to the area where the infection is located. This means that the pain doesn’t radiate or spread out like other types of back pain conditions. �
�
Diagnosis
A doctor, spine specialist, or chiropractor will review medical history and symptoms with the individual. A fever is normally not present once the infection is inside the disc, along with the white blood cell count being normal.
However, the erythrocyte sedimentation rate increases. This is a blood test that examines how fast red blood cells fall to the bottom of a tube. The faster that they fall to the bottom, the more likely there is inflammation somewhere in the body.
Blood tests can be utilized during diagnosis, however, the most accurate diagnostic tool to confirm discitis is magnetic resonance imaging or MRI that shows if an infection is present. �
�
Treatment
Treatment can be challenging. This is because of the fact that the discs do not have a blood supply, and medications/antibiotics travel through the blood. It is treatable and is usually done within a six to eight-week course of antibiotics intravenously or through an IV.
IV administered antibiotics could require treatment on an outpatient basis. The entire course of antibiotics must be completed in its entirety in order to manage the discitis. A doctor could also prescribe a spinal brace to help stabilize the spine and reduce pain. A brace can limit movement, however, it will help ensure proper healing.
�
Spinal Infections
Spinal infections can present spontaneously or as secondary conditions, e.g. after a surgical procedure. Spinal infections can affect different structures, like the:
Vertebral column or the bones of the spine
Intervertebral disc space, which is the cushion-gel structures between the vertebrae
� Here are some facts about the occurrence and prevalence of different infections of the spine:
Vertebral osteomyelitis is the most common type of infection. It affects an estimated 27,000 to 66,000 people a year.
Epidural abscess is an infection inside the spinal canal that affects up to two cases per 10,000 in hospital admissions around the U.S. It is pretty common in individuals with vertebral osteomyelitis or discitis. Eighteen percent of those individuals can develop this infection. However, it is more common in people fifty and older.
Discitis, as aforementioned is a pretty uncommon condition. Although, treatment has advanced, around twenty percent of individuals with this infection do not survive.
�
Infection Risk Factors
There are certain factors that increase the risk of developing an infection. These factors include:
Symptoms from a spinal infection can vary. However, continuous back pain with no history of trauma or injury. Usually, there is a delay in the diagnosis for an infection of the spine because of the:
Subtle nature of the symptoms
Individual’s belief that the pain is not serious
Absence of body-wide symptoms like a fever
Lab results can also complicate the diagnostic process, as they can be misleading. There could be normal white blood cell counts, x-rays that show no abnormalities, and a sensitive diagnostic test like a bone scan might not show that an individual is positive until a week later.
An erythrocyte sedimentation rate is a valuable screening test when it comes to spinal infections. The test can measure inflammation and infection in the body. If a spinal infection is suspected, an MRI could be the most reliable tool to confirm early diagnosis.
Health & Immunity Series
�
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
Sit-stand desks are coming around, especially with so many of us working from home. Sitting is not a bad thing, it is just that we do it too much. Whether at home or work, too much-sitting causes health problems, and musculoskeletal problems, which can lead to a chronic back pain condition.
Too much sitting has been compared to smoking, and sitting in front of a computer for hours and hours has led to 85% of workers reporting discomfort/pain/ health issues at work. Fortunately, there is hope for the modern-day office known as the sit-stand desk or a standing office desk. Individuals are rapidly discovering the benefits of this ergonomic tool. �
�
�
� Sit-stand desks encourage workers not to sit as much and stand for a while. This generates a spectrum of spine health benefits that range from reducing pressure on the back to burning a few extra calories just from changing positions. Thinking of investing in an adjustable desk, here are some key things to consider.
�
Get a new sit-stand desk or a unit that sits on top of my desk
This depends on the amount of space that is available. If there is plenty of space, specifically, to spread things out over a large desk area, then it can make sense to invest in a stand-alone sit-stand desk. If the current desk is right for you, then a sit-stand desk put on top of the current desk may be the better option.
�
Height Adjustment
It�s important that the height of the desk can be adjusted. This has to do with different heights for different work tasks. For example, an individual could prefer one height for writing and another height when working/keyboarding on the computer.
If the desk is going to be used by others, then it�s essential that the height can be adjusted to meet the needs of those with different heights and work preferences. The Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturers Association recommends that the height range be 22.6? to 48.7?. Ultimately the range depends on those using the desk. �
Depth of the desk
Depth is the front-to-back tabletop distance when facing the desk. A good choice is a desk that has a minimum depth of 30?. This allows those who prefer more desk space the ability to spread out the work. However, smaller depths are available.
�
Weight capacity
Sit-stand desks are built to handle the weight of the usual desktop items:
Computer
Monitor/s
Keyboard
Mouse
Speakers
Phone
With heavy items, it’s best to review the weight restrictions of the desk you will be using. Weight restrictions vary, but there are all kinds of desk models to fit your needs. �
�
Desk budget
This depends on your budget, work purposes, and quality. Sit-stand desks can be found in a wide range of prices. Opting for the cheapest desk is not the wisest thing to do. Remember these desks are an investment in the spine and overall health. Consider the quality of the desk and how long it will last along with a warranty to protect you if the desk malfunctions.
�
What to look for
Sit-stand desks come with all kinds of options, in terms of quality and convenience.
�
Noise level:
If a quiet work environment is important, then look into desks that offer a quiet action/transition when switching from sitting to standing and vice versa.
�
Speed:
Some desks can take a long time to switch. Be careful with these because the use of the full functionality can diminish because of the length of time it takes. Look for the quick adjustment type.
�
Manual vs. electrical:
There are some desk models that operate using hand cranks, locking switches, etc. while others use electric/pneumatic lifts to raise and lower the desk with a power button. The method of movement chosen will have a distinct impact on the ease of use, speed, and noise level.
�
Programmable:
Some desks can be programmed with height preferences so they can be set to the desired position and saved.
�
Customization:
If the desk needs to be able to function around privacy screens or specialized office equipment, a one-size-fits-all desk may not be the best option. This is something to consider if the desk needs to fit perfectly in an established environment. �
Keeping the desk in the standing position
Some individuals may feel better standing all day. However, standing for long periods does as much damage to the spine as sitting all day. The best approach is to vary postures over a workday.
After sitting for an hour, get up and move around.
If you�ve been standing for a while, take a break and sit.
That is what sit-stand desks are made for. They are made to promote changing positions throughout the day, which is the best thing for the spine. Be prepared for a transition period. Standing at work can bring some unexpected fatigue if you’re used to sitting all day.
Getting into the flow of working while sitting then standing, then going back can be a bit daunting. The goal is to slowly build up the amount of time standing, switching to a sitting position, and getting comfortable doing it. Things that can help with the transition are to wear supportive shoes or get custom foot orthotics and use an ergonomic foot mat to make the transition more comfortable.
It will be a short-term adjustment period, but the long-term benefits are well worth it. Employers and employees along with their spines will be very thankful.
PODCAST: Ryan Welage and Alexander Jimenez, both medical students at the National University of Health Sciences, discuss the several new approaches that they developed in order to help people continue to engage and participate in exercise from the comfort of their own homes. Using their advanced understanding of functional medicine, biomechanics, and nutrition, they undertake explaining simple methods and techniques for complex movement protocols. Moreover, Alexander Jimenez and Ryan Welage discuss how diet can be an essential element in overall health and wellness. Dr. Alex Jimenez offers additional guidelines with the Functional Fitness Fellas, among further advice. – Podcast Insight
If you have enjoyed this video and/or we have helped you in any way
please feel free to subscribe and share us.
Thank You & God Bless.
Dr. Alex Jimenez RN, DC, MSACP, CCST
PODCAST: Dr. Alex Jimenez, chiropractor in El Paso, TX, and Victoria Hahn discuss the fasting-mimicking diet and the ProLon Fasting Mimicking Diet program developed by Dr. Valter D. Longo. The ProLon Fasting Mimicking Diet is a high-fat, low-calorie intermittent fasting diet that may promote fat loss and reduce blood sugar, inflammation, and cholesterol, similar to other fasting methods. Valter D. Longo is an Italian-American biogerontologist and cell biologist known for his research studies on the role of fasting and nutrient response genes on cellular protection aging and diseases as well as for proposing that longevity is regulated by similar genes and mechanisms in many eukaryotes. Only a few research studies have been carried out to date regarding the fasting-mimicking diet and more research is needed to validate its benefits. �- Podcast Insight
If you have enjoyed this video and/or we have helped you in any way
please feel free to subscribe and share us.
Thank You & God Bless.
Dr. Alex Jimenez RN, DC, MSACP, CCST
Calcium is vital to bone health, and as long as you are getting enough supplements are not necessary. Calcium is a primary building block for strong, healthy bones, especially the bones of the spine. A diet rich in Cacan help prevent spinal problems/issues/conditions like spinal fractures and osteoporosis.
The best and easiest way to get the proper amount of calcium is by eating plenty of Ca-rich foods. However, calcium supplements could be utilized to ensure the proper amount is taken every day. To determine if you may need a calcium supplement talk with your doctor to make sure it�s the best option for you.
Calcium Supplements
Calcium supplements can help individuals reach the daily recommended amount, but they are not intended to replace real Ca-rich foods. If there is enough Ca in your diet, a supplement won’t be necessary, unless there is an underlying condition that doesn’t allow the individual to eat certain Ca-rich foods. However, if there is only a lack of sufficient calcium intake then supplements could help. Otherwise, if there is a continued lack of Ca it could be detrimental to bones and overall health.
Proper Amount Every Day
Before considering a supplement, it�s essential to know how much calcium you should be getting each day. Daily recommendations vary by age and sex but largely depend on age:
Men and women age 19-50, including pregnant women, require 1,000 mg a day
Men 51-70 require 1,000 mg a day
Women 51-70 require 1,200 mg a day
The elderly 71 and over require 1,200 mg a day
Your Diet
Once you know how much Ca you need, the next step is to evaluate how much to get. The American Bone Health advocacy group recommends using the Calcium Rule of 300 to determine if a supplement is necessary.
The way it works:
Begin with the number of dairy or juices with added calcium and the amount that is consumed daily.
Multiply that number by 300.
Add 300 if a nutritious and balanced diet is being observed
The total is the proper dietary intake of calcium
If the total does not meet the recommended number consult a doctor or health coach about a calcium supplement.
Supplement Tips
If you decide to take a supplement, check out these tips:
Make sure your doctor/pharmacist know all medications and supplements being taken, this includes over-the-counter products. The reason for this is your doctor wants so be sure they will not interfere with each other or have some kind of negative side effect. An example of this is calcium and iron supplements can prevent each other from properly�absorbing into the body when taken together.
Buy supplements that have the USP Verified symbol, which shows that the supplement has been independently evaluated and certified.
Rather than taking one high-dose calcium supplement, which could be more than 500-600 mg. Smaller-doses of supplements can be taken 2-3 times throughout the day.
The body cannot absorb more than 500-600 mg of calcium supplement at once
Don�t take the supplement with a high-fiber meal or laxative. This fiber can prevent the body from fully absorbing the calcium
There are all kinds of nutrients that contribute to the development and maintenance of healthy bones, but calcium is backed by a strong body of evidence that presents a clear connection to bone health. A simple and straight-forward focus on eating foods rich in calcium can help keep the bones of the spine, and entire body for that matter�strong and supportive for life-long healthy movement.
With so much at stake, our bodies have developed a complex self-defense system to protect the spinal cord and its critical two-way�sensory information flow. As the body�s nerve center the spinal cord controls almost all voluntary and involuntary movements throughout the torso, arms, and legs.�It also receives sensory input from the torso and limbs. The�spinal cord plays a critical role and needs to be defended. The most prominent protection for the brain is the skull, for the spinal cord, it is more complicated.
Self Defense
The spinal cord consists of a bunch of nerves. One of the self-defenses is the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that cushions and nourishes them. On the outside, the spinal cord is protected by the tube structure known as the meninges. Three-layered membranes make up the meninges, each with its own protective role:
Pia mater
Arachnoid mater
Dura mater
Self-defenses do not stop there. Another self-defense includes the vertebrae or the backbones themselves, intervertebral discs, and various muscles and ligaments.
Meninges
The meninges are three layers of membranes that encapsulate the spinal cord at the brainstem from the top to the bottom of the spine. The innermost layer is the pia mater and is attached directly to the spinal cord. It is made up of mostly collagen that has an elasticity that allows the cord to maintain its shape. Next comes the arachnoid mater and is the middle layer.
Its primary role is to maintain the cerebrospinal fluid that fills the subarachnoid space between the pia and the arachnoid. A common condition known as arachnoiditis involves the arachnoid mater. It is a painful inflammation of the membrane that requires medical treatment. It can lead to disability if it is progressive.
Dura Mater
The outer layer is the dura mater and is the toughest. The dura rests on the arachnoid with a small amount of fluid in-between. The epidural space separates this membrane from the wall of the vertebral canal. Although it is tough, tears can occur. Tears can result from:
Injury
Epidural injections
Lumbar punctures
Complications from spine surgery
Some individuals can even develop tears spontaneously, sometimes as a result of a connective tissue disorder. When the dura tears cerebrospinal fluid leaks out of the space, leaving the brain and spine with less cushion and support.
Postural headaches are worse standing than sitting or laying down and can be severe are the most common symptom of spinal fluid leaks. But these tears typically heal quickly with bed rest.
Cerebrospinal Fluid
Cerebrospinal fluid is the clear liquid that fills the space between the pia and the arachnoid. It is made in the brain�s ventricles with its primary function to protect and nourish the spinal cord and brain. The fluid also removes waste products from the brain. The fluid also plays a role in helping doctors diagnose disease/s.
If a doctor suspects a severe infection or disorder of the central nervous system, they perform a lumbar puncture or spinal tap. The fluid can also contain evidence of inflammation or infection from waste products that the central nervous system discarded into the fluid. A doctor inserts a needle between two vertebrae in the lower back to remove a small amount of cerebrospinal fluid. The fluid is sent to the lab and analyzed. Lumbar punctures can be used to diagnose conditions like:
Infectious brain and spinal diseases like meningitis and encephalitis
To see how the fluid is moving diagnostic images are done by injecting dye know as myelography or radioactive substances known as cisternography into the subarachnoid space before imaging. Lumbar punctures can also be used to measure the pressure of the cerebrospinal fluid.
Vertebrae
There are 33 bones that make up the spine that forms a framework shaping the body and protecting the spine.�In a healthy spine, the neck vertebrae curve slightly inward called lordosis, while the middle vertebrae curves outward called kyphosis before meeting the low vertebrae curved inward. This makes the spinal cord flexible and balanced.
Each vertebra has a complex shape with a precise configuration determined by the location in the spine. Many conditions of the vertebrae involve nerves that get pinched/compressed as they exit the spine. Pinched nerves usually result from bone spurs on the vertebrae that crowd the canal and from herniated discs.
Intervertebral Discs
The intervertebral discs are the spine�s shock absorbers. They fill the space between two vertebrae with no direct contact. The endplates of each are coated with protective cartilage which anchors the discs in place. The gel substance part of each disc is called the nucleus pulposus. The tough cover known as the annulus fibrosus wraps around each disc to protect and shape it. There are no blood vessels in the discs and are nourished by the endplates of the vertebrae.
Herniated discs are the most common disc-related condition. When a disc herniates, the annulus fibrosus tears. The tear leaks out the protective gel to bulge out into the spinal canal. With no room in the canal for anything but the spinal cord and spinal fluid, the gel puts pressure on the surrounding nerve/s and the spinal cord itself. This is called myelopathy when the spinal cord gets compressed. Non-surgical treatments are quite successful in healing herniated disc/s.
The spine�s self-defense is elaborate, effective, and complicated. Consult an experienced spine specialist/chiropractor who can produce the best results and benefits.
IFM's Find A Practitioner tool is the largest referral network in Functional Medicine, created to help patients locate Functional Medicine practitioners anywhere in the world. IFM Certified Practitioners are listed first in the search results, given their extensive education in Functional Medicine
