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.
Back injuries from vehicle collisions vary from person to person. Common injuries may include strains, sprains, herniated discs, and fractures, and individuals dealing with certain spinal conditions like spinal stenosis may cause the medical condition to accelerate. Still, the force and physical impact the body absorbs during a crash, no matter how minor the accident or how safe the car is, will cause bodily aches and pains with the potential for other spinal conditions. Chiropractic care, massage, decompression, and traction therapy can relieve symptoms and restore mobility and function.
Back Injuries From Vehicle Collisions
Depending on how the impact affects the spine, problems can present in various areas of the back. The violent motion can sprain, strain, and fracture spinal components. Even minor incidents can impact mobility. Symptoms can stem from inflammation, compressed nerves, or fractures. Any damage can have long-lasting effects on the vertebrae, nerve roots, and back muscles. A vehicle collision can affect the following:
Lumbar vertebrae – lower back
Thoracic vertebrae – middle/upper back
Cervical vertebrae – neck
Each area consists of bones, tissues, muscles, nerves, tendons, and ligaments extending from the neck to the pelvis.
The most common back injuries are to the neck and lower back, where the most movement and shifting occurs, often causing nerve damage.
The central placement and rigid structure make middle back injuries less common.
Upper back injuries that connect the rib and chest region can affect breathing.
Soft tissue injuries might not show up immediately.
Symptoms
After a vehicle collision, it’s common to feel sore all over. The symptoms can range from manageable discomfort to complete immobility. Individuals may experience the following:
Muscle spasms
The muscle may repeatedly twitch, feel like hard knots, and feel tender to the touch.
Muscle spasms can vary in pain levels from mild to debilitating.
Stiffness
Individuals may not feel as flexible because of the muscle tension that activated during the crash to protect the body.
Stiffness can go away after light stretching or continue throughout the day.
Burning or Shooting Pain
A burning or shooting pain may travel down the back and buttocks through the back of one or both legs.
It can be mild, dull aches and pains that go away quickly or last for days.
Changing positions, such as sitting up after waking up or standing up after sitting, can cause sharp acute pain.
Certain physical activities can cause a throbbing sensation or mild pain when attempting to perform various tasks.
Tingling and/or Numbness
Tense muscles can pinch nerves leading to sensations of tingling or numbness in the legs, feet, arms, or hands.
Head Issues
Headaches, dizziness, or disorientation can present.
Spinal Disorders
Back injuries from vehicle collisions can result in a degenerative disc disorder months or years later. It can also speed up health issues individuals didn’t know they had before the crash. As the body ages, previous damage combined with degeneration can result in:
Micro-tears within the muscles and ligaments are common and cannot be found through a standard x-ray.
Spinal adjustments can bring the spine back into alignment, producing natural anti-inflammatory properties to assist with discomfort and heal the tears.
Scar Tissue Breakdown
Muscles can get scarred, causing stiffness and soreness.
Chiropractic massage targets these areas and breaks down the build-up quicker than if it was left to heal on its own.
Less scar tissue means faster recovery.
Range of Motion and Mobility Restored
Back injuries can result in restricted mobility.
It may be difficult to turn or move when the muscles are inflamed.
Mobilizing the spine through adjustments restores the proper range of motion.
Decreased Medication Use
Prescription pain medications can turn into dependency.
Chiropractic adjustments can ensure that the injury is healed and the pain is not just masked.
Long-Term Benefits
Receiving chiropractic care can help prevent minor injuries from worsening into serious and chronic conditions.
Post Whiplash Symptoms
References
Erbulut, Deniz U. “Biomechanics of neck injuries resulting from rear-end vehicle collisions.” Turkish neurosurgery vol. 24,4 (2014): 466-70. doi:10.5137/1019-5149.JTN.9218-13.1
National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center. (2020) “Spinal Cord Injury: Facts and Figures at a Glance.” www.nspine injurysc.uab.edu/Public/Facts%20and%20Figures%202020.pdf
Rao, Raj D et al. “Occupant and Crash Characteristics of Elderly Subjects With Thoracic and Lumbar Spine Injuries After Motor Vehicle Collisions.” Spine vol. 41,1 (2016): 32-8. doi:10.1097/BRS.0000000000001079
Rao, Raj D et al. “Occupant and crash characteristics in thoracic and lumbar spine injuries resulting from motor vehicle collisions.” The spine journal: official journal of the North American Spine Society vol. 14,10 (2014): 2355-65. doi:10.1016/j.spinee.2014.01.038
The chest in the upper half of the body comprises various structures that each have a job to keep the body functioning. The chest has different large muscles surrounding the ribcage and helps protect the vital organs that allow the host to breathe. The essential organs protected by the ribcage and the chest muscles include the heart and the lungs. These two organs aid the chest with blood circulation, breathing, and digestion to keep the body moving and functional. When injuries or chronic conditions begin to affect the chest, it can cause the muscles surrounding the ribcage to contract and tighten, causing the heart and lungs to work harder and causing various issues to affect the body. This can lead to chronic symptoms in the chest and affect a person’s life. Today’s article looks at the pectoralis major muscle in the chest, how trigger point pain is associated with chest pain, and how to manage trigger points in the chest. We refer patients to certified providers who specialize in chest pain therapies to aid many people suffering from trigger point pain affecting the pectoralis major muscles. We brief patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their examination when appropriate. We indicate that education is a great solution to asking our providers profound and complex questions at the patient’s request. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., takes note of this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
The Pectoralis Major Muscles In The Chest
Have you been experiencing unexplainable chest pains that mimic heart issues? Do you feel muscle stiffness near your clavicle? Or do your chest muscles feel tenser and sorer than usual? Many of these issues affecting the chest could result from trigger points associating with the chest along the pectoralis major muscles. The pectoralis major is the superior and largest muscle in the chest wall’s front area. This muscle looks like a thick fan that surrounds the clavicle and works with the chest and arms to provide mobility and power to the upper body. Studies reveal that the pectoralis major muscle plays an important role in upper limb movements. To that point, it can help with the adduction and medial rotation of the arm, according to the book by Dr. Travell, M.D. “Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction,” the pectoralis muscle works with the rest of the chest muscles while being assisted by the teres major and minor muscles, the anterior and posterior deltoid muscles, the subscapularis muscles, and the tricep muscles. The pectoralis major muscles can also be affected by multiple issues affecting the chest and the rest of the upper half of the body.
Trigger Point Pain Associated With The Chest
When the pectoralis major muscles are affected by various issues, they can mimic other chronic conditions that are causing referred pain in different body areas. This is known as trigger point pain, and it can cause overlapping risk profiles on the pectoralis major muscles that can affect the chest. Trigger points are slightly difficult to diagnose as many factors, like repetitive motions or lifting heavy objects, can cause the affected muscles to develop tiny knots along the muscle fibers and cause pain-like symptoms. Many people with chest pains often complain that something is affecting their heart as they place their hands on their chest and gently rub the affected area. However, when their doctors examine them, the issue is not their hearts but their chest muscles. Studies reveal that trigger points affecting the affected muscle can mimic issues like cardiovascular dysfunction in the heart. To that point, active trigger points in the pectoralis major muscle can cause somato-visceral pain to the heart, mimicking cardiovascular issues like paroxysmal arrhythmia. It can also cause visceral-somatic pain where the heart suffers from cardiovascular problems affecting the pectoralis major muscles.
Trigger Point Therapy On The Pectoralis Major-Video
Have you been dealing with chest pains that cause you to hunch over? Does your chest seem to feel tight when you stretch? Or have your chest muscles feel tender to the touch? These pain symptoms are caused by trigger points affecting the pectoralis muscles. Trigger points are generated when a person overuses their muscles from daily activities or succumbs to muscle injuries that cause referred pain in different body areas. So trigger points affecting the pectoralis major muscle may cause chest pains. The video above explains the pectoralis muscles and where the trigger points are located that cause referred pain to the shoulders and the rest of the upper half of the body. Trigger points associated with the chest along the pectoralis major muscles can be treatable through various treatments and techniques that can reduce the symptoms and prevent trigger points from forming along the affected muscle in the future.
Ways To Manage Trigger Points On The Chest
When trigger points affect the pectoralis major muscles, they can invoke chest pain-like symptoms that resemble a cardiovascular disorder. Fortunately, pain specialists like chiropractors, massage therapists, and physiotherapists can utilize various techniques to help reduce the pain caused by trigger points. Studies reveal that when local and referred pain affects the pectoralis major muscle, multiple massage treatments targeting the trigger points can help alleviate the symptoms causing chest pains. Another way people can manage trigger points is by stretching the pectoralis major muscle to relieve tension and soreness in the chest. Incorporating various stretching techniques to alleviate chest pain can help loosen up the stiff muscles and warm them up before a vigorous workout. This allows the pectoralis muscles to provide optimal output on a person’s health and wellness.
Conclusion
The pectoralis major is a thick fan-shaped muscle located on the chest. This muscle works with the shoulders and upper half of the body while protecting the heart and the lungs from various injuries and chronic conditions. When these muscles become affected by injuries or chronic conditions, they can develop trigger points along the chest, causing referred pain to the pectoralis major muscles. This can lead to somato-visceral and visceral-somatic pain symptoms in the chest and make many individuals miserable. Luckily pain specialists who can help manage trigger points along the affected muscle utilize various techniques to reduce the symptoms and prevent trigger points from forming in the affected muscle again. This allows the individual to continue with their daily activities without worrying about chest pains.
References
Haładaj, Robert, et al. “Anatomical Variations of the Pectoralis Major Muscle: Notes on Their Impact on Pectoral Nerve Innervation Patterns and Discussion on Their Clinical Relevance.” BioMed Research International, Hindawi, 2 Apr. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6466946/.
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, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Sept. 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5561477/.
Simons, David G. “Cardiology and Myofascial Trigger Points: Janet G. Travell’s Contribution.” Texas Heart Institute Journal, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2003, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC152827/.
Solari, Francesca, and Bracken Burns. “Anatomy, Thorax, Pectoralis Major Major.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 26 July 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK525991/.
Travell, J. G., et al. Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual: Vol. 1:Upper Half of Body. Williams & Wilkins, 1999.
Nerves control muscle fibers. Muscle twitching is an involuntary contraction of the muscle fibers. When individuals play sports/work out vigorously or for a long time, they may experience muscle twitching and can often see and/or feel the twitches happening. The most worked-out muscles are likely to twitch, which includes the biceps, thighs, and calves, but twitches can occur in any muscle. Chiropractic care, massage therapy, and functional medicine can help relax the muscles, improve circulation, restore function, and train individuals to prevent future episodes.
Muscle Twitching
A muscle twitch often occurs after intense physical activity or a hard workout because the muscle or muscles have been overworked, and there is hyper-excitability of the nerve/s that makes the muscle/s continue to contract.
A muscle twitch that can be seen is called fasciculation.
A muscle twitch that cannot be seen is called fibrillation.
If there is pain or the twitching is prolonged, it is a muscle spasm.
Causes
The most common causes include the following:
Intense exercise and rigorous physical activity build up lactic acid in the muscles.
Dehydration is a very common factor for shaky muscles.
Vitamin D and calcium deficiencies could cause muscle spasms in the hand, calves, and eyelids.
Using caffeinated products to increase physical performance.
Not enough or a lack of healthy sleep.
Anxiety or stress.
Certain medications like estrogen and corticosteroids.
Nicotine and tobacco use.
Physical Activity/Exercise
Intense exercise and physical activity can cause muscle fatigue.
Muscle fatigue triggers twitching and cramping in overworked muscle fibers.
Electrolytes play a role in muscle contraction.
Electrolyte loss and imbalances within muscle fibers through sweating can lead to twitching.
Dehydration
Muscle mass comprises 75% water.
Water carries nutrients and minerals to muscles to support function.
Not being properly hydrated can cause twitching and cramping.
Vitamin D Deficiency
Nerves need vitamin D to relay messages to and from the brain to the body’s muscles.
A vitamin D deficiency can cause muscle weakness and twitching.
Lack of sleep can affect neurotransmitter function.
A common site of fasciculation tiredness occurs in the eyelids.
Anxiety and Stress
Experiencing psychological stress or high anxiety levels can cause excess muscle tension.
This can lead to muscle twitching.
Muscle fasciculation caused by stress can occur anywhere in the body.
Certain Medications
Certain medications can lead to involuntary muscle twitching.
The reaction can be a side effect due to interactions with other medications.
Individuals should discuss side effects and medication interactions with their doctor when taking a new medication.
Chiropractic Care
Chiropractors are experts on the musculoskeletal system and have many techniques to treat muscle fasciculation and spasms. It often depends on the cause/s, and specific treatment varies on a case-by-case basis. Common chiropractic treatments include:
Massage therapy
Heat and ice therapy
Manual manipulation
Joint adjustments
Ultrasound
Stretches to keep the muscles flexible
Exercises to strengthen the muscles
Nutritional recommendations
Fasciculation
References
Bergeron, Michael F.. Muscle Cramps during Exercise-Is It Fatigue or Electrolyte Deficit?. Current Sports Medicine Reports July 2008 – Volume 7 – Issue 4 – p S50-S55 doi: 10.1249/JSR.0b013e31817f476a
Gragossian A, Bashir K, Friede R. Hypomagnesemia. [Updated 2022 May 15]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (F.L.): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. Available from: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK500003/
Küçükali, Cem Ismail, et al. “Peripheral nerve hyperexcitability syndromes.” Reviews in the neurosciences vol. 26,2 (2015): 239-51. doi:10.1515/revneuro-2014-0066
Maughan, Ronald J, and Susan M Shirreffs. “Muscle Cramping During Exercise: Causes, Solutions, and Questions Remaining.” Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.) vol. 49, Suppl 2 (2019): 115-124. doi:10.1007/s40279-019-01162-1
Miller, Kevin C et al. “Exercise-associated muscle cramps: causes, treatment, and prevention.” Sports health vol. 2,4 (2010): 279-83. doi:10.1177/1941738109357299
Riebl, Shaun K, and Brenda M Davy. “The Hydration Equation: Update on Water Balance and Cognitive Performance.” ACSM’s health & fitness journal vol. 17,6 (2013): 21-28. doi:10.1249/FIT.0b013e3182a9570f
Many people use their hands when going to work or doing normal things in their daily lives. The hands correlate with the five finger digits that provide grip strength when holding onto items in various sizes and weights that the hand muscles can handle. The hands have multiple muscles, tendons, and ligaments that travel past the wrist and forearms. These three components in the upper body have a casual relationship with the shoulders to provide stability and mobilization to the upper extremities. When the various muscles, tendons, and ligaments succumb to traumatic forces or injuries that cause pain to the forearms, wrists, and hands, it can develop myofascial pain syndrome or trigger points to generate overlapping risk profiles that mask other symptoms. Today’s article looks at the thumb muscles, how myofascial trigger pain affects the thumb, and how to prevent and manage the trigger thumb from occurring further in the hands. We refer patients to certified providers specializing in hand and wrist pain therapies to aid many people suffering from trigger thumb and fingers affecting their hands. We also guide and inform our patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their examination when appropriate. We established that education is a great solution to asking our providers profound questions the patient requests. Dr. Jimenez DC takes note of this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
A Look At The Thumb Muscles
Have you been experiencing a strong decrease in your grip when holding something? What about hearing popping or snapping sounds when moving your fingers or thumb? Or have you experienced pain near your wrist or at the palm of your hands? When people are experiencing pain along their fingers, especially thumbs, it can develop into myofascial trigger pain along the thumb. As part of the hand, the thumb has muscles that provide movement and motor skills to make the thumb mobile. The two muscles: the adductor pollicis and the opponens pollicis, allow the thumb to move and touch each of the other finger digits. The adductor pollicis in the hand has deep, intricate, superimposed layers of muscles, tendons, and fascial compartments that work together to be versatile to the thumb. This muscle is triangular-shaped with a two-headed structure, and its main function is to adduct the thumb. This means that the adductor pollicis allows the thumb to move, touch the palm, and be close to the index finger. To that point, this muscle provides the thumb pinching and gripping movements.
The other muscle is known as the opponens pollicis, and this muscle helps provides small hand movements for the thumb by allowing it to touch the tips of each of the digits. The opponens pollicis muscle works together with the adductor pollicis muscle as it allows the hand to cup objects while also making the pinching grip possible for the hand. The oppponens pollicis muscle also works with the various muscles, nerves, and bones to be in sync in providing movement to the hands and provide mobility strength.
How Myofascial Trigger Pain Affects The Thumb
The adductor and oppenens pollicis muscles can provide gripping and pinching motions to the hands without causing pain; however, when the thumb muscle ligaments have been overused or been through trauma, they can develop into myofascial trigger pain along the thumb muscles, causing trigger thumb. Studies reveal that causes for the trigger thumb to form are repetitive gripping motions and overusing of the thumb muscle. This causes the flexor tendon sheath to narrow along the thumb joint and causes clicking or popping sensations when the thumb is trying to extend, thus leading to the development of myofascial trigger pain. According to the book, “Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual,” written by Dr. Janet G. Travell, M.D., when myofascial trigger pain begins to affect the hand’s functionality, it can make many individuals lose the pinching motion in their hands as they aren’t able to hold the object they are using. Even simple actions like pulling weeds in the garden can cause stress on the thumb and cause tenderness to the affected muscle.
An Overview Of Trigger Finger & Trigger Thumb-Video
Are you having difficulty holding items in your hands? Do you feel like your fingers are locking up constantly? Or does it hurt when you extend your thumb or fingers? If you have been experiencing these pain symptoms in your hands and fingers, it could be due to myofascial trigger pain associated with the thumb and fingers along the hands. Trigger fingers or trigger thumbs is a common ailment that affects the mobility function of the hands and can invoke pain in the affected joints causing them to lock up. The video above explains what trigger fingers and trigger thumbs, the symptoms and causes, and how to treat and manage the pain. When pain is associated with the hands and fingers, causing trigger points to form along the affected muscle, many individuals begin to feel hopeless when they aren’t able to hold items. Thankfully, there are various ways to manage trigger thumb and prevent pain from causing further damage.
How To Manage & Prevent Trigger Thumb
When trigger thumb begins to affect a person’s ability to grasp objects, it can cause them to feel miserable and can greatly affect their quality of life. All is not lost, as there are various ways to manage trigger thumbs and prevent future pain symptoms from continuously affecting a person’s mobility in their hands. Studies show that multiple treatments like splinting can help gain mobility back to the thumb and prevent the joint from locking up, causing pain. Other therapies like hand and wrist stretches can help loosen up the stiff tendons and muscles and even bring back mobility strength to the hands. Many doctors advise their patients to start using different hand and wrist exercises to relax the aching muscles and get circulation back to the hands. Another way to prevent the trigger thumb from affecting the hands is to do stretch exercises for the adductor and opponens pollicis muscles with heat to relax and loosen the stiff muscles while also restoring flexion and extension to the thumb.
Conclusion
The thumbs provide the functionality to the hands by allowing gripping and pinching motions when people pick up objects. The two muscles that provide this motion are the adductor and oppnens pollicis muscles. When traumatic forces begin to affect these two muscles in the thumb, it can develop a trigger thumb associated with pain. This causes the thumb to lock up and invoke pain when someone tries to extend their thumbs. Trigger thumbs occur when individuals overuse the thumb muscles and causes the grip strength to weaken. Luckily, available treatments can help restore mobility to the thumb and prevent it from locking up.
Reference
Acosta, Jonathan R, et al. “Anatomy, Shoulder and Upper Limb, Hand Adductor Pollicis.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 11 Aug. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK526059/.
Akhtar, Sohail, et al. “Management and Referral for Trigger Finger/Thumb.” BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.), BMJ Publishing Group Ltd., 2 July 2005, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC558536/.
Nguyen, John D, and Hieu Duong. “Anatomy, Shoulder and Upper Limb, Hand Opponens Pollicis Muscle.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 11 Aug. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK546603/.
Pencle, Fabio J, et al. “Trigger Thumb.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 20 July 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441854/.
Travell, J. G., et al. Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual: Vol. 1:Upper Half of Body. Williams & Wilkins, 1999.
When it comes to the body, the hands and fingers correlate with each other by giving the host the grip strength to carry and hold items. The items can range from the smallest to the largest, depending on the item’s weight that a person can physically hold. When the weight becomes overbearingly heavy that a person can not lift or hold, it can lead to unwanted symptoms that overlap with other chronic conditions. To that point, when the hand muscles begin to lose their grip strength, it can lead to the development of trigger points in the affected muscles connected to the hand muscles and tendons. Today’s article looks at a chronic condition associated with trigger points known as trigger fingers, what the symptoms are, and how to treat trigger fingers in the hands. We refer patients to certified providers specializing in hand and wrist pain therapies to aid many people suffering from trigger fingers affecting their hands. We also guide and inform our patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their examination when appropriate. We established that education is a great solution to asking our providers profound questions the patient requests. Dr. Jimenez DC takes note of this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
What Is Trigger Fingers?
Have you encountered stiffness in your fingers? Do you feel pain radiating from your forearms to the palm of your hands? Does it seem difficult to carry or hold items for an extended period? Many people who have dealt with these symptoms believe it is something arthritic or just normal signs of age; however, it could correlate with triggering fingers affecting the hands. Trigger fingers or stenosing tenosynovitis happens when the flexor sheaths in the wrist become overused due to repetitive motions that cause the flexor tendon muscles in the forearm to be inflamed and development issues in the finger joints. This can be very problematic for many individuals who work with their hands as it can cause significant functional impairment to the hands and the fingers. Trigger fingers also commonly affect the individual’s dominant hand and involve the most common digit, the thumb.
The Symptoms
When many individuals are dealing with trigger fingers in their hands, they often complain about their fingers locking up in flexion or extension. When this happens, it can become problematic, as trigger fingers can affect the mobility of the fingers. Some of the symptoms that trigger fingers cause in the digits include:
Stiffness in the fingers
Popping or clicking sensations
Bumps at the base of the finger joint
Finger catching in a bent position and pops straight
Finger locking
What is the correlation between diabetes and trigger fingers? Studies reveal that trigger fingers are a multifactorial chronic condition that can occur in anyone, especially those with diabetes. Trigger fingers are diagnosed by palpating a thickened tendon. Other issues cause trigger fingers to form due to active trigger points affecting the flexor muscles in the forearms. According to Dr. Travell, M.D.’s book, “Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual,” individuals with active trigger points along their forearm muscles tend to experience difficulty in utilizing mobility strength with their hands. To that point, many individuals may not be able to cup and supinate their hands, extend or flex their fingers, or be able to grip items they are reaching.
An Overview Of Trigger Fingers- Video
Are you dealing with joint stiffness along your fingers? What about feeling pain from flexing or extending their fingers? Or do you feel pain and tenderness in your forearm muscles? Many individuals with these symptoms could be dealing with the pain associated with trigger fingers. Trigger fingers occur when the finger digits suffer from microtrauma by repetitive use or compression forces that invokes pain and inflammation along the tendons of the fingers. The video above overviews trigger fingers, their symptoms, and how to diagnose and treat trigger fingers in the hands. Many associated factors can lead to the development of trigger fingers, and one related factor is diabetes overlapping trigger points along the forearms. Studies reveal that trigger fingers are a complication affecting the upper extremities in diabetic individuals. Individuals with trigger fingers associated with diabetes can also cause overlapping risk profiles for cardiovascular diseases. This relationship is known as somato-visceral pain, where the damaged muscle affects the corresponding organ. In this case, the tendons for the fingers cause referred pain to the heart, thus potentially involving the cardiovascular system. Luckily there are various ways to treat trigger fingers and prevent pain from occurring in the hands in the future.
How To Treat Trigger Fingers
Since trigger fingers are a common source of pain and disability in the hands, many individuals seek pain specialists to manage and relieve pain associated with trigger fingers. Studies reveal that various methods are used to reduce the pain along the affected finger digits and bring back mobility to the finger joints. Doing gentle finger stretches, not gripping items so tightly, or applying heat to loosen up the locked joints, can help manage trigger fingers while preventing the pain-like symptoms from coming back. Incorporating these treatments can help bring mobility strength back to the hands and prevent the fingers from locking up. However, treatment alone can not be the only solution; after the individuals get treatment for trigger fingers, they have to do their part to prevent future issues from reoccurring again in their fingers.
Conclusion
The hands and fingers have a casual relationship, providing mobility and grip strength for the host to hold and carry items. However, when traumatic factors or normal activities begin to overuse the joints and muscles in their hands, it can lead to trigger fingers. Trigger fingers can cause the finger joints to lock up and invoke pain-like symptoms in the hands. This can make many individuals lose their mobility function in their hands and can make them miserable. Luckily, various treatments can help manage trigger fingers and help bring mobility back to the individual’s hands.
References
Akhtar, Sohail, et al. “Management and Referral for Trigger Finger/Thumb.” BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.), BMJ Publishing Group Ltd., 2 July 2005, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC558536/.
Jeanmonod, Rebecca, et al. “Trigger Finger – Statpearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 20 July 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459310/.
Makkouk, Al Hasan, et al. “Trigger Finger: Etiology, Evaluation, and Treatment.” Current Reviews in Musculoskeletal Medicine, Humana Press Inc, June 2008, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2684207/.
Mineoka, Yusuke, et al. “Trigger Finger Is Associated with Risk of Incident Cardiovascular Disease in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes: A Retrospective Cohort Study.” BMJ Open Diabetes Research & Care, BMJ Publishing Group, Apr. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8039242/.
Travell, J. G., et al. Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual: Vol. 1:Upper Half of Body. Williams & Wilkins, 1999.
The hands are the main show when it comes to the body. They can be expressive when a person is talking, they can carry items from place to place, and when it comes to sports, they have excellent grip strength. The various muscles, tendons, nerve roots, and ligaments surround the joints to provide functionality and mobility to each finger digit. The hands also have a great relationship with the wrist and forearms because the muscles in the forearms travel down to the hands to provide mobility, flexion, and extension to the fingers. However, when the muscles become overused from repetitive motions, it can lead to the development of pain overlapping other conditions that can affect the wrist and hands. To that point, trigger points can develop over time to invoke pain in the affected muscles and cause referred pain to affect the hands. Today’s article looks at one of the muscles known as the palmaris longus, how trigger points affect the hand muscles, and various techniques to manage trigger points along the palmaris longus muscle. We refer patients to certified providers specializing in hand and wrist pain therapies to provide aid to individuals suffering from trigger point pain associated with the palmaris longus muscles located on the hand. We also guide and inform our patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their examination when appropriate. We established that education is a great solution to asking our providers profound questions the patient requests. Dr. Jimenez DC takes note of this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
What Is The Palmaris Longus Muscle?
Have you been dealing with numbness in the palm of your hands? Have you been experiencing issues holding items for an extended period? Or do your wrist and forearm ache constantly? If you have been experiencing these overlapping issues, it could be the development of trigger points along the palmaris longus muscle. The palmaris longus is a small muscle located on the front of the forearms and extends down from the wrist to meet with the rest of the muscles and tendons of the hands. The palmaris longus also connects to the roof of the carpal tunnel bones, where the median nerves and digital flexors tendons reside and provide movement. According to Dr. Janet G. Travell, M.D.’s book, “Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual,” the palmaris longus muscle function is to flex the hands at the wrist while being able to tense the palmar fascia. Studies reveal that the palmaris longus muscle flexes the wrist weakly as an accessory muscle and abducts the thumb for mobility. This muscle is also prone to injuries as it can develop pain-like symptoms along the wrist and the palm of the hands.
How Trigger Points Affect The Hand Muscles?
When the palmaris longus muscle succumbs to injuries, it can develop chronic issues that can cause pain in the wrist and hands. One of the chronic issues that can affect the hand muscles and the rest of the forearms is trigger points. Trigger points can lead to the development of referred pain along the forearms, wrists, and hands. To that point, trigger points can mimic overlapping chronic conditions along the affected muscle area. So when trigger points begin to affect the palmaris longus muscle, the pain-like symptoms can mimic carpal tunnel syndrome. Now studies reveal that the palmaris longus muscle is connected to the median nerve and the pathophysiology of carpal tunnel syndrome is more likely to interplay between anatomic and systemic factors. This causes the median nerve root to become compressed, thus causing pressure and pain to the hands. To that point, trigger points in the palmaris longus muscle may be activated by direct trauma. Some examples that can cause the development of trigger points are:
Gripping tools too tightly
Leaning on a cane
Holding a tennis racket at the end of the handle
Falling and landing on the hands
Many of these actions can result from overusing and causing issues in the palmaris longus muscle, leading to unwanted pain and muscle injury symptoms.
Trigger Points On The Palmaris Longus-Video
Are you experiencing any numbing sensations in the palm of your hands? What about feeling the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome along your wrist? Or have you experienced aches and pain along your forearms? Some of these symptoms correlate with the development of trigger points along the palmaris longus muscle. The palmaris is a small muscle in front of the forearms and travels down to the wrist to connect with the rest of the muscle tendons of the hands. When traumatic events begin to affect and injure the palmaris longus, it can develop trigger points and cause pain to radiate down to the wrists and hands. The video above explains where the palmaris longus muscle is located and how trigger points activate pain-like symptoms that mimic chronic conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome. Studies reveal that when the median nerve (which is connected with the palmaris longus muscle) is being entrapped, causing trigger points to mimic carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. Alas, all is not lost, as there are various techniques that many people can utilize to relieve pain from the palmaris longus muscle and manage trigger points from developing further.
Various Techniques For Managing Trigger Points On The Hand Muscles
When it comes to managing trigger points on the hand muscles and palmaris longus muscle, many people will incorporate various remedies to reduce the pain-induced inflammation on the affected muscle and manage trigger points from causing more issues in the affected muscles. Treatments like massaging the forearm to the hands can help release trigger points from the palmaris longus muscle. Granted, there will be involuntary twitching, but the results prevent future trigger points from forming the muscle. Another technique is placing a heating pad on the forearm to relax the tense muscles and reduce pain. And finally, gentle stretches and reducing a tight grip can prevent hyperirritability on the palmaris longus muscle and strengthen the muscles that are connected with the palmaris longus muscle.
Conclusion
Regarding the body, the hands have a very important function as they provide grip strength and have a great relationship to the wrist and forearms. The palmaris longus muscle is a small band in front of the forearms and connects to the various muscles and tendons of the wrists and hands. When traumatic injuries affect the palmaris longus muscle, it can develop trigger points correlating with carpal tunnel symptoms. When trigger points affect the palmaris longus muscle, it can cause symptoms of pain and numbness in the wrist and hands, causing a person to lose their grip strength. Thankfully, various techniques to manage and treat trigger points can reduce the pain quality on the forearms and wrist while bringing the grip strength back to the hands.
References
Boltuch, Andrew D, et al. “The Palmaris Longus and Its Association with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.” Journal of Wrist Surgery, Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., Dec. 2020, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7708024/.
Cooper, David W, and Bracken Burns. “Anatomy, Shoulder and Upper Limb, Hand Palmaris Tendon.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 3 Sept. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519516/.
Ioannis, Dimitriou, et al. “Palmaris Longus Muscle’s Prevalence in Different Nations and Interesting Anatomical Variations: Review of the Literature.” Journal of Clinical Medicine Research, Elmer Press, Nov. 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4596262/.
Meder, Marek A, et al. “Reliability of the Infraspinatus Test in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Clinical Study.” Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research : JCDR, JCDR Research and Publications (P) Limited, May 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5483796/.
Travell, J. G., et al. Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual: Vol. 1:Upper Half of Body. Williams & Wilkins, 1999.
The elbows and the forearms have a casual relationship with each other as they provide flexion and retraction of the arms in the body. Each different muscle group in the body has the job of making the body functional. The arms help the body to carry items while the shoulders provide stability to the head and neck. The head and neck work together to allow rotation and movement. Finally, the legs and hips stabilize the body’s upper half and move from place to place. Traumatic events or injuries that affect the arms can lead to pain along the muscles in the forearms. This can lead to the muscles becoming inflamed and developing myofascial pain syndrome or trigger points along the affected muscles. One of the muscles in the forearms that can be affected by myofascial pain syndrome is the supinator muscles. Today’s article looks at the supinator muscles, how myofascial pain affects the supinator muscles, and how to manage myofascial pain syndrome along the supinator muscles. We refer patients to certified providers who specialize in elbow pain treatments to aid individuals suffering from myofascial pain syndrome associated with the supinator muscles near the elbow and forearm. We also guide and inform our patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their examination when appropriate. We established that education is a great solution to asking our providers profound questions the patient requests. Dr. Jimenez DC takes note of this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
What Is The Supinator Muscle?
Are you experiencing any pain along your forearm or elbow? What about feeling stiffness along your thumb? Do you feel any tenderness or soreness in your forearm muscle? People who have been experiencing these symptoms might be dealing with myofascial pain syndrome that is affecting their supinator muscles. According to Dr. Travell, M.D.’s book, “Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual,” the supinator muscle is a flat spiral muscle under the elbow joint and is located in the posterior compartment of the forearm. The supinator muscle function is to supinate or turn the forearm when the elbow is in a position of flexion or extension. The supinator muscle also works together with the bicep brachii muscles. Studies reveal that the biceps function provides stability and assists with internal rotation with the elbow joint by interacting with the supinator muscle. Both of these muscles provide supination and flexion strength to the elbow. However, the supinator muscle can also be affected by injuries in the elbows and forearms, causing referred pain along the forearms and parts of the hand, primarily the thumb.
Myofascial Pain Affecting The Supinator Muscle
When the supinator muscle is suffering from pain, various issues can cause the pain to occur near the elbow and forearm. Multiple factors can include:
Carrying a large, heavy bag.
Playing tennis.
Extreme movements cause the elbow to be hyperextended and lead to myofascial pain syndrome or trigger points along the supinator muscles.
Now tennis elbow is often associated with trigger points as it affects the lateral head of the triceps and the extensor muscles next to the supinator muscles. Studies reveal that tennis elbow usually occurs on the dominant arm and is regarded as an overuse injury that involves repetitive extension against resistance. To that point, the repetitive motions can lead to the development of trigger points along the supinator muscles.
Many people with active trigger points in the supinator muscles often complain about twinges of pain located in the front or back of the elbow, along with muscle tenderness in the supinator muscle. Myofascial pain syndrome can also mimic other chronic pain conditions in the arm that causes referred pain symptoms associated with the muscle. Myofascial pain syndrome causes the affected muscle to be hyperirritable and causes the surrounding nerves that are intertwined with the muscles to be compressed. This causes various symptoms in the forearms, like tingling sensations, numbness, and a decrease in grip strength. All is not lost as multiple ways to manage myofascial pain syndrome along the supinator muscles.
How To Release Supinator Trigger Points- Video
Are you experiencing twinges of pain near your elbow? What about radiating pain along your thumb? Do you feel tenderness or muscle weakness on your forearms or your elbow? Many of these symptoms are due to the development of myofascial pain syndrome or trigger points that are affecting the supinator muscles. Trigger points can mimic other chronic pain conditions that can cause referred pain to the rest of the body. The video above explains where trigger points are located in the supinator muscle and how to release the trigger points from that muscle. Various techniques can help manage myofascial pain syndrome that is affecting the supinator muscles and can help alleviate the pain-like symptoms that are along the muscle fibers.
Managing Myofascial Pain Syndrome Along The Supinator Muscles
When managing myofascial pain syndrome along the supinator muscles, many individuals can incorporate these techniques as part of their daily activities. Many individuals can go to a pain specialist that targets myofascial pain syndrome through palpations and massages. Studies reveal that incorporating a diagnosis of where the palpations have occurred and massaging the affected muscle can release the trigger points from the muscle and reduce pain. Another technique many people can utilize to manage myofascial pain syndrome is not overextending the elbow to cause trigger points to form. This is extremely important for tennis players to prevent tennis elbows from forming and reduce the chances of trigger points forming along the supinator muscles. And lastly, doing isotonic exercises can help strengthen and condition the supinator muscles to prevent injuries. These techniques allow the individual to be pain-free and continue with their daily lives.
Conclusion
The supinator muscles are located underneath the elbow, allowing forearm rotation when the elbow is flexed or extended. When the supinator muscle is affected by injuries or repetitive motions, it can develop trigger points or myofascial pain syndrome. This causes referred pain along the elbow to parts of the hand, primarily the thumb. Trigger points can even overlap and cause symptoms of “tennis elbow” to cause pain along the muscle and joints. Luckily, various techniques can prevent trigger points from developing further and reduce the pain in the elbows and forearms. To that point, the individual can continue doing their daily activities.
References
Bron, Carel, et al. “Interrater Reliability of Palpation of Myofascial Trigger Points in Three Shoulder Muscles.” The Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy, Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy, Inc., 2007, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2565638/.
Güleçyüz, Mehmet F, et al. “Reference Values of Flexion and Supination in the Elbow Joint of a Cohort without Shoulder Pathologies.” BioMed Research International, Hindawi, 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5674724/.
Travell, J. G., et al. Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual: Vol. 1:Upper Half of Body. Vol. 1, Williams & Wilkins, 1999.
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