Back Clinic Back Pain Chiropractic Treatment Team. At the El Paso Back Clinic, we take back pain very seriously.
After diagnosing the root cause of your discomfort/pain, we’ll do everything within our power to cure the area and relieve your symptoms.
Common causes of back pain:
There is an infinite number of forms of back pain, and a variety of injuries and diseases may cause discomfort in this area of the body. One of the most Frequent ones we see one of our patients in East Side El Paso and surrounding areas comprise:
Disc Herniation
Inside the backbone are flexible discs that cushion your bones and absorb shock. Whenever these discs are broken, they may compress a nerve leading to lower extremity numbness. StressWhen a muscle at the trunk is overexerted or hurt, causing stiffness and pain, this type of injury is generally classified as a back strain. This can be the consequence of attempting to lift an item that can result in excruciating pain and impairment and is too heavy. Diagnosing the underlying cause of your pain.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is characterized by the slow wearing down of protective cartilage. When the back is affected by this condition, it causes damage to the bones that results in chronic pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. SprainIf ligaments in your spine and back are stretched or torn, it’s called a spine sprain. Typically, this injury causes pain in the region. Spasms cause back muscles to overwork they may start to contract, and can even stay contracted– also called a muscle spasm. Muscle spasms can present with pain and stiffness until the strain resolves.
We want to accomplish the diagnosis straight away, integrating a background and exam along with state-of-the-art imaging, so we can provide you with the most efficient therapy choices. To begin, we will speak with you regarding your symptoms, which will provide us with critical information regarding your underlying condition. We’ll then perform a physical exam, during which we’ll check for posture issues, evaluate your spine and assess your backbone. If we guess injuries, like a disk or neurological injury, we’ll probably order imaging tests to obtain an analysis.
Regenerative remedies to your back pain. At the El Paso Back Clinic, you may be certain that you’re in the best possible hands with our Doctor of Chiropractic and Massage Therapist. Our purpose during your pain treatment isn’t only to relieve your symptoms — but also to avoid a recurrence and to treat your pain.
The human body has muscles surrounding and protecting the spine to prevent pain and disability. The spine is divided into three sections in the body: cervical, thoracic, and lumbar, which form an S-shape curve to promote stability and good posture. The spine has several discs, facet joints, and spinal nerves that work with the surrounding muscles, making the body mobile. However, various factors can pressure the spine, compressing the spinal discs and invoking referred pain to the surrounding muscles and tissues in different locations, leading to overlapping risk profiles if left untreated. This article focuses on the lumbar spine, explaining what vertebral pain syndrome is and how non-surgical treatments such as spinal decompression can restore mobility to the lumbar spine. We utilize and incorporate valuable information about our patients to certified medical providers using non-surgical therapies like spinal decompression to alleviate vertebral pain syndrome associated with the lumbar spine. We encourage while referring patients to associated medical providers based on their findings while supporting that education is a remarkable tool to ask our providers the essential questions at the patient’s request. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., comprises this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
An Overview Of the Lumbar Spine
We will concentrate on the lumbar spine, one of the three spine sections. The lumbar spine or low back begins at the T12 (the last thoracic vertebra) and ends at the S1 (the sacrum). It comprises five vertebrae with a common structure supporting the low back. These vertebrae are as follows:
The body
Pedicles
Laminae
Transverse processes
Spinous process
Superior/inferior articular processes
The lumbar spine has bigger and stronger bones that provide stability to the upper and lower parts of the body. Research studies reveal that the lumbar spine performs three essential functions that enable the body to function properly:
It supports the upper body.
It absorbs axial forces that move from the head to the trunk. This allows the muscles in the trunk to move without causing pain.
The lumbar spine forms a canal that safeguards the spinal cord and nerves.
The Structures Of the Lumbar Spine
The spine comprises several structures, including the vertebrae, spinal cord, spinal nerves, facet joints, and intervertebral discs. Each structure plays a unique role in keeping our bodies functioning properly. The vertebrae protect the spinal cord and nerves from injury, while the facet joints guide the motion of the vertebrae and help maintain stability. The spinal cord and nerves work with the central nervous system to send signals from the brain to the body for coordinating reflex actions. Intervertebral discs act as shock absorbers, allowing the spine to be flexible. Muscles, tissues, and ligaments protect the entire lumbar spine structure from pain. However, traumatic injuries or unwanted pressures can cause misalignment and low back pain. Low back pain is a common musculoskeletal complaint, and several factors can contribute to its development, often confused with vertebral pain syndrome associated with the lumbar spine, as research studies reveal.
Move Better, Live Better- Video
Do you have stiffness in your lower back or experience constant aches in certain regions? These may be signs of low back pain related to vertebral pain syndrome. Research shows that pathologic degeneration in the lumbar spine can cause low back pain, affecting all components. Several mechanical, traumatic, nutritional, and genetic factors contribute to spinal degeneration. However, non-surgical treatments can help reduce muscle pain and alleviate unwanted pressure on spinal discs. Chiropractic care and spinal decompression are two treatments that enhance mobility and function in the spine, relieving pain. The video above talks more about these treatments.
What Is Vertebral Pain Syndrome?
Experiencing pressure on the lumbar spine can result in various issues that can worsen low back pain. One of these issues is called vertebral pain syndrome. In “The Ultimate Spinal Decompression,” Dr. Eric Kaplan, D.C., FIAMA, and Dr. Perry Bard, D.C., explain that this syndrome occurs when environmental factors start affecting the lumbar spine. It can be caused by visceral pain in the lower back that disrupts neuron signals in the lumbar spine. This can irritate spinal nerves, leading to referred pain in the lower body. The book also mentions that vertebral pain syndrome can happen when the vertebrae end plates on spinal discs wear thin, causing pressure to move with the disc. This can inflame the spine, causing chronic low back pain.
How Spinal Decompression Alleviate Vertebral Pain Syndrome
How can non-surgical spinal decompression treatments help alleviate vertebral pain syndrome in the lumbar spine? Research studies revealed that spinal decompression could reduce pressure on the spinal disc and gently stretch the spine, restoring disc height. This treatment can relieve many people from low back pain and its associated symptoms. Moreover, it can rehydrate spinal discs by promoting the flow of blood and nutrients, which aids in the healing process to reduce the effects of vertebral pain syndrome.
Conclusion
Taking care of your spine is crucial as everyday factors can put pressure on it, causing damage to the spinal discs. This can lead to vertebral pain syndrome, which can cause lumbar back pain and referred pain linked to visceral problems. Luckily, spinal decompression therapy can ease the effects of this syndrome by gently stretching the spine and restoring hydration to the discs. Incorporating spinal decompression into your routine allows you to enjoy a pain-free life without worrying about lower back pain.
Kang, J.-I., Jeong, D.-K., & Choi, H. (2016). Effect of spinal decompression on the lumbar muscle activity and disk height in patients with herniated intervertebral disk. Journal of Physical Therapy Science, 28(11), 3125–3130. doi.org/10.1589/jpts.28.3125
Kaplan, E. & Bard, P. (2023). The Ultimate Spinal Decompression. JETLAUNCH.
Manfrè, L., & Van Goethem, J. (2020). Low Back Pain (J. Hodler, R. A. Kubik-Huch, & G. K. von Schulthess, Eds.). PubMed; Springer. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554336/
The spine is essential for maintaining our upright posture and allowing us to move without pain. The cervical, thoracic, and lumbar sections support different body areas. However, environmental factors and pathogens can cause musculoskeletal pain, leading to spine misalignment and stress on the surrounding muscles and nerve roots. Non-surgical treatments like IDD therapy can help realign the spine and relieve pain. We utilize and incorporate valuable information about our patients to certified medical providers using non-surgical treatments like IDD therapy to alleviate pain associated with musculoskeletal pain along the spine. We encourage and refer patients to associated medical providers based on their findings while supporting that education is a remarkable and fantastic way to ask our providers the essential questions at the patient’s acknowledgment. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., comprises this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
The Pathological Effects Of Musculoskeletal Pain On The Spine
Are you experiencing muscle pain in various parts of your body? Do you feel stiffness in your back, neck, hips, or shoulders? Or are you experiencing localized pain in a specific area? These are common symptoms of musculoskeletal pain, which affects the spine. Unfortunately, research studies reveal that musculoskeletal pain is a leading cause of long-term suffering, disability, and decreased productivity. This type of pain can strain the surrounding muscles in the upper and lower body, affect joints, and cause overlapping risk factors that make diagnosis challenging. Research studies also suggest that musculoskeletal pain can arise from different structures, leading to local or central sensitization and correlating pain intensity and duration.
Did you know that musculoskeletal pain can have pathological effects on the spine? Research studies revealed that the musculoskeletal system significantly impacts the central nervous system regarding pain. This means that when pain occurs in a certain area, neuron signals are sent to the brain, increasing sensitivity markers to that location. In the case of a traumatic spinal cord injury, these signals can become chaotic, leading to additional risk factors for the muscles surrounding the spine. This can result in musculoskeletal pain, which may cause referred pain in other body parts. Additionally, research has indicated that severe pathologies associated with the central nervous system can also lead to musculoskeletal pain. This is because the brain’s neuron signals alert the immune system that something is wrong and needs immediate attention.
The Science Of Motion-Video
Have you been experiencing stiffness or pain in different parts of your body? Do you feel discomfort lifting heavy objects or feel a pinched nerve in your lower back or legs? These daily issues could be caused by musculoskeletal pain affecting your spinal cord. Traumatic or non-specific issues can lead to overlapping risk profiles and the development of musculoskeletal pain associated with the spine. If the spinal column is affected, it can cause neuron signals to become hypersensitive, resulting in a misalignment of the body. Fortunately, non-surgical treatments can help realign and heal the body naturally, reducing the effects on affected muscles while allowing necessary nutrients and blood to flow back to the spine. The video above explains how non-surgical treatments like chiropractic care can harness the body’s ability to heal and restore stability through manual manipulation. Chiropractic care can also be combined with decompression therapy to stretch and alleviate pressure off the spine gently.
What Is IDD Therapy?
The musculoskeletal system depends on nerves, bones, and muscles for body structure and function. When affected by unwanted pathogens, it can cause pain in various areas and make a person feel miserable. Fortunately, non-surgical treatments like IDD therapy or intervertebral differential dynamic therapy can help reduce musculoskeletal pain affecting the spine. IDD therapy is decompression therapy that can help reduce pain by mobilizing and lengthening compressed spinal discs with special treatment forces. In “The Ultimate Spinal Decompression,” Dr. Eric Kaplan, D.C., FIAMA, and Dr. Perry Bard, D.C., states IDD therapy effectively alleviates spinal pain associated with the musculoskeletal system. The book also mentions that this therapy helps free the spinal discs and nerve roots as the compressed pressure is dropped. To that point, it allows the oxygen-riched blood and nutrients back to the spinal discs to begin the healing process, as research studies revealed.
Conclusion
When the spine experiences traumatic forces or injuries, it can result in musculoskeletal pain that can be constant and miserable for the individual. However, no one should have to endure such pain. The spine supports the upper and lower sections of the body and needs to be mobile to perform this task. Non-surgical treatments, such as IDD therapy, can help alleviate unwanted pressure off the spinal discs and nerve roots that have become hyper-sensitive due to trauma or injury. This decompression therapy can help restore mobility to the spine and rehydrate the spinal discs to begin the healing process. With IDD therapy, individuals can relieve pain and experience freedom of movement.
References
Arendt-Nielsen, L., Fernández-de-Las-Peñas, C., & Graven-Nielsen, T. (2011). Basic aspects of musculoskeletal pain: from acute to chronic pain. The Journal of manual & manipulative therapy, 19(4), 186–193. doi.org/10.1179/106698111X13129729551903
Bang, A. A., Bhojraj, S. Y., & Bang, A. T. (2021). Back pain and musculoskeletal pain as public health problems: Rural communities await solution. Journal of global health, 11, 01007. doi.org/10.7189/jogh.11.01007
George, S. Z., & Bishop, M. D. (2018). Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain is a Nervous System Disorder… Now What?. Physical therapy, 98(4), 209–213. doi.org/10.1093/ptj/pzy002
Kaplan, E. & Bard, P. (2023). The Ultimate Spinal Decompression. JETLAUNCH.
Puntillo, F., Giglio, M., Paladini, A., Perchiazzi, G., Viswanath, O., Urits, I., Sabbà, C., Varrassi, G., & Brienza, N. (2021). Pathophysiology of musculoskeletal pain: a narrative review. Therapeutic advances in musculoskeletal disease, 13, 1759720X21995067. doi.org/10.1177/1759720X21995067
Schimmel, J. J., de Kleuver, M., Horsting, P. P., Spruit, M., Jacobs, W. C., & van Limbeek, J. (2009). No effect of traction in patients with low back pain: a single centre, single blind, randomized controlled trial of Intervertebral Differential Dynamics Therapy. European spine journal : official publication of the European Spine Society, the European Spinal Deformity Society, and the European Section of the Cervical Spine Research Society, 18(12), 1843–1850. doi.org/10.1007/s00586-009-1044-3
One of the most prevalent types of pain worldwide is lumbar back pain, which affects many people and can be costly. This type of pain can be triggered by several environmental factors, which can overlap and cause referred pain throughout the body. Some factors linked to low back pain include those that impact people working for a living.
Age
Physical inactivity
Excess weight
Improper lifting
Excessive sitting
Stress
Wear and tear on the spinal discs
When environmental factors cause spine misalignment, the surrounding muscles become weak, tense, and strained. This can result in the body shifting its weight to alleviate pain. However, many non-surgical treatments are available to relieve low back pain and realign the spine. In this article, we will discuss how lumbar back pain affects the body and how non-surgical therapies such as vertebral axial decompression can help to reduce it. We utilize and incorporate valuable information about our patients to certified medical providers using non-surgical treatments like vertebral axial decompression to relieve pain associated with the lumbar spine. We encourage and refer patients to associated medical providers based on their findings while supporting that education is a remarkable and fantastic way to ask our providers the essential questions at the patient’s acknowledgment. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., comprises this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
What Is Lumbar Back Pain?
Research studies suggest that lumbar back pain is commonly experienced as a symptom in the midline or sacral region of the body. This pain can develop gradually due to unwanted pressure and weight on the spinal discs, which compresses the nerve roots surrounding the spinal cord. Based on additional studies, lumbar back pain is often categorized into two types for diagnosis.
Specific low back pain: overlapping symptoms are caused by pathological mechanisms like, herniated discs, infections, musculoskeletal disorders, fractures, or disc degeneration.
Non-specific low back pain: where overlapping symptoms are causing pain in the lumbar region without a specific cause. This form of low back pain causes referred pain to different locations.
Many individuals commonly suffer from non-specific lower back pain, which can be triggered by environmental factors and affect their daily function. However, there are methods to alleviate lumbar back pain without surgery.
From Injury to Recovery with Chiropractic Care-Video
Nobody must suffer from lumbar back pain, as many effective treatments are available to help realign the body back to normal. Non-surgical treatments like chiropractic care and decompression therapy can reduce the effects of lumbar back pain and realign the spine. These treatments can restore blood flow and nutrients to spinal discs, relieve the affected muscles, and be personalized to an individual’s health and wellness plan. This may include physical therapy to strengthen weak muscles surrounding the lumbar, nutritional advice to incorporate healthy whole foods to feed the body, and mindfulness practices to reduce the effects of stress on the body. Check out the video above to learn how to identify the root cause of health issues related to lumbar back pain and take steps toward your health and wellness journey.
What Is Vertebral Axial Decompression?
If you’re experiencing lumbar back pain, there are a variety of non-surgical and non-invasive treatments that can help alleviate the discomfort. One such treatment is decompression therapy, which involves gently pulling the spine to reduce pain and rehydrate the spinal disc. In this article, we’ll discuss vertebral axial decompression, a specific type of therapy. According to Dr. Eric Kaplan, D.C., FIAMA, and Dr. Perry Bard, D.C.’s book, “The Ultimate Spinal Decompression,” vertebral axial decompression can effectively reduce lumbar pain. Vertebral axial decompression (VAX-D) was developed by Dr. Allen Dyer, M.D., Ph.D. The book also explains that VAX-D uses a logarithmic time force curve to apply tension to the spinal column, bypassing muscle guarding reflexes in the lumbar spine and reducing disc pressure. Overall, vertebral axial decompression can be a useful treatment option for those with lumbar back pain.
How Does It Reduce Lumbar Back Pain?
Many individuals who suffer from lumbar back pain experience associated pain symptoms that affect their legs and feet. This is referred to as sciatica or leg pain associated with pressure on the spinal discs. Vertebral axial decompression is one effective solution to reduce this pressure and alleviate nerve root aggravation. Research studies have shown that this treatment can improve mobility, reduce pain in the lumbar spine, and minimize the effects of lumbar back pain. By lowering intradiscal pressure, vertebral axial decompression allows for better blood flow and nutrient absorption to rehydrate spinal discs.
Conclusion
Lumbar back pain is a common and costly issue that causes misalignment in the body by putting pressure on the spinal disc, resulting in referred pain in various body parts. Environmental factors can contribute to the development of this condition, causing muscles and nerves to become tense, weak, or strained. Fortunately, many treatments are available to alleviate lumbar spine pain and relieve pressure from the spinal discs. Decompression therapy is effective in restoring mobility and reducing pain. Vertebral axial decompression is a non-surgical option that gently stretches the spine and rehydrates the spinal disc, revitalizing the body.
References
Casser, Hans-Raimund, et al. “Acute Lumbar Back Pain.” Deutsches Arzteblatt International, 1 Apr. 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4857557/.
Goose, E E, et al. “Vertebral Axial Decompression Therapy for Pain Associated with Herniated or Degenerated Discs or Facet Syndrome: An Outcome Study.” Neurological Research, Apr. 1998, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9583577/.
Kaplan, Eric, and Perry Bard. The Ultimate Spinal Decompression. JETLAUNCH, 2023.
Koes, B W, et al. “Diagnosis and Treatment of Low Back Pain.” BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.), 17 June 2006, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1479671/.
Dealing with pain in muscles can cause multiple risks, leading to disability and unhappy life. Environmental factors play a role in shaping a person’s health and wellness journey. Eating habits, sleeping patterns, and physical activity levels affect the muscles, tissues, joints, and vital organs, all essential for a healthy body. However, pathogens and environmental factors can cause chronic conditions, challenging the body’s functioning. Fortunately, various treatments can reduce musculoskeletal pain and help revitalize the body. This article will discuss traction therapy and spinal decompression and how they can help alleviate musculoskeletal pain. We utilize and incorporate valuable information about our patients to certified medical providers using non-surgical treatments like traction therapy and spinal decompression to relieve musculoskeletal pain. We encourage and refer patients to associated medical providers based on their findings while supporting that education is a remarkable and fantastic way to ask our providers the essential questions at the patient’s acknowledgment. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., comprises this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
What Is Traction Therapy?
Are you experiencing referred pain in different parts of your body that seem connected? Are your muscles feeling tight or strained? Or have you noticed that you’re hunching over more than usual? If you’re dealing with musculoskeletal pain related to these issues, consider incorporating non-surgical treatments like spinal decompression and traction therapy to alleviate the pain. Research studies have revealed that traction therapy is a commonly used conservative treatment for reducing musculoskeletal pain along the spine. This therapy also reduces pain and relieves pressure on the spinal disc and nerves while restoring joint function. Physical therapists, massage therapists, and chiropractors frequently use traction therapy by applying gentle force to stretch and elongate soft tissues while restoring spine mobility. Traction therapy is known to be effective in treating musculoskeletal disorders such as herniated discs, sciatica, and referred musculoskeletal pain.
How Does It Help Musculoskeletal Pain?
When environmental factors cause pain issues in the body, they can cause damage to the spine, leading to muscles, spinal discs, and nerves compensating for the pain. This can result in referred pain in various body parts. Pain specialists use traction therapy to reduce the effects of musculoskeletal pain. Research indicates that technological changes and living standards can cause musculoskeletal pain and weaken muscle groups. Combined with non-invasive techniques, traction therapy can improve the body’s kinetic function by correcting spinal subluxation, rehydrating, and restoring the spinal disc. It can also help treat chronic musculoskeletal conditions related to spinal subluxation caused by musculoskeletal pain.
Revitalize and Rebuild with Chiropractic Care-Video
Do you suffer from muscle or joint pain, especially in your back? You may have noticed limited mobility or stiffness in your muscles. If so, you may be experiencing musculoskeletal pain associated with your spine. Fortunately, non-surgical treatments, such as spinal decompression and traction therapies, are available, which can help alleviate pressure on your spine and rehydrate your discs. These therapies stretch your muscles gently, reducing referred pain and restoring mobility to the affected joints. The video above demonstrates how these treatments can revitalize your body, reduce pain, and accelerate the healing process naturally. Additionally, physical therapy and chiropractic care can be combined with these treatments to promote optimal health and wellness.
What Is Spinal Decompression?
Have you ever experienced pain in different parts of your body due to issues with your spine? Spinal decompression therapy can help. It can alleviate musculoskeletal disorders associated with the spine and restore your body to normal. Spinal decompression reduces pressure on the spinal disc by gently stretching the spine and increasing hydration, which can decrease stress on the trapped nerve root. Studies have shown that it is a non-surgical option for individuals suffering from musculoskeletal pain.
How Do These Two Therapies Work Together?
“The Ultimate Spinal Decompression,” written by Dr. Eric Kaplan, D.C., FIAMA, and Dr. Perry Bard, D.C., explains that spinal decompression and traction therapy both address musculoskeletal pain related to the spine but in different ways. Traction therapy reduces pressure on the outer part of the spinal disc, while spinal decompression creates negative pressure inside the disc to hydrate it. Both treatments work together to restore blood flow and nutrients to the affected area and promote natural healing. These safe and non-invasive therapies have been reported to reduce pain after just a few sessions.
Conclusion
Regarding musculoskeletal pain, non-surgical treatments like traction therapy and spinal decompression allow the body to naturally heal itself by reducing pain through gentle stretching and remobilizing the joints. These non-invasive treatments help realign the body out of subluxation. Pain specialists can combine traction therapy and spinal decompression with associated therapies to help the individual be more mindful of their bodies while getting them back to their daily routine without worrying about constant pain.
References
Choi, Jioun, et al. “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, Feb. 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4339166/.
Kaplan, Eric, and Perry Bard. The Ultimate Spinal Decompression. JETLAUNCH, 2023.
Oh, Hyunju, et al. “The Impact of Manual Spinal Traction Therapy on the Pain and Oswestry Disability Index of Patients with Chronic Back Pain.” Journal of Physical Therapy Science, Dec. 2018, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6279706/.
Öten, Erol, et al. “Traction Therapy in Lumbar Disc Hernias: A Finite Element Analysis Study.” Joint Diseases and Related Surgery, 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9057540/.
Back pain is a common issue experienced by people all over the world. The human body’s main structure is the back, divided into three sections: cervical, thoracic, and lumbar. These sections help in body movement, including twisting and turning, moving the extremities, and have a relationship with the gut and central nervous system. The surrounding muscles in the back also provide support and protect the spine. However, normal activities like bending down to pick up a heavy object, sitting down for an extended period, or falling can cause changes that lead to back pain, misalignment, and risk profiles in the upper and lower extremities. Today’s article focuses on the causes of back pain and the treatments available to relieve its effects. We utilize and incorporate valuable information about our patients to certified medical providers using non-surgical treatments to reduce the impact of back pain. We encourage and refer patients to associated medical providers based on their findings while supporting that education is a remarkable and fantastic way to ask our providers the essential questions at the patient’s acknowledgment. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., comprises this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
An Overview Of Back Pain
Do you have pain in your upper, middle, or lower back? Do you experience aches and pains in the morning? Did lifting something heavy cause you pain? These symptoms could be signs of back pain, a common and costly reason for emergency room visits. Research studies reveal that back pain can have various causes and affect the entire body, either mechanically or non-specifically. The three sections of the back – cervical, thoracic, and lumbar – can all be impacted, causing referred pain in different parts of the body. For instance, cervical (upper) back pain can cause stiffness in the neck, while thoracic (middle) back pain can lead to shoulder and posture issues. Lumbar (low) back pain, the most common type, can cause hip and sciatic problems. Additional research studies reveal that back pain is a complex issue that can severely affect body function, and environmental factors can also influence it.
Causes Of Back Pain
Various factors can be the cause of back pain, thus resulting in spine misalignment. In their book, “The Ultimate Spinal Decompression,” Dr. Eric Kaplan, D.C., FIAMA, and Dr. Perry Bard, D.C., explain that the back muscles play a significant role in protecting the spine. Environmental factors can also impact the spine, leading to potential back pain. The book further notes that wear and tear and disc protrusion on the spine can result in disc herniation and degeneration, also associated with back pain. Some common causes of back pain include:
Visceral-somatic/Somato-visceral pain (Affected organ or muscle causes referred pain to different body parts)
Pregnancy
Further research indicates that various environmental factors, such as physical activity, lifestyle, stress, and work conditions, are associated with back pain and can overlap as risk factors. If left untreated, these environmental factors can lead to chronic conditions and significantly impact a person’s quality of life.
Chiropractic Secrets Exposed- Video
Have you been feeling numbness or tingling in your arms or legs? Do you experience back muscle pain when you stretch? Or do you feel pain in your low back or other parts of your body? These issues are often associated with back pain and, if left untreated, can lead to disability and loss of function. Fortunately, there are many ways to reduce back pain and its associated symptoms and promote natural healing. The video above explains how non-surgical treatments like chiropractic care can help alleviate back pain through manual manipulation. This treatment can realign the spine, stretch out tight muscles, and restore the body’s range of motion.
Treatments For Back Pain
If you are experiencing back pain, various treatments can help ease your symptoms and improve your mobility. You have two options for treating back pain: surgical and non-surgical. Surgical treatment may be necessary if you are experiencing nerve compression or have sustained an injury that requires spinal fusion. Non-surgical treatments can help relieve pressure on your spine, reduce back pain, and even alleviate pain in other areas of your body. Some non-surgical treatments for back pain include:
Physical therapy
Exercise
Chiropractic care
Acupuncture
Spinal Decompression
According to research, non-surgical treatments can alleviate pressure on spinal discs, loosen tight muscles, improve joint mobility, and promote natural healing. Many people supplement these treatments with healthy lifestyle choices, making small adjustments to their routine and paying closer attention to their physical well-being.
Conclusion
Since back pain is a widespread problem affecting people globally, it can be caused by various environmental factors that impact the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar back sections, leading to overlapping risk profiles and affecting different body parts. Tight and strained muscles and a compressed spine are common symptoms of this issue. However, treatments available can effectively reduce pain, stretch tight muscles, and relieve pressure off the spinal disc. By incorporating these treatments, individuals can alleviate back pain and allow their bodies to heal naturally.
References
Allegri, Massimo, et al. “Mechanisms of Low Back Pain: A Guide for Diagnosis and Therapy.” F1000Research, 28 June 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4926733/.
Casiano, Vincent E, et al. “Back Pain.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), 20 Feb. 2023, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538173/.
Choi, Jioun, et al. “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, Feb. 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4339166/.
Kaplan, Eric, and Perry Bard. The Ultimate Spinal Decompression. JETLAUNCH, 2023.
See, Qin Yong, et al. “Acute Low Back Pain: Diagnosis and Management.” Singapore Medical Journal, June 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8801838/.
Individuals may not be aware that back discomfort/pain symptoms can be connected to not staying hydrated. When the body is dehydrated, it reduces the amount of fluid in the spinal discs making them smaller, resulting in decreased cushioning and support for the spine. The stress can lead to swelling, causing further back discomfort, even a herniated disc. Individuals that experience frequent back pain could find relief by increasing their H2O consumption.
Staying Hydrated
Physical activity and healthy nutrition are important for healthy living. However, individuals can forget the basic need for water, often resulting in dehydration. The body needs to maintain hydration levels to function correctly. Dehydration can cause the body’s fascia/connective tissue which supports every cell and organ, to lose lubrication that allows the muscles to move, slide, and glide smoothly, causing stiffness, and tangled knots/trigger points, making movement difficult and painful.
The Body’s Overall Health
The body is 60% water.
Hydration replaces body fluids lost through exhaling, sweating, and waste elimination.
The body loses and needs to replace around 2-3 quarts of water daily.
Proper hydration regulates temperature, keeps the joints functioning smoothly, protects the spine, and facilitates waste removal.
Dehydration
Even being a little dehydrated is not healthy. Studies have shown that losing 1-2% of body weight without replacing fluids causes thinking and memory problems. A 4% deficit causes headaches, irritability, and sleepiness. Physical work or working outdoors without proper hydration impairs muscle endurance and strength. Dehydration stresses the spine even more which can cause painful swelling and bulged discs. Chronic pain conditions can be worsened by dehydration. This includes:
Overall stiffness
Headaches
Migraines
Joint pain
Arthritis
Fibromyalgia
All can be affected by dehydration.
Lack of water levels can lead to back pain because the discs between the vertebrae need fluid to cushion the bones. They begin to dry out when not properly hydrated, exacerbating back discomfort symptoms that could lead to similar symptoms in the neck or legs.
The spinal discs are filled with a gel substance of around 75% water.
The inner and outer rings/nucleus pulposus are made almost entirely of water.
Water is slowly released from the spinal discs throughout the day.
The discs absorb most of the shock from everyday movements while protecting the spinal cord.
The discs rehydrate during sleep.
Indicators of Dehydration
Other than back pain and discomfort, other symptoms of dehydration.
Fatigue
Irritability
Muscle Cramps
Headaches
Dark Urine
Dry Skin
Dry Eyes
Blurry Vision
Bad Breath
Dizziness
Fever
Caffeinated beverages – soft drinks, tea, and coffee count partly toward daily fluid intake. They do not dehydrate the body, but they can increase urination and are recommended not to be the primary source of liquids during the day.
Hydration
Throughout the day, drink plenty of water and move around and stretch to circulate the H2O.
Increase Water Intake
Sixty-four ounces, eight glasses per day, is the common recommendation.
Water intake encompasses all the liquids consumed in a day, including coffee, tea, and soup.
Foods like cantaloupe and watermelon count toward daily water consumption.
The best sources are water and drinks, primarily water sport replacement drinks, herbal teas, lemon water, and vegetable broth.
Drink more when working out and being active. More water is needed on top of the 64 ounces when active.
Keep hydrating long after the physical activity or workout is over.
When the brain signals thirst, the body is already dehydrated.
Stay ahead by sipping water throughout the day.
Keep a water bottle close by at school or work, refill it twice daily, and increase refills on hot days.
Monitor Hydration Levels
An easy way to assess dehydration is by looking at urine color.
Light yellow or clear is healthy.
Dark yellow or cloudy indicates dehydration.
The Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Team can realign the spine and body to optimal function and assist in developing a nutrition plan to maintain health and wellness.
Benefits Of Healthy Eating and Chiropractic Care
References
El-Sharkawy, Ahmed M et al. “Acute and chronic effects of hydration status on health.” Nutrition Reviews vol. 73 Suppl 2 (2015): 97-109. doi:10.1093/nutrit/nuv038
Johannaber, Kenneth, and Fadi A Fathallah. “Spinal disc hydration status during the simulated stooped posture.” Work (Reading, Mass.) vol. 41 Suppl 1 (2012): 2384-6. doi:10.3233/WOR-2012-0470-2384
Manz, Friedrich, and Andreas Wentz. “The importance of good hydration for the prevention of chronic diseases.” Nutrition Reviews vol. 63,6 Pt 2 (2005): S2-5. doi:10.1111/j.1753-4887.2005.tb00150.x
Ritz, Patrick, and Gilles Berrut. “The importance of good hydration for day-to-day health.” Nutrition Reviews vol. 63,6 Pt 2 (2005): S6-13. doi:10.1111/j.1753-4887.2005.tb00155.x
The human body and the musculoskeletal system have a unique relationship as they help the host move around, rest and provide many actions without feeling pain or discomfort. The musculoskeletal system has two portions, the upper and lower sections, with various muscles that allow mobility and stability while protecting the spine from numerous injuries the body has endured. However, many environmental factors and issues pertaining to the musculoskeletal system can affect the muscles, tendons, and ligaments, causing the muscle fibers to be short or overused from repetitive motions. To that point, which can lead to muscle injuries and pain that can be relieved from treatments and numerous stretching techniques. Today’s article focuses on how injuries are associated with overused muscles, how it affects the body, and how chiropractic care incorporates techniques like MET to relieve overused muscles. We provide and mention valuable information about our patients to certified medical providers who offer therapy treatments like the MET combined with chiropractic care for individuals with musculoskeletal pain correlated with overused injured muscles. We encourage each patient by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their findings appropriately. We acknowledge that education is a spectacular way when asking our providers the most helpful questions at the patient’s acknowledgment. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., utilizes this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
Injuries Associated With Overused Muscles
Have you been feeling aches and pains in your muscles? Do your legs feel tired constantly? Or have you suffered an injury causing your muscles to stiffen up? If you have been experiencing these pain-like symptoms, it could be due to overusing your muscles. When the musculoskeletal system has been dealing with stress overload from numerous repetitive motions, it causes the muscle fibers to develop symptoms of fatigue, weakness, and referred pain. Studies reveal that various risk factors associated with the musculoskeletal system correlate with overuse-related injuries. What this means is that when the injuries cause the involved body structures to develop symptoms of stress fractures associated with mechanical overload from repetitive trauma. Additional research studies mentioned that the influences from repetitive trauma could lead to a prolonged state of low-grade systemic inflammation in the joint and muscles in the body.
How Does It Affect The Body?
So what happens to the body when the muscle fibers are being overused? The referred pain associated with the musculoskeletal system causes dysfunction. Research studies have found that overuse of muscle injuries related to repetitive motion in the body causes microtrauma symptoms in the muscle, tendon, bone, or bursa. This causes the body to have insufficient recovery and produces painful arcs of motion on any joints. Leon Chaitow, N.D., D.O., and Judith Walker DeLany, L.M.T.’s book “Clinical Applications of Neuromuscular Techniques” stated that when the muscles are overused and injured, the “stress overload” has localized effects, which causes the musculoskeletal system to reach a point to break down. This causes symptoms to manifest as chronic fatigue and reduced performance efficiency. The book also stated that overuse injuries could involve certain muscles/tendons or bones to develop repetitive microtrauma over time. This causes the body to be dysfunctional and makes the individual feel tired, overworked, and stressed out due to not allowing the muscles to rest.
Chiropractic Care: The Nonsurgical Solution- Video
Have you been dealing with symptoms of muscle pain and weakness? Does your body feel exhausted after a long day doing errands? Or have you noticed any unexpected joint pain in certain parts of your body? Many people dealing with questionable musculoskeletal pain could be due to their muscles being overused and causing injuries. When the body goes through constant repetitive motions, it causes microtrauma in the musculoskeletal system, which correlates with muscle and joint pain. When this happens, pain-like symptoms develop over time and can cause the body to be overworked and different muscle groups to compensate for the pain by shifting the body. Luckily, numerous treatments are non-surgical that utilize techniques to reduce the pain and help gently stretch the muscles to return to normalcy. One of the treatments that are used for musculoskeletal pain is chiropractic care. The video above explains how chiropractic care incorporates various neuromuscular techniques to help realign the body from subluxation and reduce pain-like symptoms associated with musculoskeletal disorders.
How The MET Technique & Chiropractic Care Relieves Overuse Muscle Injuries
Treatments like chiropractic care are non-invasive and use neuromuscular techniques like MET (muscle energy technique) and manual manipulation to realign the body and help loosen up stiff muscles from experiencing more pain. Chiropractors or doctors of chiropractic will thoroughly examine while listening to the patient on where they are experiencing pain. After the examination, the chiropractor will utilize MET and various stretching techniques to loosen up the muscle fibers and restore their range of motion. Chiropractic care can help reduce the pain in the muscle while letting individuals be aware of their bodies. This can help many people to have a different mindset and listen to their bodies to reduce the effects of pain from returning and not repeat the actions in the future.
Conclusion
It is important to ensure that the musculoskeletal system is in pristine condition, as any pain-like symptoms can cause the muscle fibers to become overused, resulting in injuries and causing the body to be dysfunctional. When the body continuously goes through repetitive motions, it causes microtrauma tears in different body locations, causing the host to feel exhausted and deal with chronic pain. However, incorporating treatments like chiropractic care can help the body recover faster and prevent future injuries. This allows the body to naturally heal, restore itself from pain, and become functional again.
References
Aicale, R, et al. “Overuse Injuries in Sport: A Comprehensive Overview.” Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 5 Dec. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6282309/.
Chaitow, Leon, and Judith Walker DeLany. Clinical Application of Neuromuscular Techniques. Churchill Livingstone, 2002.
Neme, Jamil R. “Balancing Act: Muscle Imbalance Effects on Musculoskeletal Injuries.” Missouri Medicine, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9324710/.
Orejel Bustos, Amaranta, et al. “Overuse-Related Injuries of the Musculoskeletal System: Systematic Review and Quantitative Synthesis of Injuries, Locations, Risk Factors and Assessment Techniques.” Sensors (Basel, Switzerland), U.S. National Library of Medicine, 1 Apr. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8037357/.
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