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.
When it comes to our bodies, many functioning systems help the body regulate its temperature, provide mobility and stability when in motion, and protect the host from pathogens that enter inside to cause havoc. One of the systems that helps the body is the endocrine system, which produces many hormones to keep the body functioning properly. The thyroid, a small, butterfly-shaped organ at the base of the neck, produces the hormones in the body. The thyroid helps regulate hormone production; however, when pathogen factors affect the body’s hormonal production, it can lead to musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction. Today’s article examines how the thyroid produces hormones, how hormone imbalances are connected with musculoskeletal pain, and how MET therapy can help restore hormone imbalances from affecting the body in the future. We utilize information about our patients to certified medical providers using soft tissue therapies like MET to reduce musculoskeletal pain associated with hormonal imbalances. We encourage patients by referring them to associated medical providers based on their diagnosis while supporting the fact that education is a marvelous way to ask our providers the most interesting questions at the patient’s acknowledgment. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., incorporates this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
How Does The Thyroid Produce Hormones?
Do you feel muscle weakness or pain in certain parts of your body? Do you feel out of breath after walking for a short distance? Or do you feel sluggish throughout the entire day? When many individuals are dealing with these numerous issues, it could be due to their hormones being imbalanced from their thyroids. When it comes to the body, the endocrine system is the mastermind of producing different hormones for the body to help regulate all the biological processes. One of the vital organs of the endocrine system is the thyroid. Studies reveal that the thyroid is an endocrine gland located in the inferior anterior neck of the body and produces T4 and T3 hormones for the body to function properly. The thyroid hormones affect many of the vital organs and body tissues as they help with the following:
Cardio output and increased resting heart rate
Increases BMR (basal metabolic rate), heat production, and oxygen consumption
Stimulates resting respiratory rate and the nervous system
Plays a role in reproductive health and other endocrine organ function
Additional studies have revealed that thyroid hormones help control the body’s metabolism, growth, and other bodily functions while having a casual relationship with the HPT (hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid) axis. What this relationship does is that it makes sure that the body is working properly in any environment. However, when unwanted pathogens start to affect thyroid hormone production, it can cause a hormone imbalance and lead to unwanted pain-like symptoms in the vital organs and musculoskeletal tissues.
Hormone Imbalances & Musculoskeletal Pain
When unwanted pathogens are associated with environmental factors affecting the body, it can lead to pain-like symptoms that can lead to musculoskeletal pain. In the book, “Clinical Applications of Neuromuscular Techniques,” written by Dr. Judith Walker DeLany, L.M.T., and Leon Chaitow, N.D., D.O., stated that there is a connection between hormonal imbalances and musculoskeletal pain as there are many environmental factors that can influence how much or how little hormone production is being produced from the thyroid. The book also mentions that some of the clinical signs of thyroid hormone deficiency include:
Dry skin and thinning hair
Unnatural fatigue
Unexplained weight increase
Aching muscles
Mental confusion
When the body is dealing with hormone imbalances associated with musculoskeletal pain, studies reveal that symptoms of fatigue, anxiety, irritability, and increased oxidative stress can cause the muscular tissues and ligaments to be weak and cause overlapping risk profiles when the body is in motion. To that point, hormone imbalances could lead to muscle and joint pain associated with myofascial trigger points and muscle shortness.
Finding Hormonal Harmony- Video
Have you been experiencing muscle or joint pain? Do you often feel anxious or irritable constantly? Or have you noticed that you are extremely sensitive to the cold? Many of these pain-like issues are signs and symptoms associated with hormone imbalances in the body and can lead to musculoskeletal pain. The body needs hormones to help regulate body temperature, control the body’s metabolism, and help stimulate the endocrine and body systems. Hormones are secreted from the thyroid and travel to the important muscles, organs, and tissues through the bloodstream to assist and help each body section function properly. When pathogens start to disrupt hormone production, the thyroid can overproduce or underproduce hormone secretion and cause many overlapping risk profiles to the body and musculoskeletal system. Fortunately, there are many ways to regulate hormones and reduce the effects of musculoskeletal pain. The video above explains that increasing certain vitamin intake, eating healthy, whole-nutritional foods, and getting adequate exercise and sleep can regulate hormone production and reduce the effects of musculoskeletal pain. These various treatments can be combined with therapy to help realign the body and restore it naturally.
MET Therapy Restoring Hormone Imbalances
Many available therapies can reduce the effects of hormonal imbalances associated with musculoskeletal pain. Treatments like MET (muscle energy techniques) allow many pain specialists to use soft tissue techniques to reduce pain-like symptoms and will enable the body to restore itself naturally. Research studies have revealed that soft tissue therapies like MET can reduce pain, improve body function, and reduce disability. MET therapy can be combined with nutritional foods, hormone therapies, and bodywork strategies that can help regulate hormone production in the thyroid. When a person starts to go to treatment for any ailments affecting their body, it allows these individuals to be more mindful of what is happening to their bodies and make small meaningful changes to their health and wellness.
Conclusion
When it comes to maintaining the body’s health and wellness, it’s important to ensure that unwanted pathogens don’t start affecting thyroid hormone production. The thyroid is a small gland located at the base of the neck that secretes out hormones to the rest of the body. When the thyroid over or under-produces hormones in the organs, muscles, and tissues, it can lead to pain-like symptoms that affect the body’s system and potentially lead to musculoskeletal disorders. Treatments like MET therapy combined with nutritional whole foods and exercises can reduce the effects of hormone imbalances associated with musculoskeletal disorders. This amazing combination allows the body to heal naturally and allows the individual to be pain-free.
References
Armstrong, Maggie, et al. “Physiology, Thyroid Function – Statpearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), 13 Mar. 2023, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537039/.
Chaitow, Leon, and Judith Walker DeLany. Clinical Applications of Neuromuscular Techniques. Churchill Livingstone, 2003.
Day, Joseph M, and Arthur J Nitz. “The Effect of Muscle Energy Techniques on Disability and Pain Scores in Individuals with Low Back Pain.” Journal of Sport Rehabilitation, May 2012, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22622384/.
Shahid, Muhammad A, et al. “Physiology, Thyroid Hormone – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), 8 May 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK500006/.
VandeVord, Pamela J, et al. “Chronic Hormonal Imbalance and Adipose Redistribution Is Associated with Hypothalamic Neuropathology Following Blast Exposure.” Journal of Neurotrauma, 1 Jan. 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4700394/.
Throughout the world, pain and stress are related to musculoskeletal disorders affecting joints and muscles. Many musculoskeletal disorders will have correlating symptoms with overlapping risk profiles that can make a person’s life difficult. Pain and stress have two forms: acute and chronic, which are associated with numerous everyday factors that a person goes through. Even though pain and stress can impact a person’s life, there are multiple ways to reduce these two by calming the mind and doing meditative breathing techniques to relax the body and clear the mind. What is truly amazing is that meditative breathing techniques can be combined with stretching techniques like MET (muscle energy techniques. Today’s article looks at how stress and pain affect the musculoskeletal system, the breathing connection for musculoskeletal pain, and how MET therapy is combined with breathing exercises. We utilize and provide valuable information about our patients to certified medical providers who use soft tissue stretching methods like MET to reduce musculoskeletal stress on the body. We encourage patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their findings. We support that education is a marvelous way to ask our providers the most interesting questions at the patient’s acknowledgment. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., incorporates this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
Stress & Pain Affect The Musculoskeletal System
Have you been dealing with shoulder, neck, or back pain? What about feeling an overwhelming pressure that is causing you to stress out? Or do you feel muscle pain and joint stiffness affecting your daily routine? Many of these issues correspond with stress and pain from numerous factors associated with the musculoskeletal system. Research studies revealed that pain and stress are considered two sides of the same coin regarding the musculoskeletal system. Pain and stress are two distinguished symptoms that overlap each other when musculoskeletal disorders affect the body. Pain is a collection of emotional and sensory perceptions that work with musculoskeletal motor behavior. At the same time, stress is characterized by challenging emotional or physiological events that cause adaptive or maladaptive changes to regain homeostasis. With these two factors working together to affect the musculoskeletal system, the body may develop symptoms and cause the individual to be miserable.
The Breathing Connection For Musculoskeletal Pain & Stress
One of the major correspondents that work with pain and stress is anxiety. In “Clinical Applications of Neuromuscular Techniques,” authors Dr. Leon Chaitow, N.D., D.O., and Judith Walker DeLany, L.M.T., mentioned that anxiety aggravates all chronic pain and stress. However, there is a solution to reduce pain and stress in the musculoskeletal system. When pain and stress are combined with anxiety, it can cause breathing disorders and produce inflammatory cytokines and elevated cortisol levels to contribute. But incorporating some deep breathing techniques can help reduce stress and pain affecting the body. Research studies have revealed that slow deep breathing has been known to reduce the effects of musculoskeletal pain and help lower cortisol levels. Breathing techniques are popular in meditation and yoga practices. Deep breathing and mindfulness can help the body relax from everyday factors and calm the individual. Additional studies have mentioned that breathing exercise programs effectively improve lung function, reduce musculoskeletal pain associated with the back, and help improve a person’s quality of life.
The Natural Way To Heal- Video
Have you been dealing with musculoskeletal pain throughout your entire body? Do you feel constantly stressed throughout your whole life? Or have you felt anxious that it is making your muscles tense constantly? When many people feel constant stress and are in pain, it can lead to musculoskeletal disorders that can cause many individuals to be miserable. When this happens, overlapping risk profiles affect the musculoskeletal, organs, and nervous systems. At the same time, fortunately, numerous treatments can help reduce pain and stress that is affecting the body. Chiropractic care is non-invasive and can help many individuals be mindful of their bodies. The video above explains how chiropractic care can help realign the body from spinal subluxation and mitigate the effects of muscle pain and stress in the muscle fibers.
MET Therapy Combined With Breathing Exercises
When the body has been dealing with musculoskeletal pain on top of stress, it can cause the individual to be miserable and try to find some relief. Luckily there are available treatments that can help restore the body naturally and reduce the effects of stress and pain. Treatment like MET (muscle energy technique) and breathing exercises allow the muscles to relax and properly stretch to relieve muscle pain. Research studies have revealed that breathing exercises and MET therapy can reduce a person’s symptoms and help regain the muscle and joint range of motion. These two combined treatments can help many individuals dealing with musculoskeletal pain associated with stress to be more aware of what is affecting their bodies. They can help them along their health and wellness journey without medicine.
Conclusion
Overall, pain and stress are part of numerous conditions and disorders that can affect the musculoskeletal system and cause overlapping risk profiles that can cause the individual to be miserable. When pain and stress affect the body, it can cause the muscles, tissues, ligaments, joints, and organs to work harder than before and develop chronic musculoskeletal disorders. Fortunately, treatments like MET (muscle energy technique) and breathing exercises allow the body to relax and help reduce muscle pain symptoms affecting the body. When a person incorporates these treatments as part of their daily routine, they can become more aware of what is affecting their bodies and improve what is going on in their daily lives. This allows them to continue their health and wellness journey pain-free.
References
Abdallah, Chadi G, and Paul Geha. “Chronic Pain and Chronic Stress: Two Sides of the Same Coin?” Chronic Stress (Thousand Oaks, Calif.), U.S. National Library of Medicine, Feb. 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5546756/.
Anderson, Barton E, and Kellie C Huxel Bliven. “The Use of Breathing Exercises in the Treatment of Chronic, Nonspecific Low Back Pain.” Journal of Sport Rehabilitation, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 24 Aug. 2016, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27632818/.
Chaitow, Leon, and Judith Walker DeLany. Clinical Applications of Neuromuscular Techniques. Churchill Livingstone, 2003.
Joseph, Amira E, et al. “Effects of Slow Deep Breathing on Acute Clinical Pain in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.” Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8891889/.
Zaccaro, Andrea, et al. “How Breath-Control Can Change Your Life: A Systematic Review on Psycho-Physiological Correlates of Slow Breathing.” Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 7 Sept. 2018, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6137615/.
Around the world, many individuals will have some reaction to the foods they consume. This type of reaction can lead to a series of unwanted symptoms that affect not only the vital organs of the body but also the musculoskeletal system. This allergic reaction can cause inflammatory effects that lead to joint pain and swelling while affecting a person’s quality of life. Inflammation is the body’s natural defense response from the immune system to repair the body inside and out. When food allergies start to affect the entire body, it can cause the individual to be in constant pain, and many individuals will go to treatments to reduce the symptoms caused by food allergic reactions; however, the residual effects of the allergic reaction can still interfere with the body and affect the musculoskeletal system. Today’s article focuses on food allergies, how they are associated with inflammation in the musculoskeletal system, and how MET therapy can help relieve inflammation associated with food allergies. We utilize and provide valuable information about our patients to certified medical providers who use soft tissue stretching methods like MET to reduce inflammation associated with food allergies affecting the musculoskeletal system. We encourage patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their findings. We support that education is a marvelous way to ask our providers the most interesting questions at the patient’s acknowledgment. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., incorporates this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
What Are Food Allergies?
Have you been dealing with muscle swelling in different locations of your body? Do you see redness or feel a burning sensation in your muscles? Or do your muscles and joints feel achy throughout the day? Many of these pain-like symptoms are associated with inflammatory effects caused by food allergies. Research studies have revealed that food allergies are often defined as an immune reaction to food proteins that many individuals worldwide and, when indigested, are responsible for various symptoms that involve the skin, gastrointestinal tract, and respiratory tract. Many individuals would often confuse a food allergy with food intolerance since the musculoskeletal and gastrointestinal systems are caused by inflammation. Research studies have found that food intolerances are non-immunological responses that cause numerous symptoms and hypersensitivity to the body. Many factors correlate to food intolerances, and food allergies can affect the musculoskeletal system with pain-like symptoms like inflammation.
Food Allergies Associated With Inflammation In The Musculoskeletal System
When food allergies or food intolerances occur in the body, it can cause the individuals to have unwanted pain-like symptoms to cause inflammation to appear in the body. When it comes to inflammation in the body, it is produced by the immune system. It helps repair old cells and attack foreign invaders affecting the musculoskeletal system. In “Clinical Applications of Neuromuscular Techniques,” Dr. Leon Chaitow, N.D., D.O., and Dr. Judith Walker DeLany, L.M.T. stated that specific individualized pathophysiological responses exist to many foods and liquids that are being taken accounted for a significant amount of overlapping symptoms being produce. The book also states that it includes pain and discomfort to the musculoskeletal system. To that point, to figure out these presenting symptoms, whatever allergic pathogen is being derived from the food itself could be the result. Additional studies mentioned that food allergies and tolerances are sometimes not established when inflammation from the GI tract and causing pain-like symptoms associated with the musculoskeletal system. Fortunately, there are various treatments to reduce the effects of food allergies and intolerances while restoring the musculoskeletal system.
The Benefits Of A Healthy Diet & Chiropractic Care-Video
Have you been dealing with gut inflammation that is affecting your musculoskeletal system? Are you experiencing aches and pains throughout your entire body? Or do you have joint issues that are causing you limited mobility? Many of these issues are associated with food intolerances and allergies that can cause inflammation of the musculoskeletal system leaving the individual in pain. Fortunately, there are many ways to reduce the effects of inflammation associated with food allergies. The video above explains how eating the right foods while being considerate of food allergies can be combined with treatment like chiropractic care, which can help reduce inflammation while realigning the body through manual manipulation. Chiropractors also use soft tissue techniques like MET to help regain joint mobility and reduce the effects of inflammation-causing muscle and joint stiffness.
MET Therapy Relieving Inflammation Associated With Food Allergies
Therapies like soft tissue massages, massage therapy, physical therapy, or chiropractic care all work together with having a nutritional diet plan to prevent flare-ups from food allergies and intolerances. Research studies have found that MET helps stretch the affected muscles induced by inflammation associated with food allergies. This technique allows the body to naturally heal itself and prevent inflammation from exceeding more into the body. Combined with anti-inflammatory foods, many individuals know what food they can and can not consume. Additionally, it allows them to be more mindful of their bodies and sends them on the right track of their health and wellness journey.
Conclusion
Overall, many individuals often confuse food allergies and food intolerances, which can cause the musculoskeletal system to be dealing with symptoms of inflammation and pain. Since inflammation is the body’s natural defense system, it is important to be mindful of what is consumed to prevent overlapping risk profiles from causing muscle and joint pain. Luckily, numerous treatments are available to reduce the effects of chronic inflammation associated with food allergies and help the body naturally heal itself. Combining treatments like MET and a healthy nutritional diet can help the body reduce the effects of inflammation from affecting the musculoskeletal system while also allowing the individual to make smart choices in their health and wellness journey.
References
Chaitow, Leon, and Judith Walker DeLany. Clinical Applications of Neuromuscular Techniques. Churchill Livingstone, 2003.
Lopez, Claudia M, et al. “Food Allergies – Statpearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 31 Jan. 2023, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482187/.
Ohtsuka, Yoshikazu. “Food Intolerance and Mucosal Inflammation.” Pediatrics International : Official Journal of the Japan Pediatric Society, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2015, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25442377/.
Sbardella, Silvia, et al. “Muscle Energy Technique in the Rehabilitative Treatment for Acute and Chronic Non-Specific Neck Pain: A Systematic Review.” Healthcare (Basel, Switzerland), U.S. National Library of Medicine, 17 June 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8234422/.
When the body sustains an injury or a virus, the immune system springs into action by sending out cytokines to the affected area and causes a process known as inflammation. Inflammation in the body is good for eliminating numerous pathogens, damaged cellular structures, viruses, or infections. Inflammation causes the affected area to be warm to the touch and causes swelling that will decrease in the recovery state. However, inflammation in the body can be positive and negative depending on the severity of the injury. When inflammation is in its chronic form, it can cause muscle and tissue damage to the musculoskeletal system while being associated with other conditions in the body’s system, like the gastrointestinal, nervous, and reproductive systems. In today’s article, we will focus on how chronic inflammation affects the body’s muscles and how the MET technique can help relieve muscle inflammation in soft tissues. We utilize valuable information about our patients to certified medical providers who use methods like MET combined with manual stretching therapy to reduce inflammation associated with musculoskeletal conditions. We encourage patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their findings. We support that education is a marvelous way to ask our providers the most interesting questions at the patient’s acknowledgment. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., incorporates this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
How Inflammation Works In The Body
Have you been experiencing pain in different muscle areas in your body? What about dealing with aches and pains in the morning? Or do your muscles feel tight and hurt more when you bend to pick up an object? Many of these issues affecting the musculoskeletal system are associated with inflammation. As stated earlier, inflammation can positively and negatively impact the body depending on the severity of the injury. Inflammation is a natural healing process for the body that is characterized by redness, swelling, and heat to the soft tissues so that they can be repaired within a few days to weeks. Studies reveal that when the body deals with various pathogenic factors, the immune system releases inflammatory cytokines to the pathogenic factor and starts to heal the affected area.
Inflammation helps the sprained muscle tissues heal naturally and can be healed within 2-3 days to a few weeks in its acute stage. However, when inflammation is in a chronic state of the body, it causes damage to not only the affected muscle and tissue areas but can even affect the surrounding ligaments, joints, and vital organs. A great example is when a person has a sprained ankle, the affected area swells up, becomes red, and is tender to the touch when its acute inflammation. For chronic inflammation, the body is in constant pain that can be slow and long, and it takes several months to years to heal. Another great example would be gut disorders associated with chronic muscle inflammation.
What Does Chronic Inflammation Do To The Body’s Muscles?
So what does chronic inflammation do to the body’s muscles, and how does it affect the surrounding structures? According to research studies, chronic inflammation has been associated with musculoskeletal disorders that can cause an impact in reducing muscle strength and muscle mass. When this happens, it can cause the muscles to weaken and generate the surrounding muscle groups to compensate by working harder. This leads to misalignment in the body and causes overlapping risk profiles in the various muscle groups. In “Clinical Applications of Neuromuscular Techniques,” Dr. Leon Chaitow, N.D., D.O., and Dr. Judith Walker DeLany, L.M.T., stated that numerous factors associated with inflammation could impact how a person sleeps, eat, and function throughout the day. The book also noted that when pathogens can disrupt the natural cycling between the defensive and repair modes of inflammation correlating with the immune system can be disrupted in ill health. A chronic inflammatory cytokine shift could lock the body into a pro-inflammatory state.
Reducing Inflammation In The Body- Video
Have you been dealing with constant inflammation in your muscles? Do you feel muscle weakness or strain when you are in motion? Or do other portions of your body starts to feel aches or pains? Many of these issues are associated with chronic inflammation affecting the musculoskeletal system. Inflammation is part of the immune system’s natural defense that sends cytokines to the affected area and starts the healing process. Inflammation has two patterns: acute and chronic. Acute inflammation is associated with sprains from a twisted ankle or wrist, a sore throat, or an infection. While at the same time, chronic inflammation is associated with muscle pain, sleep disorders, or rashes that affect the skin. When the body is suffering from chronic inflammation, it can be due to many overlapping factors that can cause the body to be in pain. Luckily numerous treatments can help the body and reduce the effects of inflammation. The video above explains how incorporating an anti-inflammatory diet and chiropractic care can help reduce chronic inflammation effects in the body.
The MET Technique & Muscle Inflammation
Regarding chronic muscle inflammation, the musculoskeletal system deals with numerous symptoms like pain, stiffness, and weakness associated with various pathological factors. Chronic inflammation can develop from insufficient sleep, eating high-cholesterol foods, not getting enough exercise, and being stressed, which can affect the body and its systems. Fortunately, numerous available treatments can reduce inflammation. Studies reveal that treatments like MET therapy can help reduce pain correlated with muscle inflammation and increase the range of motion to the joints. The body can reduce the effects of chronic inflammation and keep it under control when MET therapy is combined with an anti-inflammatory diet. Also, practicing mindfulness can help reduce the stress contributing to chronic inflammation, which can help relax the body and naturally heal itself. Making these small changes can benefit many individuals trying to be healthier.
Conclusion
When it comes to inflammation in the musculoskeletal system, it can lead to overlapping risk profiles that can cause the body to be misaligned and have many pain-like symptoms that can make a person’s life miserable. Since inflammation is part of the immune system’s natural response to fight off infections, incorporating anti-inflammatory diets and MET stretching can help reduce the effects of inflammation and help the body heal itself from the inside out.
References
Chaitow, Leon, and Judith Walker DeLany. Clinical Applications of Neuromuscular Techniques. Churchill Livingstone, 2003.
Chen, Linlin, et al. “Inflammatory Responses and Inflammation-Associated Diseases in Organs.” Oncotarget, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 14 Dec. 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5805548/.
Thomas, Ewan, et al. “The Efficacy of Muscle Energy Techniques in Symptomatic and Asymptomatic Subjects: A Systematic Review.” Chiropractic & Manual Therapies, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 27 Aug. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6710873/.
Tuttle, Camilla S L, et al. “Markers of Inflammation and Their Association with Muscle Strength and Mass: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” Ageing Research Reviews, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 26 Sept. 2020, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32992047/.
Automobile accidents are emotionally and physically traumatic events. After an accident, individuals assume that they are okay if they don’t have any broken bones or gashing cuts. However, even minor accidents can lead to significant damage, but the individual doesn’t know it. An invisible/delayed injury is any injury that is not immediately obvious or is not experienced by the individual until hours, days, or weeks later. The most common are soft tissue injuries, back injuries, whiplash, concussions, and internal bleeding. This is why it is imperative to see a doctor or chiropractic accident specialist as soon as possible after an accident.
Invisible Injuries Auto Accidents
The body goes into a fight or flight mode in a vehicle accident. That means a massive adrenaline surge makes anything happening to the body go unnoticed and unfelt. The individual does not feel pain and discomfort symptoms until later or much later.
Soft Tissue
A soft tissue injury affects muscles, tendons, ligaments, and body parts other than bone.
Even at low speeds, accidents, and collisions generate a significant force on the body.
Drivers and passengers often come to a sudden stop along with the vehicle or get thrown around.
This places intense stress on joints and other areas of the body.
Whiplash
The most common invisible soft-tissue injury is whiplash.
Where the neck muscles are suddenly and forcefully thrown forward and then back, causing the muscles and ligaments to stretch beyond their normal range of motion.
The injury typically results in pain, swelling, reduced mobility, and headaches.
Symptoms may not present right away.
Left untreated, whiplash can lead to long-term chronic pain.
Head Injuries
Head injuries are another common invisible injury.
Even if the head did not hit/impact anything, the force and momentum can cause the brain to collide with the inside of the skull.
This can lead to a concussion or even more serious brain injuries.
Concussion
A concussion is a traumatic brain injury. Individuals can have a concussion without losing consciousness, depending on the accident’s severity. Symptoms may be delayed or not experienced, but delayed treatment can lead to a longer recovery. Symptoms can include:
Fatigue.
Headache.
Confusion.
Inability to remember the accident.
Nausea.
Ringing in the ears.
Dizziness.
Back Muscles or Spine Injuries
Back muscles and spinal cord injuries are invisible injuries that can happen after an automobile accident. Signs of a back injury include:
The back muscles can be strained due to the impact and tension build-up.
Sore muscles or pain may not present until a day or two later.
Body stiffness.
Reduced mobility.
Muscle spasms.
Trouble walking, standing, or sitting.
Headaches.
Numbness and tingling.
Injuries to the spine, even serious ones, may not be apparent immediately.
The impact can cause the spine to shift out of alignment profoundly.
Swelling and bleeding in or around the spinal cord can cause numbness or paralysis that can gradually progress.
This invisible injury can have long-term consequences, including paralysis.
Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic is an effective treatment for neuromusculoskeletal injuries. The chiropractor will assess the damage and its severity to determine the best treatment for the individual. It relieves pain and discomfort symptoms, loosens and relaxes the muscles, and restores alignment, mobility, and a full range of motion. Chiropractic uses several tools and techniques to restore the spine and body balance. Results include:
Barach, P, and E Richter. “Injury prevention.” The New England Journal of Medicine vol. 338,2 (1998): 132-3; author reply 133. doi:10.1056/NEJM199801083380215
Binder, Allan I. “Neck pain.” BMJ clinical evidence vol. 2008 1103. 4 Aug. 2008
Duncan, G J, and R Meals. “One hundred years of automobile-induced orthopedic injuries.” Orthopedics vol. 18,2 (1995): 165-70. doi:10.3928/0147-7447-19950201-15
“Motor Vehicle Safety.” Annals of emergency medicine vol. 68,1 (2016): 146-7. doi:10.1016/j.annemergmed.2016.04.045
Sims, J K et al. “Automobile accident occupant injuries.” JACEP vol. 5,10 (1976): 796-808. doi:10.1016/s0361-1124(76)80313-9
Vassiliou, Timon, et al. “Physical therapy and active exercises–an adequate treatment for prevention of late whiplash syndrome? Randomized controlled trial in 200 patients.” Pain vol. 124,1-2 (2006): 69-76. doi:10.1016/j.pain.2006.03.017
Muscle knots or trigger points are tissues/segments of muscle fibers stuck in a contracted state and balled up or become entangled. To the touch, they can feel like small bumps, nodules, or knots. They are primarily found in muscles, but they can also be found in tendons, fascia, periosteum, and ligaments. Tight muscles can limit flexibility, increase discomfort and pain symptoms, and cause further injury that can develop into chronic conditions. Trigger points can develop in all muscles and multiple muscles simultaneously. The Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Team can create a personalized treatment plan for trigger point alleviation.
Muscle Knots Trigger Points
When muscle fibers are stuck in contraction, blood circulation decreases in and around the affected area, and the necessary nutrients and oxygen cannot be delivered. The excessive accumulation of the chemicals – acetylcholine, and calcium leads to a lack of oxygen in the area, which causes muscle fiber contraction and spasms. As the muscle fibers overly contract, they form a knot. Waste materials build up in the fibers as the blocked circulation doesn’t allow removal. This irritates the trigger point, which reacts by sending out pain signals. The brain responds by telling the body not to use that muscle, causing the muscle to tighten, become weak, and lose range of motion. The other muscles have to work harder to compensate.
Trigger Point Types
Active and Latent
One type is an active trigger point.
The trigger point causes pain and discomfort even when the muscle or tissue rests.
The other type is latent, which means that the point does not cause pain or is sometimes even noticed until pressure is applied to the point or area.
Because key trigger point muscles are weakened, the muscles around that point need to work harder, causing multiple knots to form.
Referred pain happens when a satellite trigger point causes sensations in a different area from the point itself.
Causes
The main causes include the following:
Direct Trauma
Muscle trauma or injury can cause fibers not to heal properly, causing segments to stay deprived of oxygen and knotted.
Excessive and Extended Exercising
During exercise/physical activity, profound muscle strain and injury can occur from pushing too hard for too long without proper recovery and repair.
Maintaining Healthy Posture
Unhealthy postures can cause tension, stiffness, and aches and pains.
Stress and Fatigue
Emotional and physical stress takes a toll on the body, which can result in excessive muscle contraction.
Most of the time, it happens subconsciously without realizing that the body is tensing up.
This is why engaging in relaxation activities, including therapeutic massage, is important.
Inactivity
Lack of physical activity and a sedentary lifestyle can cause muscle spasms and over-contracting, leading to muscle knots.
Medical Conditions
Conditions that affect muscles, like arthritis and fibromyalgia or medications, can cause muscle spasms and the development of trigger points.
Chiropractic and Massage Therapy
Chiropractic and therapeutic massage is an effective treatment to relieve muscle knots and symptoms and restore the body to optimal function. Massage uses various techniques to increase blood circulation, break down inflexible scar tissue and stretch and loosen muscles. Pain and discomfort decrease by allowing the muscles to move and restoring blood flow.
Massage Therapy Chiropractic Care
References
Barbero, Marco, et al. “Myofascial pain syndrome and trigger points: evaluation and treatment in patients with musculoskeletal pain.” Current Opinion in Supportive and palliative care vol. 13,3 (2019): 270-276. doi:10.1097/SPC.0000000000000445
Cheung, Karoline, et al. “Delayed onset muscle soreness: treatment strategies and performance factors.” Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.) vol. 33,2 (2003): 145-64. doi:10.2165/00007256-200333020-00005
Money, Sarah. “Pathophysiology of Trigger Points in Myofascial Pain Syndrome.” Journal of Pain & palliative care pharmacotherapy vol. 31,2 (2017): 158-159. doi:10.1080/15360288.2017.1298688
Moraska, Albert F et al. “Responsiveness of Myofascial Trigger Points to Single and Multiple Trigger Point Release Massages: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial.” American Journal of physical medicine & Rehabilitation vol. 96,9 (2017): 639-645. doi:10.1097/PHM.0000000000000728
Weerapong, Pornratshanee, et al. “The mechanisms of massage and effects on performance, muscle recovery, and injury prevention.” Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.) vol. 35,3 (2005): 235-56. doi:10.2165/00007256-200535030-00004
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
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