Back Clinic Physical Rehabilitation Team. Physical medicine and rehabilitation, which is also known as physiatry or rehabilitation medicine. Its goals are to enhance, restore functional ability and quality of life to those with physical impairments or disabilities affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons. A physician that has completed training is referred to as a physiatrist.
Unlike other medical specialties that focus on a medical cure, the goals of the physiatrist are to maximize the patient’s independence in activities of daily living and improve quality of life. Rehabilitation can help with many body functions. Physiatrists are experts in creating a comprehensive, patient-centered treatment plan. Physiatrists are integral members of the team. They utilize modern, as well as, tried and true treatments to bring optimal function and quality of life to their patients. And patients can range from infants to octogenarians. For answers to any questions you may have please call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900
How Motor Vehicle Accidents Impact Mobility and Flexibility: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction to Motor Vehicle Accidents and Their Impact
Motor vehicle accidents (MVAs) are a leading cause of injuries that can significantly affect a person’s ability to move freely and comfortably. Whether it’s a minor fender-bender or a severe collision, these accidents often result in physical injuries that limit mobility and flexibility, as well as emotional challenges that impact overall well-being. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, traffic accidents are the primary cause of spinal cord injuries in the United States, underscoring their serious consequences. This post examines the types of injuries caused by motor vehicle accidents (MVAs), their impact on daily life, and the crucial role of treatment and rehabilitation, offering special insights from Dr. Alexander Jimenez, a renowned chiropractor and nurse practitioner in El Paso, Texas, who specializes in treating victims of MVAs.
MVAs can lead to a range of injuries, from soft tissue damage like whiplash to severe spine and joint issues. These injuries often cause pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion, making everyday tasks challenging. Beyond physical harm, victims may experience emotional distress, such as anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can further hinder recovery. Understanding these impacts is crucial for seeking timely medical care and legal support, especially in personal injury cases where accurate documentation is essential.
References
National Center for Biotechnology Information. (n.d.). Spinal Cord Injury.
Common Injuries from MVAs That Affect Mobility and Flexibility
MVAs can cause various injuries that impair mobility and flexibility. Below, we discuss three main categories: soft tissue injuries, spine injuries, and joint injuries, each with significant effects on movement and function.
Soft Tissue Injuries: Whiplash and Beyond
Whiplash is one of the most common injuries resulting from MVAs, affecting nearly 2 million Americans each year (Metairie Spine and Rehab). A sudden jerk of the head forward and backward strains the neck’s muscles and ligaments, causing whiplash. Symptoms include neck pain, stiffness, and a reduced range of motion, which can make it difficult to turn the head or perform tasks like driving or working at a computer. Other soft tissue injuries, such as sprains or strains, can cause swelling and pain, further limiting movement (Wall Family Chiropractic).
Spine Injuries: Herniated Discs and Spinal Cord Damage
Spine injuries are among the most severe outcomes of MVAs. Damage to the soft tissue between vertebrae, known as herniated discs, can result in pain, numbness, and weakness in the limbs, thereby limiting mobility. More severe cases, such as spinal cord damage, may lead to partial or complete paralysis, drastically altering a person’s ability to move. The National Center for Biotechnology Information notes that traffic accidents are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries in the U.S., highlighting their prevalence. These injuries often result in chronic pain and significant mobility loss (Cox & Cox Filo).
References
National Center for Biotechnology Information. (n.d.). Spinal Cord Injury.
Joint Injuries: Osteoarthritis and Long-Term Effects
Joint injuries, such as those to the knees, shoulders, or hips, are common in MVAs and can lead to long-term complications like osteoarthritis. This condition causes chronic pain and stiffness, which limits movement and affects daily activities. Research suggests that joint damage from MVAs may require ongoing medical treatment and rehabilitation to manage symptoms and prevent further deterioration (Kitchel Law).
How These Injuries Affect Daily Activities and Quality of Life
The injuries caused by motor vehicle accidents (MVAs) can profoundly impact a person’s ability to perform daily tasks and maintain a high quality of life. Physical limitations, such as difficulty walking, lifting, or bending, can make routine activities like household chores, work, or hobbies challenging. For example, whiplash-related neck stiffness may hinder driving or desk work, while a herniated disc could prevent lifting heavy objects (Simply PT).
Emotionally, MVA victims may experience frustration, depression, or anxiety due to their reduced independence and persistent pain. Indirect trauma, such as PTSD or adjustment disorder, affects over 30% of crash survivors, leading to symptoms like flashbacks, avoidance of driving, or emotional numbness (Michigan Auto Law). These psychological effects can exacerbate physical challenges, creating a cycle of pain and disability that lowers overall well-being.
Impact Area
Physical Effects
Emotional Effects
Daily Activities
Limited mobility, difficulty with tasks like lifting or walking
Frustration, reduced independence
Work
Inability to perform job duties, reduced productivity
Anxiety about job security
Social Life
Restricted participation in hobbies or social events
Isolation and depression due to limited engagement
The Role of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation in Recovery
Physical therapy and rehabilitation are crucial for regaining mobility and flexibility after a motor vehicle accident (MVA). Physical therapists utilize targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to alleviate pain and enhance function. For instance, therapeutic exercises can help strengthen muscles weakened by whiplash, while manual therapy can improve joint mobility. (Sage Hill Physio).
Chiropractic care, often combined with physical therapy, focuses on spinal alignment and musculoskeletal health. Spinal adjustments and soft tissue therapy can alleviate pain and restore normal movement patterns. Studies, such as those published in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, suggest that combining these approaches leads to better outcomes in terms of mobility and pain reduction. (Wall Family Chiropractic).
Treatment Type
Techniques
Benefits
Physical Therapy
Manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and education
Insights from Dr. Alexander Jimenez: Clinical Observations and Treatment Approaches
Dr. Alexander Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, is a leading expert in treating motor vehicle accident (MVA)-related injuries in El Paso, Texas. At the El Paso Back Clinic, he specializes in personal injury and auto accident care, addressing conditions like whiplash, ligamentous injuries, and sciatica. His approach integrates chiropractic adjustments, physical therapy, and functional medicine to promote natural recovery without the need for unnecessary surgeries or medications (Dr. Alex Jimenez).
Dr. Jimenez utilizes advanced diagnostic tools, including X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans, to accurately assess the extent of injuries. These tools allow him to develop tailored treatment plans that address each patient’s unique needs. His comprehensive evaluations, which include posture assessments and neurological exams, ensure precise diagnoses. This precision is critical not only for effective treatment but also for providing detailed medical documentation required in personal injury cases, where he collaborates with legal teams to support claims (El Paso Back Clinic).
Personal Injury Cases in El Paso: Dr. Jimenez’s Expertise
In El Paso, Dr. Jimenez has established a reputation for treating a wide range of injuries related to motor vehicle accidents (MVAs), from soft tissue damage to complex musculoskeletal conditions. His clinic handles cases involving whiplash, compression injuries, thoracic outlet syndrome, and delayed symptoms from auto accidents. By working with a multidisciplinary team, including chiropractors, nutritionists, and nurse practitioners, he provides comprehensive care that addresses both physical and functional recovery (El Paso Back Clinic).
Dr. Jimenez’s ability to provide detailed medical records and testify in court makes him a valuable asset in personal injury cases. His documentation supports claims for compensation by clearly linking injuries to the accident, ensuring victims receive the support they need for recovery and financial relief.
The Importance of Advanced Imaging and Diagnostic Assessments
Advanced imaging and diagnostic assessments are crucial for both treating motor vehicle accident (MVA) injuries and supporting legal claims. Tools like X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans provide detailed views of internal damage, such as fractures, herniated discs, or soft tissue injuries. Dr. Jimenez collaborates with top diagnostic imaging clinics to ensure accurate diagnoses, which inform his treatment plans and enhance patient outcomes (El Paso Back Clinic).
In personal injury cases, these diagnostics are equally important for legal documentation. Precise medical records, supported by imaging results, strengthen claims for compensation by demonstrating the extent of injuries and their impact on the victim’s life. Dr. Jimenez’s expertise in correlating clinical findings with diagnostic results bridges the gap between medical treatment and legal requirements, benefiting his patients both in recovery and in court.
Addressing Indirect Trauma: Psychological Impacts of MVAs
Beyond physical injuries, MVAs can cause indirect trauma, such as emotional and psychological distress. Conditions like PTSD and adjustment disorders can cause symptoms such as flashbacks, avoidance behaviors, and anxiety, affecting over 30% of crash survivors. These issues can significantly impair daily functioning and quality of life, often requiring professional mental health support alongside physical treatment (Michigan Auto Law).
While Dr. Jimenez’s primary focus is on physical injuries, his holistic approach, which includes functional medicine, may address overall well-being, and he may refer patients to mental health specialists when needed. Recognizing and treating these psychological impacts is essential for comprehensive recovery.
Motor vehicle accidents can have a profound impact on mobility and flexibility, causing injuries like whiplash, herniated discs, and joint damage that limit movement and disrupt daily life. These physical challenges, combined with emotional distress like PTSD, can significantly reduce quality of life. However, with timely intervention through physical therapy, chiropractic care, and advanced diagnostics, recovery is possible. Dr. Jimenez’s expertise in El Paso exemplifies how comprehensive care, supported by precise diagnostics, can restore mobility and support legal claims in personal injury cases. BBy addressing both the physical and psychological impacts, victims can work toward achieving a full recovery and improved well-being.
For individuals who are having difficulty moving around due to pain, loss of range of motion, and/or decreased strength, can incorporating working with a physical therapist help relieve pain and restore function?
A woman with orthosis working with a physical therapist
Physical Therapy Benefits
Many wonder if they are candidates for physical therapy or if physical therapy can help their injury, ailment, or condition. The answer is yes; most individuals can benefit from physical therapy, whether their condition is a simple ankle sprain or a complex neurological disorder. Physical therapists can help develop pain management treatment strategies and injury prevention. Physical therapy can benefit individuals even if they are not injured; as movement experts, physical therapists can train individuals to help prevent injury and maintain flexibility.
Body Mechanics
Physical therapists work in various settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, sports, and chiropractic clinics. If necessary, they can come to your house after an injury. They work with individuals from all walks of life as a conservative treatment approach to managing, healing, and preventing injuries and disabilities. Physical therapy uses non-invasive tools to help improve total body function. Physical therapy focuses on:
Relieving pain
Promoting healing
Restoring function
Restoring movement
Facilitation and adaptation for a specific injury.
Therapy also focuses on body mechanic training, fitness, and wellness. (Hon, S. et al., 2021)
Regardless of age, individuals who have problems with flexibility and mobility may benefit from working with a physical therapist to help them return to optimal function.
Conditions Physical Therapy Can Help Treat
Muscle sprains and strains.
Work-related injuries.
Repetitive motion injuries.
Sports-related injuries.
Neck pain.
Lower back pain.
Neuro-rehabilitation – post-stroke and spinal cord or head injury.
Shoulder, arm, hand, and wrist injuries and problems.
Fractures.
Slip and fall accidents and other traumas.
Orthopedic conditions.
Chronic fatigue.
Chronic weakness.
Pre and post-surgical conditioning and strengthening.
Wound care like diabetic wounds and non-healing traumatic or post-surgical wounds.
Pre – during pregnancy and post-partum programs.
Fitness and wellness education.
Poor cardiovascular endurance.
Cardiac rehabilitation.
Respiratory problems.
Bowel or bladder incontinence.
Cancer recovery.
Individuals unsure whether they need or would benefit from physical therapy should discuss their options with a primary physician, healthcare provider, or specialist to guide them in the right direction. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic focuses on what works for you and strives to better the body through researched methods and total wellness programs. Using an integrated approach, we treat patients’ injuries and chronic pain syndromes through personalized care plans that improve ability through flexibility, mobility, and agility programs personalized to the individual to relieve pain. If other treatment is needed, Dr. Jimenez has teamed up with the top surgeons, clinical specialists, medical researchers, and premier rehabilitation providers to provide the most effective treatments.
Unlocking Vitality
References
Hon, S., Ritter, R., & Allen, D. D. (2021). Cost-Effectiveness and Outcomes of Direct Access to Physical Therapy for Musculoskeletal Disorders Compared to Physician-First Access in the United States: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Physical therapy, 101(1), pzaa201. doi.org/10.1093/ptj/pzaa201
When exercising, it is very important to warm each muscle group to prevent injuries from occurring when working out. Stretching the arms, legs, and back can loosen up stiff muscles and increase blood flow to allow each muscle fiber to warm up and allow maximum power when each set is performed. One of the best ways to reduce muscle fatigue or stiffness before working out is to foam roll each muscle group for at least 1-2 minutes max to provide optimal functionality. Foam rolling allows the muscles to warm up before an extensive workout session. Still, it can also offer many benefits when combined with other therapies to reduce pain-like symptoms like trigger point pain from causing further injuries from reoccurring in the body. Today’s article focuses on the benefits of foam rolling, how it reduces trigger point pain, and how it is combined with chiropractic care to achieve optimal health and wellness. We refer patients to certified providers incorporating techniques and therapies for individuals dealing with trigger point pain affecting different body areas. By locating where the trigger points are coming from, many pain specialists utilize a treatment plan to reduce the effects that trigger points are causing on the body while suggesting different tools, like using a foam roller to reduce pain in the other muscle groups. We encourage and appreciate each patient by referring them to associated medical providers based on their diagnosis when it is appropriate. We understand that education is a terrific way when asking our providers intricated questions at the patient’s request and understanding. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., only utilizes this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
The Benefits Of Foam Rolling
Have you been dealing with pain-like symptoms in different parts of your body? Do you feel stiffness in your muscles? Or have you been feeling exhausted throughout the entire day? Many people often feel stressed, overworked, and exhausted after a long day and need to find different ways to relieve stress. Whether going to the gym to work out or yoga class, many people should warm up for about 5-10 minutes to work out each muscle group to reduce muscle fatigue and stiffness. One of the tools that people should utilize is using a foam roller. Studies reveal that foam rolling before working out can improve muscle performance and flexibility and, at the same time, alleviate muscle fatigue and soreness.
Incorporating foam rolling as part of your warm-up can prevent issues like trigger point pain from causing more problems in the affected muscle group and causing more harm. Foam rolling has been known as a self-myofascial release (SMR) tool for many athletic people to relieve delay-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) and can help the recovery process for muscular performance. Studies show that when athletes have DOMS, their muscles are tender and stiff that which causes restricted movement. By foam rolling, each sore muscle group can get rolled out on a dense foam roll from the person’s body weight to apply pressure on the soft tissue. When performed correctly, the body’s range of motion will increase, and soft tissue restriction is prevented.
Foam Rolling To Reduce Trigger Point Pain
When the body has been overworked, the muscle fibers will start to overstretch and cause various issues in different body parts. When this happens, tiny, hard nodules form over time and cause referred pain to other body locations in each muscle group. This is known as myofascial pain syndrome or trigger points. Studies reveal that trigger point pain is when the affected muscles are either acute or chronic and cause pain in the surrounding connective tissues. Dr. Travell, M.D.’s book, “Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction,” mentioned that myofascial pain could cause somato-visceral dysfunction in the body as the affected muscles and nerves are correlated with the corresponding vital organs. This means that if someone is dealing with back pain, it could be an issue with their gut system. Now how does foam rolling help prevent trigger point pain? As mentioned earlier, foam rolling each muscle group can alleviate muscle soreness and improve blood circulation. Studies reveal that foam rolling on the muscle group affected by trigger point pain can increase blood flow to the affected muscle and reduce fascial inflammation in the body.
What Foam Rolling Does To The Body- Video
Have you been dealing with muscle soreness? Do you feel like you are constantly bending over or shuffling your feet? Or have you been experiencing constant aches and pains when stretching? If you have been dealing with these musculoskeletal issues, why not incorporate foam rolling as part of your routine? Many individuals have some pain that is affecting their muscles that is causing them pain. Regarding reducing pain, incorporating foam rolling on the affected muscles can increase blood flow to the muscle and reduce any symptoms associated with chronic conditions. Studies reveal that the combination of foam rolling and stretching before working out can provide these amazing benefits, which include the following:
Ease muscle pain
Increase range of motion
Reduce cellulite
Relieve back pain
Relive trigger points in muscles
The video above gives an excellent explanation of what foam rolling does to the body and why it provides relief to those different muscle groups. When people merge foam rolling with other treatments, it can benefit their health and wellness.
Foam Rolling & Chiropractic Care
As stated earlier, other various treatments can combine foam rolling to promote a healthy body. One of the treatments is chiropractic care. Chiropractic care incorporates mechanical and manual manipulation of the spine, especially in subluxation or spinal misalignment. When the spine is misaligned, it can cause muscle strain and mobility issues that can affect the body over time. So how does foam rolling play a part in chiropractic care? Well, a chiropractor or doctor of chiropractic can develop a plan to help manage the pain while treating the condition affecting the body. Since foam rolling is utilized in a warm-up session in association with physical therapy, many individuals who work with a personal trainer can incorporate foam rolling as part of their warm-up to loosen up stiff muscles and go to regular chiropractic treatments to improve muscle strength, mobility, and flexibility.
Conclusion
There are many beneficial properties that foam rolling can provide to the body. Foam rolling can allow blood circulation to the muscles while reducing muscle fatigue and soreness. Incorporating foam rolling as part of a daily warm-up can also prevent trigger points from forming in the muscle groups and can work out the tight knots that the muscle has occurred. At the same time, treatments like chiropractic care and physical therapy can combine foam rolling to promote health and wellness in the body and prevent muscle pain.
References
Konrad A, Nakamura M, Bernsteiner D, Tilp M. The Accumulated Effects of Foam Rolling Combined with Stretching on Range of Motion and Physical Performance: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Sports Sci Med. 2021 Jul 1;20(3):535-545. doi: 10.52082/jssm.2021.535. PMID: 34267594; PMCID: PMC8256518.
Pagaduan, Jeffrey Cayaban, et al. “Chronic Effects of Foam Rolling on Flexibility and Performance: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials.” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 4 Apr. 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8998857/.
Pearcey, Gregory E P, et al. “Foam Rolling for Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness and Recovery of Dynamic Performance Measures.” Journal of Athletic Training, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Jan. 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4299735/.
Shah, Jay P, et al. “Myofascial Trigger Points Then and Now: A Historical and Scientific Perspective.” PM & R : the Journal of Injury, Function, and Rehabilitation, U.S. National Library of Medicine, July 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4508225/.
Travell, J. G., et al. Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual: Vol. 2:the Lower Extremities. Williams & Wilkins, 1999.
Wiewelhove, Thimo, et al. “A Meta-Analysis of the Effects of Foam Rolling on Performance and Recovery.” Frontiers in Physiology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 9 Apr. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6465761/.
PODCAST: Dr. Alex Jimenez, Kenna Vaughn, Lizette Ortiz, and Daniel “Danny” Alvarado discuss nutrition and fitness during these times. During quarantine, people have become more interested in improving their overall health and wellness by following a proper diet and participating in exercise. The panel of experts in the following podcast offers a variety of tips and tricks on how you can improve your well-being. Moreover, Lizette Ortiz and Danny Alvarado discuss how they’ve been helping their clients achieve their optimal well-being during these COVID times. From eating fruits, vegetables, lean meats, good fats, and complex carbohydrates to avoiding sugars and simple carbohydrates like white pasta and bread, following a proper diet and participating in exercise and physical activity is a great way to continue to promote your overall health and wellness. – Podcast Insight
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Thank You & God Bless.
Dr. Alex Jimenez RN, DC, MSACP, CCST
PODCAST: Dr. Alex Jimenez and Dr. Marius Ruja discuss the importance of personalized medicine genetics and micronutrients for overall health and wellness. Following a proper diet and participating in exercise alone isn’t enough to make sure that the human body is functioning properly, especially in the case of athletes. Fortunately, there are a variety of tests available that can help people determine if they have any nutritional deficiencies that may be affecting their cells and tissues. Vitamin and mineral supplements can also ultimately help improve an individual’s overall health and wellness. While we may not be able to change certain aspects of our genes, Dr. Alex Jimenez and Dr. Marius Ruja discuss that following a proper diet and participating in exercise while taking the proper supplements, can benefit our genes and promote well-being. – 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
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