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.
Finding the right sciatica chiropractic specialist to diagnose the cause especially, when it is an abdominal aortic aneurysm can be a challenge. There can cause diagnostic confusion with the root cause never being discovered or identified. Fortunately, Dr. Jimenez is a sciatica specialist with over 30 years of experience in differential sciatica diagnosis, and treatment.
Sciatica Chiropractic Specialist Diagnosis
Diagnostic Tools
Abdominal aneurysms are usually discovered for another ailment like a hernia or for routine tests like an ultrasound of the heart or stomach.Diagnosis of an abdominal aneurysm depends on the condition, medical and family history, and the physical examination. If a doctor or sciatica chiropractic specialist suspects an aortic aneurysm, then specialized tests will help with a confirmation.
Ultrasonography
The simplest and most used diagnostic test is ultrasonography. It utilizes sound waves for diagnostic purposes that send the recorded images to a monitor. It gives an accurate assessment of the size and location of the aneurysm. The patient will lie on a table while a technician moves a wand around the abdomen.
Computed tomography CT scan
This test is often used in conjunction with ultrasonography if more data/info is needed. Usually, this is to determine the exact location of the aneurysm in relation to the visceral or renal arteries. It provides cross-sectional detail with clear images of the aorta and can detect the size and shape. The patient lies on a table inside a machine. A contrast dye could be injected into the blood vessels to make the arteries more visible on the images known as CT angiography.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Magnetic resonance imaging or MRI uses a magnetic field and radio wave energy pulses to record images of the body. The patient lies on a table that slides into the imaging compartment. Contrast dye can also be injected into the blood vessels to make the images more visible known as magnetic resonance angiography.
Emergency Symptoms
Certain symptoms can indicate an emergency. The conditions are rare, but it is very important to seek medical attention should any of these symptoms present with back pain:
Severe abdominal pain
Fever out of nowhere
Bowel and/or bladder incontinence
Loss of or an unusual sensation in the groin, as well as the legs and possibly into the foot
If back pain presents after an injury medical care is recommended to check for damage/injury to the spine.
Abdominal Aneurysm Symptoms
Abdominal aneurysms often don�t present any symptoms, which is why individuals go through their days unaware, and when back pain does present a doctor may only focus on the back pain symptoms and not the cause, leaving the aneurysm to continue to develop and worsen. Aneurysms do occur in women but are more common in men and those ages 65 and older. The main cause is atherosclerosis which is a hardening of the arteries. But injury and infection can also cause an aneurysm. Those with symptoms can include:
Throbbing pain around the back or side
Deep pain in the back or side
Pain in the buttocks, groin, or legs
Sciatica symptoms
The Sciatic Connection
A diagnosis of the root cause of the sciatica is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan to alleviate the sciatic pain. If an aneurysm is present then referring the individual to the proper aortic aneurysm repair specialist is a top priority. If sciatica is suspected, a doctor or chiropractor will review medical history and perform a physical examination. Medical imaging tests and diagnostic nerve blocks could be used if necessary. Sciatica pain usually follows the dermatome or areas of the skin that is supplied by the sciatic nerve. The pain can also include deeper tissues called dynatomes.
Physical examination
During a physical examination, the sciatica chiropractic specialist will look for various responses when:
Straightening the leg with movements that elongate the nerve
Gently pressing the toes or calf area
Seeing if there is any type of pain associated with these movements in the low back, buttock, thigh, leg, and foot
Sciatica Clinical Tests
Two examples of clinical tests for sciatica include:
Straight leg raise – SLR
The patient lies on their back and the chiropractor lifts one leg at a time with the other leg remaining flat or bent at the knee. If pain presents while lifting the affected leg this is usually an indication of sciatica.
Slump
The patient sits upright with their hands behind their back. The patient then bends/slumps forward at the hips. The neck bends down with the chin touching the chest and one knee is extended as far as possible. If pain occurs in this position, sciatica could be present.
These tests could possibly be positive only when the nerve is mechanically compressed. Other causes like inflammation or chemical irritation of the nerve might not cause pain when performing these tests. This test could also help reveal a possible abdominal aneurysm as abdominal pain could present.
Chiropractic Sciatica Treatment
Manual manipulation improves the alignment of the spine. This technique helps address the underlying condition/s that can cause sciatic nerve pain, like herniated discs or spinal stenosis. Manual manipulation also creates an optimal healing environment. An aortic aneurysm specialist could work with a sciatica chiropractic specialist to help with spinal realignment if the aneurysm caused any kind of shifting or slipping of the discs along with releasing the sciatic nerve if it is compressed.
Massage Therapy
Massage therapy like deep tissue massage can also have benefits. Massage:
Improves blood circulation, which also creates an optimal healing response in the body
Releases toxins in the low back muscles that spasmed or knotted up
Relaxes tight muscles that could be contributing to the pain
Releases endorphins or the hormones that function as the body’s natural pain relievers
Sciatica Pain Chiropractor
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
Underlying causes for an abdominal aortic aneurysm can be challenging to diagnose and identify. Combined with sciatica symptoms, doctors could misdiagnose the ailment and prescribe the wrong treatment protocol. Then an individual has to deal with two conditions that were not properly diagnosed, continue to develop, and worsen. This is why finding the right sciatica specialist that can also identify an abdominal aneurysm is so crucial to developing the right treatment plan. There can be a variety of factors that can lead to the development of an abdominal aneurysm. They include:
Health conditions associated with an increased risk for an abdominal aneurysm include:
Atherosclerosis
This condition occurs when there is a buildup of fats, cholesterol, and other substances that create plaque buildup in the bloodstream. This causes vessels to harden and narrow. Atherosclerosis can develop during the young adult stage and becomes an issue later in life.
High Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-type substance that is found in all the cells in the body. The body needs some cholesterol for the production of hormones, vitamin D, and substances to help digest foods. The body makes all the cholesterol it needs. Too much can build up in the blood vessels, which narrows the bloodstream and hardens the arterial walls.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure or hypertension refers to a sustained increased force of blood moving through the aorta that can weaken artery walls. It is a common condition that is widespread among individuals that are older, those that smoke, and those that are overweight. There is an estimated 60-70% of individuals over 60 that are diagnosed with high blood pressure.
Inflamed Arteries
When the arteries become inflamed, it can cause blood flow constriction and cause the arterial walls to weaken. This increases the risk of an aneurysm. Arteries can get inflamed through:
There are hereditary conditions that can weaken the body�s connective tissues. This can lead to degeneration of the aortic walls and raise an individual�s risk for an aneurysm. Two of the most common connective tissue disorders are Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, which affects collagen production, and Marfan Syndrome. This condition increases the production of fibrillin, which is a protein that helps to build the elastic fibers in connective tissue.
Other Risk Factors
Additional health factors can strain the cardiovascular system. This increases the risk of weakening or damaging blood vessels. This significantly raises the chances of developing an abdominal aortic aneurysm. Risk factors include:
Smoking and Tobacco
All types of tobacco use can contribute to diminished cardiovascular health. Individuals that smoke or use some tobacco product pose a significantly higher risk of developing an abdominal aneurysm.
Age
Aneurysms occur most often in older adults. This is because they are more likely to have cardiovascular issues and are more likely to have higher levels of plaque buildup.
Genetics and Family History
Immediate relatives of an individual with an abdominal aneurysm often have a 12-19% chance of developing the condition.
Lack of Physical Activity
Not getting adequate physical activity puts an individual at a higher risk for heart and cardiovascular disease. Aerobic activity done on a regular basis increases the heart rate and blood flow through the body. This keeps the tissues and blood vessels strong and flowing properly.
Gender
Both men and women can develop an abdominal aortic aneurysm. However, the majority of those that do develop the condition are men. This is because men are more likely to go through the heart and cardiovascular issues.
Diagnosis
Underlying conditions that can cause sciatic pain can vary or be a combination of several conditions. The most important action to take is to consult a doctor or chiropractic sciatica specialist for a clinical diagnosis. While rare, sciatica-type pain could be caused by medical conditions like:
Spinal tumor
Spinal infection
Cauda equina syndrome
These factors can contribute to an increased chance of developing an abdominal aortic aneurysm. However, individuals can have unknown risk factors and still develop the condition. Treatments may range from regular monitoring, lifestyle changes, and physical therapy/chiropractic to urgent or emergency surgery. If you feel symptoms of pain in the buttocks, leg, numbness, tingling, or other neurological symptoms in the back and/or leg, it is very important to see a doctor or chiropractor for clinical diagnosis that identifies the cause of the symptoms.
Sciatic Nerve Treatment
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
An abdominal aortic aneurysm is an enlarging of the lower portion of the aortic artery that resides in the abdomen. The aorta is the body�s main artery that supplies blood to the body and stretches from the heart down into and through the abdomen. The abdominal aorta is the part that sits within the abdomen. It is below the kidneys and in close proximity to the front of the spine. Because of this closeness sudden intense pain can be felt in the lower back along with sciatica symptoms.
Abdominal Aorta Function
Its function is to deliver blood from the heart throughout the body. It circulates blood down through the chest and abdomen. Smaller arteries branch off the artery to the different organs and systems of the body.
Enlargement/Weakening
If it becomes weak or expands in size, the condition is known as an aortic aneurysm. This condition can cause severe abdominal pain, back pain, sciatica and can lead to artery leakage or rupture. This is when it becomes an emergency. Being the largest blood vessel in the body means that a rupture can cause life-threatening bleeding.
Aneurysms can develop anywhere on the artery, but most occur in the abdomen portion. Depending on the size and growth rate, treatment/therapies can vary from observation to emergency surgery. Abdominal aneurysms usually progress slowly without symptoms, making them difficult to detect. However, some abdominal aneurysms never rupture. They can start small and remain the same size while others can expand over time, and others faster.
Rupture
A weakened aorta can develop a leak known as a rupture. Blood can also begin to accumulate and pool up between layers in the arterial walls can also lead to rupture known as a dissection. Internal bleeding is the primary complication of an abdominal aneurysm. Loss of blood is considered a potentially fatal medical emergency. Mortality rates increase when the artery leaks. The risk for rupture depends on the:
Size
Aneurysms that are smaller than 5 cm in diameter are considered a low risk for rupture. Aneurysms larger than 5 cm are considered high risk. The size is often the best predictor for predicting the chance of rupture.
Growth Rate
Expansion of more than half a centimeter over 6 months is considered accelerated growth and is a high risk. A faster growth rate has been seen in individuals that smoke or have high blood pressure. Abdominal pain, lower back pain, sciatica, or other symptoms usually do not present until the artery has ruptured. However, in a significantly expanded aneurysm, symptoms similar to a rupture can occur.
Symptoms
In most cases, the aneurysm develops slowly with no symptoms or minor symptoms like a nagging/gnawing or throbbing sensation in or around the abdomen. This type of aneurysm can be detected from a standard physical exam or from the monitoring of another condition. Symptoms depend on the location and can include some combination of the following:
Deep, constant pain in the abdomen or on the side. It could also be a stabbing pain deep inside that is felt between the sternum and the belly button. The pain can be continuous with no relief from rest or adjusting positions. Severe pain can cause individuals to bend over and down.
Difficulty standing or the ability to straighten the upper body.
Low back pain caused by the abdominal pain radiating/spreading out into the lower spine from the aorta�s closeness to the spine. The pain can also spread to the groin, pelvis, and legs.
Sciatica symptoms typically come from low back pain.
A pulse near or around the bellybutton. Tenderness, along with a pulsing sensation can be felt. The pulse can be felt through the skin and could be sensitive to touch or pressure.
Blood loss will result in low blood pressure, known as hypotension. This causes lightheadedness, dizziness, nausea/vomiting, blurred vision, and confusion. Symptoms are exacerbated when standing generating the feeling of the need to sit or lie down.
Shock symptoms from the internal bleeding. This includes:
Sudden and rapid heartbeat
Shallow breathing
Clammy skin
Cold sweats
General weakness
Confusion
Agitation
Anxiety
Loss of consciousness
Causes
Various causes can be involved in developing an abdominal aneurysm, including:
Hardening of the arteries known as atherosclerosis. It happens when fat along with other substances build up on the lining of blood vessel/s.
High blood pressure can damage and weaken the walls of the aorta.
Aortic infection is rare but a bacterial or fungal infection could cause an abdominal aneurysm.
Trauma like being in an automobile accident can cause an aneurysm.
Risk Factors
The pathology principally stays asymptomatic until a rupture occurs. This pathology affects mostly men with quite a few risk factors. Risk factors include:
Men develop abdominal aneurysms more often than women.
Smoking is the strongest risk factor. It weakens the aortic walls and increases the risk of developing an aneurysm, and rupture. The longer an individual smokes or chews tobacco, the higher the chances.
Individuals aged 65 and older are the most targeted group for this condition.
A family history of abdominal aneurysms increases the risk.
Aneurysm in another blood vessel, like the artery behind the knee or the chest aortic region, could increase the risk.
Sciatic Nerve Compression
Sciatica is usually caused by compression on the nerve. Spinal and non-spinal disorders are known to cause pain include:
Low back misaligned vertebral body/s
Herniated/bulging/slipped discs
Pregnancy/childbirth
Spinal tumors
Diabetes
Constipation
Sitting too long
Sciatic nerve compression can cause a loss of feeling known as sensory loss, paralysis of a limb, or group of muscles known as monoplegia, and insomnia.
Proper Diagnosis Is Essential
Because of the many disorders that can cause sciatica, a doctor’s first step is to determine the cause. This involves forming a diagnosis based on a thorough review of an individual’s medical history, a physical and neurological examination. The sciatic nerve has several smaller nerves that branch off. These smaller nerves enable movement motor function and feeling sensory functions in the thighs, knees, calves, ankles, feet, and toes.
If a chiropractor determines the patient’s disorder requires treatment by another specialist, then the individual will be referred to the proper doctor. In some cases, the chiropractor could be called upon to continue spinal therapy and help manage the individual’s treatment plan with the other specialist/s.
Sciatica Pain Treatment
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
Axial neck pain is also known as uncomplicated neck pain, whiplash, and cervical/neck strain. They refer to pain and discomfort running along the back or posterior of the neck. Axial is defined as forming or around an axis. This type of pain stays around the neck and immediate surrounding structures. It does not spread/radiate out to the arms, hands, fingers, and other areas of the body. Axial neck pain differs from two other neck conditions. They are:
Cervical radiculopathy describes irritation or compression/pinching of the nerve as it exits the spinal cord. The nerves of the cervical spine are known as the peripheral nerves. They are responsible for relaying signals to and from the brain to specific areas of the arms and hands. The signals sent from the brain are for muscle movement, while signals going to the brain are for sensation.
When one of these nerve/s gets irritated, inflamed, or injured, it can result in:
Muscle pain
Weakness
Numbness
Tingling sensation
Burning pain
Other types of abnormal sensations in the arms, hands, or fingers.
Cervical myelopathy describes compression of the spinal cord itself. The spinal cord is the information highway/pipeline to all parts of the body. There is a range of symptoms that can include:
Same symptoms as cervical radiculopathy
Balance problems
Coordination problems
Loss of fine motor skills
Bowel and bladder incontinence
Axial neck pain
Axial neck pain is a quite common type of neck pain. It affects around 10% of the population. However, the majority of these cases do not involve severe symptoms that limit daily activity.
Symptoms
Pain in the back of the neck is the primary and most common symptom. Sometimes the pain travels to the base of the skull, shoulder, or shoulder blade. Other symptoms include:
Neck stiffness
Headaches
Localized muscle pain
Warmth
Tingling
Developmental Risk factors
Poor posture, lack of ergonomics, and muscle weakness increase the chances of developing axial neck pain. Risk factors for development include:
Age
Trauma – Auto accident, sports, personal, work injury
Headaches
Depression
Chronic neck pain
Sleep problems
Diagnosis
Based on symptoms and physical exam findings are how a diagnosis is usually achieved. A doctor will typically order an x-ray, CT, or MRI of the cervical spine. This calls for an immediate visit to a hospital/clinic for evaluation. There could be severe symptoms that could indicate something more dangerous, causing pain like infection, cancer, or fracture. These symptoms include:
Prior trauma/injury from a fall, automobile accident, sports, work injury
Fever
Weight loss
Night sweats
Constant night pain
Rheumatic conditions/diseases that cause neck pain can include morning stiffness and immobility that gets better as the day progresses. If symptoms continue for more than 6 weeks, imaging of the spine could be recommended, especially for individuals that have had previous neck or spine surgery or if it could be cervical radiculopathy or myelopathy.
Treatment
There is a wide range of treatment options. Surgery is rarely required except for severe cases. Returning to normal activities almost right away is one of the most important things to prevent the pain from becoming chronic. First-line treatments typically begin with:
Physical therapy
Chiropractic
Stretching routine
Strengthening exercises
Acetaminophen
Anti-inflammatory medication/s
Muscle relaxants are sometimes prescribed
If a cervical spine fracture has been diagnosed, a neck brace could be recommended for short-term use. A soft collar could be utilized if the pain is severe, but a doctor usually discontinues use after 3 days. Other non-invasive treatment options include:
Invasive treatments like injections, nerve ablation, and surgery are rarely required. But if necessary, it can be beneficial for those cases.
Causes
A variety of the neck’s anatomical structures can contribute to the pain. Common causes include:
Poor posture
Age
Degeneration
Ergonomics
Injury to muscles or ligaments
Arthritis
All of these can affect vertebral bodies, discs, and facet joints. Shoulder arthritis or a rotator cuff tear can imitate axial neck pain. Dysfunction of the temporomandibular jaw joint or the blood vessels of the neck can cause axial pain, but it is rare.
Prognosis
Symptoms are usually alleviated within 4-6 weeks from when the pain started. Pain that continues beyond this should encourage a visit to a chiropractic physician.
We all have our hobbies that we are passionate about, love doing, and could see turning into a second career. However, certain hobbies can generate stress on the spine. This often leads to a decrease in being able to participate in these activities, which can lead to various health issues. Maintaining the body’s physical fitness and keeping the spine healthy is key to being able to continue without neck or back pain. Hobbies are an important part of life. Individuals need to enjoy what they love from sports activities to music to arts and craft projects. Having activities/hobbies help:
Boost mental health
Relieve stress
Lower blood pressure
Promotes weight loss
Meditative qualities
Here�s how to make sure the hobbies/activities are fun and safe.
Protecting the Neck
Poor posture is one of the leading causes of neck and back pain. Looking down or being in a standing/sitting hunched position regularly increases the load/stress on the neck increasing the chances for strain, injury, headaches, and chronic pain. In the neutral position, the skull weighs around 10-12 pounds.
When leaning the head forward weight increases from let’s say 27 pounds at a 15-degree angle to 60 pounds at a 60-degree angle. The strain on the cervical vertebrae, joints, and muscles can be immense. A good example is text-neck. This has become a normal thing when using a smartphone, gaming, or other similar activities.
Studies suggest that the average individual spends three to five hours a day on a smartphone or tablet. This means three to five hours of extra weight on the cervical spine. Engaging in a hobby that requires an individual to look down constantly in a similar fashion can lead to serious and chronic neck pain along with other cervical issues.
Individuals are spending more time at home and getting more serious about their hobbies. This is fantastic, however, these individuals need to take time to stretch out, and get some physical activity into their hobby routine. Just like taking frequent walk-around, stretch out at work breaks, so to do hobbyists need to step back from their projects to keep a healthy balance. The position of the neck and the way it is held for activities like:
Sewing
Carpentry
Gardening
Painting
Pottery
Knitting
Music
Hobbies like this can increase the risk of neck pain, so the key is prevention, paying attention to head posture every now and again, and taking stretching breaks.
Proper Posture Makes a Difference
Many individuals stand and sit when working on their hobbies. This is quite common and is encouraged when doing these absorbing activities. But being immersed in these activities, most forget to check their posture when doing so. This is what leads to problems that at first are shrugged off as just soreness.
Eventually, the individual begins to engage in bad/awkward posture habits that avoid the pain and think this will help. This worsens the problems and promotes further strain/injury. Leaning, bending, reaching, and twisting curves the spine increasing the load and stress. Performing these actions over and over for extended periods means:
Strain
Low back pain
Muscle spasms
Sciatica
Leg pain
Foot pain
Slouching is another posture problem that increases the likelihood of lower back pain. Slouching causes gaps between the lower back vertebrae. This stresses the facet joints or the connections between the vertebrae. The soft tissues elongate/stretch and lengthen like muscles and connective tissue. What elongation does is:
Cause the tissues to attempt to snap back to the original shape. This can cause painful spasms.
Muscles that are constantly elongated become weaker with time.
The longer an individual sits, stands, and slouches impacts the body’s health negatively, leading to a chain of health problems. Maintaining proper posture and keeping the spine straight minimizes the strain on muscles and the vertebrae. Prevent pain and discomfort.
Ergonomics at the House
Ergonomic stressors include:
The force/s required to perform and complete a physical chore/task.
Adopted static and awkward working postures to complete task/s
The repetitiveness of the task/s
Any of these factors or combination places a higher risk for discomfort, pain, and injury. The immediate surroundings like the bench, work area, craft room, etc. and how the individual moves or does not move, and interacts in these areas is the focus of ergonomics. Proper ergonomics will help protect the spine, as well as the rest of the body. Improper ergonomics can cause damage like muscle strain, repetitive movements, and incorrect posture. Taking a look at the hobby workspace the ergonomics, and making any necessary adjustments can help prevent strain/injury.
Proper seating
Make sure the right type of chair, stool, bench, etc is being utilized. Adjustable types that have neck and lower back support are the way to go. Make sure the base is stable, the seat is comfortable and adjustable. Backrests and armrests can help maintain proper posture.
Correct table/desk/workstation height
Various drafting tables and lap desks have adjustable surfaces to adjust the height for working with a proper ergonomic posture. If the work surface is not adjustable adjust the chair or make adjustments as needed. The hips should be higher than the knees to take the strain off the sacrum and lower back. The upper back should be straight, with the shoulder blades together creating a supportive platform for the neck and head.
Tools
Using the best tools for working and organization will help avoid injuries and constant awkward positions like leaning/reaching over and around the workspace. Look for tools that can be adjusted to different heights, resistance levels, etc. depending on what is needed and what will reduce any strain.
Vision
If an individual needs to lean in to get a closer look then vision could be the problem. If an individual wears glasses it could be time for a check-up. Or if an individual does not wear glasses, it could be time to see an optometrist. Non-prescription magnifiers could be the answer.
Stretching Regularly
Working too long in one position can be detrimental to overall health.
It is very understandable when individuals get into the zone, working on something creative, and not wanting to stop the flow. However, frequent breaks are vital. Stretching regularly and getting up to move around is key to staying healthy.
Neck Stretch
Stretch the neck by turning the head from side to side in a gentle fashion.
Tip the head to each side so the ear almost touches the shoulder.
Lower the head so that the chin almost touches the chest.
Turn the to look diagonally down at the armpit. This stretches the trapezius and levator scapulae muscles.
Hold the stretches for 10-15 seconds.
Always perform slowly and gently.
Lower Back Stretch
15 minutes a day of stretches will maintain the health of the spine. If pain or discomfort becomes frequent or unmanageable, seek professional help. Physical therapists and chiropractors are trained in orthopedic issues and ergonomics without prescription. Call a doctor or physical therapist to find out if treatment is necessary. Following these guidelines can help keep hobbies fun and without pain.
Lower Back Pain Skate Boarding Injury Treatment
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
Chiari malformation is a condition that causes brain tissue to extend out and settle into the spinal canal. It protrudes out where the skull and neck meet. It occurs because part of the skull is too small or shaped in a unique way that allows part of the brain to settle into the foramen magnum. The foramen magnum is a large opening at the bottom of the skull. The brain’s nerves go through into the spinal canal and join the spinal cord. However, only the nerves should be present. The brain should not be able to push/press/leak through. When it does this is Chiari malformation.
Causes
Chiari malformation can be caused by structural problem/s with the:
Brain
Skull
Spinal canal
Structural conditions/issues can be present at birth, which are congenital defects. This is also called primary Chiari malformation and is not caused by any other condition. Secondary Chiari malformations are caused by something else, most often through surgery. This is extremely rare, but it is possible to develop after having surgery to remove a tumor in the skull or neck region. A surgeon could have removed too much bone while removing the tumor. This allowed the brain to settle into the open space.
Types
There are 4 types and are categorized by how much brain tissue protrudes into the spinal canal.
Type I
This is the adult version and is also the most common.
It is usually first noticed and discovered from an examination for something else. Most individuals don’t realize that they have Chiari malformation unless the symptoms are severe. With Type I a part of the brain, specifically the cerebellar tonsils settle into the foramen magnum.
Type II
Type II is also known as Arnold-Chiari malformation. This is the pediatric version. Symptoms are more severe with Type II because more brain tissue comes through. With this type, the cerebellar tonsils and some of the brainstem protrude. With Type II myelomeningocele, which is a form of spina bifida is a concern. What happens is the vertebrae and spinal canal do not close correctly before birth, so the spinal cord has no protection.
Type III
This type also affects children and is more severe than types 1 or 2. Here a significant portion of the brain, including the cerebellum and the brainstem protrude all the way through the foramen into the spinal canal.
The symptoms vary based on the type and severity. The most common symptom is a headache. Individuals with a Chiari malformation usually have headaches in the occipital region of the brain. This is the back of the head, right where the skull joins the cervical spine/neck. The headaches can be aggravated being in certain positions and actions, tilting the head back, and coughing. Typical symptoms include:
However, Chiari malformation can interrupt the flow of cerebrospinal fluid. Cerebrospinal fluid is necessary to protect the brain and spinal cord. If the normal flow is disrupted it becomes more difficult for the brain and spinal cord to send/receive nerve messages. The pressure built up can also cause nerve issues/problems. For some individuals, symptoms can come and go. This depends on how much cerebrospinal fluid has built up. Individuals with Type I sometimes don’t have any symptoms. It all depends on the severity.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is done with a magnetic resonance imaging test or MRI. The MRI will show the various parts of the brain, skull, spinal cord, and spinal canal. They will be able to see abnormalities that could point to Chiari malformation.
Treatment
The recommended treatment depends on the severity. If pain is presenting a doctor could recommend pain medications to help manage the pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory meds could also be recommended to reduce inflammation. Analgesics or pain killers can be recommended. Often both non-steroidal anti-inflammatories and analgesics are available in over-the-counter and prescription. The doctor will figure out the best medication treatment plan.
Surgery can be used to relieve symptoms and is the only way to relieve the pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. The goal is to stop the malformation from worsening. Surgeons use a posterior fossa decompression procedure. The surgeon removes part of the skull to make more room for the brain to sit in. This takes the pressure off the brain and spinal cord, and should reduce the neurological symptoms and problems. The surgeon may increase the size of the dura or the sac around the brain.
Laminectomies at C1 and C2, which are the first and second levels of the neck and are utilized to make more room for the brain. The surgeon will place a patch that is made from animal or synthetic tissue that will grow into the dura. The patch makes the dura bigger, which allows more room for the brain. Not all surgeries involve the dural patch.
Neck Pain Chiropractic Care
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
Analgesics are pain-relieving medications, also known as painkillers. These can be over-the-counter and prescription medications. Either could be part of a treatment plan for spine-related pain. Individuals dealing with back or neck conditions, typically take analgesics to reduce symptoms.
Analgesics are available over-the-counter/OTC and with a prescription
Prescription analgesics usually include the more powerful form of over-the-counter medications
Analgesics can be specialized with some to relieve pain, with others reducing inflammation/pain
Over-the-counter
Acetaminophen, Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and topical analgesics are the most commonly used medications for various pain symptoms. Over-the-counter analgesics are most effective when taken at the first sign/presentation of acute pain. Whiplash, along with muscle sprains and strains are common injuries known to cause short term pain that can be mild to severe. Follow the medication’s instructions on dosage recommendations and precautions.
If the medication does not work or helps manage the pain, and/or pain symptoms worsen, contact your healthcare provider. This could be an indicator that a more powerful prescription analgesic is needed to help manage the pain, along with added therapy like physical therapy, and chiropractic to help avoid dependence on the prescription meds.
Acetaminophen
Tylenol is one form of medication taken for different types of pain and is one of the most popular over-the-counter analgesics. Acetaminophen’s purpose is exclusively to relieve pain. It does not reduce inflammation.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs – NSAIDs
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs work to reduce inflammation and pain. Types of over-the-counter These include:
Aspirin
Ibuprofen
Naproxen
Topical analgesics
Topical analgesics like capsaicin cream and salicylates are an alternative to analgesics taken by mouth. These creams, balms, gels, and sprays are applied to the painful area. It is a very common application and is widely used for joint, muscle, and back pain. Salicylates are plant-based chemicals that operate to decrease the body’s production of prostaglandins. These are lipids that let the body know that there is a problem causing inflammation and pain.
Prescription
A doctor could prescribe an analgesic as part of a treatment plan to help manage short-term and chronic pain. It is extremely important to precisely follow the doctor’s instructions on how much and when to take the medication. Remember that any of these medications have the potential for side effects, which includes the risk of negative interactions when taken with other meds. Be sure to talk with a doctor about potential risks, and keep them informed about all medications like blood pressure and diabetes meds and natural herbs/vitamins/supplements taken for other medical conditions.
COX-2 Inhibitors
Cyclo-oxygenase-2 or COX-2 inhibitors are a prescription NSAID medication type that is formulated to target specific enzymes that trigger inflammation. Inflammation is not just a symptom but can also be a cause of pain related to many different spinal disorders. COX-2 inhibitors have a lower risk of causing/contributing to gastrointestinal problems.
There are other potential side effects and risks associated with COX-2 inhibitors. Potential side effects include an increased risk of cardiovascular problems, like a heart attack or blood clots. COX-2 inhibitors reduce the risk of stomach problems than classic NSAIDs but if gastrointestinal conditions exist to talk with a doctor before taking these medications.
Opioids
These are highly potent analgesics and are no longer the first type of pain-relieving medication that a doctor prescribes. They are now to be the last resort for reducing moderate to severe pain symptoms. These medications work by decreasing the perception and reaction to the pain. Opioids are prescribed for short-term use following surgical procedures and trauma. However, there are different situations where use is appropriate. When opioids are recommended, the doctor will begin with the lowest strength/dosage to manage the pain. Types of opioids include:
Analgesic medications are commonly used for various types of pain-causing conditions. When they are used properly with a doctor�s supervision they are safe and effective at managing pain and discomfort. If new symptoms present and/or the pain worsens or becomes different contact your doctor on appropriate instructions.
Chiropractic Neck Pain Treatment
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
IFM's Find A Practitioner tool is the largest referral network in Functional Medicine, created to help patients locate Functional Medicine practitioners anywhere in the world. IFM Certified Practitioners are listed first in the search results, given their extensive education in Functional Medicine
