Back Clinic Treatments. There are various treatments for all types of injuries and conditions here at Injury Medical & Chiropractic Clinic. The main goal is to correct any misalignments in the spine through manual manipulation and placing misaligned vertebrae back in their proper place. Patients will be given a series of treatments, which are based on the diagnosis. This can include spinal manipulation, as well as other supportive treatments. And as chiropractic treatment has developed, so have its methods and techniques.
Why do chiropractors use one method/technique over another?
A common method of spinal adjustment is the toggle drop method. With this method, a chiropractor crosses their hands and pressed down firmly on an area of the spine. They will then adjust the area with a quick and precise thrust. This method has been used for years and is often used to help increase a patient’s mobility.
Another popular method takes place on a special drop table. The table has different sections, which can be moved up or down based on the body’s position. Patients lie face down on their back or side while the chiropractor applies quick thrusts throughout the spinal area as the table section drops. Many prefer this table adjustment, as this method is lighter and does not include twisting motions used in other methods.
Chiropractors also use specialized tools to assist in their adjustments, i.e., the activator. A chiropractor uses this spring-loaded tool to perform the adjustment/s instead of their hands. Many consider the activator method to be the most gentle of all.
Whichever adjustment method a chiropractor uses, they all offer great benefits to the spine and overall health and wellness. If there is a certain method that is preferred, talk to a chiropractor about it. If they do not perform a certain technique, they may recommend a colleague that does.
Chronic stress is a continued and constant feeling of stress that negatively affects the body’s health if left untreated. It is caused by everyday pressures from work, family, or trauma, but instead of calming down and going back to a neutral demeanor, the worry and anxiety keep going. Chronic stress happens when the body experiences stressors to an intense degree, that the nervous system is not able to activate the relaxation response regularly.
Normal stress is an essential part of the body�s fight or flight response that keeps an individual safe from danger and ensures survival when something threatening occurs. If the stress becomes chronic and is not managed appropriately it can be detrimental causing or exacerbating serious health problems that include:
Mental health problems
Depression
Anxiety
Disorders
Cardiovascular disease/s
Heart disease
High blood pressure
Abnormal heart rhythms
Heart attack
Stroke
This affects almost every system in the body, directly and indirectly. The body can handle acute/short-term stress, but not chronic stress. Despite how chronic stress can damage overall health, chiropractic can bring the body back into balance and help manage the stress.
Chronic Stress Health
There are a variety of factors that can lead to the onset of chronic stress and include:
Mental health problems related to depression, anxiety, etc
Traumatic events like natural disasters, automobile accident, injuries
Caring for a family member or elder that is sick
Continued exposure to negativity from social media, news, etc
Chronic blue light exposure from electronic devices
Unhealthy habits related to poor sleep, unhealthy diet, and lack of exercise
Chronic illness
Having no stress management techniques or unhealthy coping methods
The body is not meant to be in a constant state of stress, as it does not allow the body to repair itself and rest properly. This can lead to the breakdown of cellular processes, proper organ functions, and lead to disease. Chronic stress has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, and depression.
Identification
It is not easy to recognize chronic stress. This is because of its long-lasting nature that individuals get so accustomed to, that it becomes normal. Symptoms to look for when identifying chronic stress:
Mood fluctuations and/or irritability
Always worrying about something
No time to take care of oneself or take part in enjoyable activities
Little inconveniences become too much to handle
Constantly getting colds or infections
Rely on unhealthy coping mechanisms like junk food, or alcohol to manage the stress
Management Techniques
The ability to properly manage chronic stress is crucial for achieving optimal health. Management can be simple and straightforward. Options for management include:
Chiropractic
Healthy diet
Sleep improvement
Regular physical activity
Relaxation techniques like massage and heat therapy
Time management skills improvement
Reduced screen exposure specifically at night
Less time on social media
Mindfulness practice like meditation
Spinal Alignment
The techniques listed address reducing the external cues that affect internal health brought on by the stress response. Addressing internal imbalances will help the body return to a state of homeostasis. A common underlying imbalance that contributes to chronic stress is spinal misalignment. This is a root cause that could be over-activating the stress response which limits the body’s ability to return to a relaxed state.
Chiropractic Management
Spinal misalignment/s hinders the nervous system’s ability to regulate the body’s stress response. This is due to improper nerve signaling and poor blood, and energy flow. Chiropractic is a research-oriented, science-based natural medical approach that specializes in addressing spinal issues. It gets the body’s natural healing ability to activate returning the body’s natural state of balance.
Most Recommended Chiropractor
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Dr. Alex Jimenez’s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
References
Abdallah, Chadi G, and Paul Geha. Chronic Pain and Chronic Stress: Two Sides of the Same Coin?.Chronic stress (Thousand Oaks, Calif.) vol. 1 (2017): 2470547017704763. doi:10.1177/2470547017704763
Bulging discs usually present in the lower back. Chiropractic studies have shown that the L4 and L5 segments are more susceptible to stressors that enable and cause the discs to bulge.
These vertebrae shift and become compressed with stress and time. The bulge eventually reaches a point that causes symptoms that include:
Pain
Limited range of motion
Mobility issues
Bulging discs are a common ailment that chiropractors specialize in treating and is one of the most common reasons individuals seek treatment. There is a surprise when individuals learn that spinal adjustments are only part of the solution for relief from bulging discs. Once a chiropractor realigns the vertebrae back into place, the individual must put in the work of preventing any re-bulging.
Once relief has been attained individuals can become hesitant when a chiropractor informs them of the need for posterior chain strengthening. Posterior chain adjustments along with strength exercises are very important for the prevention of further bulging discs and overall optimal spine health. Restoring the lower back’s curvature and maintaining alignment requires strengthening the support system. Part of the chiropractic experience is educating patients on how to best maintain their spines.
Posterior chain Identification
A bulging low back disc is more than low back pain. A chiropractor will help an individual identify the posterior chain stimulus that is causing their bulging discs. An example to identify the posterior chain root that is causing the pain, a chiropractor will have an individual perform certain movements to figure out where along the chain the problems are occurring. It could be a weakness in the gluteal muscles or if the chiropractor asks the individual to touch their toes from a standing position and they are unable could show inflexibility.
Chiropractic Adjustments
Bulging discs begin with proper chiropractic adjusting and re-alignment. Palpitation along with radiological imaging will allow a chiropractor to determine which lumbar disc/s is bulging and to what extent. This will determine the treatment protocol that the chiropractor will take.
It can include drop table adjustments that will help shift any misaligned vertebrae, and traction to alleviate compression and inflammation. Depending on age, the severity of the bulge, and the cause of the condition, a combination of adjustment techniques could be utilized.
Strengthening
Once the pain has been addressed, a chiropractor will recommend exercises and stretches to strengthen the posterior chain and its support system. The disc/s that are bulging will be able to realign properly while any further bulges can be avoided. Strengthening is focused on the:
Gluteal muscles
Hamstrings
Quadriceps
Hip flexors
Low back
Core strengthening will increase the strength of these muscle groups. This means enhanced support for the entire spine promoting the spine’s ability to handle stressors and avoid bulging. Individuals have found benefits from yoga or a specific stretching regimen of the posterior chain. This helps reduce stress in overused/worked muscles that improve flexibility and mobility support systems.
Bulging disc relief
Bulging discs should not be ignored. If left untreated it could lead to more severe complications. To prevent recurring bulges along with low back pain, an individual needs to strengthen the posterior chain. Strengthening, and stretching are all crucial to the chiropractic adjustment process. A customized chiropractic treatment plan will ensure every individual gets the proper support their body needs.
Herniated Disc Treatment
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Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
References
Djuric, N et al. �Lumbar disc extrusions reduce faster than bulging discs due to an active role of macrophages in sciatica.��Acta neurochirurgica�vol. 162,1 (2020): 79-85. doi:10.1007/s00701-019-04117-7
Chronic pain and a healthy spine can require activity modification. This is so an individual can participate in activities in a way to help prevent pain from presenting. This could include:
Avoiding staying in static positions for too long
Continuous stretches throughout the day
Planning ahead when participating in physical activities that cause pain
Dietary adjustments to reduce inflammation and gain strength/flexibility
Customized exercise program
Health coaching guide
Activity Modification
Chiropractic treatment not only involves correcting spinal alignment but also continuing an individual’s health education. The objective is to treat the source, not the symptoms. The goal with activity modification is to change the habit into a positive technique. Rigorous spinal adjustments will only help to a point if the habit continues. Whether there are any underlying conditions or it is an individual’s lifestyle, variables like:
These are the primary factors when it comes to spinal health. With recurring spinal problem/s, a chiropractor needs to trace back any kinetic behavior that could have contributed to inflammation causing pain symptoms. Recognizing poor kinetic habits and teaching activity modification are core objectives of chiropractic medicine.
Identification
Poor habits need to be identified. Two common are forward head posture and anterior pelvic tilt. These are signs of bad habits that affect spine health. Misaligned biomechanics can be a first clue in understanding why the individual continues to experience pain.
Consistent shifting of the body to not stay in one position for too long is recommended, but when there is recurring pain this is where a chiropractor can show an individual better methods and techniques of shifting to avoid the pain. Poor posture could be traced to sitting at a disproportionate desk with no ergonomic support. And a constant forward head position on the cervical spine, nerves, shoulders, can generate enormous strain.
Modification
Precision adjustments will alleviate the effects of spinal misalignment. But modifications need to become second nature. Chiropractic modification approaches will correct poor posture and body mechanics. A chiropractor will educate an individual to be mindful of certain movements and reinforce proper positioning.
Once an individual is familiar with a healthy way of moving/shifting to restore optimal mechanics, then the individual can learn to engage in other activities with the newfound activity modification tools. This will help break the cycle of chronic spinal misalignments.
Positive Change
Corrective relief and teaching proactive wellness is the primary role of chiropractic medicine. Activity modification can be an individual’s first line of defense for changing poor habits responsible for chronic pain and recurring musculoskeletal problems. Educating individuals on how to preserve spinal adjustments and adopting long-term, healthy habits will promote overall wellness.
Chiropractic Care Crossfit Rehabilitation
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
References
Geneen, Louise J et al. �Physical activity and exercise for chronic pain in adults: an overview of Cochrane Reviews.��The Cochrane database of systematic reviews�vol. 4,4 CD011279. 24 Apr. 2017, doi:10.1002/14651858.CD011279.pub3
Because sciatica is an inflammatory condition, with the sciatic nerve specifically being the target, sciatica fitness and exercise is one of the first recommendations from chiropractors. Sciatica is a series of symptoms from a variety of underlying medical causes and condition/s. This could be:
Too much sitting, which most of us are doing these days
Work injuries
Automobile accident injuries
Sports injuries
Awkward movements/motions that pulled the sciatic nerve in the wrong direction
A correct diagnosis of the cause is essential to help the chiropractor formulate a customized optimal treatment plan. Individuals can experience the same symptoms across the board, however, despite the similarities, sciatica requires a careful, customized precision approach to treatment. An ideal treatment plan often requires a very specific exercise regimen and chiropractic adjustment schedule. Therefore, there is no one-size-fits-all solution.
Sciatica can be treated effectively with the right chiropractic approach with a high success rate for alleviated symptoms. Effectively treating sciatica requires direct treatment to the specific cause, rather than using techniques that only mask the pain. Example: If a herniated disc is the root cause, sciatica can be relieved by reducing the bulge of the disc, thus bringing down the irritation/inflammation and compression of the sciatic nerve.
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Sciatica treatment/s depends on the cause
A stretching regimen for sciatica caused by a low back herniated disc will be different than stretches for treating low back spinal stenosis. Understanding how sciatica is the key to unlocking a treatment plan that will work to minimize pain and inflammation.
Exercise Can Help
Exercising and sciatica fitness will help relieve sciatic pain in various ways. These include:
Improves the range of motion, which reduces stress on the spine
Higher activity levels generate adrenaline and endorphins, to help combat the pain
Specific exercises/stretches need to be done that target the sciatic nerve and the root cause. Working with a chiropractor will bring an understanding of specifically how the body should be worked out, the intensity of the workout, and where on the body the focus should be.
For example, if the nerve is irritated from a pelvic tilt and low back compression, a chiropractor could recommend a minimal cardio workout with combined strength exercises for the hamstrings, glutes, and lower body. A strength and conditioning regimen will increase stability in the lower body, prevent pelvic tilt, and reinforce the chiropractic adjustments/alignment.
Chiropractic Benefits
However, sciatica fitness and exercise on its own is not the complete solution for dealing with chronic sciatic pain. Chiropractic adjustments along with chiropractic prevention are necessary to restore the stability and integrity of the spine. When used in combination with exercise, the re-alignment and corrections can take effect sooner and maintain optimal spinal health. When individuals condition and strengthen their body, The musculature that supports the spine gets massive reinforcement. This minimizes the chances of a reoccurring pelvic tilt from weakened core muscles. The long-term effects of sciatica fitness/exercise and chiropractic spinal/hip manipulation work together to form a perfect combination.
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Sciatica Fitness
For truly long-term effects of pain relief and a better quality of life, a chiropractic treatment plan is highly recommended. Specific targeted adjustments and re-alignment with a sciatica fitness program will promote optimal health and wellness.
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Whole Body Wellness Foot Orthotics
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
References
Beavers, Kristen M et al. �Effect of exercise training on chronic inflammation.��Clinica chimica acta; international journal of clinical chemistry�vol. 411,11-12 (2010): 785-93. doi:10.1016/j.cca.2010.02.069
Coulombe, Brian J et al. �Core Stability Exercise Versus General Exercise for Chronic Low Back Pain.��Journal of athletic training�vol. 52,1 (2017): 71-72. doi:10.4085/1062-6050-51.11.16
Back or disc pain is becoming increasingly common for individuals of all ages. The spinal discs are prone to injury because of the extreme amount of pressure/stress placed on the lower back and neck. Fortunately, most cases of back pain heal on their own, while others can cause long-term chronic pain that can be difficult to manage, without proper treatment.
Different types of pain can be caused by problems with the spinal discs. The spinal discs are elastic sections of the spine that sit between the vertebrae. They are made up of materials called annulus fibrosus on the outside and a gel-like material called nucleus pulposus on the inside.
These discs are flexible, which allows for a range of motion to the spine and body shock absorption to increase comfort when in motion. When an individual visits a chiropractor, the practitioner will not know the exact cause of the pain, but only that it hurts around a certain area. Our spinal experts will help individuals understand the different types of ailments or conditions that could be affecting the spine. Then a customized treatment plan can be developed.
Disc problems
Spinal disc pain has two major sources of pain related to spinal discs: They are disc degeneration and nerve root pain. They are most common in the neck and the lower back. Individuals need to be informed of the difference to understand what is happening with the spine and potential treatment options to alleviate the pain and heal the problem.
Degenerative disc disease
Degenerative disc disease is when the spinal discs begin to dry out and deteriorate. The discs start to shrink and can tear, which leaves that segment with little or no cushioning. This can cause pain, as well as inflammation of the surrounding muscles and joints. Disc degeneration usually presents with low levels of consistent pain and occasional severe flare-ups.
A chiropractor can utilize spinal manipulation to restore alignment, function, and mobility of the affected joint. Massages stretches and exercises will help alleviate the tension in the surrounding muscles along with strengthening them for better support.
Nerve root pain
Nerve root pain does not take place within the disc but is usually caused by a bulging or herniated disc. This condition can be called a slipped disc or pinched nerve, affect the nerves that are in close proximity to the neck and lower vertebrae.
The pain can lead to numbness, tingling, and weakness along the path of the nerve, and radiate out to the arms and legs. A bulging disc is when the spinal disc progressively protrudes through a narrow opening.
This can irritate any nearby nerve roots causing inflammation and pain. If the disc herniates or breaks through then the outer protective material tears, letting the cushion/gel leak out and come in contact with the nerve root/s, which could also cause pinching and inflammation. Treatment for a bulging or herniated disc includes:
Spinal manipulation
Corrective exercises
Physical therapy
Massage
Diet adjustments
These treatments can help realign the disc/s, moving them away from any nerves, and minimizing inflammation.
Proper Identification and Diagnosis
Spinal disc problems can be similar in their pain and symptoms. For example, degenerative disc disease can weaken the spinal discs to such a degree that nerve root pain follows creating a dual combination of pain. The conditions require various approaches and treatment methods often done in combination. However, they require a proper diagnosis to create a proper and custom treatment program for every individual. This will ensure the root cause of the disc pain is properly identified and handled. Call us to learn more.
Skateboarding Injury Treatment
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
References
Browning, J E. �Chiropractic distractive decompression in the treatment of pelvic pain and organic dysfunction in patients with evidence of lower sacral nerve root compression.��Journal of manipulative and physiological therapeutics�vol. 11,5 (1988): 426-32.
Chiropractic spinal mobilization techniques involve the slow and steady movements of the spine’s joints reestablishing their range of motion. Because it is a slower treatment style the techniques are done with the hands. However, a chiropractor can use various instruments/tools as well.
Spinal mobilization treatment has the same focus as spinal manipulation. To get the body back to optimal health and allow the body to heal itself naturally. However, there can be a variety of reasons for utilizing spinal stabilization, with treatment depending on the patient’s needs, if there are underlying conditions, or previous injury/s, and individual preference.
Some prefer mobilization because it is gentler and does not generate the pops or cracking sounds. And the chiropractor’s style/specialization comes into play. Some work in the firm manipulation high-velocity style, while others utilize the softer mobilization style and others work in combination.
This adjustment re-alignment utilizes the necessary force to release the joint out of its restricted motion to improve mobility and reduce pain. There are various types of high-velocity low-amplitude manipulation approaches. These are the more common manipulation techniques:
Diversified Technique
This high-velocity low-amplitude technique is the one that is commonly associated with chiropractic manual adjustments. The chiropractor applies a short – low-amplitude, quick high-velocity thrust of the restricted joints. This is done one at a time with the objective to restore the normal range of motion. The patient is positioned in various positions to optimize the adjustment/alignment.
Gonstead Adjustment
The Gonstead technique is another high-velocity low amplitude adjustment. It is similar to the diversified technique. The difference is the evaluation performed to specifically locate the painful joint and positioning of the body as the treatment is performed. Chiropractic or physical therapy chairs and tables can be used to position the patient for optimal treatment, like a cervical chair or a chest-knee table.
Thompson Terminal Point Drop Technique
Here specialized treatment tables with sections that drop down during a high-velocity low-amplitude thrust. The idea is that as the table drops the piece dropped allows for easier movement of the joint. A cracking sound can sometimes be heard. It depends on the patient and their condition. This type of manipulation can also be done in a gentle fashion making it a form of spinal mobilization.
Spinal mobilization
Slow steady motion/movements are performed to mobilize the joint. Spinal mobilization can be recommended for certain individuals for different reasons like:
Individual preference for spinal mobilization over spinal manipulation
Individuals with a sensitive nervous system can benefit from the gentle technique. This can keep the body from experiencing a negative reaction that can cause muscle spasms or other issues.
Individuals with certain conditions could be given a recommendation for spinal mobilization. This could be:
Individuals in the acute stage of their condition and experiencing severe pain
Obesity can be a factor as the positioning and the manipulation procedures can be a challenge for the provider and the patient requiring a low force approach.
Mobilization Approaches
The more common spinal mobilization approaches include:
Activator Technique
The Activator is a hand-held, spring-loaded tool that generates a low-force impulse. A patient lies face down on the adjustment table, while the chiropractor:
Examines leg length
Performs muscle testing
Adjusts the spine and/or extremity joints
Cox Flexion-Distraction Technique
Here a gentle adjustment is designed to adjust the vertebrae by gently stretching the lower spine. This is usually performed in a series of repetitive slow movements like a steady rocking motion.
Toggle Drop
Here gravity is utilized to apply the adjustment. The chiropractors’ hands are crossed and on top of each other. Then the chiropractor presses down quickly and firmly on the area of the spine while a section of the table drops. The table sections can be raised and dropped according to the localization of the spinal adjustment.
McKenzie Technique
This technique incorporates active patient involvement, empowerment, and self-care as part of the treatment.
Spinal Release
The chiropractor separates the misaligned vertebrae by applying gentle pressure using the fingertips, with the objective to restore the spine back to a natural position.
Sacro-Occipital Technique – SOT
This technique utilizes wedges/blocks under the pelvis. This allows gravity with added low-force to assist the chiropractor to realign the pelvis.
Sciatica Alleviation
All of these techniques can be utilized by a chiropractor for sciatic nerve pain alleviation or can discover other conditions that could be mimicking sciatica.
Nerve mobilization techniques have been recently used as a method to adjust radiating pain related to disc disease, and in particular, mobilization techniques for the sciatic nerves improve mobility of the sciatic nerves, decrease mechanosensitivity of the nervous system, and heighten compliance of nerve tissues, relieving low back pain. Jeong, Ui-Cheol et al. �The effects of self-mobilization techniques for the sciatic nerves on physical functions and health of low back pain patients with lower limb radiating pain.��Journal of physical therapy science�vol. 28,1 (2016): 46-50. doi:10.1589/jpts.28.46
Sciatica Rehabilitation Causes and Symptoms
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
Osteonecrosis is a condition that causes the death of bone tissue from temporary or permanent loss of blood supply to the affected area. It is commonly known asAvascular necrosis and can lead to miniature/tiny breaks in the bone and the bone/s eventually collapsing. Specifically, it affects the upper part of the femur or femoral head and surrounding joints.
It can occur in any bone however, osteonecrosis typically affects the hip/s. Pain associated with osteonecrosis of the hip can be localized to the center of the groin, thigh, or buttock. Because of the hip joint’s close proximity to the sciatic nerve, misdiagnosis for sciatica is common.
Mimicking Sciatica Symptoms
Unfortunately, many health care providers can misdiagnose osteonecrosis hip pain as sciatica. Whatever the cause of the hip injury, most individuals with hip pathology report pain in the groin, upper thigh, and buttocks.
That is why a trained medical professional that knows the differences in the symptoms of each condition can make all the difference in making a proper diagnosis. And a proper diagnosis leads to proper and complete treatment of whichever condition it may be. With osteonecrosis, misdiagnosis often delays the proper treatment and continues to progress. Common symptoms of sciatica:
Leg pain is the primary symptom can be mild to severe
Low back pain is secondary can be mild to severe
Nerve-related symptoms
Numbness
Tingling
Shooting pain
Pins-and-needles sensation
Muscle weakness
Hip pain especially flexion and internal rotation of the hip.
Leg or foot weakness
Osteonecrosis Symptoms and Similarities
For many, there are no symptoms in the early stages of osteonecrosis. As the condition worsens, the affected joint could present pain symptoms only when weight is placed on it. Eventually, individuals begin to feel the pain even when lying down. Pain can be mild to severe with a gradual development. Other symptoms that mimick sciatica:
Walking Inability
Walking gait is complicated with both conditions which is a major cause behind the misdiagnosis.
Limping
Individuals often limp with osteonecrosis of the hip and spinal disc problems. This is another reason that the condition is misdiagnosed as a spinal disc problem or nerve root compression of the sciatic nerve.
Hip Pain
The tributaries/veins of the sciatic nerve also supply the hip area and often cause confusion between the two conditions.
Differences
Despite all of the similarities. There are differences in both conditions.
Nature of The Pain
With sciatica, the pain is related to the nervous system. Movement can complicate the pain. While rest helps to reduce the pain.
With Osteonecrosis the pain is geared toward the muscular. Rest does not help reduce the pain. In fact, the pain increases at night.
Location
Sciatica pain can radiate through the whole leg from the low back to the toe.
Osteonecrosis pain is confined to the hip joint, groin, and radiates to the knee joint only. Osteonecrosis pain does not radiate below the knee joint.
Restricted Movement
Osteonecrosis of the hip joint, means the movements involving the hip joint are restricted. Individuals cannot rotate the leg to the right and left. Individuals cannot bend or fold from the hip.
With sciatica, the rotation of the leg is not affected. Movements involving stretching the sciatic nerve can cause relief or pain.
Walking Gait Differences
Gait is the way an individual stands and walks.
Osteonecrosis of the hip joint causes individuals to not be able to open the hip joint properly or to step properly.
With sciatica, an individual tends to lean on their side to relax the compression on the nerve.
Risk Factors
More than 20,000 people enter hospitals for the treatment of osteonecrosis of the hip yearly. Other than the hip, areas of the body likely to be affected are the shoulder, knee, hand, and foot. The condition can occur for a variety of reasons. A few of these include:
Fracture – a broken bone can interrupt the blood flow to other sections of the bone.
Dislocation of bone or joint/s
Alcoholism
Trauma
Radiation damage
Steroid use
Some individuals can have more than one condition or injury that contributes to hip flexor pain. An example is that it is possible to have both hip osteoarthritis and hip impingement. Without proper treatment, the condition can worsen, causing joint or hip pain from the degradation of the bone.
Anyone can be affected, but osteonecrosis is most common in individuals aged 30 to 50. Treatment options include a total replacement of the hip known as arthroplasty. And if it is sciatica then chiropractic treatment is a first-line treatment protocol. However, a chiropractor can make the distinction between the two and treat sciatica or refer the patient to the proper specialist.
Lower Back Pain Relief
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The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
References
Li, Wen-Long et al. �Exploring the Risk Factors for the Misdiagnosis of Osteonecrosis of Femoral Head: A Case-Control Study.��Orthopaedic surgery, 10.1111/os.12821. 16 Oct. 2020, doi:10.1111/os.12821
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