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Viscerosomatic Reflex

Dr. Jimenez DC presents clinical implications of the viscerosomatic reflex.

In today’s big data informational era, there are many disorders, diseases, and clinical presentations that demonstrate concomitant associations, coincidences, correlations, causations, overlapping profiles, overlapping risk profiles, co-morbidities, and risks of associated disorders that clinically intermingle in presentations and outcomes.

To this point, assessing the viscerosomatic dysfunction and somatovisceral disorders is of paramount importance in order to get a full clinical picture affecting patients.

The clinician is mandated by the depth of our present clinical understandings and our oath to our patients to see the complete clinical picture within these integrated clinical paradigms and to treat accordingly.

Somatic dysfunction is defined as the “impaired or altered function of related components of the somatic (body framework) system: skeletal, arthrodial, and myofascial structures, and related vascular, lymphatic, and neural elements.”

A viscerosomatic reflex is the resultant of the effect of afferent stimuli arising from a visceral disorder on the somatic tissues. The reflex is initiated by afferent impulses from visceral receptors; these impulses are transmitted to the dorsal horn of the spinal cord, where they synapse with interconnecting neurons. These, in turn, convey the stimulus to sympathetic and peripheral motor efferents, thus resulting in sensory and motor changes in somatic tissues of skeletal muscle, viscera, blood vessels, and skin.

As an example only, visceral afferents play an important part in the maintenance of internal equilibrium and the related mutual adjustments of visceral function. They are also responsible for the conduction of pain impulses that may be caused by distention of a viscus, anoxia (particularly of muscle), irritating metabolites, stretching or crushing of blood vessels, irritation of the peritoneum, contraction of muscular walls, and distention of the capsule of a solid organ.” Because pain-sensitive nerve end- ings are not numerous in viscera, pain sensation or a visceral reflex response may result from the combined input of several different types of receptors rather than as a specific response to a particular receptor. A variety of visceral receptors have been mucosal and epithelial receptors, which respond to mechanical and epithelial stimuli; tension receptors in the visceral muscle layers, which respond to mechanical distention, such as the degree of filling; serosal receptors, which are slow adapting mechanoreceptors in mesentery or
serosa and which monitor visceral fullness; Pacinian corpuscles in mesentery and pain receptors; and free nerve endings in viscera and blood vessels.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Viscerosomatic+pathophysiology

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?linkname=pubmed_pubmed&from_uid=32644644

General Disclaimer *

The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional or licensed physician and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make your own healthcare decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified healthcare professional.

Blog Information & Scope Discussions

Our information scope is limited to Chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, contributing etiological viscerosomatic disturbances within clinical presentations, associated somatovisceral reflex clinical dynamics, subluxation complexes, sensitive health issues, and/or 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 injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system.

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 DC or contact us at 915-850-0900.

We are here to help you and your family.

Blessings

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, ATN*

email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

Licensed in: Texas & New Mexico*

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CIFM*, IFMCP*, ATN*, CCST
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Herniated Disc Protocols Implemented For Spinal Decompression

Herniated Disc Protocols Implemented For Spinal Decompression

How does non-surgical spinal decompression compare with traditional surgery to improve sensory abnornalities for individuals with herniated discs?


Introduction

The spinal column provides flexibility and stability to the body, consisting of vertebrae, spinal cord, nerve roots, and intervertebral discs. These components work with surrounding tissues, ligaments, and muscles, enabling pain-free mobility. However, activities or work that place excessive stress on the spine can cause damage, leading to misaligned discs and nerve root irritation. This can result in radiating pain in the lower extremities, which may be mistaken for other conditions such as low back pain, leg pain, or sciatica. This article will focus on the pain-like symptoms associated with herniated discs and how non-surgical spinal decompression can help people regain sensory function. We work with certified medical providers who use our patients’ valuable information to treat individuals suffering from herniated discs in their lumbar spine and inform them about non-surgical treatments to regain sensory function in their lower extremities. We encourage patients to ask essential questions and seek education from our associated medical providers about their condition. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., provides this information as an educational service. Disclaimer

 

The Symptoms Associated With Herniated Discs

 

Are you experiencing numbness or tingling down your leg that affects your walking? Does twisting or turning make your lower back uncomfortable? Or are you suffering from low back pain caused by sciatic nerve pain, making it difficult to work or do activities? Many people don’t realize they have herniated discs until repetitive movements cause wear and tear on the spine or constant compression causes the disc to crack, allowing the inner layer to protrude and press on the spinal nerve roots. Research studies reveal that herniated discs can result from various changes that cause pain-like symptoms, including limited trunk flexion, sensory abnormalities in the lower extremities, low back pain, radicular pain, sciatica, and intense distress when sitting. Herniated discs are common, and the inflammatory response from surrounding nerve roots can cause immense pain. As additional research shows, autoimmune responses released by the nucleus pulposus play a crucial role in the pathophysiology of sciatic pain and lumbar radiculopathy.


The Causes Of Herniated Disc-Video

Herniated discs can cause discomfort and pain depending on their severity and location. Several factors contribute to their development, including improper lifting of heavy objects, age, weight, and physical inactivity. Repetitive motions, constant stress, and autoimmune conditions also play a role. Disc herniation impacts the spinal structure and can cause sensory abnormalities in the lower extremities, muscular pain in the arms, back, foot, or leg, and affect the quality of life. However, non-surgical treatments are available to reduce disc herniation and restore the spine’s mobility, flexibility, and stability.


Treatments To Restore Sensory Function

If home remedies such as rest, hot and cold packs, and over-the-counter medications do not work, non-surgical treatments can effectively reduce the effects of disc herniation. These treatments are also safe, gentle, and cost-effective for many people who want relief without the financial burden. Chiropractic care, muscle energy techniques (MET), and spinal decompression are examples of non-surgical treatments that can help target the source of pain, reactivate the body’s natural healing process, and realign the body from herniated discs and spinal subluxation. These treatments can restore sensory function affected by herniated discs by addressing these issues.

 

Spinal Decompression

 

When dealing with herniated discs, many people turn to spinal decompression to alleviate pain and find relief in their spine. Studies have shown that spinal decompression involves using gentle traction to create negative pressure within the affected herniated disc. This can increase hydration and reduce pressure on the nerve root, easing the pain signals that affect the lower extremities. In “The Ultimate Spinal Decompression,” Dr. Eric Kaplan, D.C., FIAMA, and Dr. Perry Bard, D.C., explained that the duration of treatment for spinal decompression for herniated discs can vary depending on the severity. Mild herniation may require longer treatment, while patients with multiple herniations in different spinal locations may need additional sessions. However, the treatment should effectively reduce sensory abnormalities and relieve pain for the individual.

 


References

Al Qaraghli, M. I., & De Jesus, O. (2020). Lumbar Disc Herniation. PubMed; StatPearls Publishing. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK560878/

Choi, J., Lee, S., & Hwangbo, G. (2015). Influences of spinal decompression therapy and general traction therapy on the pain, disability, and straight leg raising of patients with intervertebral disc herniation. Journal of Physical Therapy Science, 27(2), 481–483. doi.org/10.1589/jpts.27.481

Cosamalón-Gan, I., Cosamalón-Gan, T., Mattos-Piaggio, G., Villar-Suárez, V., García-Cosamalón, J., & Vega-Álvarez, J. A. (2021). Inflamación en la hernia del disco intervertebral. Neurocirugía, 32(1), 21–35. doi.org/10.1016/j.neucir.2020.01.001

Kaplan, E., & Bard, P. (2023). The Ultimate Spinal Decompression. JETLAUNCH.

Ma, X. (2015). A New Pathological Classification of Lumbar Disc Protrusion and Its Clinical Significance. Orthopaedic Surgery, 7(1), 1–12. doi.org/10.1111/os.12152

Disclaimer

Hamstring Injuries Could Be Implementing Other Issues

Hamstring Injuries Could Be Implementing Other Issues

Introduction

How do non-surgical treatments compare with traditional surgical treatments to improve mobility for individuals with hamstring injuries? The hamstrings are muscles in the lower extremities that provide mobility to the legs and stabilize the pelvis. Many athletes rely on their hamstrings to perform strenuous actions such as sprinting, jumping, squatting, and kicking during sporting events. However, the hamstrings are also very susceptible to injury. Athletes who repeatedly overstretch their hamstrings can experience muscle strain until microscopic tears form, which is common. Similarly, individuals who sit for long periods can also experience hamstring issues. When individuals are not physically active, their hamstrings can become weak and shortened, leading to symptoms such as muscle pain, trigger points, and strain on the accessory muscles. Hamstring injuries can also cause other issues that affect the lower body extremities. This article will explore how hamstring injuries affect mobility and how non-surgical treatments help people regain mobility. We work with certified medical providers who use our patients’ valuable information to treat individuals suffering from hamstring injuries and inform them about non-surgical treatments to regain mobility. We encourage patients to ask essential questions and seek education from our associated medical providers about their condition. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., provides this information as an educational service. Disclaimer

 

Hamstring Injuries Implementing Other Issues

 

Do you experience stiffness in the back of your thighs when warming up before exercising? Are you feeling radiating pain from the side of your hips and glutes due to prolonged sitting? Or do you tend to limp, affecting your gait and walking? Many people are unaware they are overexerting their hamstrings, which can cause pain. Those who engage in sports or work sedentary jobs may over or underuse their hamstrings, affecting their flexibility and mobility to the lower extremities. According to research studies, hamstring injuries are the most common non-contact muscle injuries caused by two mechanisms of injuries: stretch-type and sprint-type. Sprint-type injuries associated with hamstrings occur when the muscles are overexerted due to maximal or near-maximal action, causing muscle fatigue. To that point, hamstring injuries can also affect a person’s walking mobility. 

 

Running without properly warming up the hamstring muscle can cause muscle fatigue. Stretch-type injuries associated with the hamstring muscles involve combination movements that include extreme hip flexion and knee extension. These injuries can also mimic sciatica, leading people to believe their sciatic nerve is acting up. However, treatments available can help reduce the pain associated with hamstring injuries and lengthen the shortened muscle to reduce pain.

 


Best Lower Body Stretches To Increase Flexibility-Video

If you want to reduce the pain associated with hamstring injuries, incorporating RICE can help prevent it from becoming chronic. This involves gently stretching the affected muscle to avoid cramps and pain while increasing flexibility. Hamstring injuries can also be linked to other chronic issues, which can cause inflammation in the surrounding muscles. Studies show that conditions like piriformis syndrome can cause nerve entrapment in the hamstrings, resulting in radiating pain down the leg that mimics low back pain and sciatica. As previously mentioned, hamstring injuries can limit mobility and be linked to chronic conditions. Thankfully, non-surgical treatments can help reduce pain and provide relief. Check out the video above to learn different stretches that can help reduce pain in the lower body and increase flexibility.


Treatments To Restore Mobility

 

If rest, ice, compression, and gentle stretching do not provide relief, incorporating treatments for hamstring injuries to restore mobility can benefit many individuals. Seeking the help of a pain specialist, such as a massage therapist or chiropractor, to create a customized plan/program is recommended. There are various approaches that pain specialists can use to regain mobility and treat hamstring injuries.

 

MET Therapy

Many chiropractors and massage therapists incorporate MET (muscle energy techniques) therapy to gently stretch out the shortened hamstring muscle and help restore joint mobility in the lower extremities. In “Clinical Applications of Neuromuscular Techniques,” written by Leon Chaitow, N.D., D.O., and Judith Walker DeLany, L.M.T., stated that MET is crucial in stretching and strengthening the hamstring muscles through isometric contraction. At the same time, additional research studies reveal that the MET technique allows the hamstrings to have a greater increase in hip flexion ranges. MET therapy also helps strengthen the accessory muscles surrounding the hamstrings to restore mobility.

 

Spinal Decompression

If hamstring injuries are caused by nerve entrapment, then trying out spinal decompression can help restore mobility to the hips and lower extremities. According to “The Ultimate Spinal Decompression,” written by Dr. Eric Kaplan, D.C., FIAMA, and Dr. Perry Bard, D.C., stated that spinal decompression is safe and gentle on the spine as it provides gentle traction on the spinal disc to reduce pain and increase disc height. When hamstring injuries are associated with nerve entrapment, it could result from a herniated disc that aggravates the nerve root and causes referred pain to the hamstrings. Using gentle traction on the spine can help alleviate the pain caused by the aggravating nerve and reduce pain in the hamstrings. Many individuals can incorporate these treatments to reduce hamstring injuries and regain their mobility back to their legs.

 


References

Chaitow, L., & Delany, J. (2002). Clinical application of neuromuscular techniques. Vol. 2, The lower body. Churchill Livingstone.

Gunn, L. J., Stewart, J. C., Morgan, B., Metts, S. T., Magnuson, J. M., Iglowski, N. J., Fritz, S. L., & Arnot, C. (2018). Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation techniques improve hamstring flexibility better than static stretching alone: a randomized clinical trial. Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy, 27(1), 15–23. doi.org/10.1080/10669817.2018.1475693

Huygaerts, S., Cos, F., Cohen, D. D., Calleja-González, J., Guitart, M., Blazevich, A. J., & Alcaraz, P. E. (2020). Mechanisms of Hamstring Strain Injury: Interactions between Fatigue, Muscle Activation and Function. Sports (Basel, Switzerland)8(5), 65. doi.org/10.3390/sports8050065

Kaplan, E., & Bard, P. (2023). The Ulitimate Spinal Decompression. JETLAUNCH.

Vij, N., Kiernan, H., Bisht, R., Singleton, I., Cornett, E. M., Kaye, A. D., Imani, F., Varrassi, G., Pourbahri, M., Viswanath, O., & Urits, I. (2021). Surgical and Non-surgical Treatment Options for Piriformis Syndrome: A Literature Review. Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, 11(1). doi.org/10.5812/aapm.112825

Disclaimer

MET Therapy’s Approach To Chronic Pain Problems

MET Therapy’s Approach To Chronic Pain Problems

Introduction

The musculoskeletal system comprises muscles, ligaments, and tissues surrounding the skeletal structure and vital organs. These components have various functions, including transporting blood and nutrients throughout the body and facilitating movement. However, chronic conditions or aging can cause pain-like symptoms, disrupting daily life and leading to disability. There are many available treatments, both surgical and non-surgical, that can help alleviate chronic pain. This article will explore how chronic pain affects individuals and how treatments like Muscle Energy Technique (MET) therapy can help address it. We work with certified medical providers who use our patients’ valuable information to treat individuals suffering from muscle pain while informing them about non-surgical treatments like MET therapy that can help reduce the effects of chronic pain associated with the musculoskeletal system. We encourage patients to ask essential questions and seek education from our associated medical providers about their condition. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., provides this information as an educational service. Disclaimer

 

How Does Chronic Pain Affect The Individual?

Have you been dealing with shooting pain in your joints or muscles? When you wake up in the morning, do you feel constant stiffness in your joints? Or do you experience muscle pain slowly throughout the entire day? When it comes to chronic pain in the musculoskeletal system, it can be hard to pinpoint where the pain is located in the body. Research studies reveal that chronic musculoskeletal pain is a challenge for the individual and their doctors and a main contributor to disability worldwide. Chronic musculoskeletal pain can be non-specific and specific depending on the severity and factors contributing to its development. For many individuals experiencing chronic pain associated with the musculoskeletal system, the homeostatic and adaptive function in their muscle fibers has been stretched past their limits.

 

 

Additional research studies stated that factors like mechanical forces, ischemia, and even inflammation are all primary stimuli for chronic muscle pain. Factors like lifting/carrying heavy objects, persistent sitting, physical inactivities, and dietary habits all correlate to chronic muscle and joint pain, as repetitive motions or prolonged inactivity can either shorten or overstretch the muscle fibers. At the same time, chronic musculoskeletal diseases like fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome can cause the affected muscles to stiffen, contract, and tender to the touch, which then causes the other surrounding muscles to take over and compensate for the pain. To that point, chronic musculoskeletal pain can cause many individuals to decrease their productivity, call off work constantly, and lead a life of disability.


From Consultation To Transformation- Video

Have you been dealing with constant muscle and joint pain throughout your life? Has the pain been unbearable that it is affecting your routine? Or do you feel aches or stiffness in your sides or different body areas? Throughout the entire world, many individuals suffer from chronic musculoskeletal pain at one point in their lives, and it has become a social/economic burden. Research studies reveal that chronic pain associated with musculoskeletal disorders can affect many other aspects of a person’s life. When chronic pain starts to affect a person’s ability to function, it can have a negative effect on the person’s mental health. When chronic pain is associated with musculoskeletal disorders, it also correlates with work, as many individuals with chronic pain have reduced work productivity, lost wages, and lost hours that can take a toll on their income. However, there is hope, as many affordable treatments can reduce the effects of chronic musculoskeletal pain and its associated symptoms. Non-surgical treatments like chiropractic care and MET therapy can help many individuals with chronic musculoskeletal pain find the relief they deserve. The video above explains how non-surgical treatments approach chronic musculoskeletal pain, from assessing patients through consultation to transforming their health and wellness. By taking back their health, many individuals can find relief from their pain and get back to their routines.


MET Therapy’s Approach To Chronic Pain

 

Non-surgical treatments like MET (muscle energy technique) therapy has a unique approach to reducing chronic pain in the musculoskeletal system. In the book, “Clinical Applications of Neuromuscular Techniques,” Dr. Leon Chaitow, N.D., D.O., and Dr. Judith Walker DeLany, L.M.T., mentioned that the fascia and the characteristics of the connective tissues are relevant for MET by commencing stretching the affected muscles that are in chronic pain and use biomechanical forces to initiate a low intense force to lengthen the tissues and increase their flexibility. MET therapy helps many individuals with chronic pain associated with musculoskeletal disorders, as research studies reveal that MET therapy can help increase the strength of weakened muscles and help increase the spinal ROM. MET therapy is non-surgical, cost-effective, and safe to reduce chronic pain associated with musculoskeletal disorders. 

 

Identifying The Patterns

Many pain specialists who incorporate MET will begin by assessing the individual with chronic pain associated with musculoskeletal disorders. They will get examined by testing their range of motion, spinal and joint mobility, and any additional factors to develop a personalized plan that caters to the individual. Once the pain issue is found, the individual will work with other medical professionals to help strengthen their muscles and help reduce the pain-like symptoms that are causing them. To that point, MET therapy combined with other treatments is beneficial for those with chronic illnesses and needs relief from pain.

 

Conclusion

Many individuals suffering from chronic musculoskeletal pain often experience limited mobility, shortened muscles, and referred pain in different areas of their bodies. Chronic musculoskeletal pain is a social/economic problem that has affected many individuals and left them missing out on important life events. Treatments like MET (muscle energy technique) therapy can help reduce pain by stretching the muscle fibers to alleviate pain and restore joint mobility to the body. When many individuals start to utilize MET therapy, it can reduce chronic pain and allow them to get back their health and wellness.

 

References

Bains, D., Chahal, A., Shaphe, M. A., Kashoo, F. Z., Ali, T., Alghadir, A. H., & Khan, M. (2022). Effects of Muscle Energy Technique and Joint Manipulation on Pulmonary Functions, Mobility, Disease Exacerbations, and Health-Related Quality of Life in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Patients: A Quasiexperimental Study. BioMed Research International, 2022, 1–9. doi.org/10.1155/2022/5528724

Bonanni, R., Cariati, I., Tancredi, V., Iundusi, R., Gasbarra, E., & Tarantino, U. (2022). Chronic Pain in Musculoskeletal Diseases: Do You Know Your Enemy? Journal of Clinical Medicine, 11(9), 2609. doi.org/10.3390/jcm11092609

Chaitow, L., & Delany, J. (2002). Clinical application of neuromuscular techniques. Vol. 2, The lower body. Churchill Livingstone.

El-Tallawy, S. N., Nalamasu, R., Salem, G. I., LeQuang, J. A. K., Pergolizzi, J. V., & Christo, P. J. (2021). Management of Musculoskeletal Pain: An Update with Emphasis on Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain. Pain and Therapy, 10(1). doi.org/10.1007/s40122-021-00235-2

Gregory, N. S., & Sluka, K. A. (2014). Anatomical and Physiological Factors Contributing to Chronic Muscle Pain. Current Topics in Behavioral Neurosciences, 20, 327–348. doi.org/10.1007/7854_2014_294

Disclaimer

MET Therapy Protocol For Muscle Pain

MET Therapy Protocol For Muscle Pain

Introduction

Regarding the musculoskeletal system, the various muscles, tissues, and ligaments help protect the spine and vital organs that make the body functional. These muscles are sectioned into different groups that help provide movement and motion to the host without feeling pain. However, when normal factors or traumatic forces begin to affect the musculoskeletal system, it can cause unnecessary stress on the muscle fibers. These environmental factors can lead to muscle pain and correlating symptoms affecting the upper and lower body portions. When muscle pain affects the body, it can mask other pre-existing conditions that can make the individual feel miserable. Fortunately, many individuals will go to therapy treatment to reduce the effects of muscle pain and have a personalized plan that they can follow to prevent muscle pain from returning in the future. Today’s article focuses on one of the non-surgical treatments known as MET (muscle energy technique) therapy that can help reduce the effects of muscle pain and what is the protocol treatment plan to relieve muscle pain in the body. We work with certified medical providers who use our patients’ valuable information to treat individuals suffering from muscle pain while informing them about non-surgical treatments like MET therapy that can help reduce the effects of musculoskeletal pain. We encourage patients to ask essential questions and seek education from our associated medical providers about their condition. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., provides this information as an educational service. Disclaimer

 

How Does Muscle Pain Affect The Body?

Do you experience muscle aches, stiffness, or pain in one or more parts of your body? These pain-like symptoms are often caused by muscle pain. Research studies revealed that free nerve endings in muscle fibers can send pain signals to the brain, leading to decreased productivity and economic burden. Overstretching muscles during daily routines can cause trigger points, small nodules in muscle fibers that cause stiffness and contraction. This can lead to misalignment and additional problems over time.

 

 

Muscle pain can be a symptom of different conditions, with severity ranging from acute to chronic. Research studies stated that when musculoskeletal pain affects more than 30% of the world, it can significantly impact an individual’s life. This type of pain can be related to sensory innervation of the bones, joints, and muscles and can negatively affect a person’s daily routine. However, there are various ways to reduce muscle pain, which individuals can incorporate to relieve muscle pain and reduce its chances of returning.


Movement As Medicine- Video

When it comes to musculoskeletal pain, it can have a significant impact on a person’s body. It can affect their daily routine, causing them to have limited mobility and feel miserable. Musculoskeletal pain causes the involved muscle fibers to stiffen up and contract. This causes the surrounding muscles to compensate for the pain the affected muscle feels and causes body misalignment. However, all is not lost, as available treatments can help reduce the effects of muscle pain and can bring back a person’s mobility. One of these treatments is MET (muscle energy technique) therapy. Research studies reveal that MET is an osteopathic technique that many pain specialists like chiropractors and massage therapists use to improve musculoskeletal function by mobilizing joints, stretching tight muscles and facia to reduce pain, and improving circulation and lymphatic flow. Since many individuals don’t stretch their bodies as often as needed, their muscles can become tight and stiff, which causes the development of muscle pain. So by utilizing MET therapy, a person dealing with muscle pain can regain mobility. MET therapy can also be combined with other treatments like chiropractic care to help realign the body out of subluxation and strengthen/lengthen tight muscles. The video above explains how movement is used as medicine to reduce the effects of muscle pain.


MET Treatment Protocol

 

According to “Clinical Application of Neuromuscular Techniques,” written by Leon Chaitow, N.D., D.O., and Judith Walker DeLany, L.M.T., when the body is experiencing restricted joints, incorporating MET therapy can indicate where the problem is located in the soft musculoskeletal tissues. When it comes to many individuals going to MET therapy for muscle pain, many doctors have their protocol approach when assessing patients for muscle pain treatment.

 

Looking At Body Language

When assessing patients with muscle pain, looking at their body language and how they carry themselves is important. Many doctors and pain specialists should note how the individual is breathing, their posture, and if there is any perspiration on the skin. By taking note of how the individual looks physically, many doctors will begin to formulate a treatment plan while communicating with the patient to gather more information and create a trusting relationship. Afterward, the doctor can start the physical examination to locate where the pain is in the body.

 

Physical Examination

The MET treatment protocol’s physical examination portion allows the doctor to go through a sequential assessment involving observation, joint and muscle testing, palpations, evaluation of accessory movement, etc., to create a basic formula to create a personalized treatment plan. The physical examination of MET allows the muscles to influence muscle contractions on the surrounding fascia and alter the muscle’s physiology by reflex mechanisms. These stretches help the restricted joints be re-mobilized, and help stretch the tightened muscles to feel relief from metabolic waste.

 

Therapeutic Plan

The therapeutic plan for MET treatment is personalized and customizable for the individual to follow through to reduce muscle pain from re-occurring in the body. Many doctors specializing in MET therapy work with other associated medical providers to ensure that the person in pain has the help they need. Physical therapy, dietary nutrition, non-surgical treatments, and health coaches all work together to create a personalized health and wellness plan to make sure that muscle pain and its associated factors are being treated. This allows individuals to be more mindful of their bodies and regain their health and wellness.

 

Conclusion

Muscle pain can affect a person’s ability to move around and can affect multiple areas in the upper and lower body portions. Muscle pain correlates to tight muscle fibers that become stiff and can develop trigger points in the fascia and cause restricted movement. When this happens, it can cause the individual to miss out on daily activities and prevent them from working. Luckily available treatments can help reduce muscle pain by re-mobilizing the joints and stretching out the tight muscle. MET, or muscle energy technique therapy, helps stretch muscle fascia and mobilize joints to regain the body’s range of motion and help reduce muscle pain. Many people who incorporate MET into their daily routine can restore mobility and continue their health and wellness journey.

 

References

Disclaimer

IDD Therapy Treatment Protocols For Spinal Decompression

IDD Therapy Treatment Protocols For Spinal Decompression

Introduction

Many individuals are unaware of their pain until they perform specific movements that cause discomfort. This is due to the heavy weight that causes the body to carry an axial overload, compressing the spinal disc, which can lead to herniation or degeneration over time if not treated promptly. Compressed spinal discs can cause chronic conditions such as low back pain, spinal stenosis, or intervertebral disc disease (IDD). Several factors contribute to the development of IDD, including chronic conditions that can lead to compressed spinal discs. This condition can be relieved over time through therapy treatments that can reduce the pain effects of IDD and help individuals be more mindful of their spine. This article will discuss IDD therapy’s role in relieving spine pain, treatment protocols, and how it is combined with spinal decompression, a non-surgical therapy. We work with certified medical providers who use our patients’ valuable information to treat individuals suffering from back and spinal disc degeneration while informing them about non-surgical treatments like IDD(intervertebral disc degeneration) therapy and spinal decompression that can help relieve their pain and help rehydrate their spinal disc. We encourage patients to ask essential questions and seek education from our associated medical providers about their condition. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., provides this information as an educational service. Disclaimer

 

What Is IDD Therapy?

The spine comprises muscles, tendons, ligaments, discs, and bones extending from the skull’s base to the bottom of the sacrum. Its primary function is to keep the body upright and protect the spinal cord from injuries. According to research studies, the spinal discs act as shock absorbers during movement and can become damaged over time, causing pain-like symptoms and chronic conditions. IDD therapy is a common treatment for reducing pain caused by degenerative discs. 

 

 

Research suggests that intervertebral disc degeneration can cause symptoms related to musculoskeletal disorders such as low back pain, disc herniation, and spinal stenosis. Conservative and non-invasive treatments can reduce the pain-like symptoms and effects caused by IDD. IDD therapy allows the spine to be re-toned, restructured and re-educated. Like spinal decompression, IDD therapy uses gentle traction pulling to rehydrate the discs and reduce the pressure on the nerve roots, as stated by research studies. IDD therapy helps restore muscle strength, increase the spine’s range of motion, and promote the body’s natural healing process to reduce spinal pain associated with environmental factors.


Home Exercise For Pain Relief- Video

Do you experience difficulty doing activities due to back pain? Do you feel stiffness or instability in your lower back? These may be symptoms of intervertebral degenerative disease caused by repetitive motions. IDD can cause chronic musculoskeletal disorders and disability. However, available non-surgical treatments like IDD therapy, which uses negative pressure to rehydrate the spinal disc, can reduce pain. Other non-surgical therapies like chiropractic care and physical therapy can help restore mobility and strengthen back muscles. Check out the video above for home exercise routines that relieve pain.


IDD Treatment Protocols

 

Dr. Eric Kaplan, D.C., FIAMA, and Dr. Perry Bard, D.C., wrote “The Ultimate Spinal Decompression,” explaining how chiropractors and massage therapists use personalized IDD therapy plans to treat musculoskeletal pain associated with intervertebral degenerative disease. IDD therapy involves strapping the individual to a traction machine and utilizing specific protocols for treatment.

 

The Treatment Schedule

The first step in IDD therapy is examining the individual’s range of motion, muscle strength, nerve conduction, and SSEP tests. This allows the doctor to document the pain’s location and develop a personalized treatment plan, including the indicated problem, treatment frequency, duration, etc. Afterward, the individual will receive other treatments before the IDD traction therapy machine.

  • Therapeutic Ultrasound
  • Electro-stimulation
  • Interferential Stimulation
  • Hydrocolator

This machine gently pulls the spine to create negative space between the spinal column, allowing nutrients to rehydrate the disc and begin healing. The process lasts 20-30 minutes and may cause mild soreness, but progress is seen after a few sessions.

 

Pre-& Post-Session Physical Therapy

The benefit of combining IDD therapy with physical therapy is that stretching techniques can loosen the surrounding muscles before spinal mobilization, allowing the soft tissues to accept the treatment. After treatment, cryo-therapeutic therapy or an ice pack can alleviate soreness and inflammation. Drinking plenty of water is important to replenish intra-cellular cells, and physical activities can be slowly incorporated to strengthen muscles.

 

Conclusion

Taking care of the spine is important by not constantly allowing axial overload to compress the spinal disc through repetitive motion. This causes the disc to degenerate and lead to back pain. However, non-surgical treatments like IDD therapy can help reduce the pain and help strengthen the surrounding muscles protecting the spine. IDD therapy is similar to spinal decompression, which allows the individual to be harnessed to a machine and uses gentle traction on the spine to create negative space in the spinal column and promote the body’s healing factors. Many individuals can see the beneficial results over time and continue their daily routine pain-free.

 

References

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Why People Spend More On Back & Neck Pain?

Why People Spend More On Back & Neck Pain?

Introduction

Many people experience neck and back pain due to various factors that affect their daily routine. These pain conditions are common and can be caused by repetitive motions that impact the surrounding muscles, tissues, ligaments, and spinal discs. Chronic pain can develop depending on the severity and duration of the condition. People with demanding jobs, pre-existing conditions, or older adults may seek medical attention to reduce the pain-like symptoms of neck and back pain. However, treatment costs can be high. There are safe, cost-effective, and non-invasive treatments to relieve neck and back pain. This article will explore why neck and back pain is expensive and why non-surgical treatments are cost-effective. It will also discuss how non-surgical therapies like spinal decompression can alleviate back and neck pain. We work with certified medical providers who use our patients’ valuable information to treat individuals suffering from back and neck pain while informing them about non-surgical treatments like spinal decompression that can help relieve their neck and back pain. We encourage patients to ask essential questions and seek education from our associated medical providers about their condition. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., provides this information as an educational service. Disclaimer

 

Why Does Back & Neck Pain Cost More?

Many people report to their primary doctors that they are experiencing radiating pain from the neck or lower back, which affects their upper or lower extremities. For neck pain, they may experience headaches or shoulder pain that causes pain-like symptoms like numbness or tingling sensations down to their arms and fingers. For back pain, they may experience muscle soreness in their lumbar region, which can result in numbness in the glute muscles or cause sciatic nerve pain, affecting their walking ability. Research studies reveal that cognitive, affective, and lifestyle factors all affect the neck and back. High-demanding jobs, stress, or trauma from an accident can develop neck and back pain. As a result, the body takes more overbearing loads, tightening the surrounding muscles in the neck and back. If not treated right away, it can lead to problematic issues that disrupt their routine.

 

 

Based on the book “The Ultimate Spinal Decompression” by Dr. Eric Kaplan D.C., FIAMA, and Dr. Perry Bard, D.C., humans’ evolution to walk upright has strained their stability, leading to axial overload and potential neck and back pain. The book also highlights that the human body was not meant to remain sedentary, which can also contribute to the development of such pain. Research studies revealed that neck and back pain can be nociceptive with neuropathic components, making treatment costly and time-consuming. This economic burden can discourage individuals from seeking treatment despite the pain and expense involved.


Fighting Inflammation Naturally- Video

Are you experiencing persistent neck and back pain? Do your upper or lower extremities feel stiff or tingly? Or is your mobility limited, interfering with your daily activities? These issues are often associated with neck and back pain, disrupting a person’s routine and preventing them from enjoying life. Neck and back pain are common ailments that can be expensive to treat. Research studies revealed that they can also influence individuals’ ability to return to work, increasing treatment costs.

 

 

Additionally, pain-like symptoms often accompany neck and back pain, leading some individuals to spend nearly a billion dollars on treatment. However, cost-effective treatments are available that can help alleviate these symptoms. The video above explains how non-surgical treatments can reduce neck and back pain and relieve pain-like symptoms.


Why Non-Surgical Treatments Are Cost Effective?

 

Research studies have shown that non-surgical treatments are a cost-effective and effective solution for neck and back pain. Many individuals can utilize these treatments combined with various therapies to improve their quality of life and reduce pain symptoms. Non-surgical treatments offer personalized plans as healthcare providers work together to find solutions. They provide individuals with a positive approach to regaining their health and wellness by informing them about their bodies and how to be more mindful of how pain affects their daily routines. Some non-surgical treatments that can relieve neck and back pain include:

  • Chiropractic care
  • Physical therapy
  • Spinal Decompression
  • Acupuncture
  • Massage therapy

 

How Spinal Decompression Can Alleviate Back & Neck Pain

 

You might be interested in non-surgical treatments like spinal decompression if you suffer back or neck pain. This technique uses gentle traction on the spinal column to alleviate pain while helping your body heal naturally. Research studies have found that cervical spinal decompression can increase disc height and reduce pain caused by compressed cervical discs. This treatment can also alleviate residual pain symptoms like headaches or muscle stiffness and restore mobility to the neck. For back pain, research suggests that spinal decompression can reduce the effects of compressed spinal discs, which can aggravate nerve roots like the sciatic nerve in the lumbar region. Many people who try spinal decompression feel relief after just a few sessions and become more mindful of what triggers their pain. This can help them make small lifestyle changes to continue their journey toward health and wellness.

 

Conclusion

Many people struggle with neck and back pain, which can be caused by multiple normal and traumatic factors and can be costly. Individuals often prefer to endure the pain rather than subject themselves to invasive treatments. However, non-surgical therapies that are cost-effective and gentle on the body are available. Spinal decompression therapy is one such treatment that can help alleviate pain and promote the body’s natural healing processes. By reducing pain symptoms, many individuals who undergo spinal decompression therapy can return to their daily routines pain-free.

 

References

Daniel, D. M. (2007). Non-surgical spinal decompression therapy: does the scientific literature support efficacy claims made in the advertising media? Chiropractic & Osteopathy, 15(1). doi.org/10.1186/1746-1340-15-7

Driessen, M. T., Lin, C.-W. C., & van Tulder, M. W. (2012). Cost-effectiveness of conservative treatments for neck pain: a systematic review on economic evaluations. European Spine Journal, 21(8), 1441–1450. doi.org/10.1007/s00586-012-2272-5

Kaplan, E., & Bard, P. (2023). The Ultimate Spinal Decompression. JETLAUNCH.

Kazeminasab, S., Nejadghaderi, S. A., Amiri, P., Pourfathi, H., Araj-Khodaei, M., Sullman, M. J. M., Kolahi, A.-A., & Safiri, S. (2022). Neck pain: global epidemiology, trends and risk factors. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, 23(1). doi.org/10.1186/s12891-021-04957-4

Kleinman, N., Patel, A. A., Benson, C., Macario, A., Kim, M., & Biondi, D. M. (2014). Economic Burden of Back and Neck Pain: Effect of a Neuropathic Component. Population Health Management, 17(4), 224–232. doi.org/10.1089/pop.2013.0071

Xu, Q., Tian, X., Bao, X., Liu, D., Zeng, F., & Sun, Q. (2022). Nonsurgical spinal decompression system traction combined with electroacupuncture in the treatment of multi-segmental cervical disc herniation. Medicine, 101(3), e28540. doi.org/10.1097/md.0000000000028540

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The Real Cost Of Back Pain

The Real Cost Of Back Pain

Introduction

Back pain is widespread and can negatively impact an individual’s work productivity. The severity and location of where the pain can vary from acute to chronic, making it a complex problem that can be expensive to treat. Several factors can contribute to back pain, affecting the surrounding muscles, ligaments, and spinal discs in the spinal region. The most commonly affected area where back pain is causing issues is the lumbar region, which supports the upper body’s weight and stabilizes the lower body. Lower back pain can also cause radiating referred pain down to the legs, further affecting an individual’s quality of life. In this article, we will explore the economic cost and burden of chronic back pain and how spinal decompression can help alleviate the pain, allowing many individuals to return to work pain-free. We work with certified medical providers who use our patients’ valuable information to treat individuals with back pain and inform them about non-surgical treatments like spinal decompression that can help relieve them from back pain and get them back to their daily activities. We encourage patients to ask essential questions and seek education from our associated medical providers about their condition. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., provides this information as an educational service. Disclaimer

 

The Burden Of Chronic Back Pain

 

Back pain can range from acute to chronic, depending on the extent of the injury. It can affect the non-specific or specific area of the spine. Non-specific back pain doesn’t have an underlying cause, while specific back pain is due to environmental factors that increase the risk of compressing the spinal discs. Research studies revealed that back pain can be a burden because it is difficult to treat and costly, affecting millions of individuals in the workplace. It is a widespread musculoskeletal disorder that can be disheartening without relief.

 

The Economic Cost Of Back Pain

Back pain is a significant cause of work loss and limitations for many individuals, as reported by “The Ultimate Spinal Decompression” by Dr. Perry Bard, D.C., and Dr. Eric Kaplan, D.C., FIAMA. Working adults with back pain are more likely to utilize healthcare services, leading to costs of over $12 billion per year, making it one of the most expensive conditions in the U.S. Additional research studies revealed that back pain has a greater economic impact than most other health conditions due to its effect on work absenteeism, reduced productivity, and increased risk of leaving the labor market. This can leave working adults feeling disheartened, angry, depressed, and stressed. However, many cost-effective and safe treatments can help relieve individuals suffering from back pain, eliminating the need for expensive surgeries.

 


Reducing Soft Tissue Injuries With Chiropractic-Video

Are you suffering from pain that radiates from your back down to your legs? Do you experience stiffness in certain areas of your back or constant stress affecting your work productivity? If so, you may be dealing with back pain, a common complaint among many individuals in the workforce. Depending on its severity, back pain can be either specific or non-specific and is a complex condition that can be expensive to treat. Unfortunately, many working adults continue to work with back pain, which can cause them to take a leave of absence from work due to the pain. This can lead to more harm and disability since the pain can be unbearable. However, there are ways to reduce the effects of back pain and provide relief to many working individuals. Non-surgical treatments such as MET, chiropractic manipulation, traction therapy, and spinal decompression can help reduce the impact of back pain by relieving pain from the surrounding muscles, soft tissues, and ligaments affected by back pain. Additionally, individuals can combine non-surgical treatments with other therapies to prevent back pain from reoccurring and promote overall health and wellness. A video demonstrating these non-surgical treatments is available for your convenience.


The Effects Of Spinal Decompression On Back Pain

 

Many individuals choose non-surgical treatments to alleviate back pain for their cost-effectiveness, safety, and non-invasiveness. One such treatment is spinal decompression, which research studies have shown to improve lumbar spine conditions in individuals with associated back pain. Spinal decompression uses gentle traction to pull the spine and allow compressed spinal discs to return to their original position, restoring nutrients and oxygenated blood and reducing back pain’s effects. It also relieves nerve root compression, which can affect surrounding muscles. Through regular spinal decompression sessions, individuals can begin to feel relief from back pain while becoming more mindful of the environmental factors that cause it.

 

Conclusion

Many people in the workforce suffer from back pain, causing them to miss work frequently. This problem is common and expensive to treat due to its complexity. Back pain is often accompanied by other symptoms associated with various conditions that can cause chronic pain. Fortunately, cost-effective and safe treatments can help alleviate back pain and allow individuals to return to work. One effective treatment is spinal decompression, which involves gentle traction that pulls the spine and relieves associated symptoms. This non-surgical treatment is safe, affordable and helps the body heal naturally. After a few sessions, many individuals experience significant relief from back pain and reduced chances of recurrence.

 

References

Kaplan, E., & Bard, P. (2023). The Ultimate Spinal Decompression. JETLAUNCH.

Phillips, C. J. (2009). The Cost and Burden of Chronic Pain. Reviews in Pain, 3(1), 2–5. doi.org/10.1177/204946370900300102

Srinivas, S., Paquet, J., Bailey, C., Nataraj, A., Stratton, A., Johnson, M. K., Salo, P. T., Christie, S., Fisher, C. G., Hall, H., Manson, N. B., Y. Raja Rampersaud, Thomas, K. R., Hall, H., & Dea, N. (2019). Effect of spinal decompression on back pain in lumbar spinal stenosis: a Canadian Spine Outcomes Research Network (CSORN) study. The Spine Journal, 19(6), 1001–1008. doi.org/10.1016/j.spinee.2019.01.003

Urits, I., Burshtein, A., Sharma, M., Testa, L., Gold, P. A., Orhurhu, V., Viswanath, O., Jones, M. R., Sidransky, M. A., Spektor, B., & Kaye, A. D. (2019). Low Back Pain, a Comprehensive Review: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment. Current Pain and Headache Reports, 23(3). doi.org/10.1007/s11916-019-0757-1

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