Steroid injections into the cervical spine can help with�radiating�neck pain. Neck pain affects people all over the world. Although it is not as common as back pain, neck pain can really take a toll on a person�s quality of life and ability to work.� This comes in the form of:
Sleep problems
Radiating/Spreading pain
Mental health issues and more
Much like back pain neck pain can be hard to treat effectively without identifying the root cause known as the pain generator. If natural treatments like chiropractic aren’t working then injections could be the next phase.
Contents
Injections can help with:
Identifying the source/root cause of the pain as a diagnostic
Treats the pain as a therapeutic
The most commonly used are cervical epidural steroid injections,medial branch blocks (MBBs), and facet joint injections. Learn about what they are, what they treat, and the scientific research behind their risks and benefits.
Cervical Epidural Steroid
The phrase cervical epidural steroid injection:
Injection means that medicine is delivered through a needle.
Cervical means the cervical spine, which is the neck.
Epidural means the dura or outer layer of the soft tissue that encases the spinal cord, nerve roots, and cerebrospinal fluid. Epidural means the medicine goes into the space around the dura.
Spine specialists use image guidance with a contrast dye called fluoroscopy ensuring the medicine gets delivered to the proper area.
2 Types
The needle enters the space through a transforaminal approach or interlaminar approach. Words like epidural just refer to where the needle goes. These injections also called nerve root blocks, are performed by entering the epidural space through the opening where the nerve roots branch out. This space is known as the intervertebral foramen.
When it is called a selective nerve root block, this is for cases where multiple nerve roots are being compressed and the injection is being used in a diagnostic purpose to identify which nerve is the pain generator. The needle in an interlaminar epidural injection goes through the opening that exists between two adjacent vertebrae.
Candidates
Cervical epidural steroid injections may be appropriate for someone who has severe neck pain with:
Numbness
Weakness
Altered sensation in the arm, shoulder, or between the shoulder blades
Cervical epidural steroid injections are reserved as a second-line treatment for individuals that have neck pain that does not stop for more than 4 weeks despite conservative treatment like physical therapy, chiropractic, or medical pain management using NSAIDs or acetaminophen.
The source of the pain is usually what determines if injections are appropriate.
With a patient�s:
Past medical and surgical history
Pain history
Physical exam findings
Imaging Results like CT computed tomography scan, MRI magnetic resonance imaging or a nerve test like an EMG�electromyography test all can help in finding the source of the pain.
If a spine specialist thinks the nerve compression was brought on by a disc herniation, spondylolisthesis or the shifting of vertebral levels, scarring, or arthritic conditions is causing the pain, then an injection may be appropriate. If the pain comes from an infection or cancer, then this treatment is unlikely to be recommended.
Potential Benefits
The effects of injections are different for everyone, because of the variables:
The Duration of symptoms
The Cause of symptoms
Any Additional treatment
More than 50% will have at least 50% improvement in their pain for around 4 weeks. Then there are individuals that experience relief, up to 6 months. There are no significant differences in outcomes between the transforaminal and interlaminar approaches.
Overall alleviation from the pain is enhanced/improved when the injections are combined with a full-on treatment plan that includes physical therapy/chiropractic and pain medications.
Possible Risks
Common complications associated with injections are usually minor and temporary. These are:
Headache/s
Facial flushes
Light Headedness
Rash
Pain increase
Extended Numbness
Major complications are rare, but they can happen. These include�infection, paralysis, stroke, and death. However, this happens in less than 1% of individuals undergoing this treatment. These complications are thought to happen from direct spinal cord penetration of the needle, bleeding into the spinal canal, or the medicine inadvertently getting injected into the blood vessels. Surgical groups and facilities have strict guidelines to limit these complications.
This treatment is commonly used, and when done correctly can be a powerful tool in the treatment of persistent, severe neck pain. Everyone is different so if you are considering a cervical epidural spinal injection find a qualified spine specialist or consult with a chiropractor to find out if injections are necessary.
There are a variety of products and gadgets that claim to provide quick fast acting back pain relief. Here is a little information about which deliver and hold up to their claims. Back pain stops us in our tracks and we want relief fast. Other than taking pain meds, most of us want a way to achieve natural relief. That’s where back pain products and gadgets come into the picture.
For the most part, a lot of the gadgets online, even expensive ones don�t necessarily provide the back pain relief that most of us are expecting. This means they don’t remove the pain completely and life goes back to normal. These are made for temporarily relieving pain when symptoms present and through consistent use to strengthen, lengthen,� and stretch out the sore muscles, ligaments, tendons, etc, in a preventative fashion.
We are not knocking these products/gadgets, as we use these ourselves. But remember these are tools that are made to help out with back pain conditions, just like the tools chiropractors, physical therapists, massage therapists utilize in their practices. That being said this article is to help you make wise decisions about which back pain gadgets can help.
Contents
Posture Training/Trainers
These are wearable sensors that vibrate when you begin to slouch, sway forward, hunch over, etc. The pain-relief claims that slouching puts a strain on your spine and that improving posture will help prevent strain and pain.
While this is true what the experts thought about this product was that, while it does help maintain proper posture it is not meant to relieve immediate pain, but rather to re-train your body in maintaining good posture. Therefore pass on this product if your goal is back pain relief.
Slouching places added stress on�the lower back that leads to strains and back pain. These devices can be helpful, just be aware to not hold yourself in an abnormal position causing more problems.
If poor posture contributes to your back pain, try these:
Exercise, specifically movements that strengthen the core
Wear comfortable shoes with low heels
Foot orthotics
Balance make sure your head is not too forward
Dr. Jimenez adds that if you exhibit constant poor posture, consult a spine doctor or chiropractor to see if it is a structural issue.
Transcutaneous Electrical Stimulation
The QUELL�TENS transcutaneous electrical stimulation is a new brand unit that is worn on the calf. The pain-relief claims that it sends out safe electrical pulses that trigger the body’s natural pain relief response. The QUELL can help and is just like most other TENS units.
These units activate opioid nerve receptors, which is one of the reasons they provide pain relief. You can get them for under $50 at drug stores and online. Instead of being applied directly to the sore areas,�it’s worn on the calf and operates on the same TENS principle.� The cost currently is around $300. However, with any TENS unit, be aware that there can be a�relief tolerance that builds up and eventually might not work anymore. TENS units work well, but they�re best used in a physical therapist�s/chiropractic clinic because individuals can become habitually used to them.
Percussive Massager/s
This is a handheld massager that generates pulses of deep pressure along with strong vibrations to loosen and release tight areas. The pain-relief claims that it is similar to a deep tissue massage. These work and do help ease pain symptoms, but are not like a real therapeutic massage. There is limited research on these products but most state that percussive/vibrating massage tools, that can cost hundreds of dollars, could be a little better than a traditional massage for relieving muscle soreness. This has yet to be determined.
High-force massagers could exacerbate or cause further/new injury/s other than muscle soreness when used by untrained individuals. However, in a professional clinic setting research suggests that high vibration applied to the back is an effective physical therapy for low-back pain.
Low-Level Laser Therapy
Low-intensity light therapy is used in treating neuropathy pain. The principal is that it triggers biochemical changes in the cells. The pain-relief claims that it reduces inflammation alleviates pain and promotes healing. There is not a great deal of evidence that it helps back pain, but that is only because there is not enough research yet. It doesn�t mean you won�t benefit from it. Laser therapy, which is sometimes utilized in physical therapy and chiropractic clinics, can provide relief for a range of conditions, and this includes back pain.
Simple Massage Tools
These consist of foam rollers, lacrosse balls, wraps, massage pads, and handheld muscle rollers. The pain-relief claims that they provide mini-massages for sore muscles. These work and can help when used correctly.
These products do not have a great deal of published material on the benefits of these tools. But physical therapists have recommended using these tools along with professional chiropractic/physical therapy. These low-tech massage tools can make your back feel better. They are effective for muscle spasms, are gentle to the soft tissues and improve blood flow circulation with very little risk of tissue damage.
Exercise balls can be included in exercise programs that function in extension and flexion postures. Sitting on them to safely engage and strengthen the core muscles is an added benefit and they are great for maintaining proper posture.
Join from a PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone or Android device: for a live webinar where we discuss symptoms, what factors impact inflammation, and how it ties into sciatica.
Join us for a live webinar where we discuss symptoms, what factors impact inflammation, and how it ties into sciatica.
Functional Medicine* and Integrative Wellness requires Doctors to engage in further education outside of their core training and within their scope of practice.
Functional medicine requires doctors to continue their education and re-evaluate how they treat patients, including clinical decision thinking. Functional medicine stems from the basis and clinical application of understanding �whole body� wellness and the interconnection between organ systems and their processes.
Sciatica Pain Treatment: It begins in the lower back and extends through the buttocks down the back of each leg to the thighs and feet.
The most common symptom is leg pain. However, the condition has a number of lesser-known symptoms.
?? Difficulty moving the foot or leg/knee pain that worsens while sitting.
?? Hip pain
?? Leg tingling or burning
?? Reduced back pain
?? Weakness or numbness
Classic sciatic pain starts in the low back and buttocks. It affects one leg traveling down the back of the thigh, past the knee, and sometimes into the calf and foot. The pain feels worse in the leg than in the back. It can range from a mild ache to severe burning or a shooting pain. Numbness or tingling i.e. �pins & needles� can occur in your leg and foot. This usually is not a concern unless you have weakness in your leg muscles or foot drop.
Sitting usually causes the most pain because of the weight this position puts onto the discs. Activities, such as bending or twisting, worsen the pain, whereas lying down tends to bring relief. Running or walking may actually feel better than sitting or standing for too long.
To learn more about sciatica, inflammation and the role they both play with each other as well as autoimmunity join us for a live webinar. Sciatica and inflammation are both extremely complicated but can be explained in a way that brings individuals clarity and understanding.
This webinar is led by Dr. Alexander Jimenez, who has advanced training in functional medicine, neurophysiology, and clinical applications.
*Additional Education: M.S.A.C.P – Licensed in Texas & New Mexico. Scope of Practice Governed and Determined by State License & State Board Rules & Regulations.h extremely complicated but can be explained in a way that brings individuals clarity.
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As we have transitioned to the spring season, especially with everything going on, most of us are taking on a DIY project or two along with spring cleaning around the house. You definitely want to avoid back pain and for sure back injury at any cost. The aim is to balance spring cleaning and spine safety while performing out-of-the-ordinary chores. Here is a little what to do’s and don’ts.
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Spring Cleaning
What to do
Stand up straight and learn to practice proper posture. Stand in a way where your back is less prone to injury.
No matter what task you are performing, keep your spine in line and constantly check on how you’re standing, reaching and lifting.
Lift with your legs, not with your back. Avoid bending at the waist and straightening out, this is a bad habit and could be a set up for injury. You could slip a disc, tear a muscle, or sustain other injuries to the spine. No matter what you’re lifting, bend your knees and keep your back straight to avoid injury.
Maintain healthy body weight. While cleaning up the house, consider cleaning out the pantry and refrigerator. Carrying too much weight puts added and possibly dangerous pressure on the spine. This could mean that the added weight pulls your spine in all directions because of weak back/core muscles trying to keep the structure in line. Losing excess weight can help ease tension on the back and improve overall health.�
Strengthen the core muscles. Incorporatecore-strengthening exercises into your day. With strong abdominal and back muscles, the core supports your spine, keeping it aligned and healthy.
Get plenty of calcium-rich foods, like low-fat milk and cheese, almonds, black beans, and broccoli. Give your refrigerator a makeover with better foods for spine health. The spine needs healthy muscles to support it. Strong bones mean less risk of a spinal fracture if you suffer a slip and fall accident.
What not to do
Clear the air and stop smoking. Not only is smoking bad for the heart and lungs, but it is also bad for the spine. Nicotine decreases the discs ability to absorb nutrients to maintain the spine’s proper function. Weakening the vertebrae increases the risk of a herniated disc or other spine injury/s. Nicotine interferes with the healing process, meaning that recovery time is slower.
Over exert yourself. Taking on too much or trying to power through without proper breaks can lead to injury, as well as other health problems.
Over-reaching. Trying to clean that out of reach spot overstrains your back, and can definitely lead to injury/strain/sprain.
Use improper equipment. Using the wrong equipment/tool can be dangerous and raises the chance of injury.
Don’t take on large projects without warming up and stretching. When the body’s spine muscles are not used to certain physical activities they can spasm and lead to sprain/strain and back pain.
Don’t put your body in awkward positions when cleaning, etc. Change your posture frequently to keep all the spinal muscles moving and active. If an awkward position presents, stop and find a comfortable position to work from, ensuring spine safety.
Back Pain
All of these words can be used to describe back pain.
Achy
Dull
Excruciating
Sharp
Throbbing
Back pain is a common occurrence and when spring cleaning, if not using proper form and making wise decisions it can exacerbate the pain or create new injuries. The American Chiropractic Association says that back pain is the single leading cause of disability worldwide.
Treatment�
Back pain usually heals on its own. A few days of over-the-counter pain meds, ice, and rest bring the back/spine to normal.�For those that have to deal with the pain after a few weeks’ might want to opt for other solutions. This is true for individuals who experience repeated flare-ups, or chronic lower back pain.�One of the best options is chiropractic.
Chiropractic doesn’t focus only on the symptoms but helps kick in the body’s natural healing abilities. Chiropractors understand the:
Bones
Muscles
Discs
Nerves
They are able to determine the reason for the pain. Once diagnosed they can create a customized treatment plan that can range from compresses, spinal manipulation and exercises that helps heal the area and reduce the pain.
Medication-free solution
The natural healing, restorative approach that chiropractic treatment offers instead of pain meds, which just dull the pain is one of the primary reasons individuals flock to chiropractic. Each individual’s treatment varies according to Spine-Universe. As treatment progresses spinal alignment begins to balance the rest of the body and helps correct the issue causing the pain. Spinal manipulation improves mobility and function.
Chiropractic for back pain
Patients who experience lower back pain obviously never want to deal with it again, but�it can flare up periodically. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, roughly 20% of those who suffer from low back pain will eventually deal with it chronically. This can cause frustration, especially when it affects mobility.
Those who choose chiropractic are privy to treatment that:
Reduces pain
Increases healing
Shortens downtime
Lessens chances of recurrence
If over the counter medication and ice packs haven’t worked, it could be time to make an appointment with a licensed chiropractor. Spring is a great time to introduce yourself to new activities to keep you and your family busy and healthy. With some preparation and attention to detail spring cleaning can be productive and safe.
In the United States, ankle�injury/s like�ankle sprains and strains�happen to�people every day.�Around 50 percent of ankle injuries are�misdiagnosed, and not treated correctly, which can lead to disability or chronic ankle pain. An ankle that is not functioning properly affects the whole body. The muscles on either side of the leg and underneath the foot can present with soreness and pain.
This can lead to:
Loss of mobility
Uneven walking gait
Hip pain
Back pain
Contents
Ankle Anatomy
Three bones are connected to the ankle joint. The lower ends of the shinbone and the lower leg small bone meet to form a socket that the ankle bone sits in. The bottom of the talus rests on the heel bone.
There is around an inch-thick lining of soft cartilage inside the joint. This provides shock absorption for the body’s weight. It is so tough and durable provided there is no injury, it lasts for life. The bones are held together with ligaments and the muscles are attached to the bones by the tendons.
The standard treatment for ankle pain is R.I.C.E., which means rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Depending on the injury type there is an updated treatment approach that replaces the R with an M, where instead of resting, movement is the more beneficial treatment. This is done to keep the muscles, tendons, and ligaments from swelling, whereas resting would have allowed swelling to set in, thus extending recovery time.
There are certain types of ankle injuries that can be exacerbated by movement so only when it is deemed appropriate, otherwise stick with the rest. Other types of treatment include different techniques of pain control from ibuprofen to prescription meds.
When it comes to severe injuries, like a torn ligament, these could require surgical treatment. X-rays and MRIs are utilized to see if there is an injury and to determine the extent of the injury.
Physical Therapy/Chiropractic
A chiropractor will assess the individual’s source of pain and determine the cause. They will use all the tools available. This includes x-rays, MRI, CT scans, and other diagnostic tools to help them determine the best treatment protocol.
When an ankle injury is new and inflammation has set in along with tenderness, treatment can include:
This is in addition to rest, ice, compression and elevation. As the ankle heals, the inflammation reduces and becomes more stable, ankle adjustments and foot adjustments could be introduced.
Chiropractic can reduce pain without prescription medication and any associated side effects. This is one of the reasons individuals gravitate towards chiropractic. Regular chiropractic can strengthen the ankle, increase its stability and increase mobility and flexibility.
Nerves and soft tissues can also become damaged. Chiropractic therapy promotes blood flow. This speeds the healing process and reduces the chance of further injury. The whole-body approach that chiropractic embraces also deals with a proper diet and a healthy lifestyle like losing weight and exercise. Chiropractic is a very effective therapy for treating ankle pain and injury/s. It is a non-invasive, natural approach to healing that allows and trains the body to heal itself.
Methods in treating inflammation are the focus of this video. Dr. Alex Jimenez presents a discussion of natural ways to treat inflammatory cascades. Knowing what are the best supplements are presented. This is a safe alternative that is well researched.
If you have enjoyed this video and/or we have helped you in any way
please feel free to subscribe and share us.
Thank You & God Bless.
Dr. Alex Jimenez RN, DC, MSACP, CCST
The way a person walks is known as gait. A problem with gait can indicate pain in a patient as well as serious conditions like diabetes and arthritis. An individual’s gait can be very telling revealing problems in the:
It is a diagnostic tool for a variety of conditions, injuries, and syndromes including autism. When it comes to chiropractic, an individual’s gait can offer important information regarding the root of the complaints, allowing for a more well-rounded, whole-body approach. If you think that the way you walk or moves does not matter, think again, as it could save you from developing back problems in the long run.
Contents
Gait Analysis
Gait analysis consists of a set of tests designed to provide a comprehensive evaluation of an individual’s gait. It is a study of human movement/motion that involves observing the individual and using specialized instruments that measure body movements, muscle activity, and body mechanics.
It is an assessment tool to provide insight into creating a treatment plan for people who have conditions or injuries that affect their ability to walk. It is utilized in sports biomechanics to help athletes gain optimal movement and for identifying problems with movement or posture, especially those with injuries. During the analysis, the individual may be asked to walk in a certain pattern or on a treadmill, that is usually connected to a computer, while the chiropractor/therapist looks at them from different angles.
Cameras are placed at different points to capture various views/perspectives including the front, back, and sides. The individual might have markers placed at certain points on the body like the knee, ankle, pelvis, etc. As the person moves, the computer captures data of the movement with a three-dimensional calculation of each marker. It generates a model to assess the movement of the skeletal structure, resulting in a detailed analysis of each joint�s movement.
Factors that Affect Gait
There are factors that affect an individual’s gait and that information is necessary for the analysis to be accurate. Age, gender, height, and weight of the individual is vital because men and women move differently and as individual age their body structure changes. Excess weight or physique can affect an individual’s posture and gait.
Shoes or not wearing shoes will also affect gait, as the terrain individuals walk on, and articles they carry, like a purse or backpack, changes how we walk. Other factors include:
Body proportion
State of mind
Emotions
Stress level
Personality type
Pathological factors such as
Neurological diseases
Psychiatric disorders
Trauma
Musculoskeletal issues
This is also measured and factored into the analysis data that includes the patients:
Length of stride
Cadence
Hip angle
Foot angle
Step length
Walking
Motion speed
Advantages of a Gait Analysis
Getting a gait analysis can be very helpful because it can provide invaluable insight into how your body is aligned and how it moves. It is a great diagnostic tool for identifying health issues related to the gait, spine, and feet and can also help provide early detection of health issues before the onset of symptoms.
If your chiropractor recommends you get a gait analysis it could be they suspect that something is going on, or it could mean they want a more thorough examination to provide optimal care. If you have any concerns talk with your chiropractor and ask them any questions that you have prior to the analysis, as stress and anxiety can put tension on the muscles and body, thus affecting the results.
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Diabetes and Autoimmunity Live Webinar � (915) 613-5303
Join from a PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone or Android device, for a webinar where we discuss autoimmunity, what factors impact inflammation, and how it ties into diabetes.
Join us for a webinar where we discuss autoimmunity, what factors impact inflammation, and how it ties into diabetes.
Functional Medicine* and Integrative Wellness requires Doctors to engage in further education outside of their core training and within their scope of practice.
Functional medicine requires doctors to continue their education and re-evaluate how they treat patients, including clinical decision thinking. Functional medicine stems from the basis and clinical application of understanding �whole body� wellness and the interconnection between organ systems and their processes.
Diabetes is an extremely complex autoimmune and metabolic disorder. The main descriptor of diabetes is that it impairs the glucose regulation and tolerance in the human body. Improper glucose regulation can lead to hyperglycemia. Hyperglycemia for prolonged lengths of time leads to organ end failure. The main organs and systems that are directly affected by hyperglycemia include but are not limited to: kidneys, nerves, heart, blood vessels, and retina.
Diabetes falls under the umbrella of an autoimmune disorder. Autoimmunity is a broad term used to describe multiple human illnesses. Autoimmunity occurs when the body has an increased amount of inflammation for a substantial amount of time. Inflammation is necessary as it is a natural defense mechanism. However, when this inflammation becomes overpowering, a misdirected signal from the immune system can occur and the body begins to attack itself, leading to autoimmune conditions.
Common symptoms and warning signs of inflammation and autoimmune conditions include:
?? Fatigue
?? Achy Muscles
?? Swelling
?? Brain Fog
?? Hair Loss
?? And More!
Generally speaking, there are two main types of diabetes that cases get classified as. Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) and Type 2 Diabetes (T2D). Majority of the cases are T2D and are directly related to a decrease or lack in insulin sensitivity.
To learn more about diabetes, inflammation and the role they both play with each other as well as autoimmunity join us for a live webinar. Diabetes and autoimmunity are both extremely complicated but can be explained in a way that brings individuals clarity and understanding.
This webinar is led by Dr. Alexander Jimenez, who has advanced training in functional medicine, neurophysiology, and clinical applications.
*Additional Education: M.S.A.C.P – Licensed in Texas & New Mexico. Scope of Practice Governed and Determined by State License & State Board Rules & Regulations.
Or join by phone:
Dial(for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):
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Functional Medicine* and Integrative Wellness requires Doctors to engage in further education outside of their core training and within their scope of practice.
Join us for a webinar where we discuss and pinpoint the complications of Fibromyalgia and Inflammation. Fibromyalgia can be classified as widespread muscle pain and tenderness. Tune in to discover how fibromyalgia and inflammation could be affecting you.
Functional medicine requires doctors to continue their education and re-evaluate how they treat patients, including clinical decision thinking. Functional medicine stems from the basis and clinical application of understanding �whole body� wellness and the interconnection between organ systems and their processes.
Part of practicing and understanding the whole body wellness approach is understanding that the multi-organ systems heavily rely on each other. This being said, it is clear that conditions such as fibromyalgia include multiple areas and organ systems. The connection between fibromyalgia is directly correlated to the gastrointestinal system, which is related to inflammation.
Fibromyalgia is anything but simple. It is classified as a neurologic health condition. The factors of this condition include pain and widespread tenderness throughout the entire body. The widespread pain that individuals experience affects the mitochondria, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction, systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, and DNA damage. Those who have fibromyalgia also see symptoms such as:
? Headaches
? Lack of or Trouble Sleeping
? Brain Fog
? Anxiety
? Depression
? And More!
These symptoms are related to other organ systems in the body. Fibromyalgia interrupts the natural communication between pathways, causing widespread pain and other side effects to occur involving other body systems.
The gastrointestinal system is responsible for the uptake of nutrients, digestion, detoxification, and maintaining a balance of good and bad bacteria allowing the microbiome to flourish. When the bacteria becomes overactive, and a specific strain overpowers others, we see a condition called small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). Patients who are being treated for SIBO have experienced relief of fibromyalgia-like symptoms. Proving and showing how the body systems are intertwined and communicate and rely on each other for optimal function and total body health.
Join us for this live webinar event to gain more knowledge regarding ways to combat inflammation and fibromyalgia. This informative webinar is led by Dr. Alexander Jimenez, who has advanced training in functional medicine, neurophysiology, and clinical applications.
*Additional Education: M.S.A.C.P – Licensed in Texas & New Mexico. Scope of Practice Governed and Determined by State License & State Board Rules & Regulations
Or join by phone:
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The lumbar spine is the lower back that starts below the last thoracic vertebra T12 and ends at the top of the sacral spine or sacrum S1. Each lumbar spinal level is numbered from top to bottom, L1 to L5, or L6. The low back bodies are larger, and thicker structures of dense bone. From the front or anterior, the vertebral body has a rounded shape.
The posterior bony structure is a different lamina, which is a thin bony plate that shields and protects access to the spinal canal. There are vertebral arches that create the hollow spinal canal for lumbar nerve structures and the cauda equina.
Contents
Lumbar Structure Strong Joint Complex
One intervertebral disc together with the facet joints forms a strong joint complex that allows the spine to bend and twist. One pair of facet joints from the top or superior vertebral body connects the lower or inferior set of facet joints. The facet joints are synovial joints, which means they are lined with cartilage and the capsule holds synovial fluid that enables joints to glide during movement. Think of it as hydraulics with smooth fluid motion.
Facet joint syndrome can develop from aging and degenerative spinal changes causing low back pain. The lumbar discs are secured in place by the fibrous endplates of the superior and inferior vertebral bodies.
The jelly/gel center of each disc called the nucleus pulposus is surrounded by the annulus fibrosis, which is a tough layer of fibrocartilage that you can think of as a radial tire.
Discs are integral to the joint complex and function to:
Hold the superior and inferior vertebrae together
Take the weight
Absorb and distribute shock and forces when moving about
Create an open nerve passageway called foramen or neuroforamen
The neuroforaminal spaces on either side of the disc allow nerve roots to exit the spinal canal and leave the column.
Lumbar disc herniation is a common cause of low back pain that can spread out into one or both legs. This is called lumbar radiculopathy. This condition can develop when the nerves are compressed.
Low Back Support
Lumbar Ligaments
Tendons
Muscles
Systems of strong fibrous bands of ligaments hold the vertebrae and discs together and stabilize the spine by helping to prevent over/excessive movements.
The 3 major spinal ligaments are the:
Anterior longitudinal ligament
Posterior longitudinal ligament
Ligamentum flavum.
Spinal tendons attach muscles to the vertebrae and together work to limit excessive movement.
Lumbar Spine Nerves
The spinal cord comes to an end between the first and second lumbar vertebrae(L1-L2). Below this is the remaining nerves that form the cauda equina which is a bundle of nerves that looks like a horse�s tail. These nerves send messages between the brain and the lower body structures, including the:
Large intestine
Bladder
Abdominal muscles
Perineum
Legs
Feet
Protect Your Back
Around 80% of adults will see a doctor for low back pain at some point. Therefore take care of your lumbar spine to help avoid painful, unnecessary wear-and-tear. You can minimize the risk of a low back injury/pain by:
Losing weight. Even a loss of 5 pounds can help reduce back pain.
Strengthening the core/abdominal muscles. The abdominal and low back muscles work together to form a supportive band around the waist and low back. Stronger muscles help stabilize the low back and reduce the risk of injury.
Stopping smoking. Nicotine reduces blood flow to the spine’s structures. This includes the lumbar discs and accelerates age-related degeneration.
Proper posture and proper body mechanics. When lifting objects keep your spine erect and use your legs. Ask for help with heavy objects. The lumbar spine is can bend and twist simultaneously, try to avoid doing this, as it is a perfect setup for a strain or sprain.
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