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Chronic Pain

Back Clinic Chronic Pain Chiropractic Physical Therapy Team. Everyone feels pain from time to time. Cutting your finger or pulling a muscle, pain is your body’s way of telling you something is wrong. The injury heals, you stop hurting.

Chronic pain works differently. The body keeps hurting weeks, months, or even years after the injury. Doctors define chronic pain as any pain that lasts for 3 to 6 months or more. Chronic pain can affect your day-to-day life and mental health. Pain comes from a series of messages that run through the nervous system. When hurt, the injury turns on pain sensors in that area. They send a message in the form of an electrical signal, which travels from nerve to nerve until it reaches the brain. The brain processes the signal and sends out the message that the body is hurt.

Under normal circumstances, the signal stops when the cause of pain is resolved, the body repairs the wound on the finger or a torn muscle. But with chronic pain, the nerve signals keep firing even after the injury is healed.

Conditions that cause chronic pain can begin without any obvious cause. But for many, it starts after an injury or because of a health condition. Some of the leading causes:

Arthritis

Back problems

Fibromyalgia, a condition in which people feel muscle pain throughout their bodies

Infections

Migraines and other headaches

Nerve damage

Past injuries or surgeries

Symptoms

The pain can range from mild to severe and can continue day after day or come and go. It can feel like:

A dull ache

Burning

Shooting

Soreness

Squeezing

Stiffness

Stinging

Throbbing

For answers to any questions you may have please call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900


IDD Therapy Treatment Protocols For Spinal Decompression

IDD Therapy Treatment Protocols For Spinal Decompression

Introduction

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

 

What Is IDD Therapy?

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

 

 

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


Home Exercise For Pain Relief- Video

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


IDD Treatment Protocols

 

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

 

The Treatment Schedule

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

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

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

 

Pre-& Post-Session Physical Therapy

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

 

Conclusion

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

 

References

Disclaimer

The Real Cost Of Back Pain

The Real Cost Of Back Pain

Introduction

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

 

The Burden Of Chronic Back Pain

 

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

 

The Economic Cost Of Back Pain

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

 


Reducing Soft Tissue Injuries With Chiropractic-Video

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


The Effects Of Spinal Decompression On Back Pain

 

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

 

Conclusion

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

 

References

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

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

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

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

Disclaimer

Posterior Cervical Compression Alleviated By Spinal Decompression

Posterior Cervical Compression Alleviated By Spinal Decompression

Introduction

The neck is an extremely flexible part of the upper body that allows the head to move without causing pain or discomfort. It is part of the musculoskeletal system‘s cervical spinal region, which supports the spinal column and is surrounded by various muscles, tissues, and ligaments that protect the spinal cord. However, poor posture, spending too much time hunched over a computer, or looking down at our cellphones can cause neck muscles to become overstretched, leading to compression of the cervical spinal discs. This can cause the cervical discs to bulge or herniate, aggravating the spinal cord and causing neck pain and other associated conditions. This post will discuss how cervical disc compression affects neck pain and how decompression surgery and spinal decompression can help alleviate this condition. We work with certified medical providers who use our patients’ valuable information to treat individuals dealing with cervical disc compression affecting their necks and causes mobility issues. We encourage patients to ask essential questions and seek education from our associated medical providers about their condition. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., provides this information as an educational service. Disclaimer

 

What Is Cervical Disc Compression?

 

Have you been experiencing neck pain or muscle aches in your shoulders? Do you feel numbness or tingling running down your arms and fingers? These symptoms may be signs of cervical disc compression. The cervical spinal discs act as shock absorbers for the spine, preventing unwanted pressure and mobility issues. Research studies revealed that age-related degenerative properties like dehydration could cause herniated and compressed cervical discs, leading to posterior disc protrusion into the spinal cord. Trauma can also cause extreme hyperflexion or hyperextension of the posterior neck muscles, resulting in various neck symptoms. Additional research studies stated cervical disc displacement could cause compression or impingement on spinal nerve roots, leading to inflammation and neck pain.

 

How Is It Associated With Neck Pain?

When the spinal cord and nerve roots in the cervical region are affected by cervical disc compression, the pain can be dull or sharp, depending on how it affects many individuals. According to research studies, many people are unaware that repetitive normal factors or traumatic forces can cause a challenge in determining the origin of the pain from symptomatic or asymptomatic disc compression. Additional research studies mentioned that cervical disc compression could cause upper and lower extremities abnormalities, such as loss of deep tendon reflexes in the arms and legs, loss of motor function in the hands and feet, muscle weakness, headaches, and gait imbalances. However, various treatments can alleviate the pain-like symptoms associated with cervical disc compression and help the body’s natural healing process.


From Inflammation To Healing-Video

Are you experiencing inflammation and pain in your neck? Do you notice a tingling or numb sensation in your hands or feet? Or do you feel stiffness in your shoulders or neck? These symptoms can be caused by compressed cervical discs, which many people are unaware of. The compression of cervical discs is a common source of neck pain and can even cause referred pain in the upper and lower extremities. Repetitive motions to the neck can cause the posterior neck muscles to overstretch and lead to pain. Normal or traumatic factors can also lead to neck pain associated with cervical disc compression, resulting in disc herniation. Fortunately, non-surgical therapies like chiropractic care and spinal decompression can help alleviate the symptoms of pain, discomfort, and inflammation caused by cervical disc compression. Check out the video above for more information on these treatments.


Posterior Cervical Disc Decompression Surgery

If you experience cervical compression on your neck, it can lead to persistent neck pain and discomfort if left untreated. Many people opt for posterior cervical disc decompression surgery to alleviate the effects of disc herniation. According to “The Ultimate Spinal Decompression” by Dr. Perry Bard, D.C., and Dr. Eric Kaplan, D.C., FIAMA, cervical disc herniation can sometimes affect the back of the neck and cause persistent pain. In such cases, decompression surgery is often performed. During the procedure, a small incision is made at the back of the neck, and a portion of the damaged disc is removed to ease the irritated nerve. This brings relief to the individual suffering from neck pain.

 

Non-Surgical Decompression For Compressed Cervical Disc

 

If you’re not interested in surgery for cervical disc compression, consider non-surgical spinal decompression instead. Studies have shown that spinal decompression is a safe, non-invasive treatment involving gentle cervical spine traction to reposition the herniated disc. This treatment can also help rehydrate the spinal disc by bringing in nutrients and oxygenated blood to promote natural healing. Additionally, spinal decompression can alleviate any remaining symptoms of neck pain.

 

Conclusion

The neck is a highly flexible area that enables smooth head movement without discomfort or pain. However, it is also a part of the musculoskeletal cervical region that can be prone to injuries. Compression of the disc due to normal or traumatic factors can result in herniation, causing pain if left untreated. Fortunately, several treatments are available to alleviate neck pain caused by cervical compression and make the neck mobile again.

 

References

Amjad, F., Mohseni-Bandpei, M. A., Gilani, S. A., Ahmad, A., & Hanif, A. (2022). Effects of non-surgical decompression therapy in addition to routine physical therapy on pain, range of motion, endurance, functional disability and quality of life versus routine physical therapy alone in patients with lumbar radiculopathy; a randomized controlled trial. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, 23(1). doi.org/10.1186/s12891-022-05196-x

Choi, S. H., & Kang, C.-N. (2020). Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy: Pathophysiology and Current Treatment Strategies. Asian Spine Journal, 14(5), 710–720. doi.org/10.31616/asj.2020.0490

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

McGilvery, W., Eastin, M., Sen, A., & Witkos, M. (2019). Self Manipulated Cervical Spine Leads to Posterior Disc Herniation and Spinal Stenosis. Brain Sciences, 9(6), 125. doi.org/10.3390/brainsci9060125

Peng, B., & DePalma, M. J. (2018). Cervical disc degeneration and neck pain. Journal of Pain Research, Volume 11, 2853–2857. doi.org/10.2147/jpr.s180018

Yeung, J. T., Johnson, J. I., & Karim, A. S. (2012). Cervical disc herniation presenting with neck pain and contralateral symptoms: a case report. Journal of Medical Case Reports, 6(1). doi.org/10.1186/1752-1947-6-166

Disclaimer

Finding Relief From Low Back Pain With Spinal Decompression

Finding Relief From Low Back Pain With Spinal Decompression

Introduction

Lower back pain is a common problem that affects many people worldwide. It can hinder individuals from engaging in physical activities or working on important projects. Failure to treat it promptly can result in disability. Chronic musculoskeletal conditions can also be associated with low back pain, causing the body and spine to misalign and surrounding muscles to overexert themselves, thereby affecting lower body extremities. This article explores the effects of low back pain on the body and the various treatment options available to relieve it. We work with certified medical providers who use our patients’ valuable information to provide low back pain treatments for individuals with musculoskeletal pain related to their lumbar spine. We encourage patients to ask essential questions and seek education from our associated medical providers about their condition. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., provides this information as an educational service. Disclaimer

 

Low Back Pain Causing More Issues In The Body

Are you experiencing discomfort in your lower back? Do you feel stiffness or pain when stretching? Have you felt a radiating pain down your legs? Many people worldwide have dealt with low back pain, a common issue. Research studies reveal that low back pain represents a complex social and economic problem, as it can lead to various issues that overlap and can stem from many potential sources affecting the abdominal cavity in the body. These include nerve roots, muscles, fascial structures, bones and joints, intervertebral discs, and organs. Research studies also indicate that various factors can contribute to the development of low back pain and impact an individual’s routine function. 

 

 

Since low back pain is complex, it is often associated with other musculoskeletal disorders affecting the lower extremities. Some factors contributing to low back pain include prolonged sitting, lifting and carrying heavy objects, poor posture, working with power tools, and vibrating workstations. Many individuals try to continue their routine despite experiencing low back pain, hoping it will go away independently. However, repetitive motions can cause the pain to recur, leading to spinal subluxation. Fortunately, there are ways to manage low back pain while reducing its associated symptoms.

 


The Hidden Link Of Chiropractic Care & Metabolism-Video

Low back pain is a common issue affecting millions of people worldwide. Multiple factors can contribute to its development, and the severity of the problem can vary. Treatment is often sought to reduce symptoms and promote healing. Research studies revealed that holistic and flexible approaches, such as chiropractic care, can effectively alleviate low back pain and its effects on the abdominals and lower extremities. Combining chiropractic care with other therapies can help individuals recover quickly and effectively. Check out the video above for more information on how chiropractic care and the body’s metabolism can help address low back pain and its overlapping risk profiles.


Various Treatments For Low Back Pain

 

Low back pain is a frequent problem that can make even the simplest tasks challenging and uncomfortable. Research studies revealed that low back pain is often undertreated due to its complex nature and potential for overlapping risk factors that can cause additional symptoms. Fortunately, various treatments are available to relieve the associated symptoms and realign the body. Down below are some of the remedies to alleviate low back pain.

 

Medications

While medications can temporarily relieve back pain, they may only work for acute low back pain. For those with chronic low back pain, taking medications can result in unwanted side effects that may worsen pre-existing conditions. According to Dr. Eric Kaplan, D.C., FIAMA, and Dr. Perry Bard, D.C., authors of “Ultimate Spinal Decompression,” over-the-counter NSAIDs and acetaminophen can be helpful for low back pain, but taking more than the recommended dosage can have negative effects on the body.

 

Spinal Decompression

Chronic low back pain can significantly impact people’s lives, so many opt for non-invasive treatments. These treatments are not only safer than invasive options, but they are also cost-effective and gentle. One such treatment is spinal decompression, which has been shown to improve lower back pain, according to research studies. This technique uses gentle traction to alleviate low back pain caused by compression on the spinal discs and nerve roots. Spinal decompression is a safe and non-invasive solution that can help improve mobility in the lower back. By alleviating affected nerve roots instead of aggravating them, patients can experience relief from chronic low back pain.

 

Conclusion

Experiencing low back pain can greatly affect your health and wellness, causing you to miss out on important activities and work. Unfortunately, this is a common issue that affects many individuals. When left untreated, low back pain can lead to more chronic problems and misaligned body posture. However, spinal decompression is a gentle traction technique that can help relieve low back pain by releasing aggravating nerve roots and stretching affected muscles. This treatment can be very effective and enable many individuals to return to normal activities without pain.

 

References

Allegri, M., Montella, S., Salici, F., Valente, A., Marchesini, M., Compagnone, C., Baciarello, M., Manferdini, M. E., & Fanelli, G. (2016). Mechanisms of low back pain: a guide for diagnosis and therapy. F1000Research, 5(2), 1530. doi.org/10.12688/f1000research.8105.1

Grabovac, I., & Dorner, T. E. (2019). Association between low back pain and various everyday performances. Wiener Klinische Wochenschrift, 131(21-22), 541–549. doi.org/10.1007/s00508-019-01542-7

Jones, A. D. R., Wafai, A. M., & Easterbrook, A. L. (2014). Improvement in low back pain following spinal decompression: observational study of 119 patients. 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, 23(1), 135–141. doi.org/10.1007/s00586-013-2964-5

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

Steinmetz, A. (2022). Back pain treatment: a new perspective. Therapeutic Advances in Musculoskeletal Disease, 14, 1759720X2211002. doi.org/10.1177/1759720×221100293

Wong, A. Y., Karppinen, J., & Samartzis, D. (2017). Low back pain in older adults: risk factors, management options and future directions. Scoliosis and Spinal Disorders, 12(1), 1–23. doi.org/10.1186/s13013-017-0121-3

Disclaimer

Meeting El Paso’s Gender-Affirming Care Needs For LGBT+

Meeting El Paso’s Gender-Affirming Care Needs For LGBT+

Introduction

It can be challenging to find the proper treatment for general aches and pains in the body due to various environmental factors. These factors, such as home life, physical activity, and work conditions, can lead to overlapping symptoms that negatively impact a person’s mental and emotional well-being. If left untreated and depending on the severity, these symptoms can develop into chronic conditions. However, individuals can find personalized solutions to reduce pain and discomfort by taking charge of their health and wellness. This article will explore gender-affirming care, a treatment that can benefit the LGBT+ community, and non-surgical options like spinal decompression and chiropractic care. We work with certified medical providers who use our patients’ valuable information to provide treatments like gender-affirming care for individuals with general body pain. We encourage patients to ask essential questions and seek education from our associated medical providers about their condition. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., provides this information as an educational service. Disclaimer

What Is Gender-Affirming Care?

When seeking treatment, people often research and find the care that best suits their needs. One treatment that has been shown to impact many individuals positively is gender-affirming care. Research studies revealed that this process could address gender affirmation through various means, including clothing, hair, voice and pronouns, name changes, medical and surgical care, and social transition. People may use gender-affirming care uniquely to receive the treatment they deserve. Research also suggests that gender-affirming care should be multidisciplinary, involving diagnostic assessments, psychotherapy/counseling, and therapies. Many individuals in the LGBT+ community seek gender-affirming care to improve their mental and physical well-being, which can be life-saving.

 

How Does Gender-Affirming Care Help The LGBT+?

Gender-affirming care is an important aspect of supporting the LGBT+ community. It involves acknowledging and accepting a person’s gender identity and making necessary changes to help them express it. Creating a safe and positive environment for gender-affirming care can significantly improve the experience, health outcomes, and life quality of many individuals in the LGBT+ community, particularly those who identify as transgender. It’s important to understand the meaning of “gender” and “affirming” to provide effective care. Gender refers to how society perceives a person’s sex as either male/man or female/woman, while affirming involves accepting and validating a person’s identity. Research studies have revealed that gender-affirming care positively impacts the LGBT+ community, making it a crucial component of healthcare for this population.

 

 

In the LGBT+ community, the “T” stands for transgender individuals with a gender identity that does not match their assigned sex at birth. This can include:

  • Transgender woman: Male-to-female, assigned male at birth, lives female/affirmed woman, transfeminine spectrum
  • Transgender man: Female-to-male, assigned female at birth, live male/affirmed man, transmasculine spectrum
  • Transexual: individuals in the transgender community who has transitioned to the opposite sex, often including sexual reassignment surgery

Many transgender people seek gender-affirming care to improve their overall health and well-being by making changes to align their bodies and mind. Unfortunately, there are barriers associated with accessing gender-affirming care.

 

Barriers Associated With Gender-Affirming Care

Accessing gender-affirming care can be a barrier for many in the LGBT+ community, leading to poor mental health, decreased social support, and discrimination. Research studies revealed that these burdens can contribute to developing body dysmorphia and associated symptoms. Research has shown that individuals with body dysmorphia may develop comorbid disorders during general examinations, including gender dysmorphia, which can lead to distress for the patient. However, creating a safe and respectful environment for the LGBT+ community is possible by providing personalized gender-affirming care. The Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Team is committed to building a positive space for individuals who identify as transgender and alleviating pain-like symptoms through personalized treatment plans.


The Benefits of a Healthy Diet & Chiropractic Care- Video


Beneficial Treatments Utilize In Gender-Affirming Care

 

There is hope for individuals seeking gender-affirming care, as many beneficial treatments are available. Non-surgical options such as spinal decompression and chiropractic care can ease musculoskeletal issues and educate patients on environmental factors that affect their well-being. Hormone, physical, and mental therapy are important for personalized care plans, making them affordable and ensuring safety. Individuals in the LGBT+ community face unique health challenges, and having a safe and positive space can make their health and wellness journey more manageable.

 

References

Bhatt, N., Cannella, J., & Gentile, J. P. (2022). Gender-affirming Care for Transgender Patients. Innovations in Clinical Neuroscience, 19(4-6), 23–32. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9341318/

Carroll, R., & Bisshop, F. (2022). What you need to know about gender‐affirming healthcare. Emergency Medicine Australasia, 34(3). doi.org/10.1111/1742-6723.13990

Grant, J. E., Lust, K., & Chamberlain, S. R. (2019). Body dysmorphic disorder and its relationship to sexuality, impulsivity, and addiction. Psychiatry Research, 273, 260–265. doi.org/10.1016/j.psychres.2019.01.036

Hashemi, L., Weinreb, J., Weimer, A. K., & Weiss, R. L. (2018). Transgender Care in the Primary Care Setting: A Review of Guidelines and Literature. Federal Practitioner, 35(7), 30–37. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6368014/

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

Tordoff, D. M., Wanta, J. W., Collin, A., Stepney, C., Inwards-Breland, D. J., & Ahrens, K. (2022). Mental Health Outcomes in Transgender and Nonbinary Youths Receiving Gender-Affirming Care. JAMA Network Open, 5(2). doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.0978

Disclaimer

Epidural & Spinal Decompression Therapy

Epidural & Spinal Decompression Therapy

Introduction

The lower back plays a huge, important role in providing stability to the body and supporting the weight of the upper portion. It comprises the lumbar spine, which starts at the bottom of the thoracic spine region (T12) and ends at the sacral region (S1). The lumbar spine is surrounded by muscles, ligaments, and nerves that control functions such as leg movement, bowel and bladder control. Excessive pressure on the lumbar spine can lead to low back pain and other issues that can cause disability and dysfunction. This common issue affects many people, leading to missed work and limited daily activities. Fortunately, there are available treatments, both surgical and non-surgical, that can help reduce the effects of low back pain and its associated symptoms. Two such treatments are epidural injections and spinal decompression. We work with certified medical providers who use our patients’ valuable information to provide musculoskeletal therapies for low back pain that can affect the lower body extremities. We encourage patients to ask essential questions and seek education from our associated medical providers about their condition. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., provides this information as an educational service. Disclaimer

 

What Are Epidural Steroid Injections?

 

Are you experiencing low back pain? Does it prevent you from working or participating in activities? Have you noticed any pain radiating down your legs or feet? These symptoms are often associated with low back pain and can limit mobility. Many people suffer from low back pain, leading to missed work. The causes include disc herniation, arthritis, and nerve compression. For relief, some people turn to epidural injections. Research studies revealed that these injections could help reduce pain caused by spinal nerve root issues affecting surrounding muscles. As additional studies showed, epidural injections are a minimally invasive procedure involving injecting local anesthetics or steroids into the epidural space where the pain originates in the spine, and they have proven to be an effective treatment option.

 

How Do Epidural Injections Reduce Low Back Pain?

Low back pain can cause several symptoms, such as radiating pain down to the back, hips, and legs, numbness, tingling sensations, muscle spasms, and joint dysfunction. Some people opt for an epidural injection containing an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid to ease the pain. In “The Ultimate Spinal Decompression,” Dr. Eric Kaplan, D.C., FIAMA, and Dr. Perry Bard, D.C., stated that this hormone is injected into the affected area near the spinal cord but outside the surrounding membranes. While epidural injections are a common interventional treatment for spine-related issues, they only provide temporary relief and do not address where the root cause of the pain. However, they can help individuals manage chronic pain and engage in collaborative or alternative treatments to alleviate the pain-like symptoms associated with low back pain.

 


Say Goodbye To Pain With Chiropractic Care-Video

Are you experiencing pain radiating in your back or legs that spread outwards? Do you feel strain in your muscles when lifting heavy items or struggle to walk short distances? These symptoms are often associated with low back pain and can lead to a life of disability. This can be especially challenging if it prevents you from working. Fortunately, surgical and non-surgical treatments can reduce pain and address risk factors associated with low back pain. While surgical treatments are an option, they can be expensive. Many individuals opt for non-surgical treatments, which are safe, gentle, and cost-effective. These treatments can identify the root cause of the problem and incorporate various techniques to reduce pain symptoms. For example, chiropractic care and spinal decompression can help realign the body, reduce pain, and promote the body’s natural healing process to ease low back pain, as demonstrated in the video above.


The Effects Of Spinal Decompression On Low Back Pain

 

Consider trying spinal decompression if an epidural injection for low back pain doesn’t work. Low back pain can be caused by pressure on spinal discs and nerves. Spinal decompression is a safe and gentle non-invasive treatment. Research shows it can gently pull discs back into place, relieve pain, and improve joint function using negative pressure. This treatment allows muscles to relax and reduces nerve stress, promoting the body’s natural healing process and increasing disc height. With spinal decompression, individuals can learn how to prevent low back pain from recurring by being more mindful of their actions.

 

Conclusion

You may benefit from epidural injections and spinal decompression if you are suffering from low back pain. Low back pain can be disabling and cause you to miss work. These treatments can relieve pain by reducing pressure on the nerve roots and easing referred pain. By using these treatments, you can experience relief and return to your daily activities with a greater understanding of how to care for your low back.

 

References

Carassiti, M., Pascarella, G., Strumia, A., Russo, F., Papalia, G. F., Cataldo, R., Gargano, F., Costa, F., Pierri, M., De Tommasi, F., Massaroni, C., Schena, E., & Agrò, F. E. (2021). Epidural Steroid Injections for Low Back Pain: A Narrative Review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(1), 231. doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19010231

Choi, E., Gil, H. Y., Ju, J., Han, W. K., Nahm, F. S., & Lee, P.-B. (2022). Effect of Nonsurgical Spinal Decompression on Intensity of Pain and Herniated Disc Volume in Subacute Lumbar Herniated Disc. International Journal of Clinical Practice, 2022, 1–9. doi.org/10.1155/2022/6343837

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

Patel, K., Chopra, P., & Upadhyayula, S. (2021). Epidural Steroid Injections. PubMed; StatPearls Publishing. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470189/

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Nutrients & Supplements For Nerve Repair With Decompression

Nutrients & Supplements For Nerve Repair With Decompression

Introduction

The central nervous system transmits information between the brain, muscles, and organs through 31 nerve roots from the spinal cord. These nerve roots are interconnected with the body’s muscles and organs, ensuring each body section is connected to the upper and lower extremities. The neuron signals transmitted through these nerve roots provide sympathetic and parasympathetic signaling, allowing the body and its systems to function correctly. However, injuries and pathogens affecting the nerve roots can cause the neuron signals to become unstable, involving the muscles, tissues, and vital organs and leading to chronic conditions and pain-like symptoms. Fortunately, small changes in diet and supplements can help reduce nerve pain and improve a person’s quality of life. This article will discuss nerve pain and its symptoms, how nutrients and supplements can help reduce it, and non-surgical treatments that can help restore the body from nerve pain. We work with certified medical providers who use our patients’ valuable information to provide non-surgical treatments for nerve pain combined with nutrients and supplements from reoccurring. We encourage patients to ask essential questions and seek education from our associated medical providers about their condition. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., provides this information as an educational service. Disclaimer

 

How Does Nerve Pain Occur In The Body?

 

Have you been experiencing pins and needles in your hands or feet or constant muscle twitches? Maybe you’re feeling pain in your upper or lower extremities. If you’ve had these sensations all over your body, it could be due to nerve pain affecting your musculoskeletal system. Research studies have shown nerve pain is often caused by a lesion or disease that is affecting the brain’s somatosensory system. This can cause an imbalance in neuron signaling and disrupt information traveling to the brain. The somatosensory system is responsible for our ability to feel, touch, and experience pressure and pain. When it’s affected by injuries or pathogens, information can be disrupted in the spinal cord and brain. Additional research studies revealed that nerve pain could be caused by compressed nerve roots, leading to ongoing or intermittent pain that may spread to different areas and cause structural changes involving peripheral and central sensitization. This can lead to associated symptoms that can disrupt normal body functions.

 

Nerve Pain Symptoms

It might be nerve pain if you are feeling pain in your upper or lower extremities. Research studies revealed that this type of pain can cause symptoms that feel like pain in your muscles or organs, but neurological disorders may cause it. The severity and specific symptoms can vary from person to person. Some common symptoms of nerve pain include:

  • Referred pain
  • Numbness
  • Tingling
  • Cognitive deficits
  • Loss of sensory and motor function
  • Inflammation
  • Pain to light touches

Nerve pain is a common issue for those with chronic conditions, and research shows that nociceptive and neuropathic pain mechanisms are interconnected. For instance, back pain and radiculopathy are often linked, causing referred pain. This means that the pain receptors are in a different location from where the pain originated. However, there are ways to alleviate nerve pain symptoms and address underlying factors contributing to this discomfort.

 


The Functional Medicine Approach- Video

Suppose you suffer from nerve pain and seek to alleviate the symptoms and restore your body’s natural state. While making small changes can help, they may not provide quick results. However, functional medicine and non-surgical treatments can help with nerve pain and associated symptoms. The video above explains how functional medicine is safe and personalized and can be combined with other therapies to strengthen surrounding muscles and ligaments. By being more mindful of your body’s needs, you can find relief from nerve pain and improve your overall health.


Nutrients For Nerve Pain

 

Dr. Eric Kaplan, D.C., FIAMA, and Dr. Perry Bard, D.C., wrote “The Ultimate Spinal Decompression” and explained that our body’s nerves require constant nutrients for maintenance and repair. It’s crucial to incorporate various nutrients and supplements to reduce nerve pain and its symptoms. Here are some essential body nutrients that can help alleviate nerve pain.

 

Nitric Oxide

The body produces a vital nitric oxide nutrient, which can help alleviate nerve pain. Insufficient nitric oxide production can result in health issues such as high blood pressure, erectile dysfunction, and respiratory and cardiovascular problems. Nitric oxide works as a vasodilator, relaxing the blood vessels in the inner muscles, promoting increased blood flow, and reducing elevated blood pressure levels. Nitric oxide is crucial in supporting the nervous and cardiovascular systems, ensuring that neuron signals in nerve roots remain stable. Research studies indicate that taking nitric oxide supplements can enhance exercise performance.

 

ATP

ATP is a crucial nutrient that the human body naturally produces. Its primary role is to store and generate energy within the cells. ATP plays a significant role in the proper functioning of various organs and muscles in the body. The body’s metabolic pathway, cellular respiration, creates ATP, one of the most efficient processes. We use ATP in our daily lives by consuming food and drinks, and the air we breathe helps break down ATP, thus producing water in the body. Additionally, when the body is in motion, ATP works with nitric oxide to produce energy output in the nerves, muscles, and organs.

 

Supplements For Nerve Pain

The body requires supplements in addition to nutrients to alleviate symptoms of fatigue, inflammation, and pain caused by nerve pain. Nerve pain can affect the parasympathetic and sympathetic nerves, leading to disrupted neuron signals, resulting in the brain sending the immune system to attack healthy cellular structures as if they were foreign invaders. However, research has shown that incorporating supplements can help reduce the inflammatory effects of nerve pain, improve neural regeneration, reduce oxidative stress, and enhance motor and functional recovery from injured nerves.

 

Treatments For Nerve Pain

To effectively reduce the impact of nerve pain, individuals often consult with their primary doctor to develop a personalized treatment plan. Nutrients and supplements are only half of the recovery process. Non-surgical treatments such as chiropractic care, physical therapy, and spinal decompression can significantly lower chronic conditions associated with nerve pain. Studies have shown that compressed nerve roots caused by pathological factors can lead to overlapping risk profiles that affect the body. Spinal decompression is a treatment that relieves compressed nerves through gentle traction on the spinal disc. Spinal decompression, combined with a healthy diet, exercise, and other therapies, can educate people on preventing nerve pain from returning.

 

Conclusion

Nerve pain can severely impact a person’s life, causing disability and reduced quality of life due to its potential risks to muscles, organs, and tissues. However, incorporating a variety of nutrients and supplements into the body can help reduce the effects of nerve pain. By combining these methods with non-surgical treatments, individuals can better understand what’s happening to their bodies and work to restore them to normal. A personalized plan for health and wellness that includes these techniques can alleviate nerve pain and its symptoms and promote natural healing.

 

References

Abushukur, Y., & Knackstedt, R. (2022). The Impact of Supplements on Recovery After Peripheral Nerve Injury: A Review of the Literature. Cureus, 14(5). doi.org/10.7759/cureus.25135

Amjad, F., Mohseni-Bandpei, M. A., Gilani, S. A., Ahmad, A., & Hanif, A. (2022). Effects of non-surgical decompression therapy in addition to routine physical therapy on pain, range of motion, endurance, functional disability and quality of life versus routine physical therapy alone in patients with lumbar radiculopathy; a randomized controlled trial. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, 23(1). doi.org/10.1186/s12891-022-05196-x

Campbell, J. N., & Meyer, R. A. (2006). Mechanisms of Neuropathic Pain. Neuron, 52(1), 77–92. doi.org/10.1016/j.neuron.2006.09.021

Colloca, L., Ludman, T., Bouhassira, D., Baron, R., Dickenson, A. H., Yarnitsky, D., Freeman, R., Truini, A., Attal, N., Finnerup, N. B., Eccleston, C., Kalso, E., Bennett, D. L., Dworkin, R. H., & Raja, S. N. (2017). Neuropathic pain. Nature Reviews Disease Primers, 3(1). doi.org/10.1038/nrdp.2017.2

Finnerup, N. B., Kuner, R., & Jensen, T. S. (2021). Neuropathic Pain: From Mechanisms to Treatment. Physiological Reviews, 101(1), 259–301. doi.org/10.1152/physrev.00045.2019

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

Kiani, A. K., Bonetti, G., Medori, M. C., Caruso, P., Manganotti, P., Fioretti, F., Nodari, S., Connelly, S. T., & Bertelli, M. (2022). Dietary supplements for improving nitric-oxide synthesis. Journal of Preventive Medicine and Hygiene, 63(2 Suppl 3), E239–E245. doi.org/10.15167/2421-4248/jpmh2022.63.2S3.2766

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