Back Clinic Health Team. The level of functional and metabolic efficiency of a living organism. In humans, it is the ability of individuals or communities to adapt and self-manage when facing physical, mental, psychological, and social changes in an environment. Dr.Alex Jimenez D.C., C.C.S.T, a clinical pain doctor who uses cutting-edge therapies and rehabilitation procedures focused on total health, strength training, and complete conditioning. We take a global functional fitness treatment approach to regain complete functional health.
Dr. Jimenez presents articles both from his own experience and from a variety of sources that pertain to a healthy lifestyle or general health issues. I have spent over 30+ years researching and testing methods with thousands of patients and understand what truly works. We strive to create fitness and better the body through researched methods and total health programs.
These programs and methods are natural and use the body’s own ability to achieve improvement goals, rather than introducing harmful chemicals, controversial hormone replacement, surgery, or addictive drugs. As a result, individuals live a fulfilled life with more energy, a positive attitude, better sleep, less pain, proper body weight, and education on maintaining this way of life.
When exercising, it is very important to warm each muscle group to prevent injuries from occurring when working out. Stretching the arms, legs, and back can loosen up stiff muscles and increase blood flow to allow each muscle fiber to warm up and allow maximum power when each set is performed. One of the best ways to reduce muscle fatigue or stiffness before working out is to foam roll each muscle group for at least 1-2 minutes max to provide optimal functionality. Foam rolling allows the muscles to warm up before an extensive workout session. Still, it can also offer many benefits when combined with other therapies to reduce pain-like symptoms like trigger point pain from causing further injuries from reoccurring in the body. Today’s article focuses on the benefits of foam rolling, how it reduces trigger point pain, and how it is combined with chiropractic care to achieve optimal health and wellness. We refer patients to certified providers incorporating techniques and therapies for individuals dealing with trigger point pain affecting different body areas. By locating where the trigger points are coming from, many pain specialists utilize a treatment plan to reduce the effects that trigger points are causing on the body while suggesting different tools, like using a foam roller to reduce pain in the other muscle groups. We encourage and appreciate each patient by referring them to associated medical providers based on their diagnosis when it is appropriate. We understand that education is a terrific way when asking our providers intricated questions at the patient’s request and understanding. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., only utilizes this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
The Benefits Of Foam Rolling
Have you been dealing with pain-like symptoms in different parts of your body? Do you feel stiffness in your muscles? Or have you been feeling exhausted throughout the entire day? Many people often feel stressed, overworked, and exhausted after a long day and need to find different ways to relieve stress. Whether going to the gym to work out or yoga class, many people should warm up for about 5-10 minutes to work out each muscle group to reduce muscle fatigue and stiffness. One of the tools that people should utilize is using a foam roller. Studies reveal that foam rolling before working out can improve muscle performance and flexibility and, at the same time, alleviate muscle fatigue and soreness.
Incorporating foam rolling as part of your warm-up can prevent issues like trigger point pain from causing more problems in the affected muscle group and causing more harm. Foam rolling has been known as a self-myofascial release (SMR) tool for many athletic people to relieve delay-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) and can help the recovery process for muscular performance. Studies show that when athletes have DOMS, their muscles are tender and stiff that which causes restricted movement. By foam rolling, each sore muscle group can get rolled out on a dense foam roll from the person’s body weight to apply pressure on the soft tissue. When performed correctly, the body’s range of motion will increase, and soft tissue restriction is prevented.
Foam Rolling To Reduce Trigger Point Pain
When the body has been overworked, the muscle fibers will start to overstretch and cause various issues in different body parts. When this happens, tiny, hard nodules form over time and cause referred pain to other body locations in each muscle group. This is known as myofascial pain syndrome or trigger points. Studies reveal that trigger point pain is when the affected muscles are either acute or chronic and cause pain in the surrounding connective tissues. Dr. Travell, M.D.’s book, “Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction,” mentioned that myofascial pain could cause somato-visceral dysfunction in the body as the affected muscles and nerves are correlated with the corresponding vital organs. This means that if someone is dealing with back pain, it could be an issue with their gut system. Now how does foam rolling help prevent trigger point pain? As mentioned earlier, foam rolling each muscle group can alleviate muscle soreness and improve blood circulation. Studies reveal that foam rolling on the muscle group affected by trigger point pain can increase blood flow to the affected muscle and reduce fascial inflammation in the body.
What Foam Rolling Does To The Body- Video
Have you been dealing with muscle soreness? Do you feel like you are constantly bending over or shuffling your feet? Or have you been experiencing constant aches and pains when stretching? If you have been dealing with these musculoskeletal issues, why not incorporate foam rolling as part of your routine? Many individuals have some pain that is affecting their muscles that is causing them pain. Regarding reducing pain, incorporating foam rolling on the affected muscles can increase blood flow to the muscle and reduce any symptoms associated with chronic conditions. Studies reveal that the combination of foam rolling and stretching before working out can provide these amazing benefits, which include the following:
Ease muscle pain
Increase range of motion
Reduce cellulite
Relieve back pain
Relive trigger points in muscles
The video above gives an excellent explanation of what foam rolling does to the body and why it provides relief to those different muscle groups. When people merge foam rolling with other treatments, it can benefit their health and wellness.
Foam Rolling & Chiropractic Care
As stated earlier, other various treatments can combine foam rolling to promote a healthy body. One of the treatments is chiropractic care. Chiropractic care incorporates mechanical and manual manipulation of the spine, especially in subluxation or spinal misalignment. When the spine is misaligned, it can cause muscle strain and mobility issues that can affect the body over time. So how does foam rolling play a part in chiropractic care? Well, a chiropractor or doctor of chiropractic can develop a plan to help manage the pain while treating the condition affecting the body. Since foam rolling is utilized in a warm-up session in association with physical therapy, many individuals who work with a personal trainer can incorporate foam rolling as part of their warm-up to loosen up stiff muscles and go to regular chiropractic treatments to improve muscle strength, mobility, and flexibility.
Conclusion
There are many beneficial properties that foam rolling can provide to the body. Foam rolling can allow blood circulation to the muscles while reducing muscle fatigue and soreness. Incorporating foam rolling as part of a daily warm-up can also prevent trigger points from forming in the muscle groups and can work out the tight knots that the muscle has occurred. At the same time, treatments like chiropractic care and physical therapy can combine foam rolling to promote health and wellness in the body and prevent muscle pain.
References
Konrad A, Nakamura M, Bernsteiner D, Tilp M. The Accumulated Effects of Foam Rolling Combined with Stretching on Range of Motion and Physical Performance: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Sports Sci Med. 2021 Jul 1;20(3):535-545. doi: 10.52082/jssm.2021.535. PMID: 34267594; PMCID: PMC8256518.
Pagaduan, Jeffrey Cayaban, et al. “Chronic Effects of Foam Rolling on Flexibility and Performance: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials.” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 4 Apr. 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8998857/.
Pearcey, Gregory E P, et al. “Foam Rolling for Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness and Recovery of Dynamic Performance Measures.” Journal of Athletic Training, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Jan. 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4299735/.
Shah, Jay P, et al. “Myofascial Trigger Points Then and Now: A Historical and Scientific Perspective.” PM & R : the Journal of Injury, Function, and Rehabilitation, U.S. National Library of Medicine, July 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4508225/.
Travell, J. G., et al. Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual: Vol. 2:the Lower Extremities. Williams & Wilkins, 1999.
Wiewelhove, Thimo, et al. “A Meta-Analysis of the Effects of Foam Rolling on Performance and Recovery.” Frontiers in Physiology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 9 Apr. 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6465761/.
Everyone worldwide knows that feet are important. The feet allow many individuals to run, walk, or jog for long periods without feeling pain for a moderate amount of time. To that point, the various muscles and tendons surrounding the foot provide full body flexion, extension, and stability. Even though it is very easy to get in the recommended amount of steps into being healthy, around 75% of individuals will have foot pain that can impact their ability to walk. One of the most common foot pains is plantar fasciitis, which can become a painful foot condition if it is not treated as soon as possible. Today’s article looks at plantar fasciitis, its symptoms, how trigger points correlate, and treatments for it. We refer patients to certified providers incorporating techniques and therapies for individuals dealing with plantar fasciitis. By locating where the trigger points are coming from, many pain specialists can develop a treatment plan to reduce the effects that plantar fasciitis is causing on the feet. We encourage and appreciate each patient by referring them to associated medical providers based on their diagnosis when it is appropriate. We understand that education is a terrific way when asking our providers intricated questions at the patient’s request and understanding. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., only utilizes this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Have you been dealing with constant heel pain? Do you feel pain shooting up your leg when you step or walk? Or do you feel a stabbing ache in your heel? Many of these pain issue people are dealing with correlate with plantar fasciitis. Studies reveal that plantar fasciitis results from degenerative irritation on the plantar fascia and its ligaments. This causes the muscle ligaments to become inflamed, swollen, and weak, which then causes the bottom of the foot or heel to hurt when a person is walking or standing. To that point, when there is a repetitive strain on the feet, it causes microtears in the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia in the foot plays an important role as it comprises three segments that support the medial arch and shock absorption when stepping down. As one of the most common causes of heel pain, the residual pain from plantar fasciitis tends to be a sharp, stabbing sensation. Plantar fasciitis is more prominent in middle-aged people. Still, anyone at any age can develop plantar fasciitis, especially if they have labor jobs requiring them to be constantly on their feet.
Symptoms Of Plantar Fasciitis
Since around 2 million Americans could potentially develop plantar fasciitis, it is important to know that when a person has been on their feet constantly, there will be inflammation along the tissues in the feet. Many individuals with a busy lifestyle that requires them to be on their feet frequently would often ignore the pain or discomfort. Some of the symptoms that plantar fasciitis causes include the following:
Pain on the bottom of the heel
Pain in the arch
Pain that is usually worse when waking up
Pain that increases over months
Swelling on the bottom of the heel
However, when the pain becomes overbearing, many people would often think they have sore feet or low back pain from being overly tired from work, under constant stress, or over-exerting their bodies. When this happens, many would think the pain would go away in a few days after resting for a short period.
Trigger Points Associated With Plantar Fasciitis
Now many individuals would often think that plantar fasciitis just only affects the heels, however, it can affect any part of the structure of the foot since all the surrounding muscle tissues are at risk of inflammation. When people start to ignore the pain and discomfort that plantar fasciitis is causing on the feet, it can overlap and develop trigger points in other areas of the body:
Ankles
Knees
Hips
Lower back
Studies reveal that trigger points or myofascial pain syndrome are hard, discrete, small nodules that are along the taut musculoskeletal band that causes numerous issues like inflammation, hypersensitivity, and pain to the affected muscle groups in the body. According to “Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction” written by Dr. Travell, M.D., it mentions that when the deep intrinsic muscles that work with the plantar fascia are affected by trigger points, would cause symptoms of numbness and the feeling of swelling in the foot. This causes many people to have limited mobility and have intense pain when walking, which can negatively impact their lifestyle.
An Overview Of Plantar Fasciitis- Video
Have you been dealing with aching feet? Do you feel a sharp, radiating pain in your feet? Or do you have difficulty walking? Many often think they are dealing with sore feet or other issues causing them pain. Around 75% of Americans often have foot pain affecting their ability to walk, and one of them is plantar fasciitis. The video above explains plantar fasciitis and how it can affect the feet. When the plantar fascia tendons become overused, it causes micro-tears in the muscle ligaments. When added compressive force starts to push against the heel boner, it can lead to a pathological state whereby the plantar fascia degenerates and creates dysfunction and pain. When this happens, it can lead to other conditions like trigger point pain along the muscle fibers in the foot. The pain and tenderness caused by trigger points in the plantar muscles may mask as plantar fasciitis. To that point, when plantar fasciitis becomes an issue and causes the individual to be in immense pain, it can become problematic. As luck would have it, treatments are available to reduce the pain from plantar fasciitis.
Treatments For Plantar Fasciitis
When treating plantar fasciitis, many available treatments can reduce the inflammatory effects in the heel and prevent trigger points from coming back. One of the available treatments is chiropractic care. Chiropractic care is an alternative treatment option to prevent, diagnose, and treat numerous injuries and conditions associated with the spine, primarily subluxations or spinal misalignments. Chiropractic focuses on restoring and maintaining the overall health and wellness of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems through spinal manipulation and adjustments. A chiropractor can carefully re-align the spine, improving a patient’s strength, mobility, and flexibility. Regarding plantar fasciitis, chiropractic care can work with other treatments, including physical therapy, massage, and even injections, to manage the pain and treat the condition. Even though plantar fasciitis takes several months to heal, chiropractic care can involve a precise technique that involves adjustments to the feet, ankles, and spinal alignment. This provides several benefits, which include the following:
Reduces Stress in the Plantar Fascia
Promotes Healing
Provides Effective Pain Management
Reduces the Risk of Further Injury
Conclusion
As many individuals worldwide are on their feet constantly, foot pain can hinder one’s ability to move. One of the most common foot pain is plantar fasciitis which can correlate with trigger points along the various muscles of the foot. Plantar fasciitis results from degenerative irritation on the plantar fascia and its ligaments, which causes sharp, stabbing pain on the heel. When this happens, it can cause the heel to be inflamed, swollen, and weak. To that point, it causes instability and pain when walking. However, plantar fasciitis can be treated when it is caught early through various treatments like chiropractic care. Chiropractic care can reduce the stress in the plantar fascia and help reduce the risk of further injuries. Combined with other therapies, many people can function normally and regain their walking ability without pain.
References
Buchanan, Benjamin K, and Donald Kushner. “Plantar Fasciitis – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 30 May 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK431073/.
Petrofsky, Jerrold, et al. “Local Heating of Trigger Points Reduces Neck and Plantar Fascia Pain.” Journal of Back and Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2020, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31594202/.
Shah, Jay P, et al. “Myofascial Trigger Points Then and Now: A Historical and Scientific Perspective.” PM & R : the Journal of Injury, Function, and Rehabilitation, U.S. National Library of Medicine, July 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4508225/.
Travell, J. G., et al. Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual: Vol. 2:the Lower Extremities. Williams & Wilkins, 1999.
The various muscles and tendons surrounding the foot play an important role as they provide stability to the lower parts of the body and allow the individual to move and flex their feet. These various muscles and tendons help support the ankles and allow leg movement. Many people will be on their feet constantly as the world moves and sometimes have to deal with various issues affecting their ability to walk. As the body naturally ages, many people will begin to shuffle their feet around, which causes strain on the foot muscles and can affect the calves and legs over time. To that point, it can lead to foot pain and other conditions that can affect the individual. Other issues that can affect the feet and its muscle could be incorrect footwear, how they are standing, or how they walk. When this happens, conditions like plantar fasciitis and trigger point pain can affect the feet differently. Today’s article focuses on the superficial intrinsic foot muscles, how trigger points and plantar fasciitis correlate with foot pain, and how to strengthen the foot muscles. We refer patients to certified providers incorporating techniques and therapies in the lower body extremities of trigger points affecting the feet. This helps many people with trigger point pain symptoms associated with plantar fasciitis along the intrinsic foot muscles. We encourage and appreciate each patient by referring them to associated medical providers based on their diagnosis when it is appropriate. We understand that education is a terrific way when asking our providers intricated questions at the patient’s request and understanding. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., only utilizes this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
The Superficial Intrinsic Foot Muscles
As stated earlier, the foot has various muscles and tendons that allow stability to the ankles and allow movement when a person is walking. The foot has two muscle groups: the extrinsic and intrinsic muscles. Today we will look at the intrinsic foot muscles and how important these muscles are in the foot. Studies reveal that the intrinsic foot muscles are highly important as they are contained to the foot and contribute to supporting the medial longitudinal arch. The intrinsic foot muscles are superficial and help keep the toes straight while providing flexion and extension when in motion. The foot has about 29 muscles, including 10 surrounding the foot and ankle, while the other 19 are intrinsic and provide the roles for gait and posture. The 19 intrinsic muscles have the following:
Abductor Hallucis
Quadratus Plantae
Flexor Hallucis Brevis
Flexor Digitorum Brevis
Abductor Digiti Minimi
Flexor Digiti Minimi
The Interossei Muscles
The Lumbricals
These muscles allow individuals to walk, run, or jog without pain. However, when the intrinsic muscles become impaired, studies reveal that intrinsic foot muscle function could be linked to various foot conditions that affect a person’s walking ability.
How Does Foot Pain Correlate With Plantar Fasciitis & Trigger Points?
Studies reveal that foot pain can cause an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience as many factors can affect how a person is walking and can lead to various issues affecting the lower extremities’ mobility. When multiple issues affect how a person walks, the intrinsic muscle and other muscles surrounding the ankle and foot could become strained and overlap with other foot conditions. When foot pain affects the intrinsic foot muscles, co-existing muscle impairments could affect the alignment, motion, load distribution, and muscle performance that involves the legs. When these impairments are causing foot pain, it can correlate with trigger points and conditions like plantar fasciitis that can affect a person walking. But how does foot pain connect with plantar fasciitis and trigger points?
According to Dr. Travell, M.D.’s book “Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction,” when tension starts to overload the foot, the intrinsic muscles develop tiny nodules in the muscle fibers and reduce the muscle strength of the medial arch. To that point, it can collapse and cause the foot to develop inflammation associated with repetitive actions that cause plantar fasciitis in the feet. When this happens, it can affect a person’s ability to walk, run, stand, and affect the lower extremities’ mobility. If it is not treated right away, it can cause muscle and joint pain in the hips, legs, knees, and lower back.
An Overview Of The Intrinsic Foot Muscles-Video
Have you been dealing with issues on your feet? Do you find it difficult to step down or walk? Or have you been rubbing your feet constantly to reduce the soreness in your feet? Many of these issues correlate with trigger points affecting the intrinsic foot muscles that could cause foot issues like plantar fasciitis. The foot has various muscles, like the intrinsic muscles, that allow gait and stability to the body. Multiple factors affecting the intrinsic foot muscles can lead to instability, muscle strain, tendon stress, and muscle and joint pain. This can affect how a person moves throughout the day and their quality of life. The video above explains where each different muscles are, which ones are extrinsic and intrinsic, and how each muscle helps with foot function. When various issues begin to affect the foot and cause mobility issues, multiple techniques are available to help strengthen the foot muscles and prevent future problems from affecting the feet.
Strengthening The Foot Muscles
Regarding trigger point pain affecting the intrinsic foot muscles, various techniques can reduce the pain-like symptoms of trigger points and prevent foot issues like plantar fasciitis from re-occurring. Studies reveal that light, non-weight-bearing exercises like cycling and swimming can minimize muscle overload on foot. Other ways to strengthen the intrinsic foot muscles are by stretching the toe flexors to help improve stability and prevent hypermobility in the foot. Other techniques that can reduce trigger points in the foot’s muscle fibers include using a cylindrical or spherical object and rolling under the arches to massage and loosen stiff muscles. Many of these techniques could help restore foot functionality and stability while reducing future issues like plantar fasciitis in the feet. To that point, allow people to walk pain-free again.
Conclusion
The foot has 29 muscles, including ten extrinsic muscles surrounding the foot and ankle and 29 intrinsic muscles on the foot. The intrinsic muscles are highly important for foot functionality as they are superficial and contribute to supporting the medial longitudinal arch. The intrinsic foot muscles also help keep the toes straight and allow flexion and extension when in motion. These muscles also help a person walk and stabilize the ankle. When various factors affect a person’s walking ability, it can lead to muscle strain and tendon stress to the foot, leading to the development of trigger points in the intrinsic muscle fibers and causing pain. This could cause foot conditions like plantar fasciitis and other co-existing muscle impairments that can affect the lower extremities’ mobility while causing muscle and joint pain in the hips, legs, knees, and lower back. Luckily there are available techniques that can help massage, stretch, and strengthen the intrinsic foot muscles while reducing trigger points and their associated symptoms from re-occurring. To that point, these techniques can allow many individuals to walk without feeling pain.
References
Card, Ryan K, and Bruno Bordoni. “Anatomy, Bony Pelvis and Lower Limb, Foot Muscles.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 27 Feb. 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539705/.
Gooding, Thomas M, et al. “Intrinsic Foot Muscle Activation during Specific Exercises: A T2 Time Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study.” Journal of Athletic Training, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Aug. 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5094843/.
Hawke, Fiona, and Joshua Burns. “Understanding the Nature and Mechanism of Foot Pain.” Journal of Foot and Ankle Research, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 14 Jan. 2009, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2631512/.
Lim, Ang Tee, et al. “Management of Plantar Fasciitis in the Outpatient Setting.” Singapore Medical Journal, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Apr. 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4853481/.
Soysa, Achini, et al. “Importance and Challenges of Measuring Intrinsic Foot Muscle Strength.” Journal of Foot and Ankle Research, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 26 Nov. 2012, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3544647/.
Travell, J. G., et al. Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual: Vol. 2:the Lower Extremities. Williams & Wilkins, 1999.
Regarding different destinations, our feet allow the legs and the lower body to move forward and stabilize the upper extremities from putting so much weight on the body itself. The lower portion of the body contains the hips, pelvis, legs, and feet. Within each section of the lower body, various muscles surround the joints and skeletal features of the lower half. For the hips, multiple muscles and tendons help support hip mobility and pelvic function. The legs work with the thigh as numerous muscles and tendons help the legs have more power to move. The lower portion of the legs works with the knee to allow extension and flexion to move as well. And finally, the ankles and feet work with various muscles to enable movement to the toes. The different muscles in the toes help stabilize the foot from causing issues to the ankles. However, when multiple injuries or factors begin to affect the muscles in the toes, it can lead to myofascial pain syndrome or trigger points to affect not only the toes but the entire portion of the legs and travel up to the hips.
Today’s article looks at the flexor muscles of the toes, how calf pain is associated with trigger points affecting the toes, and how different treatments and stretches can alleviate trigger points along the toe flexor muscles. We refer patients to certified providers that incorporate various techniques and therapies in the lower body extremities pertaining to trigger points affecting the legs, calves, and feet. This helps many people with pain symptoms along the flexor toe muscles, causing pain when doing everyday actions like stepping or walking. We encourage and appreciate each patient by referring them to associated medical providers based on their diagnosis when it is appropriate. We understand that education is a terrific way when asking our providers intricated questions at the patient’s request and understanding. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., only utilizes this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
The Flexor Muscles Of The Toes
Have you been dealing with stability issues that are affecting the way you are standing? How about coping with unquestionable calf or foot pain? Do you feel aches in your big toe? Many of these issues affecting the feet are correlated with the flexor muscles in the toes. The flexor muscles are the flexor digitorum longus and the flexor hallucis longus. These muscles are located in the calf region of the lower leg and travel downwards to the ankle, forming the tendons for the feet and toes. Research studies reveal that the flexor digitorum longus muscle is a thin muscle located in the tibia’s deep posterior muscles and provides operational support to the four different sections of the toes and allows flexion. While other research studies reveal that the flexor hallucis longus muscle is a deep posterior muscle located in the fibula and provides flexion to the great toe while serving to plantarflex and inversion to the foot.
Now the flexor muscles work together to allow stability to the foot when a person is walking. Additional studies have shown that the flexor muscles are active as many people push off from the heel to allow movement to the toes and feet when stepping on the ground. This action enables the flexor muscles to contract and exerts much energy to allow the feet to move. However, when the body begins to age naturally, or various issues affect the lower body extremities, it can lead to multiple problems affecting a person’s mobility.
Calf Pain Associated With Trigger Points Affecting The Toes
As the body ages naturally, a person’s mobility will eventually begin to decline as they shuffle in their steps instead of picking up their feet to move. Studies reveal that when older adults start to age naturally, they tend to have a decreased foot posture that enables them to have a more pronated foot than a supinated foot. When this happens, it can reduce mobility in their legs while also causing stress to the flexor muscles and have a high occurrence in lower extremity injuries like patellofemoral pain or tendon dysfunction. Stress in the flexor muscles can lead to the potential development of trigger points along the flexor muscles, which can correlate to calf pain. Dr. Janet Travell, M.D.’s book, “Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction,” mentioned that trigger points along the toe flexor muscles could potentially cause impaired mobility and strain to the foot. Since the flexor muscles are located in the calves, many individuals that incorporate running, jogging, or walking as part of their daily lives can be affected. To that point, if a person is walking on uneven ground, it can cause the foot to be hyper-pronated and lead to calf pain. At the same time, trigger points in the flexor muscles can cause symptoms of muscle spasms and cramps which can become overlapping risk profiles for ankle and foot pain.
Treating Trigger Points Along The Flexor Muscles- Video
Have you been dealing with unexplainable muscle spasms in your calves? Do you feel unstable when walking for a long time? Or do you notice you shuffle instead of picking up your feet? Many of these issues are correlated with trigger points affecting the flexor muscles of the toes that are causing pain to the calves and feet. When it comes to trigger points along the flexor muscles of the toes, studies show that it can develop a “trigger toe” where the flexor hallucis muscle that is providing flexion to the great toe, is in pain which leads to foot issues like plantar fasciitis or ankle pain. Fortunately, all is still possible as there are different stretches and treatments to reduce trigger points associated with the toe flexor muscles. The video above explains where the flexor muscles are located in the calve region of the leg and demonstrates how to stretch the flexor muscle to prevent trigger points from returning.
Different Stretches & Treatments For Toe Flexor Muscles
When relieving foot and calf pain associated with trigger points affecting the flexor muscles, there are different stretches and treatments to reduce pain-like symptoms associated with trigger points. Studies reveal that incorporating various muscle-strengthening exercises that target the calves could improve postural balance on the feet. Or find the right footwear to prevent trigger points from appearing in the future. Other stretches like toe grasping and flexing the foot allow many pain specialists to locate where the trigger points affect the flexor muscles and develop a treatment plan to reduce the effects of trigger points along the toe flexor muscles. Some of the treatments include chiropractic care. Now, doesn’t chiropractic care only incorporate spinal adjustments on the back? Yes, it does, but it can also alleviate other issues. As stated earlier, the feet provide stability to the lower body extremities. When problems affect a person’s balance can cause limited mobility to the hips, affect the legs and feet over time, and develop trigger points along the way. With chiropractic care, chiropractors can restore hip mobility through mechanical and manual manipulation of the spine and can help loosen the stiff joints and muscles that are causing pain. Chiropractors can pinpoint where the trigger points are located and find ways to reduce the pain in the affected muscle.
Conclusion
The flexor muscles of the toes, the flexor digitorum longus, and the flexor hallucis longus allow stability and flexion to the toes. The flexor muscles are located in the calve region and enable the individual to walk without complications. When issues or injuries start to affect the feet, they could develop into overlapping issues that affect the flexor muscles and causes symptoms of instability in a person’s balance. If not treated right away, it could develop trigger points in the calf region and cause pain to the flexor muscles. Trigger points in the flexor muscles can cause stress on the flexor muscles, which then leads to foot issues like patellofemoral pain or tendon dysfunction. To that point cause impaired mobility and muscle strain on the foot. Luckily there are treatments and various stretches to reduce trigger points from developing further and improve stability in the body. To that point, allow the individual to walk without any foot pain.
References
Fowles, J V, and N M Newman. “A Case of ‘Trigger Toe.’” Canadian Journal of Surgery. Journal Canadien De Chirurgie, U.S. National Library of Medicine, July 1984, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6744145/.
Goldmann, Jan-Peter, and Gert-Peter Brüggemann. “The Potential of Human Toe Flexor Muscles to Produce Force.” Journal of Anatomy, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Aug. 2012, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3406365/.
Kusagawa, Yuki, et al. “Toe Flexor Strength Is Associated with Mobility in Older Adults with Pronated and Supinated Feet but Not with Neutral Feet.” Journal of Foot and Ankle Research, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 11 Sept. 2020, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7488436/.
Murdock, Christopher J, et al. “Anatomy, Bony Pelvis and Lower Limb, Calf Flexor Hallucis Longus Muscle …” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 25 Aug. 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539776/.
Quinlan, Shayan, et al. “The Evidence for Improving Balance by Strengthening the Toe Flexor Muscles: A Systematic Review.” Gait & Posture, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Sept. 2020, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32679464/.
Travell, J. G., et al. Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual: Vol. 2:the Lower Extremities. Williams & Wilkins, 1999.
The feet allow movement to make the host do various actions when it comes to the body. Whether running, walking, or stretching, the feet allow stability with help from the legs and lower limbs of the lower body to support the upper body’s weight and allow mobility and functionality to the hips. The feet have various extensor muscles that start at the head where the tibia and in the front of the shin and spreads out to the front of the foot and allow movement to each of the toes. Injuries like ankle sprains, objects landing on the foot, or muscle cramps can cause the various muscles to become injured and soon develop tiny nodules that can cause referred pain to the lower portion of the legs and cause mobility issues. To that point, trigger point pain can affect how a person functions and cause many to deal with unquestionable foot pain. Today’s article looks at the extensor muscles of the toes, how trigger points can affect the foot and toes, and how chiropractic care can help treat trigger points along the extensor muscles of the toes. We refer patients to certified providers that incorporate various techniques in the lower body extremities, like lower legs, calves, and foot pain therapies correlating to trigger points. This helps aid many people with pain symptoms along the extensor toe muscles, causing pain when doing everyday actions like stepping or walking. We encourage and appreciate each patient by referring them to associated medical providers based on their diagnosis when it is appropriate. We understand that education is a terrific way when asking our providers intricated questions at the patient’s request and understanding. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., only utilizes this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
The Extensor Muscles Of The Toes
Have you been having issues walking for long periods? Do your feet constantly ache, so you have to take off your shoes to rub them? Or have you been having mobility issues that start at the hips and then travel down to the feet? Many of these issues are associated with pain that can affect the extensor muscles of the toes. The feet have various superficial muscles that allow movement to each toe. Today, we will look at the extensor muscles that enable movement to the toes and help with lower limb functionality. The extensor toe muscles include the extensor digitorum and the extensor hallucis longus. Studies reveal that the extensor muscles are the anterior compartment of the lower limbs that can allow extension and dorsiflex of the foot at the ankle. The extensor hallucis provides movement to the big toe, independently moving it up and down. At the same time, the extensor digitorum forms into four tendons to the other toe joints.
These muscles work together to control the foot when descending and allow the heel to land first and then the toes after to prevent foot slaps or hard stepping. To that point, during this gait action, the extensor digitorum helps provide pure dorsiflex of the foot through balance on the tibial muscle. In contrast, the extensor hallucis allows the foot to adapt when the host is walking. Now, what happens when the extensor muscles suffer from injuries that cause mobility issues to the individual?
Trigger Points Affecting The Foot & Toes
When issues affect mobility and prevent many people from walking, it could be due to trigger points associated with the extensor muscles affecting the foot and toes. Trigger points or myofascial pain syndrome is where sensitive points or pressure in the muscles or muscle groups can cause referred pain in different body areas. This means that, for example, someone is dealing with pain in their elbows; however, they are complaining about shoulder pain. Studies reveal that when the legs’ lower limbs have trigger points in the feet musculature, it can lead to hypersensitivity in the extensor muscles and tendons. According to Dr. Janet G. Travell, M.D., she explained in her book, “Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction,” when the extensor muscles of the toes are being affected by trigger points, it could potentially be associated with anterior compartment syndrome and ischemia along the lower limbs. To that point, trigger points could affect a person’s ability to walk and cause them to shift their weight around to compensate for the pain from affecting them. When this happens, it can lead to hip issues.
Trigger Points Of The Week: The Extensor Toe Muscles- Video
Have you been dealing with foot pain affecting your ability to walk? Does it hurt when you are stepping? Do you have mobility issues in your hips or legs associated with foot pain? Suppose you have been experiencing any of these issues in the lower extremities of your body. In that case, you could be dealing with trigger points associated with the toe extensor muscles correlating with foot pain. Studies reveal that trigger points associated with the extensor muscles can be characterized by pain and cause a limited range of joint motion. What that does is that trigger points in the extensor hallucis muscle can cause the lower portion of the legs to have intense sensitivity and hyper-irritability to the legs, which can affect how a person walks. The video above explains where the extensor muscles are located in the lower portions of the legs and where the trigger points cause referred pain to the foot and legs. When trigger points affect the extensor muscles, they can cause referred pain to the entire lower half of the body, including the hips. How would trigger points be associated with the hips when it affects the extensor muscles? Well, when the extensor muscles succumb to pain, it causes the individual to shift their weight and can cause the hips to become unstable, and that instability can affect not only the hips but the legs, knees, calves, and feet. Fortunately, treatments can reduce trigger point pain in the extensor muscles.
Chiropractic Care For Trigger Points
So when a person is dealing with mobility issues along the extensor muscles that are causing them pain, they don’t realize that their hips, legs, and knees are being affected. By going to chiropractic treatment, they can get the relief they are looking for and regain their ability to walk. A chiropractor will thoroughly examine and assess the individual dealing with trigger points along the extensor muscles. Chiropractors can pinpoint where the trigger points are located in the affected muscle and dramatically decrease pain through manipulation. Using mechanical and manual manipulation can help realign the spine out of subluxation, and chiropractors can provide a personalized treatment plan to the individual to incorporate to prevent trigger points from returning after a few treatments. Since chiropractic care is a whole-body approach, many patients can learn healthy habits, which include using a tennis ball under the feet, light stretching on the feet, and walking correctly with good posture can prevent future injuries from coming.
Conclusion
The feet allow movement to allow the host to walk from one location to another. The extensor muscles of the toes allow mobility and stability as they work together with the legs and hips to support the upper body’s weight and stability. When injuries like ankle sprains or heavy objects landing on foot affect the extensor muscles, it can lead to trigger points associated with foot pain that can affect the hips. When trigger points affect the extensor muscles, it can cause a person to be unable to walk properly and cause more issues in the hips. When this happens, treatments like chiropractic care can manually manipulate the spine and release trigger points from the extensor muscles. With chiropractic care, many individuals will be pain-free and can walk again.
References
Lezak, Bradley, and Spencer Summers. “Anatomy, Bony Pelvis and Lower Limb, Extensor Hallucis Longus Muscle.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 26 Sept. 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539875/.
Tornero-Caballero, Maria, et al. “Muscle Trigger Points and Pressure Pain Sensitivity Maps of the Feet in Women with Fibromyalgia Syndrome.” Pain Medicine (Malden, Mass.), U.S. National Library of Medicine, 1 June 2016, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27257287/.
Travell, J. G., et al. Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual: Vol. 2:the Lower Extremities. Williams & Wilkins, 1999.
Wada, Juliano T, et al. “An Anatomical Basis for the Myofascial Trigger Points of the Abductor Hallucis Muscle.” BioMed Research International, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 22 Jan. 2020, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6998759/.
This time of year brings plenty of changes to normal day-to-day activities. We eat more and move less. But it is possible to stay on track while still enjoying the holiday festivities. The key is to balance healthy choices, stay aware of stressors, make a plan for staying healthy and get the whole family involved. The CDC recommends focusing on four areas to maintain family health: physical activity, nutritional habits, sleep, and screen time.
Family Health
Striking a balance between being active and having fun will help to create a more enjoyable and relaxing holiday experience.
Get The Whole Family Moving
Physical activity develops stronger muscles and bones, improves heart health, increases blood circulation, and lowers body fat.
Children ages 3 to 5 years should be active throughout the day.
Children ages 6 to 17 need at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily.
Look for ways to blend fun and physical activity as a family.
If you can get outside, play games like basketball or touch football, walk the dog, or take a nature walk.
Everyone has go-to foods, treats, and drinks they enjoy during the holidays. Restricting or avoiding these pleasures completely isn’t good, as it can lead to binge eating.
Dr. Jimenez, D.C., presents how to prevent atherosclerosis through various therapies that can help reduce the effects of cardiovascular diseases. By understanding the risk factors causing these issues, many specialists associated with cardiovascular disorders can develop a solution to minimize these symptoms that correlate with the vital organs and muscles with a personalized treatment plan. We acknowledge patients to certified providers that provide treatment options for cardiovascular disorders that can restore body functionality and improve a person’s health. We assess each individual and their symptoms by entrusting them to our associated medical providers based on their diagnosis results for a better understanding. We recognize that education is a tremendous way to ask our providers questions about the patient’s knowledge and symptoms. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., implements this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
The Cardiovascular System & Atherosclerosis
Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., presents: When the body deals with various issues causing muscle and joint pain, it could be due to overlapping risk profiles affecting the cardiovascular system. In a normal functioning body, the cardiovascular system works with different systems, including the musculoskeletal system, the pulmonary system, the endocrine system, the central nervous system, and the gut system. The heart is one of the main vital organs in the cardiovascular system that supplies oxygen-riched blood to the different muscles, tissues, and organs to function properly. The oxygen-rich blood also carries other items to circulate in the body, like hormones, protein, and nutrients, to be used later. However, when environmental factors start to disrupt the body, they can affect the cardiovascular system and can do serious damage. To that point, it can develop cardiovascular diseases over time and cause body pain. Many studies and research have shown cardiovascular diseases are still the number one in the world that causes mortality and morbidity in the body. They can cause other issues that can affect the body.
One of the cardiovascular diseases that can lead to heart dysfunction is atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a buildup of plaque (fats, cholesterol, and other hard, sticky substances) that builds up over time along the artery walls that can slow down the blood flow, causing less circulation in the arteries. When the circulation becomes obstructed, it can lead to ischemia associated with a blood clot due to the different body areas not getting enough blood and oxygen to function properly.
Inflammation Associated With Atherosclerosis
Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., presents: When this happens, there can be an imbalance of LDLs (low-density lipoproteins) which can then develop various symptoms over time that can lead to muscle and joint pain. Some of the most common underlying reasons that can cause LDL imbalances associated with atherosclerosis could include the following:
Chronic inflammation
Immune dysfunction
Oxidative stress in the vascular system
Poor diet
Tobacco exposure
Genetics
Pre-existing cardiovascular disease
When various disruptors can damage LDL, it can become oxidized over time, damage the cardiovascular endothelium wall, and cause macrophage and platelet activation. To that point, once the macrophages start to eat, they form into foam cells and then explode and release peroxidation, which means that they damage the lining of the blood vessel.
Looking closer at the oxidized LDL, it can biotransform into pro-inflammatory markers and is correlated with vascular inflammation. When dealing with vascular inflammation, the body can develop metabolic endotoxemia. Metabolic endotoxemia is where LPS (lipopolysaccharides) levels elevate even though there is a presence of infections in the body. To that point, it can correlate to gut dysbiosis and chronic inflammatory diseases to stimulate the immune system to increase NFkB inflammatory cytokines and cause muscle and joint pain.
When there is an increase in inflammation due to atherosclerosis or any cardiovascular disease an individual may have, the signs and symptoms can vary depending on their environment. Excessive weight gain, hypertension, increased oxidative stress, high triglycerides, low HDLs, etc., can affect the body and make it dysfunctional. These mechanic factors can influence dysbiosis in the cardiovascular and gut systems, leading to chronic conditions like IBS, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular diseases.
Treatments To Lower Inflammation
Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., presents: So what can we do to reduce the inflammation associated with atherosclerosis causing muscle and joint pain? Well, one of the ways that many people can do this is by eating less refined carbohydrates, and high sugar can lower high glycemic levels in the body can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Another way is to try the Mediterranean diet, which includes lean proteins, nuts, extra virgin olive oil, heart-healthy vegetables, fresh fruits, and whole grains to reduce inflammatory markers from proceeding further to causing issues in the body. Even supplements and nutraceuticals like glutathione and omega-3s can reduce chronic inflammation and cardiovascular disease complications by enhancing their antioxidant properties to preserve redox homeostasis while regulating oxidative stress in the body.
Another way people can prevent atherosclerosis is by exercising regularly. An exercise routine is an excellent way to keep the heart pumping and allow the muscles to move. Any exercise like yoga, Crossfit, dancing, swimming, walking, and running will allow more oxygen intake to the lungs, allowing the heart to pump out more blood to allow more circulation to the various organs, muscles, and tissues. Plus, any exercise can reduce plaque buildup in the arteries and reduce inflammation in the muscles and joints affecting the body.
Chiropractic Care & Inflammation
Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., presents: And finally, treatments like chiropractic care can help restore functionality to the body through spinal manipulation. Now, how does chiropractic care correlate with cardiovascular diseases like atherosclerosis? When the body is dealing with inflammation and chronic stress associated with atherosclerosis, the decrease in blood circulation can cause internal organ dysfunction and disrupt the transmitted signals to reach the brain. So when the transmitted signals become blocked, it can cause spinal subluxation to the spine and invokes pain in the upper, middle, and lower sections of the back, neck, hips, and shoulders. To that point, a chiropractor incorporates mechanical and manual manipulation to realign the spine and allow joint and muscle function back to the body. At the same time, chiropractic care can work with other associated medical providers to develop a personal treatment plan that allows the body to begin its recovery process.
Conclusion
Our goal is to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body to dampen the effects of cardiovascular diseases associated with pain. Covering some of the different ways to prevent atherosclerosis from affecting the cardiovascular system in the body can help the vital organs and muscles from producing more inflammation associated with pain. Incorporating heart-healthy and anti-inflammatory food, taking supplements, exercising, and going to treatments can make big changes to the body. The process may be tedious, but the results will slowly improve the body’s functionality and help the individual stay on the path of health and wellness.
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
Family Health
