Back Clinic Sports Injuries Chiropractic and Physical Therapy Team. Athletes from all sports can benefit from chiropractic treatment. Adjustments can help treat injuries from high-impact sports i.e. wrestling, football, and hockey. Athletes that get routine adjustments may notice improved athletic performance, improved range of motion along with flexibility, and increased blood flow. Because spinal adjustments will reduce the irritation of the nerve roots between the vertebrae, the healing time from minor injuries can be shortened, which improves performance. Both high-impact and low-impact athletes can benefit from routine spinal adjustments.
For high-impact athletes, it increases performance and flexibility and lowers the risk for injury for low-impact athletes i.e. tennis players, bowlers, and golfers. Chiropractic is a natural way to treat and prevent different injuries and conditions that impact athletes. According to Dr. Jimenez, excessive training or improper gear, among other factors, are common causes of injury. Dr. Jimenez summarizes the various causes and effects of sports injuries on the athlete as well as explaining the types of treatments and rehabilitation methods that can help improve an athlete’s condition. For more information, please feel free to contact us at (915) 850-0900 or text to call Dr. Jimenez personally at (915) 540-8444.
Sinding-Larsen-Johansson, or SLJ, syndrome is a debilitating knee condition that most commonly affects teens during periods of rapid growth. The kneecap, or patella, is attached to the shinbone, or tibia, from the patellar tendon. The tendon connects to an expansion plate at the bottom of the kneecap throughout growth.
Repetitive stress on the patellar tendon can make the growth plate within the knee become inflamed and irritated. SLJ mainly develops in children and adolescents between the ages of 10 and 15 because that is when most people experience growth spurts. SLJ is most common in young athletes due to excess or repetitive strain in the knee.
Causes of SLJ Syndrome
The large muscle group at the front of the upper leg is known as the quadriceps. When straightening the leg, the quadriceps pull to deliver the leg forward. This puts pressure on the growth plate at the bottom of the kneecap. During rapid growth, the bones and muscles don’t always grow at precisely the same rate.
Since the bones grow, tendons and muscles can get tight and stretched. This increases the strain around the patellar tendon and also on the growth plate it’s attached to. Repetitive or extra stress and pressure in this area can cause the growth plate to become irritated and painful. Matters that can contribute to growing SLJ syndrome are comprised of:
Sports that involve a lot of running and jumping, such as field and track or other sports such as football, gymnastics, basketball, lacrosse, and field hockey, can place stress on the knees.
Increased or incorrect physical activity can add strain on the knees. Improper form while training, shoes that don’t support the toes or an unusual way of jogging can increase chances of SLJ syndrome.
Tight or stiff quadriceps muscles can also lead to SLJ syndrome. Muscles that are more powerful and more elastic will work better, reducing the strain on the patellar and kneecap tendon.
Activities that place more pressure on the knees or demanding tasks for the knees, such as lifting heavy items, walking up and down stairs, and squatting can cause SLJ syndrome. If there’s already pain on the knee, then these movements may make it worse.
Symptoms of SLJ Syndrome
Symptoms demonstrating the presence of�Sinding-Larsen-Johansson, or SLJ, syndrome include: pain at the front of the knee or near the bottom of the kneecap, as this is the main symptom of SLJ; swelling and tenderness around the kneecap; pain that increases with physical activities like jogging, climbing stairs, or leaping; pain that becomes more acute when kneeling or squatting; and a swollen or bony bump at the bottom of the kneecap.
Sinding-Larsen-Johansson, or SLJ, syndrome is medically referred to as a juvenile osteochondrosis which affects the patella tendon in the kneecap which attaches to the inferior pole of the patella in the shinbone. Commonly characterized by knee pain and inflammation, SLJ is considered an overuse knee injury rather than a traumatic injury. Sinding-Larsen-Johansson syndrome is similar to Osgood-Schlatter syndrome.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
Diagnosis of SLJ
Should you see a healthcare professional for knee problems, they will generally ask questions about how much pain the patient is experiencing and if they do any sports or other physical activities and exercises. Whether or not the patient has also had a recent growth spurt, the doctor will examine the patient’s knee for swelling and tenderness.
In very rare instances, the healthcare professional may also ask patients to acquire an X-ray or other imaging diagnostics, such as magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, to rule out other health issues like fracture or disease.
Prevention of SLJ
The most significant way that patients can prevent getting SLJ is to stop doing physical activities which cause pain in the knee. The patient should limit themselves before the pain goes off.
It is crucial to warm up well and stretch before exercising, playing sports or engaging in any other physical activities. A jog around the track for a couple of minutes and some dynamic stretching is enough to warm up the body.
If the quadriceps muscles are tight, then you might want to do some specialized exercise and physical activity routines. Talk to your healthcare professional, such as a chiropractor or physical therapist, to discuss what’s best for you. Doing a few stretches and warm up exercises after sports or physical activities can help prevent SLJ syndrome from developing.
Treatment of SLJ
The first and most important way to treat SLJ is to stop any action that causes irritation in the knee. It’s essential for a patient to not resume any physical activities without first being cleared by a healthcare professional.
SLJ can be challenging to treat since it may not completely resolve before the bones have completely matured and the growth plates are completely shut. During physical activities, knee pain may come and go in the meantime. Other treatments to help ease SLJ syndrome include:
Use the RICE formula.
Rest. Limit physical activities as much as possible and keep weight off the knee. Walking must be kept to a minimum.
Ice. Apply ice or a cold compress to the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes every few hours. Repeat this for 2 to 3 days or until the painful symptoms have decreased.
Compress. Give the knee additional support with a strap, a band, or a ribbon. This will also�help manage symptoms.
Elevate. Keep the knee higher than the heart to reduce swelling.
Take anti-inflammatory or painkilling drugs. Painkillers like acetaminophen and ibuprofen can help relieve pain and decrease swelling.
Begin a stretching and strengthening program. After the pain and tenderness on your knee have been gone, speak with your physician or sports injury professional about a physical rehabilitation program to strengthen the muscles of your leg and increase their flexibility and range of movement.
It’s easy to become impatient when sidelined by an injury, but the proper treatment can help build the strength needed for future physical activities.�The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic as well as to spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at�915-850-0900�.
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topic Discussion: Relieving Knee Pain without Surgery
Knee pain is a well-known symptom which can occur due to a variety of knee injuries and/or conditions, including sports injuries. The knee is one of the most complex joints in the human body as it is made-up of the intersection of four bones, four ligaments, various tendons, two menisci, and cartilage. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, the most common causes of knee pain include patellar subluxation, patellar tendinitis or jumper’s knee, and Osgood-Schlatter disease. Although knee pain is most likely to occur in people over 60 years old, knee pain can also occur in children and adolescents. Knee pain can be treated at home following the RICE methods, however, severe knee injuries may require immediate medical attention, including chiropractic care.
Patellar tendinitis is a common health issue characterized by the inflammation of the tendon which joins the kneecap, or patella, to the shinbone, or tibia. The knee pain associated with this problem may range from mild to severe depending on the circumstances of the knee injury.
Patellar tendinitis, or jumper’s knee, is a well-known sports injury among athletes who play in basketball and volleyball. Among recreational volleyball players, an estimated 14.4 percent of them have jumper’s knee, where the incidence is even higher for professional athletes. An estimated 40 to 50 percent of elite volleyball players have patellar tendinitis.
Causes of Patellar Tendinitis
Patellar tendinitis is caused by repetitive strain on the knee, most often from overuse in physical activities. Stress can create tears along the tendons which can cause inflammation in the complex structures of the knee.
Other contributing factors of patellar tendinitis include:
Tight or stiff leg muscles
Uneven leg muscle strength
Misaligned toes, ankles, and legs
Obesity
Sneakers without enough padding
Tough playing surfaces
Chronic health issues that weaken the tendon
Athletes have a higher chance of developing patellar tendinitis because running, jumping, and squatting put more force over the tendon. Running can place a force of as many as five times the body weight on the knees.
Intense physical activity for an extended amount of time has been previously associated with jumper’s knee. A 2014 research study noted that jump frequency was also a significant risk factor for amateur players.
Symptoms of Patellar Tendinitis
The initial symptoms of patellar tendinitis include pain,�discomfort, and tenderness at the base of the kneecap or patella. Other symptoms of patellar tendinitis may include a burning sensation. For many patients, getting up from a squat or kneeling down can also be particularly debilitating.
The pain associated with patellar tendinitis may be irregular at first, manifesting immediately after participating in physical activities. Damage or injury to the tendon can also make the pain worse. Jumper’s knee can affect regular daily activities, such as climbing stairs or sitting in a vehicle.
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Patellar tendinitis, also known as “jumper’s knee”, is a particularly common cause of pain and discomfort in the patellar region of many athletes. While it frequently occurs as a result of repetitive or continuous jumping, research studies have demonstrated that patellar tendinitis may be associated with stiff ankle movements and ankle sprains, among other sports injuries.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T. Insight
Patellar Tendinitis Diagnosis
At the start of a�consultation, the healthcare professional will first ask the patient about their specific health issue. The doctor will then physically evaluate the patient’s knee, probe for where they are feeling pain, and test the assortment of knee motion by bending and extending the patient’s leg.
Furthermore, the healthcare professional may additionally order imaging diagnostics to find out if there’s any damage or injury to the tendon or even the bone. These tests can help rule out a broken bone, or fracture. The doctor may use an X-ray to look for a displaced or fractured kneecap, and an MRI or an ultrasound to reveal any harm to the soft tissue.
Patellar Tendinitis Treatment
Treatment for patellar tendinitis depends on the damage or injury to the knee. Conservative steps to reduce pain, such as rest or exercises are generally the first line of treatment. The healthcare professional will usually recommend a span of controlled rest, where they will prevent the patient from engaging in physical activities that put�pressure on the knee.
Drugs and/or Medications
The healthcare professional may prescribe over-the-counter drugs and/or medications for short-term pain relief and inflammation reduction.
These can consist of:
Ibuprofen (Advil)
Naproxen sodium (Aleve)
cetaminophen (Tylenol)
If the patient’s symptoms are severe, the healthcare professional may recommend the use of corticosteroid injection in the area around the patellar tendon. This treatment is effective in reducing acute pain.
Another method of utilizing corticosteroid for patellar tendinitis is by spreading the medication over the affected knee and use a low electrical charge to push it through the skin, in a process known as iontophoresis.
Chiropractic Care and Physical Therapy
The goal of chiropractic care and physical therapy for patellar tendinitis is to reduce pain and inflammation, among other symptoms, as well as to strengthen the leg and thigh muscles with stretches and exercises.
If the patient’s symptoms are severe, even while resting, the doctor may recommend that you wear a brace and then use crutches to avoid additional damage or injury to the tendon. If the patient has no painful symptoms, then they can start participating in a physical therapy activities.
A rehabilitation program generally consists of:
A warm-up interval
Massage, heat or ice to the�knee
Stretching exercises
Strengthening exercises
A doctor of chiropractic, or chiropractor, may use ultrasound and electrical stimulation to relieve the patient’s knee pain. A�knee brace or taping of the knee might also help reduce pain by supporting the kneecap when engaging in physical activities. The healthcare professional may develop a workout program that may include a series of stretches and exercises.
Surgery
When other treatments are not effective in relieving painful symptoms associated with patellar tendinitis, the doctor may advise surgery to repair the patellar tendon. Traditional surgery involves opening the knee to scrape on the kneecap and tendon. More recently,�arthroscopic surgery is used for this particular process. This surgical intervention involves making four small incisions in the knee and it has a shorter recovery time.
The recovery period for surgery varies per procedure. Some surgical intervention advise for immobilization with a cast. Others suggest�an immediate rehabilitation program. Regardless of the level of damage and/or injury, it’s essential for patients to seek medical attention for their patellar tendinitis. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic as well as to spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at�915-850-0900�.
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topic Discussion: Relieving Knee Pain without Surgery
Knee pain is a well-known symptom which can occur due to a variety of knee injuries and/or conditions, including sports injuries. The knee is one of the most complex joints in the human body as it is made-up of the intersection of four bones, four ligaments, various tendons, two menisci, and cartilage. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, the most common causes of knee pain include patellar subluxation, patellar tendinitis or jumper’s knee, and Osgood-Schlatter disease. Although knee pain is most likely to occur in people over 60 years old, knee pain can also occur in children and adolescents. Knee pain can be treated at home following the RICE methods, however, severe knee injuries may require immediate medical attention, including chiropractic care.
Pain along the pelvis and groin region is known as osteitis pubis. Osteitis pubis develops through the inflammation of the pubic symphysis, or the joints of the major pelvic bones found at the front of the pelvis.
The pubic symphysis is a thin joint which generally provides very minimal motion. The joint retains the two sides of the pelvis together in the front, where they connect�at the sacrum in the rear side of the pelvis.
Osteitis Pubis Symptoms
Osteitis pubis is commonly characterized by pain in the front of the pelvis. Other causes of pelvic pain, such as a strain or a sprain, are frequently confused and diagnosed as osteitis pubis. While many patients report painful symptoms on one side, the�pain�typically occurs in the middle of the pelvis. Other symptoms of osteitis pubis include limping and weakness.
Osteitis Pubis Causes
For some patients, the pubic symphysis itself can become irritated and inflamed, causing the well-known symptoms of osteitis pubis. Other common causes of osteitis pubis comprise of: sports injuries, particularly from football, hockey, and soccer; pregnancy; gynecologic or abdominal surgical interventions; and trauma or injury from accidents.
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Osteitis pubis is known as the inflammation of the pubis symphysis which causes various degrees of lower abdominal, pelvic, and groin pain. Symptoms of osteitis pubis include pain and discomfort in the region of the pelvis when engaging in physical activities, and loss of flexibility. A variety of causes, including sports injuries, can cause osteitis pubis. Fortunately, rest alone can help treat this painful health issue.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T.
Osteitis Pubis Diagnosis
Diagnosis of osteitis pubis generally involves x-rays which demonstrate an irregular pubic symphysis with sclerotic, or thick, bone borders as a result of chronic inflammation. An MRI test is generally not required, however, it will help demonstrate the inflammation of the bone and the joint.
Additional tests may be performed to ensure there’s no infection in the bone which could also be causing symptoms similar to osteitis pubis. This complication is more of a concern for those patients who have had recent surgery or for those who are more prone to suffer from infections.
Osteitis Pubis Management
The most recommended treatment for osteitis pubis is rest. Since inflammation is the problem, the human body often only requires the joint to rest in order to heal correctly. Other treatment, however, consists of:
Rest
An essential treatment for osteitis pubis is rest as this will permit the intense inflammation in the pelvis and groin to subside. For many patients, rest alone is the only treatment necessary for their�osteitis pubis. If the pain is severe, crutches or a cane may provide additional assistance.
Ice and Heat
Ice packs and heating pads are among the most commonly used remedies for inflammation. Make sure to follow the instructions of your healthcare professional before utilizing ice and heat for your osteitis pubis symptoms.
Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care is a well-known, alternative treatment option for osteitis pubis. A doctor of chiropractic, or chiropractor, will utilize a variety of treatment methods and techniques, to help restore strength, mobility, and flexibility while rest is needed to subside the painful symptoms. Chiropractic care can also help correct any spinal misalignments which may be causing additional pain and discomfort for the patient.
Drugs and/or Medications
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and/or medications, commonly referred to as NSAIDs, are frequent prescriptions provided for patients with hip pain brought on by problems like arthritis, bursitis, and tendonitis.
Treatment of osteitis pubis may take some time to completely relieve the painful symptoms. The use of drugs and/or medications is demonstrated to be better than the other treatment options listed above, although attempts to heal osteitis pubis with cortisone injections have been tested.
Surgical interventions are generally not necessary for patients with osteitis pubis.�The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic as well as to spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at�915-850-0900�.
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Acute Back Pain
Back pain�is the most prevalent cause of disability worldwide and the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience back pain at least once throughout their life. The spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles, among other soft tissues. Because of this, injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as�herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of back pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of back pain, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have painful results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease back pain through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
Sciatica is a collection of symptoms in the low back, which radiate down one or both legs. Sciatica is generally caused by the compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the human body. One of the most common health issues that cause sciatic nerve pain is called piriformis syndrome. The piriformis muscle stretches from the front of the sacrum, the triangle-shaped bone between the hipbones on the pelvis.
The piriformis muscle extends to the top of the femur around the sciatic nerve. The femur, as previously mentioned, is the large bone in the upper leg. The piriformis muscle functions by helping the thigh move from side to side. A piriformis muscle spasm, or any other type of injury and/or condition along the piriformis muscle, can place pressure on the sciatic nerve and cause pain and discomfort. The result is piriformis�syndrome.
Piriformis Syndrome Causes and Symptoms
Sciatic nerve pain,�or sciatica, is one of the most prevalent�symptoms of piriformis syndrome. The pain and discomfort, however, may be felt in another part of the body. This is known as referred pain. Other common symptoms of piriformis syndrome include tingling sensations and numbness; tenderness;�difficulty sitting along with�pain while sitting and pain in the buttocks and thighs with physical activities.
The piriformis muscle can easily become damaged or injured from periods of inactivity or an excessive amount of exercise. Some common causes of piriformis syndrome include overuse; repetitive movements involving the legs; sitting for lengthy periods of time; lifting heavy objects; and extensive stair climbing. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries can also harm the piriformis muscle and cause it to compress the sciatic nerve.�
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Piriformis Syndrome Diagnosis
A doctor appointment for diagnosis of piriformis syndrome may include a review of the patient’s health history, their symptoms, and other probable causes of their pain and discomfort. If you recall straining a muscle during physical activity, be sure to share that information with your doctor. The�doctor may also perform a physical exam. The patient will participate in a series of range of movements to determine the cause of symptoms.
Some imaging tests may also be essential to help rule out other causes of piriformis syndrome. A CT scan or an MRI scan may help the healthcare professional determine whether even a herniated disc or arthritis is causing the patient’s pain and discomfort. An ultrasound of the piriformis muscle may also be helpful in diagnosing the problem if it seems that piriformis syndrome is causing the patient’s overall symptoms.
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Piriformis syndrome is a health issue associated with the compression or impingement of the sciatic nerve around the piriformis muscle. Symptoms may include pain and discomfort, tingling sensations and numbness along the low back, or sciatica. Chiropractic care is a well-known alternative treatment option which can help reduce the compression of the sciatic nerve and improve piriformis syndrome.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T.
Piriformis Syndrome Treatment
Piriformis syndrome may often not need any treatment to�relieve its symptoms. Just avoiding the physical activities which caused the pain and discomfort to manifest and rest can help improve the health issue. If symptoms do persist, however, alternating between ice and heat can help decrease pain. Apply ice for 15 to 20 minutes then use a heating pad on the affected area. Try that every couple of hours to help relieve symptoms.
Over-the-counter painkillers�may also help decrease pain and discomfort. The symptoms associated with piriformis syndrome can go away with no additional treatment, however, if it doesn’t, the patient might benefit from alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care or physical therapy. Chiropractic care is a treatment approach which utilizes spinal adjustments and manual manipulations to treat a variety of injuries and/or conditions.
A chiropractor,�or doctor of chiropractic, may also provide piriformis syndrome relief through the use of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator, or TENS, treatment. A TENS device is a handheld unit which sends electrical charges directly to the affected region of the piriformis muscle. The nerves are then stimulated by the electric energy, which interferes with pain signals being transmitted to the brain.
The chiropractor or physical therapist may also recommend a series of lifestyle modifications, including physical activity guidance and nutritional advice. Various stretches and exercises can help improve the strength, flexibility, and mobility of the�piriformis muscle. In severe cases of piriformis syndrome, corticosteroid injections or even surgical interventions may be required to help alleviate the symptoms.�The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic as well as to spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at�915-850-0900�.
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Chiropractic for Athletes with Back Pain
Back pain�is one of the most prevalent causes of disability and missed days at work worldwide. Back pain is the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience back pain at least once throughout their life. The spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles, among other soft tissues. Because of this, injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as�herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of back pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of back pain, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have painful results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease back pain through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
Athletic pubalgia is a debilitating health issue which affects the groin. The injury commonly happens through sports that use sudden changes of direction or intense twisting motions. Also referred to as a sports hernia, athletic pubalgia is characterized as a tear or strain in any soft tissue (muscle, tendon, ligament) of the abdominal or lower abdomen region.
Physiology of Athletic Pubalgia
The soft tissues most often affected by athletic pubalgia are the oblique muscles found in the lower abdomen, especially in the tendons that attach the oblique muscles to the pubic bone. In many instances, the joints that connect the thigh muscles to the pubic bone,�known as the adductor muscles, are also stretched or torn as a result of athletic pubalgia.
Physical activities which involve planting the feet and twisting with maximum exertion can cause athletic pubalgia. A sports hernia is most prevalent in vigorous sports, such as hockey, soccer, wrestling, and football. Athletic pubalgia�causes pain and discomfort in the groin region which typically gets better with rest but comes back with physical activity.
A sports�hernia does not result in a visible bulge in the groin, such as the well-known inguinal hernia does. As time passes, athletic pubalgia can lead to an inguinal hernia, and abdominal organs can push against the diminished cells to form a visible bulge. Without treatment, this sports injury could lead to chronic, disabling pain and other symptoms.
Healthcare Professional Diagnosis
During the first consultation, a doctor will discuss the individual’s symptoms and how the injury happened. To�diagnose athletic pubalgia, the healthcare professional will look for tenderness in the groin or above the pubis. Although a sports hernia may be related to an inguinal hernia, the doctor may not find any hernias during a physical examination.
Furthermore, to help determine the presence of athletic pubalgia, the healthcare professional will probably ask the patient to perform a sit-up or to�bend the trunk against resistance. If you have a sports hernia, these tests will be painful. The doctor may also require�x-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to help determine whether you have athletic pubalgia.�The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic as well as to spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at�915-850-0900�.
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Acute Back Pain
Back pain�is one of the most prevalent causes of disability and missed days at work worldwide. Back pain attributes to the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience back pain at least once throughout their life. The spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles, among other soft tissues. Because of this, injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as�herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of back pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of back pain, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have painful results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease back pain through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
Athletic pubalgia, also known as a hockey hernia,�hockey groin, Gilmore’s Groin,�sports hernia, or groin disruption, is a health issue of the pubic joint. It is a condition characterized by chronic groin pain in athletes and identified by a dilated ring of the inguinal canal. Soccer and ice hockey players are the athletes most commonly affected by athletic pubalgia, and both recreational and professional athletes can be impacted.
Athletic Pubalgia Symptoms
Symptoms of athletic pubalgia�generally manifest as pain following physical activity, most frequently through hip extension, and twisting and turning movements. The painful symptoms usually radiate into the adductor muscle region and the testicles, although it is often difficult for the individual to pinpoint the exact location of the�symptoms. Athletes with athletic pubalgia�experience soreness and stiffness after physical activity.
Any exertion which increases intra-abdominal pressure, such as sneezing or�coughing, as well as physical activity, can lead to pain. While pain in the stomach and pelvis can occur due to a variety of health issues, including injuries to the low back, or lumbar spine, the hip joint, the sacroiliac joint, and the abdomen, along with the genito-urinary system, diagnosis of athletic pubalgia demands skillful differentiation and evaluation.
Clinical Presentation of Athletic Pubalgia
The diagnosis of athletic pubalgia is based on the patient’s history, where healthcare professionals may also depend on the use�of magnetic resonance imaging,�or MRI. Symptoms can frequently be reproduced by certain movements, such as performing crunches or sit-ups. Pain associated with athletic pubalgia may also be elicited with the patient in a “frog posture,” in which the individual is supine with knees bent and heels together.
Many athletes experience concomitant fatigue or tearing of the�adductor muscles or labral tears of the hip. If there is stiffness in the adductor muscles post-injury, painful symptoms can manifest. Alternative treatment options should be to restore normal movement after the adductor has begun to heal, normally 6 to 8 weeks post-injury. Moreover, sleeping in a prone position with the hip on the affected side flexed and externally rotated can offer relief to some athletes with athletic pubalgia.
The precise prevalence of this health issue is unknown. Conservative therapies,�such as gentle stretching, may temporarily alleviate painful symptoms, however, definitive treatment options should be considered for long-term relief.�The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic as well as to spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at�915-850-0900�.
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Acute Back Pain
Back pain�is one of the most prevalent causes of disability and missed days at work worldwide. Back pain attributes to the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience back pain at least once throughout their life. The spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles, among other soft tissues. Because of this, injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as�herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of back pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of back pain, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have painful results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease back pain through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
The rectus femoris muscle attaches to the pelvis and just below the knee as it is one of four muscles found at the front part of the thigh. It functions by extending the knee and flexing the hip. The rectus femoris muscle is made up of�fibers which adapt to quick action. Rectus femoris muscle strain is caused by forceful movements, such as kicking a ball or when beginning to sprint, and it is particularly vulnerable to stress and pressure.
Painful symptoms generally manifest at the top of the thigh after the rectus femoris muscle suffers a strain or tear. In severe cases, the health issue may even become noticeable if the tissue is completely ruptured. Fortunately, complete tears are rare. Healthcare professionals will commonly use an MRI scan to diagnose the extent of the sports injury. Proper diagnosis and treatment�are�essential. A rectus femoris muscle strain should not be rushed, as individuals who return-to-sport too soon may suffer re-injury.
Treatment for Rectus Femoris Strain
According to many healthcare professionals, when it comes to sports injuries to the rectus femoris muscle, it’s crucial to immediately apply the RICE principle (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) to the affected thigh. This treatment aims to decrease bleeding and inflammation to the muscle. Also, it will help reduce painful symptoms after the injury. Based on how much pain has been experienced, simple painkillers might be utilized, although it’s best to attempt to prevent the use of these.
Once movement is restored enough to allow the individual to walk using their regular range of motion, and once the swelling has gone down, then you will have recovered from the acute phase of the injury. It would then be an excellent time to engage in physical activity, without inflicting damage or stress to the quadriceps muscles. This can be performed on an exercise bicycle or through swimming, where the weight is kept�off the limb. Stretches and gentle resistance exercises are crucial, as this will help to align the scar tissue that has formed during the healing process.
Recovery must be monitored so that improvements can be noted and the treatment shifted to help the rehabilitation process. It is hard to measure the length of time to complete recovery. It can take from six to eight weeks or even longer, although some people will commonly recover within one to four weeks.�The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic as well as to spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at�915-850-0900�.
Curated by Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Acute Back Pain
Back pain�is one of the most prevalent causes of disability and missed days at work worldwide. Back pain attributes to the second most common reason for doctor office visits, outnumbered only by upper-respiratory infections. Approximately 80 percent of the population will experience back pain at least once throughout their life. The spine is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, ligaments, and muscles, among other soft tissues. Because of this, injuries and/or aggravated conditions, such as�herniated discs, can eventually lead to symptoms of back pain. Sports injuries or automobile accident injuries are often the most frequent cause of back pain, however, sometimes the simplest of movements can have painful results. Fortunately, alternative treatment options, such as chiropractic care, can help ease back pain through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, ultimately improving pain relief.
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