Athletes are at higher risk of experiencing injuries or aggravating a previously existing condition due to the constant exposure to rigorous training and competitions. Although the lower extremities most frequently result in damage or injury, lower back complications have only been increasingly reported among the wide majority of athletes alike.
Among the young college athletes and professional athletes alike, low back pain is considered to be one of the most common complaints, estimated to affect more than 30 percent of athletes at least once in their career. A wide number of back injuries can affect the athlete, including muscle spasms and stress fractures, spondylosis, spondylolisthesis, disc degeneration, facet joint arthropathy and disc issues, such as lumbar disc herniation.
Lumbar disc herniation is a well-known type of injury which often causes impairing low back pain, however, it can also compress the nerve roots in the area and generate radicular pain and other symptoms along the lower extremities, such as altered sensations and muscle weakness. Furthermore, this type of injury will not only affect the athlete�s ability to perform during their specific sport or physical activity, it may also become chronic and affect the athlete in the future.
Conservative treatments are frequently utilized when managing lumbar disc herniation in athletes, although surgical options may be considered if the injury is too severe. Many elite athletes often request faster recovery methods for their type of injuries and symptoms in order to minimize their time spent away from training and competition. As a result, a wide number of athletes will seek surgical alternatives earlier than recommended, provided they meet the criteria for lumbar spine surgery. The most popular surgical procedure for athletes with a low back disc herniation is the lumbar disc microdiscectomy.
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Anatomy & Biomechanics of the Lumbar Spine
The intervertebral discs of the lumbar spine perform an essential biomechanical role within the spine. These function to provide mobility between the segments of the spine while distributing compressive, shear and torsional forces. These discs are made up of a thick, outer ring of fibrous cartilage, known as the annulus fibrosis, which surround the gelatinous core of the disc, known as the nucleus pulposus, which is contained within the cartilage end plates.
Each intervertebral disc consists of cells and substances, such as collagen, proteoglycans and scattered fibrochondrocytic cells, which function to absorb and conduct increased forces from body weight and muscle activity. In order to effectively perform its function, the disc depends immensely on the structural condition of the annulus fibrosis, nucleus pulposus and the vertebral end plate. If the disc is healthy, it will evenly spread the forces being applied against the spine. However, disc degeneration caused by cell degradation, loss of hydration or disc collapse, can decrease the disc�s ability to withstand external forces and these will no longer be absorbed and conducted evenly across the spinal structures.
Tears in the annulus fibrosis of the disc along with extrinsic loads may ultimately cause the disc to herniate. Alternatively, applying a large, biomechanical force against a normal disc, such as a heavy compression on the spine due to a fall on the tailbone or strong muscle contraction from heavy weight lifting, can also damage the healthy structures of the disc and cause a rupture.
Disc herniation is characterized when the nucleus pulposus, the soft, jelly-like material in the center of a disc, pushes through a tear in the annulus fibrosis, the fibrous exterior of the disc. If the protrusion does not compress the nerve roots that travel along the spine, the individual may only experience back pain. But, if the herniated disc pushes against the lumbar nerve roots or other structures within the lower back, the individual may experience radicular pain along with neurological symptoms, such as numbness and paresthesia.
The pain and other symptoms associated with lumbar radiculopathy occurs due to a combination of nerve root ischemia from compression and due to inflammation caused by the chemicals released from a ruptured disc. During a herniation, the nucleus pulposus places unnecessary pressure against the weakened areas of the annulus, protruding through these weakened sites in the outer structure of the disc, ultimately forming a herniation. It�s important to note that when a lumbar disc herniation occurs, in a majority of cases, some form of disc degeneration may have existed before.
The Process of Lumbar Disc Herniation
Unlike other musculoskeletal tissues of the body, intervertebral discs generally degenerate sooner than other structures. Some studies have shown adolescents between the ages of 11 to 16 with signs of degeneration. As people age, the discs will naturally degenerate further. In a research study conducted using normal, healthy subjects between the ages of 21 to 30, more than one third of the individuals presented degenerated discs.
While the spinal discs may be at risk of injury in practically all fundamental planes of motion, these are often more susceptible to damage or injury during constant and repetitive flexion or hyperflexion along with lateral bending or rotation. Trauma from an injury caused by an excessive axial compression can also harm the internal structure of the discs. This can commonly result after the individual has suffered a fall or due to strong muscular forces being placed against the spine during specific activities, such as heavy weight lifting.
When it comes to athletes, they are frequently exposed to conditions of higher loading. A herniated disc can be categorized according to its location: central, posterolateral, foraminal or far lateral. Herniation varieties can also be classified as: protrusion, extrusion or sequestered fragment. Finally, disc herniation may be identified according to the level where they occurred on the spine. Most develop along the lumbar spine, often affecting the lumbar nerve roots which may lead to symptoms of sciatica. Upper lever herniated discs are rare, but when they do occur along with radiculopathy, they generally affect the femoral nerve.
Disc Herniation in Athletes
Athletes who participate in sports or physical activities which utilized combined trunk flexion and rotation have an increased chance of experiencing herniated discs. Individuals between 20 to 35 years of age are the most common group to herniate a disc, most likely as a result of the nature of the nucleus pulposis and due to behavior. This age group is most likely to be involved in sports which require higher loads of flexion and rotation or they may practice improper postures and positions when carrying weight.
The sports most at risk of disc herniation include: hockey, wrestling, football, swimming, basketball, golf, tennis, weight lifting, rowing and throwing activities, because these sports involve either high loads or high exposure to combined flexion and rotation mechanisms. Additionally, athletes who engage in more intense, continuous training routines appear to be at an increased risk of developing spinal injuries or conditions, similar to those involved in impact sports.
Signs and Symptoms Indicating Discectomy
An athlete is generally driven by motivation and goals when they choose to undergo surgery to treat a lumbar disc herniation. Rather than waiting for the symptoms to decrease over a period of rehabilitation, athletes prefer a relatively simple microdiscectomy.
A conservative period of management for symptoms of a lumbar herniated disc may involve: medication therapy, epidural injections, relative rest and trunk muscle rehabilitation, acupuncture and chiropractic care with massage. However, athletes who experience low back pain with pain radiating down one or both legs, neurological signs and symptoms, mild weakness of distal muscles, such as extensor hallucis longus, peroneals, tibialis anterior and soleus and those who demonstrated positive on the straight leg raise test, may meet the criteria to follow through with a surgical intervention for their lumbar herniated disc.
Generally, elite athletes have a shorter time span in which to allow conservative rehabilitation to be effective. For a majority of the population, medical practitioners often prescribe a minimum 6-week conservative period of treatment with a review at 6 weeks to decide whether they should extend the rehabilitation or to seek treatment from a specialist. This particular healthcare professional may then offer other alternative interventions to treat the issue.
For athletes, however, these time frames are compressed. Epidural injections are often offered to athletes to assess the issue quicker, and if there are no results within a determined period, an immediate lumbar spine microdiscectomy may follow.
Imaging
Magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, are considered to be the preferred method for identifying lumbar disc herniation, as these are also very sensitive when detecting nerve root impingements. Because abnormal MRI scans can occur in otherwise asymptomatic individuals, it�s essential to establish a clinical correlation of symptoms before any surgical considerations. Additionally, individuals may present clinical signs and symptoms suggesting the presence of a lumbar herniated disc but they may lack sufficient evidence on MRI to meet the criteria to follow through with surgical interventions. Accordingly, it�s been proposed that a volumetric analysis of a lumbar herniated disc on MRI may be potentially valuable for assessing an individual�s and athlete�s suitability to receive surgery.
MRI Lumbar Spine Disc Herniation
Chiropractic and Massage
Fortunately, before considering surgical intervention, although more time and patience may be required, there are several effective, alternative treatment options that can help reduce and eliminate the symptoms associated with a lumbar herniated disc. Chiropractic is a healthcare profession that focuses on injuries and conditions of the musculoskeletal system and the nervous system as well as the effects of these on general health. Chiropractic care emphasizes the treatment of the body as a whole rather than focusing on a single injury or condition. Through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, two of the most common techniques used in chiropractic, a chiropractor can carefully re-align the spine, helping to restore and reduce the pain and swelling caused by a lumbar herniated disc.
Along with a combination of massage, chiropractic care can ultimately help rehabilitate an injured athlete or individual. A massage, best referred to as myofascial release, is a hands-on technique that involves applying gentle, sustained pressure into the myofascial connective tissue restrictions, to eliminate pain and restore function. Massage can increase blood flow, which delivers more oxygen and nutrients to the muscles surrounding the affected region of the spine. The increased blood flow may also help carry away unnecessary substances which may have accumulated through time. Chiropractic care and massage are safe and effective treatments that can help rehabilitate athletes with lumbar disc herniation without side effects.
Sports injuries can become a difficult situation for any athlete, especially if the symptoms become more severe, leading to further complications. When recovering from an injury, an athlete’s main concern involves them returning to play as soon as possible. Chiropractic care and the use of physical therapy as well as other types of treatment methods and massage can help individuals effectively recover from their injuries.
For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .�
By Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Low Back Pain After Auto Injury
After being involved in an automobile accident, the sheer force of the impact can cause damage or injury to the body, primarily to the structures surrounding the spine. An auto collision can ultimately affect the bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments and other tissues surrounding the spine, commonly the lumbar region of the spine, causing symptoms such as low back pain. Sciatica is a common set of symptoms after an automobile accident, which may require immediate medical attention to determine its source and follow through with treatment.
Athletes are specially trained to exercise and compete vigorously without experiencing injury or aggravating a previously existing condition. However, accidents and direct trauma during their specific sport or physical activity can inevitably result in damage or injury to the individual. Muscle or tissue damage are common in sports and can be dealt with accordingly but when a bone fracture occurs, these may be more delicate and may require additional diagnosis and care in order to properly help an athlete recover.
Among the general population of athletes, stress fractures can be a rare cause of pain, accounting for only 2 percent of all reported sports injuries. However, a considerably higher number of stress fractures are diagnosed in long distance runners and triathletes.
Stress fractures occurring around the pelvis are significantly uncommon although, a majority of them are often considered a differential diagnosis when athletes, specifically long distance runners and triathletes, report hip, groin or buttock pain during and after running. Because stress fractures around the pelvic/hip region, including the sacral, pubic rami and femoral neck region, are rarely diagnosed, understanding and discussing the anatomy of the injury, their clinical presentation, diagnosis and treatment for each of these types of stress fractures is important for an athlete in order to find a solution for those who do encounter it.
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How Stress Fractures Occur
Stress fractures occur over a determined period of time when the bone is no longer capable of withstanding submaximal, repetitive forces. They frequently result when normal stresses cause bone fracture with decreased bone density, such as in an elderly osteoporotic individual, or as a result of an abnormal stress being placed against a normal bone and causing a fracture, such as in a long distance runner.
When the bones are exposed to loading, the introductory physiological response is a respective increase in osteoclastic activity, or bone resorption, leading to temporary structural weakening before new bone formation. If these stresses continue to occur without having the bone properly adjust to this additional, ongoing osteoclastic activity, the pressure may exceed bone regeneration, causing microfractures to occur.
The first characteristic of a stress reaction observed through the use of MRI is bone oedema as well as increased activity on bone scan. Bone scan in the acute phase has high sensitivity but an increased uptake may also be due to infection, bone infarction or neoplastic activity. Researchers from previous studies stated that 60 to 70 percent of X-rays in the acute phase of stress fractures, approximately less than 2 weeks after the injury, have a negative result. Due to its high sensitivity as well as a lack of radiation and high specificity, even despite its elevated cost, MRI is often the preferred procedure to identify stress fractures in their early phases.
Various distinct intrinsic and extrinsic elements have been determined as risk factors for stress fractures. These include but are not limited to: biomechanics, strength and flexibility, nutrition, hormonal and menstrual disturbances, and footwear. These must all be considered prior to assessing an individual with a suspected stress fracture. During an analysis of 8 female athletes with sacral stress fractures, the most significant risk factor for these types of fractures was the rapid increase in impact activity during more intense exercise programs. An increase in workload should thus be considered a significant risk factor for stress fractures.
Anatomy of Sacral Stress Fractures
The sacrum consists of 5 fused vertebrae, S1 to S5, and is triangular in shape. It connects with the ilium at the sacroiliac joint and, due to its shape and function to distribute forces, it�s often described as the foundation to the arch of the pelvis. The sacrum, much like an inverted arch, supports the entire weight of the upper body and transfers force to the pelvis.
Sacral stress fractures most commonly occur in the lateral portion of the sacrum and are more frequently diagnosed in women. It�s been hypothesized that the shape of the female pelvis can lead create difficulty when distributing weight through the sacrum than the average male pelvis. However, it�s also been reported that several male elite Australian triathletes have experienced sacral stress fractures in recent years.
Symptoms
An athlete with a sacral stress fracture will often manifest acute onset back, buttock or hip pain which is generally described to occur suddenly during a run, making them incapable of continuing at the time. The individual may also experience limited mobility and they could or could not suffer pain on the palpation of the sacrum. Additionally, they may not experience any neurological symptoms but symptoms of sciatica may be common during this type of stress fracture. Sciatica can include pain, weakness or numbness and burning or tingling sensations along the lower back, buttock or hip, often radiating down the thigh. The individual may suffer pain or tightness when walking and they will experience symptoms when hopping on the affected side. Athletes with sacral stress fractures also frequently report pain during single leg loading tasks, for example, when putting pants on.
Diagnosis
Due to the extreme overlying soft tissue and complex bone anatomy, simple radiographs can rarely conclude the presence of a sacral stress fracture. Bone scan, MRI or CT can be utilized to effectively diagnose a sacral stress fracture. CT and MRI findings suggest that sacral stress fractures occur as a result of constant compressive forces which lead to microfractures of the trabecular bone. These fractures infrequently develop a visible callus on plain radiograph, therefore, MRI or CT scans should be utilized as a follow up imaging if poor healing is detected.
Treatment
The progression of treatment for an athlete with a sacral stress fracture broadly depends on the athlete�s symptoms as these are generally stable fractures. Rehabilitation procedures will progress from non-weight bearing to weight bearing to progressive return to running activities as the symptoms decrease. In most cases, a period of 6 weeks with no running followed by a 6 to 8-week period of a return to running progression may be required. A majority of published works indicate athletes may have a full return to activity by 4 months with rare cases taking up to 14 months.
Repeated CT scans approximately 4 and 8 months after the individual�s original diagnosis can often display no signs of previous fractures which demonstrate a quicker and fuller healing of the well-vascularized trabeculae microfractures when compared to fractures involving the less well-vascularized cancellous bone. Researchers concluded that women with sacral stress fractures who had the best diets and fewer prior stress injuries or menstrual irregularities, healed the fastest.
Anatomy of Pubic Rami Stress Fractures
The inferior pubic ramus slopes downward and medial from the superior ramus, narrowing as it goes down and it is the region where the adductor magnus, brevis and gracilis connect, including the obturator internus and externus. Pubic Rami stress fractures have been diagnosed among runners, triathletes and military service members. These generally occur in the inferior pubic rami next to the pubic symphysis. Researchers proposed that these fractures are a result of repetitive forces being applied to and transmitted to the bone through muscle contraction or fatigue. In a study on female military service members, it was suggested that over-striding during marching procedures was a potential factor contributing to pubic rami stress fractures.
Symptoms
Pubic rami stress fractures are generally detected either in competitive races or during intensive training sessions. These frequently occur at the insertion of the adductors and/or external rotators of the hip. Athletes with pubic rami stress fractures commonly suffer from pain in the hip, buttock, inguinal or adductor region which increases with activity and decreases with rest. It�s important to remember that pain caused by irritation and swelling along these regions may also cause symptoms similar to sciatica. It�s important to receive a proper diagnosis to rule out a compression of the sciatic nerve which could be causing neurological symptoms. Athletes with this type of injury often limp and on clinical testing, they may experience symptoms with passive hip abduction, resisted hip adduction and resisted hip external rotation. Stress fractures of the pelvis can be determined even without radiographic evidence if the following criteria are met by an individual. First, running will be impossible for the athlete as a result of severe discomfort in the groin area. Then, the individual will experience discomfort in the groin with an unsupported stance on the affected leg. And last, an athlete may suffer symptoms of pain and tenderness after deep palpation procedures.
Diagnosis
Simple radiographs may demonstrate displaced fracture lines but a lack of radiographic evidence in the early phases of injury is not uncommon. Bone scan, CT or MRI may be used to determine the presence of fracture and bone oedema may be evident on MRI.
Treatment
These fractures tend to have a high rate for healing following 6 to 10 weeks of rest, however, they have a small risk of non-union and re-fracture if the appropriate amount of rest is not followed. Fractures that display delayed union will likely demonstrate full recovery when further conservative procedures are followed. Progression of treatment should be guided by pain and at first, the individual may require the utilization of crutches as walking may be painful.
Anatomy of Femoral Neck Stress Fractures
The femoral neck is the flattened, pyramid shaped piece of bone which connects the femoral head to the femoral shaft.
Athletes with femoral neck stress fractures generally report hip or groin pain when running. This pain usually has an insidious onset and the symptoms may become significantly worse depending on the intensity or duration of a run. At first, symptoms may occur at the end of a run but as the stress reaction worsens, the pain may begin showing earlier in the run where gradually more time may be required to relieve the pain and discomfort. Athletes with femoral neck stress fractures may experience hip and/or groin pain while resting and may suffer restless nights of sleep due to the symptoms. Often, individuals will also report pain while rolling in bed, single leg stance and during active straight leg raise.
Femoral neck stress fractures are described as either tension or compression stress fractures. Fracture displacement determines the outcome of an injury and tension stress fractures generally have a higher rate of displacement as a result of non-union, malunion or osteonecrosis. Due to this fact, tension stress fractures are considered more serious than compression fractures and may require surgical fixation.
Diagnosis
Conventional radiographs are often negative in the acute setting but may shown signs during instances where symptoms have been present for 2 weeks or more. MRI is the favored standard for diagnosis and should be ordered when a stress fracture of the femoral neck is suspected.
Treatment
Tension side stress fractures require diagnosis from a healthcare professional immediately after its occurred due to their risk of displacement. Compression side fractures are often managed conservatively with protected weight bearing and ongoing monitoring to keep track of the individual�s healing process. Initial phases of management should include non-weight bearing on crutches until there are no symptoms at rest, then progress to partial weight bearing to full weight bearing over a period of 4-6 weeks. A gradual return to run program can be started at 8 to 12-weeks of treatment, once the individual is able to properly walk without experiencing pain and other symptoms.
Return to Activity Plan
With all stress fractures located around the pelvis, a careful, gradual return to activity plan can be an essential element of the rehabilitation process. To make sure the athlete receives progressive loading without sudden increases in workload, the return to activity plan should be at least as long as the time off the individual�s specific activity. For instance, if the athlete had a sacral stress fracture which required 6 weeks of no running, then that athlete needs at least a 6-week gradual return to running plan before they can return to their previous running load.
Hip Strengthening Exercises
A strengthening program of the lower extremities can additionally be implemented early in the rehabilitation process, first beginning with non-weight bearing exercises, which can gradually change as the individual becomes able to weight bear without pain. Early strengthening can also help decrease muscle loss and address any biomechanical complications the athlete might be facing. As the stress fractures heal and the tolerance for load improves, these exercises can be progressed to other higher-load exercises to provide the athlete�s body for the return of their specific sports activity.
Proper stretching and exercising techniques are effective methods and techniques that can help increase an athlete’s strength, mobility and flexibility to prevent experiencing an injury or aggravating a condition. Bone fractures, in this case, pelvic stress fractures, can be challenging to heal but with proper treatment, an athlete will be able to return-to-play in no time.
For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
By Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Low Back Pain After Auto Injury
After being involved in an automobile accident, the sheer force of the impact can cause damage or injury to the body, primarily to the structures surrounding the spine. An auto collision can ultimately affect the bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments and other tissues surrounding the spine, commonly the lumbar region of the spine, causing symptoms such as low back pain. Sciatica is a common set of symptoms after an automobile accident, which may require immediate medical attention to determine its source and follow through with treatment.
Low back pain is one of the most prevalent symptoms that lead people to seek diagnosis and treatment with a healthcare professional. When the individual�s low back pain is accompanied with pain in one or both legs or buttocks, resulting in symptoms similar to sciatica, it may be an indicator that the patient may have a lumbar disc herniation, also referred to as a herniated disc, ruptured disc, or slipped disc.
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Anatomy of the Lumbar Spine
The lumbar spine consists of five vertebrae that extend through the length of the ribcage and pelvis. From top to bottom, these vertebrae are medically labeled L1 through L5 and they�re each separated by intervertebral discs. The discs are made up of a fibrous tissue known as the annulus with a soft nucleus found at the center of each disc. These discs are fundamental towards the proper function of the spine, performing the important roles of shock absorption and distribution of pressure.
In the instance the annulus becomes ruptured or torn, the nucleus can become separated from the disc. This complication can decrease the disc�s ability to properly separate the vertebrae, an issue which often leads to increased pressure due to the compression or impingement of the spinal nerves found between each vertebrae of the spine. Individuals with a lumbar disc herniation and symptoms of sciatica commonly experience pain and discomfort related to the pinching of the nerves, which can in turn radiate down the legs.
Generally, a herniated disc is caused by the natural degeneration of the body�s structures as we age. If not diagnosed or treated in time, however, this simple wear and tear complication can develop into a more serious injury or condition. In addition, intervertebral discs can also tear due to trauma from heavy lifting or as a result of a sudden injury, such as an automobile accident or a work injury.
Diagnosing a Lumbar Disc Herniation
A chiropractor can properly diagnose a variety of injuries or conditions relating to the musculoskeletal and nervous system, including a lumbar disc herniation. During the first consultation, the chiropractor will conduct a thorough physical exam, including a comprehensive review of your medical history and test results. Using this, the healthcare professional will be able to determine the source of the symptoms. In many cases, the specialist may require additional tests to confirm the presence of a specific injury and/or condition. Most chiropractic offices will provide you with up to date information about your diagnosis, as well as the risks and benefits of each treatment option. Chiropractors will work with the individual personally to decide on the best treatment option for their complication.
Treating a Lumbar Disc Herniation
Chiropractic adjustments and manual manipulations are the most common forms of treatment provided by a doctor of chiropractic, or DC. Using this gentle techniques, the healthcare specialist will carefully realign the spine, correcting the subluxations in order to decrease and eliminate the symptoms caused by nerve compression or impingement. Chiropractors may also redirect a patient to receive other types of treatment depending on the severity of their issue. Chiropractic care can help restore an individual�s strength, mobility and flexibility, offering a wide variety of benefits. Chiropractic treatment is well-known for its natural benefits, including the enhancement of many functions of the body.
Chiropractic Can Improve Sex Life
Many people visit the chiropractor with back pain, but after several sessions of treatment, they often return reporting that their sex life has improved. Jason Helfrich, co-founder and CEO of 100% Chiropractic, stated that the body can positively respond in many aspects when the unnecessary pressure on the nervous system is decreased or removed.
Every function of the body is controlled by the nervous system, however, when the spine is misaligned, known as a subluxation, the nerves traveling between the brain and the rest of the body, these can become blocked, compromising the body�s ability to function properly. A chiropractor�s goal is to remove these subluxations, since they can both cause pain and impede feeling. But treatment can help more than just improve symptoms of back pain. The lumbar region of the spine is where the nerves that extend into your reproductive regions are found. Correcting misalignments in the lower spine can improve nerve flow to your sexual organs, increasing things like blood flow to your clitoris or the penis.
�Correcting a spinal subluxation also allows the organs to send messages to the brain more easily. This means that not only do you become physically aroused faster, but your brain also registers that ready-for-action, heightened sense of pleasure more quickly, so you move past the mental obstacles that may be keeping you from orgasming�, quoted Helfrich.
Other Adjustments for an Improved Sex Life
Libido and fertility need a proper balance of estrogen, progesterone, and other hormones, many of which are released in the upper cervical and neck area of the body. If there are any misalignments or subluxations in the upper region of the spine, the nerve transmissions exiting the brain can be interrupted due to the compression or impingement of these tissues, which will ultimately have an effect all the way down to the reproductive organs, among others.
Including fertility is affected by the nerves and hormones coming out of the spine, as they control the reproductive cycle.
Beyond all of the physiological benefits of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, chiropractic treatment can also simply give the muscles more range of motion. This means you can try previously difficult positions under the sheets, enhancing an individual�s sex life further.
�We want to improve people�s health, and health is about living life as its intended. Having a great sex life is huge part of that�, Jason Helfrich concluded.
For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
By Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Low Back Pain After Auto Injury
After being involved in an automobile accident, the sheer force of the impact can cause damage or injury to the body, primarily to the structures surrounding the spine. An auto collision can ultimately affect the bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments and other tissues surrounding the spine, commonly the lumbar region of the spine, causing symptoms such as low back pain. Sciatica is a common set of symptoms after an automobile accident, which may require immediate medical attention to determine its source and follow through with treatment.
The Patriot Project is a grass roots movement to provide chiropractic care to all Active Military, their Families, Wounded Warriors & All Gold Star Dependents.
The Patriot Project was found by Dr. Tim Novelli, and this inspired organization started after one life changing weekend.
No one tells the story better than the man himself.
It�s a little known fact that chiropractic care is included in veteran�s health benefits, and it�s an underutilized option.�The Patriot Project aims to change this by making chiropractic care readily available to our service members.
With adequate funding, The Patriot Project plans to develop a USO-type chiropractic care tour, visiting military bases at home and around the world, including all active forward operating bases like those in Afghanistan and Iraq.
We are calling on all chiropractors to help by becoming a patriot. �Participating doctors will make time available to�treat at least one armed-service member a week at no�charge. He/she will also help us collect patient testimonials, which will be used to further our cause in Congress.
Mission Statement
-To provide chiropractic care to active military, their families, wounded warriors, and Gold Star Dependents.
-To make full chiropractic benefits in TRICARE care readily available for ALL active duty military, retirees and veterans.
-To have chiropractic physicians commissioned as officers in all armed services.
-To have chiropractic physicians embedded in all forward operating bases of combat.
-To have a Chiropractic Department in every VA hospital and clinic.
-To educate veterans with service related disabilities; they have chiropractic benefit coverage through the Veterans Administration.
Why is The Patriot Project so important?
Military Heroes & Chiropractic
In 2002, President George W. Bush signed Public Law 107-135, legislation that ensured that chiropractic would become a permanent benefit for recipients of veterans� health care services. As a result, chiropractic care was gradually added to more than 30 VA medical centers.
In the remaining 120 VA treatment facilities, however�including those in several major metropolitan areas, the chiropractic care benefit has remained virtually nonexistent.
All veterans with service related disabilities are supposed to have access to chiropractic care; if not at a hospital then in the civilian community. Chiropractic treatment is a standard VA benefit. No VA facility can state that they do not provide these essential health benefits.
Chiropractic physicians are considered specialists with the Veteran Administration and with the Department of Defense, which means the Veteran must request from their PCP an approval for them to receive chiropractic treatment.
Problem #1: Vets DO NOT KNOW they have chiropractic benefits.
Problem #2: There is no listing of chiropractic benefit within the VA HealthCare Benefit section within their website except under ancillary services.
Problem #3: Vets DO NOT KNOW the benefit they can obtain from chiropractic treatment which includes acupuncture.
Problem #4: Vets DO NOT KNOW they can appeal their PCPs denial of their requests for chiropractic treatment.
Problem #5: Armed forces families do not have chiropractic benefits.
Problem #6: Veterans reliance upon medications results in a high probability of developing additional health problems and or even developing life threatening/ending situations.
Some veterans have found their local VA is reluctant to send them for fee-basis care outside the VA facility, and have required they jump through many hoops to get a referral for a Doctor of Chiropractic. This is against VA policy and does not go along with the VA�s own stated mission to be �veteran-centered.�
Many times the VA facility is trying to save money by denying fee-basis care delivered by doctors of chiropractic, even though they spend a great deal on numerous other treatments. VA facilities are unaware that chiropractic treatment can reduce their facilities cost.
Medical literature has revealed that when insurance company limit/reduce chiropractic treatment benefits, their total costs for healthcare, actually increased.
A patient receiving regular chiropractic care experiences reduced hospital admissions, surgeries, and pharmaceutical costs.
Studies indicate that greater chiropractic coverage, despite increased visits to a DC, results in significant net savings in both indirect and direct costs.
Chiropractic care could reduce Medicare costs�both payment for all services and average per claim payment.
Chiropractic patients typically pay less and are more satisfied with their treatment than MD patients.
Chiropractic care can be used to control health care costs.
Chiropractic patients reach maximum medical improvement sooner than when treated by a medical doctor.
Chiropractic treatment is not an add-on, it is a direct substitution for other treatment.
Conclusion:
Services delivered by doctors of chiropractic are part of the standard VA benefits and no VA facility can say �do not provide� these essential health benefits. Some veterans have found their local VA is reluctant to send them for fee-basis care outside the VA facility, and have required they jump through many hoops to get a referral for a Doctor of Chiropractic. This is against VA policy and does not go along with VA�s own stated mission to be �veteran-centered.�
The Patriot Project is determined to change this, with your help.
To learn more about how you can join and help the Patriot Project, click below
It�s a little known fact that chiropractic care is included in veteran�s health benefits, and it�s an underutilized option.�The Patriot Project aims to change this by making chiropractic care readily available to our service members.
Most people don�t go to a chiropractor for a better sex life, but that extra benefits is a pretty happy accident. �People come in with back pain, but after adjustments, they come back and tell me their sex life is so much better,� says Jason Helfrich, co-founder and CEO of 100% Chiropractic. �It�s no surprise to us�it�s amazing what the body will do when you take away the pressure on the nervous system.�
And what are those amazing feats, exactly?
Let�s start with what a chiropractor really does. Every function in your body is controlled from the nervous system, but when vertebra are off position�known as a subluxation�the nerves traveling between your brain and your muscles can become blocked, compromising your body�s ability to function as it needs to. Every chiropractor�s goal is to remove these subluxations, since they can both cause pain and impede feeling, Helfrich says.
But these fixes help more than just back pain. The lumbar region (your lower back) is a huge hub for the nerves that extend into your reproductive regions. Removing lumbar subluxations can improve nerve flow to your sexual organs, increasing things like blood flow to your clitoris or, for your husband, the penis.
The flow of nerve signals is a two-way street, though, meaning that adjustments also allow your organs to send messages to the brain more easily. This means that you not only do you become physically aroused faster, but your brain also registers that ready-for-action, heightened sense of pleasure more quickly, so you move past the mental obstacles that may be keeping you from orgasming, Helfrich explains.
The other key adjustment area for a better sex life?
Right below your brain stem, around the vertebrae known as C1 and C2. �Libido and fertility require a delicate balance of estrogen, progesterone, and other hormones, many of which are released in the upper cervical and neck area,� he explains. If there are any blockages right out of the brain, the impingement up there will have an effect all the way down.
Even your fertility is affected by the nerves and hormones coming out of the spine, as they control your reproductive cycle.
But beyond all of the physiological benefits of tweaking your spine to perfection, chiropractic adjustments can also simply give your muscles more range of motion. This means you can try previously impossible positions under the sheets.
�We want to improve people�s health, and health is about living life as its intended. Having a great sex life is huge part of that,� Helfrich adds. No arguments here!
Most people don�t go to a chiropractor for a better sex life, but the extra benefit is a pretty happy accident. �People come in with back pain, but after an adjustment, they come back and tell me their sex life is so much better.�
Walk into any gym or health club and you�ll find people exercising�their core. Coretraining has�taken the world by storm, and for good reason, as every DC knows. Strengthening the�core creates stability and better movement and helps prevent lower back pain. To help patients get the most from�their efforts, it�s important they understand what they�re doing. You can explain the difference between the local and global muscles, as I�ve outlined�below, and help your patients�perform core work safely and effectively.
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What Is the Core?
I like to tell patients that their core is a shorthand way of referring to all the muscles of their�lower back/pelvis/hip area. It�s where your center of gravity is located and where movement begins. A strong core stabilizes the spine and pelvis and supports you as you move. The core has 29 pairs of muscles that�fall into two categories:
��Local Muscles. Patients can think�of local muscles as the deeper muscles, the ones close to the�spine and responsible for stabilization.�They don�t have much ability to move the�joints. The local muscles are further broken down into primary and secondary categories. The primary local muscles are the transverse abdominus and multifidi (the two most critical muscles for providing stability). The secondary local muscles are the internal obliques, quadratus lumborum, diaphragm and pelvic floor muscles.
��Global Muscles.�The global muscles are the outermost layer of muscle�they�re the ones you can feel through your skin. They�re responsible for moving joints. The global muscles in the core are the rectus abdominus, external obliques, erector spinae, psoas major and iliocostalis.
The core should operate as an integrated functional unit, with the local and global muscles working together to allow easy, smooth, pain-free movement. When the muscles work together optimally, each component distributes, absorbs and transfers forces. The kinetic chain of motion functions efficiently when you do something dynamic, like exercise or run.
Core Injury
An injury to one of the core muscles usually means an episode of lower back pain for your patient. When that happens, the deep stabilizers change how they work as a way to compensate for the injury and protect the area. The stabilizers now have delayed action; they�re turned on only after you move, instead of as you move. Because now they�re not functioning as they should, the�brain recruits the�global muscles to compensate. That causes a core imbalance. The result: pain in the lower back, pelvis and glutes (the big muscles you sit on).
Exercises designed to help get patients� core muscles back in balance are the best way to prevent re-injury and avoid lower back pain. Traditional abdominal exercises are often recommended to strengthen the global muscles. These exercises can actually increase pressure on the lower spine. Similarly, traditional lower back hyperextension exercises meant to stretch out the lower spine also may actually increase pressure on it. A better approach to preventing lower back pain is restoring stability with the core exercises below.
Abdominal Brace
The abdominal brace activates all the contracting muscles in the abdominal wall, without involving the nearby obliques and rectus muscles. This exercise strengthens the connection between the global muscles and the deep local muscles. This helps restore the balance between them and improves spinal stiffness.
To get an idea of how the muscles in your core work, place your thumbs in the small of your back on either side of your spine. Next, do a hip hinge: bend forward from the hips about 15 degrees. You should feel the muscles in your lower back move as you bend and stand back up again.
To do the brace, stand upright and suck in your stomach, as if you were about to get punched. Hold hat for 10 seconds, then relax. Repeat 20 times; do three sets.
You�ll know you�re doing the brace correctly if you poke your extended fingertips right into your side below your ribs and then brace. You should feel the muscles move under your fingertips.
Curl-Ups
Curl-ups train the rectus abdominus, the long abdominal muscle that runs vertically from your breastbone all the way down on both sides of your bellybutton.
Start by lying on your back with your hands palm-up beneath your lower back. Bend one leg and put the foot flat on the floor; extend the other leg. Hold your head and neck stiffly locked onto your ribcage�imagine them as one unit. Lift your head and shoulders slightly off the floor by three or four inches and hold that position for 20 seconds. Your elbows should touch the floor while you do this. Relax and gently lie back again. Repeat 10 times. Switch legs and repeat 10 times gain. Do three sets.
Tip: If your patient has�neck discomfort doing this, have them push their�tongue against the roof of the�mouth�to help�stabilize the neck muscles.
Side Bridge
The side bridge, also called the side plank, trains the quadratus lumborum, lateral obliques, and transverse abdominus muscles, all local muscles that help stabilize the�spine.
Start by lying on your side. Place your top leg in front of your bottom leg (the heel of your top foot should touch the toe of the bottom foot). Raise your body using the down-side shoulder and elbow. Cap the opposite shoulder with your free hand. Hold for as long as you can, aiming for 30 seconds. Switch sides and repeat.
Bird Dog
This exercise is great for training the back extensors, including the longissimus, iliocostalis and multifidii.
Start on your hands and knees (quadruped position). Raise and extend the opposite arm and leg simultaneously, like a dog pointing to where the bird is. �Hold or eight seconds, then return to the quadruped position. Repeat eight times, then switch arms and legs and repeat for eight reps. Do three sets.
Conclusion
All the muscles of the�core must work together to produce efficient and effective movement. The core is the center of the�body�s motion�training it is a critical part of any exercise routine. Teaching your�patients proper technique for core training will result in�big benefits for them now and in the future.
Share this Core Strengthening guide with patients, courtesy of WebExercises
Walk into any gym or health club and you�ll find people exercising�their core. Core training has�taken the world by storm, and for good reason, as every DC knows. Strengthening the�core creates stability, better movement and helps prevent lower back pain.
Athletes who perform daily rigorous training and/or participate in regular competitions can often be at a higher risk of suffering an injury or developing an injury. Because most sports or physical activities require the repetitive and constant use of the lower extremities, experiencing a complication which affects the lower back, buttocks, thighs and even the feet of the athlete can ultimately alter their performance.
Medial tibial stress syndrome, commonly referred to as shin splints, is not considered to be a medically serious condition, however, it can challenge an athlete�s performance. Approximately 5 percent of all sports injuries are diagnosed as medial tibial stress syndrome, or MTSS for short.
Shin splints, or MTSS, occurs most frequently in specific groups of the athletic population, accounting for 13-20 percent of injuries in runners and up to 35 percent in military service members. Medial tibial stress syndrome is characterized as pain along the posterior-medial border of the lower half of the tibia, which is active during exercise and generally inactive during rest. Athletes describe feeling discomfort along the lower front half of the leg or shin. Palpation along the medial tibia can usually recreate the pain.
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Causes of Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome
There are two main speculated causes for medial tibial stress syndrome. The first is that contracting leg muscles place a repeated strain upon the medial portion of the tibia, producing inflammation of the periosteal outer layer of bone, commonly known as periostitis. While the pain of a shin splint is felt along the anterior leg, the muscles located around this region are the posterior calf muscles. The tibialis posterior, flexor digitorum longus, and the soleus all emerge from the posterior-medial section of the proximal half of the tibia. As a result, the traction force from these muscles on the tibia probably aren�t the cause of the pain generally experienced on the distal portion of the leg.
Another theory of this tension is that the deep crural fascia, or the DCF, the tough, connective tissue which surrounds the deep posterior muscles of the leg, may pull excessively on the tibia, causing trauma to the bone. Researchers at the University of Honolulu evaluated a single leg from 5 male and 11 female adult cadavers. Through the study, they confirmed that in these specimens, the muscles of the posterior section of muscles was introduced above the portion of the leg that is usually painful in medial tibial stress syndrome and the deep crural fascia did indeed attach on the entire length of the medial tibia.
Doctors at the Swedish Medical Centre in Seattle, Washington believed that, given the anatomy, the tension from the posterior calf muscles could produce a similar strain on the tibia at the insertion of the DCF, causing injury.
In a laboratory study conducted using three fresh cadaver specimens, researchers concluded that strain at the insertion site of the DCF along the medial tibia advanced linearly as tension increased in the posterior leg muscles. The study confirmed that an injury caused by tension at the medial tibia was possible. However, studies of bone periosteum on individuals with MTSS have yet to find inflammatory indicators to confirm the periostitis theory.
The second theory believed to cause medial tibial stress syndrome is that repetitive or excessive loading may cause a bone-stress reaction in the tibia. When the tibia is unable to properly bear the load being applied against it, it will bend during weight bearing. The overload results in micro damage within the bone, not just along the outer layer. If the repetitive loading exceeds the bone�s ability to repair, localized osteopenia can occur. Because of this, some researchers consider a tibial stress fracture to be the result of a continuum of bone stress reactions that include MTSS.
Utilizing magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, on the affected leg can often display bone marrow edema, periosteal lifting, and areas of increased bony resorption in athletes with medial tibial stress syndrome. This supports the bone-stress reaction theory. An MRI of an athlete with a diagnosis of MTSS can also help rule out other causes of lower leg pain, such as a tibial stress fracture, deep posterior compartment syndrome, and popliteal artery entrapment syndrome.
Risk factors for MTSS
While the cause, set of causes or manner of causation of MTSS is still only a hypothesis, the risk factors for athletes developing it are well-known. As determined by the navicular drop test, or NDT, a large navicular drop considerably corresponds with a diagnosis of medial tibial stress syndrome. The NDT measures the difference in height position of the navicular bone, from a neutral subtalar joint position in supported non-weight bearing, to full weight bearing. The NDT explains the degree of arch collapse during weight bearing. Results of more than 10 mm is considered excessive and can be a considerable risk factor for the development of MTSS.
Research studies have proposed that athletes with MTSS are most frequently female, have a higher BMI, less running experience, and a previous history of MTSS. Running kinematics for females can be different from that of males and has often been demonstrated to leave individuals vulnerable to suffer anterior cruciate ligament tears and patellofemoral pain syndrome. This same biomechanical pattern may also incline females to develop medial tibial stress syndrome. Hormonal considerations and low bone density are believed to be contributing factors, increasing the risk of MTSS in the female athlete as well.
A higher BMI in an athlete demonstrates that they have more muscle mass rather than being overweight. The end result, however, is the same in that the legs bear a considerably heavy load. It�s been hypothesized that in these cases, the bone growth accelerated by the tibial bowing may not advance quickly enough and injury to the bone may occur. Therefore, those with a higher BMI may need to continue their training programs gradually in order to allow the body to adapt accordingly.
Athletes with less running experience are more likely to make training errors, which may be a common cause for medial tibial stress syndrome. These include but are not limited to: increasing distance too quickly, changing terrain, overtraining, poor equipment or footwear, etc. Inexperience may also lead the athlete to return to activity before the recommended time, accounting for the higher prevalence of MTSS in those who had previously experienced MTSS. A complete recovery from MTSS can take from six months up to ten months, and if the original injury does not properly heal or the athlete returns to training too soon, chances are, their pain and symptoms may return promptly.
Biomechanical Analysis
The NDT is used as a measurable indication of foot pronation. Pronation is described as a tri-planar movement consisting of eversion at the hindfoot, abduction of the forefoot and dorsiflexion of the ankle. Pronation is a normal movement of the body and it is absolutely essential in walking and running. When the foot impacts the ground at the initial contact phase of running, the foot begins to pronate and the joints of the foot acquire a loose-packed position. This flexibility helps the foot absorb ground reaction forces.
During the loading response phase, the foot further pronates, reaching peak pronation by approximately 40 percent during stance phase. In mid stance, the foot moves out of pronation and back to a neutral position. During terminal stance, the foot supinates, moving the joints into a fastened position, creating a rigid lever arm from which to generate the forces for toe off.
Starting with the loading response phase and throughout the rest of the single leg stance phase of running, the hip is stabilized and supported as it is extended, abducted and externally rotated by the concentric contraction of the hip muscles of the stance leg, including the gluteals, piriformis, obturator internus, superior gemellus and inferior gemellus. Weakness or fatigue in any of these muscles can develop an internal rotation of the femur, adduction of the knee, internal rotation of the tibia, and over-pronation. Overpronation therefore, can be a result of muscle weakness or fatigue. If this is the case, the athlete may have a completely normal NDT and yet, when the hip muscles don�t function as needed, these can overpronate.
In a runner who has considerable overpronation, the foot may continue to pronate into mid stance, resulting in a delayed supination response, causing for there to be less power generation at toe off. The athlete can make the effort to apply two biomechanical fixes here that could contribute to the development of MTSS. First of all, the tibialis posterior will strain to prevent the overpronation. This can add tension to the DCF and strain the medial tibia. Second, the gastroc-soleus complex will contract more forcefully at toe off to improve the generation of power. However, it�s hypothesized that the increased force within these muscle groups can add further tension to the medial tibia through the DCF and possibly irritate the periosteum.
Evaluating Injury in Athletes
Once understood that overpronation is one of the leading risk factors for medial tibial stress syndrome, the athlete should begin their evaluation slowly and gradually progress through the procedure. Foremost, the NDT must be performed, making sure if the difference is more than 10mm. Then, it�s essential to analyze the athlete�s running gait on a treadmill, preferably when the muscles are fatigued, such as at the end of a training run. Even with a normal NDT, there may be evidence of overpronation in running.
Next, the athlete�s knee should be evaluated accordingly. The specialist performing the evaluation should note whether the knee is adducted, whether the hip is leveled or if either hip is more than 5 degrees from level. These can be clear indications that there is probably weakness at the hip. Traditional muscle testing may not reveal the weakness; therefore, functional muscle testing may be required.
Additionally, it should be observed whether the athlete can perform a one-legged squat with arms in and arms overhead. The specialist must also note if the hip drops, the knee adducts and the foot pronates. Furthermore, the strength of the hip abductors should be tested in side lying, with the hip in a neutral, extended, and flexed position, making sure the knee is straight. All three positions with the hip rotated in a neutral position and at end ranges of external and internal rotation should also be tested. Hip extensions in prone with the knee straight and bent, in all three positions of hip rotation: external, neutral and internal can also be analyzed and observed to determine the presence of medial tibial stress syndrome, or MTSS. The position where a healthcare professional finds weakness after the evaluation is where the athlete should begin strengthening activities.
Treating the Kinetic Chain
In the presence of hip weakness, the athlete should begin the strengthening process by performing isometric exercises in the position of weakness. For example, if there is weakness during hip abduction with extension, then the athlete should begin isolated isometrics in this position. Until the muscles consistently activate isometrically in this position for 3 to 5 sets of 10 to 20 seconds should the individual progress to adding movement. Once the athlete achieves this level, begin concentric contractions, in that same position, against gravity. Some instances are unilateral bridging and side lying abduction. Eccentric contractions should follow, and then sport specific drills.
In the case that other biomechanical compensations occur, these must also be addressed accordingly. If the tibialis posterior is also displaying weakness, the athlete should begin strengthening exercises in that area. If the calf muscles are tight, a stretching program must be initiated. Utilizing any modalities possible might be helpful towards the rehabilitation process. Last but not least, if the ligaments in the foot are over stretches, the athlete should consider stabilizing footwear. Using a supported shoe for a temporary period of time during rehabilitation can be helpful to notify the athlete to embrace new movement patterns.
MTSS and Sciatica
Medial tibial stress syndrome, otherwise known as shin splints, ultimately is a painful condition that can greatly restrict an athlete�s ability to walk or run. As mentioned above, several evaluations can be performed by a healthcare professional to determine the presence of MTSS in an athlete, however, other conditions aside from shin splints may be causing the individuals leg pain and hip weakness. That is why it�s important to also visit additional specialists to ensure the athlete has received the correct diagnosis for their injuries or conditions.
Sciatica is best referred to as a set of symptoms that originate from the lower back and is caused by an irritation of the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is the single, largest nerve in the human body, communicating with many different areas of the upper and lower leg. Because leg pain can occur without the presence of low back pain, an athlete�s medial tibial stress syndrome could really be sciatica originating from the back. Most commonly, MTSS can be characterized by pain that is generally worse when walking or running while sciatica is generally worse when sitting with an improper posture.
Regardless of the symptoms, it�s essential for an athlete to seek proper diagnosis to determine the cause of their pain and discomfort. Chiropractic care is a popular form of alternative treatment which focuses on musculoskeletal injuries and conditions as well as nervous system disorders. A chiropractor can help diagnose an athlete�s MTSS as well as overrule the presence of sciatica as a cause of the symptoms. In addition, chiropractic care can help restore and improve an athlete�s performance. By utilizing careful spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, a chiropractor can help strengthen the structures of the body and increase the individual�s mobility and flexibility. After suffering an injury, an athlete should receive the proper care and treatment they need and require to return to their specific sport activity as soon as possible.
Chiropractic and Athletic Performance
In conclusion, the best way to prevent pain from MTSS is to decrease the athlete�s risk factors. An athlete should have a basic running gait analysis and proper shoe fitting as well as include hip strengthening in functional positions as part of the strengthening program. Furthermore, one must ensure the athletes fully rehabilitate before returning to play because the chances of recurrence of medial tibial stress syndrome can be high.
Chiropractic care is an effective form of alternative treatment which is commonly preferred by many athletes as it can help with the recovery of an injury and/or condition without the need for medications or surgery. Most athletes are specially trained to prevent injuries, however, the constant and repetitive overworking of the structures of the body can gradually begin to degenerate, leading to issues like shin splints which may potentially manifest symptoms of sciatica if left untreated for an extended period of time.
For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .�
By Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Low Back Pain After Auto Injury
After being involved in an automobile accident, the sheer force of the impact can cause damage or injury to the body, primarily to the structures surrounding the spine. An auto collision can ultimately affect the bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments and other tissues surrounding the spine, commonly the lumbar region of the spine, causing symptoms such as low back pain. Sciatica is a common set of symptoms after an automobile accident, which may require immediate medical attention to determine its source and follow through with treatment.
Sometime after Kyle Gibson starts for the Twins in their home opener Monday afternoon, the durable young right-hander will connect with perhaps the most important member of his support team this year: his Chiropractor.
Gibson is still just 28, smack in the prime of his career, but there were times during the second half last season when his lower back started to bark at him. In early August in Toronto, for instance, he was shelled for eight earned runs in just 4 2/3 innings.
�I had a problem in Toronto,� Gibson said.
�There were a couple starts where I didn�t sit down in between innings,� Gibson said, �because if I sat down, my hips just got tight.�
Meanwhile, fellow Twins pitcher Trevor May, 26, was dealing with lower back issues of his own. In May�s case, the additional pounding of making multiple relief appearances without much recovery time had caused issues with the hip and lower-back area of his left (landing) leg, as well.
May�s physical woes left him unavailable for days at a time while the Twins chased their first postseason berth since 2010. Massage and electronic stimulation could only do so much to keep May on the mound.
A few sporadic sessions with a chiropractor didn�t provide immediate results, so May discontinued them.
Upon returning to Seattle this offseason, the yoga devotee decided to up the ante and visit a chiropractor weekly for hour-long sessions. This time, he began to see the benefits.
�A couple weeks before spring training, I felt it coming on a little bit again,� May said. �I was like, what is going on? I got it adjusted and my chiropractor said, �Man, you are way, way out of whack.� He explained to me where my pain was and why the hip was pressing against where it was and if we get that moved back, just lengthened out, it�s going to be really sore for a few weeks, but then it�s just going to go back to normal.�
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OVERCOMING FEARS
In 2014, his first full season in the majors, Gibson saw a chiropractor a few times at the recommendation of Twins closer Glen Perkins.
Gibson missed a start in late July after getting shelled at home for six earned runs against the Tampa Bay Rays.
�One of Perk�s guys came in and adjusted me,� recalled Gibson, who threw seven shutout innings at Kansas City his next time out.
That never led to a regular appointment, partly because of Gibson�s relative youth but also because of a long-held fear of what a chiropractor might do to a young athlete�s spine.
�My view of them was, �OK, I want you to lay on a table and I�m going to pop your back and you can come back in a week,� � Gibson said. �Once you start doing it, you�ve got to keep doing it the rest of your life. That was my view.�
A conversation with May early in spring training this year left him more open to chiropractic manipulation.
Hoping to build on the gains of a breakthrough 2015 but still bothered by soreness in his lower back, Gibson asked May for feedback on his chiropractor. May, who by then was going once at week to Darin Stokke at Lifestyles Chiropractic, had nothing but good things to say about the sessions.
Dr. Stokke
�We found that baseball players get skeletally out of line,� May said. �They do one motion one way much harder (than most people), and my hips were really, really out of line. Seeing a chiropractor consistently has helped me make sure I�m getting readjusted and staying in line as much as possible.�
While initially there was some concern that the bullpen simply did not agree with May�s back, his chiropractic sessions convinced him (and the Twins) that he could manage the additional workload with proper preparation.
What derailed him in September 2015, as it turns out, was a problem with the set joint, where the left hip and lower back meet.
�It was all muscular,� May said. �It was just because one hip was closer to the spine than the other side. The other side was normal. (The left side) was just pressing so much and you get so much inflammation. It was just a perfect storm. It was just a little extra torque being in the �pen. That�s why it was bothering me. Now I�m on top of it.�
As May explained it to Gibson, realignment of the spine would allow the overtaxed areas of a pitcher�s core to meet the challenge of persistent pounding.
�Letting those muscles unflare and then heal and rebuild them back to where they�re supposed to be, that�s what we�re doing,� May said.
After doing some �normal treatment stuff� as a warmup, Stokke would check May�s alignment much the way a tire installer might need to check an automobile before sending it back out into traffic.
�He checks where you legs are,� May said. �If he sees you�re out of line, he puts you back in line, and the next day I try to do some exercises and heavy strength stuff, just to build those muscles back up. I�m seeing soreness go and I feel more in line and healthier.�
BELIEF SYSTEM
Despite taking the loss in his season debut in Baltimore, Gibson reports much the same results from his twice-weekly chiropractic sessions this spring.
�Toward the beginning of spring training my back started getting sore again,� Gibson said. �Going twice a week helped get things moving in the right direction.�
Now that he feels his lower-back problems are under control, Gibson plans to scale back to a single visit per homestand. That way he won�t have to find somebody to visit on the road, while also limiting those realignment sessions to perhaps two per month.
�It has made a big difference in my hips and just everything,� said Gibson, who set career highs for starts (32) and innings (194 2/3) last season. �My skeletal system was basically allowing my muscular system to stay tight and not function properly. That caused some nerve irritation.�
While May features the classic �drop and drive� delivery, Gibson is from the �tall and fall� school that should, in theory, produce less strain on a pitcher�s hips and back. That didn�t prove to be the case over Gibson�s first few seasons in the majors, so he finally realized adjustments were needed.
�Some of my problem was just that I had some tight hips pulling my pelvis out of line and causing some irritation in the nerve,� Gibson said. �There were certain things I realized I could pitch through. You find ways to get around certain sorenesses and aches and pains.�
If the Twins can get 200 innings out of Gibson and 65 to 75 relief appearances out of May, they won�t just have a better chance to end a postseason drought that has reached five years and counting. They could have additional members of their pitching staff lining up for realignment sessions.
Kyle Gibson, last season his lower back started to bark at him. The durable young right-hander connected with the most important member of his support team, his Chiropractor. While Trevor May, was dealing with lower back issues of his own. In May�s case, the additional pounding of making multiple relief appearances without much recovery time had caused issues with his�hip and lower-back area of his left (landing) leg, as well.
Complications affecting the lumbar region of the spine can affect a wide amount of the population at least once throughout their lifetime. Low back pain is one of the most frequently reported symptoms, together with various other symptoms, causing pain and discomfort. Although low back pain can include several other symptoms, a collection of specific symptoms could signal the presence of another disorder: sciatica.
Affecting millions among the American population, sciatica can be characterized within a range of minor irritation to a severe, disabling complication. Despite how frequently its diagnosed and treated, there�s an assortment of information about the condition that many individuals do not yet understand and its often a topic of confusion among the general population.
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What is Sciatica?
First of all, sciatica can best be described as a group of symptoms from an injury or an underlying medical condition rather than a singular disorder. The term is used to specify symptoms of pain, tingling and numbness sensations, or weakness that often originates on the lower back and radiates through the sciatic nerve found in either leg.
Also, when it comes to sciatica, the common injuries or underlying conditions causing the symptoms differ greatly based on age. Adults under the age of 60 frequently develop sciatica as a result of a lower back, or lumbar, herniated disc, degenerative disc disease, and isthmic spondylolisthesis. Adults over the age of 60 frequently develop sciatica as a result of degenerative changes, such as lumbar spinal stenosis and degenerative spondylolisthesis. Occasionally, pregnancy, or injuries such as muscle strains and bone fractures, which may create scar tissue, can also begin to develop sciatica symptoms.
In addition, the initial location of the nerve compression can affect the overall symptoms of sciatica as well as create new ones. Five nerve roots found on the low back region connect to form the large sciatic nerve. Symptoms can generally be defined by which of these five nerve roots becomes compressed or irritated. For example, numbness on the feet is common when the nerve root near the L5 vertebra in the lumbar region is pinched. Then, it�s also possible to experience multiple symptoms. Various nerve roots can become compressed at the same time, causing a combination of symptoms, such as pain or a tingling sensation on the outside area of the foot while simultaneously causing stiffness on the leg.
Treatment for Sciatica
When seeking treatment, an individual�s source of their sciatica symptoms can help determine the appropriate care plan in order to relieve pain and discomfort. A chiropractor for example, will diagnose an individual for any injuries or underlying conditions that could be causing their sciatica symptoms as well as determine the location of the nerve impingement to recommend a proper set of stretches and exercises. The specific exercises can vary depending on the location of the nerve damage or injury. Certain symptoms of sciatica may require immediate medical attention. It is rare for sciatica symptoms to require immediate surgery but if an individual experiences worsening neurological symptoms that begin to affect both legs, if there is bladder or bowel incontinence, or if symptoms occur directly after trauma from an accident, its essential for the individual to seek immediate medical attention.
Chiropractic and Sciatica
Sciatica is also known as lumbar radiculopathy or may often be referred to as pinched or compressed nerve pain. Many individuals may find these terms confusing when they are used interchangeably but these refer to the same diagnosis. Furthermore, sciatica is a frequent term used to describe a variety of symptoms on the legs, however, leg pain may not always be due to sciatica. A piriformis muscle complication or a sacroiliac joint issue can also cause pain and discomfort that travels down the leg similar to sciatica.
A majority of individuals whom experience sciatica can achieve relief from their symptoms within 6 to 12 weeks without relying on surgery. In fact, studies have shown that the long-term results of surgery and non-surgical treatments are similar. Faster pain relief may occur through surgery but, after a year, both surgical and non-surgical approaches produce identical outcomes. Throughout an individual�s treatment for sciatica, the application of ice and/or heat therapy, gentle stretching, and low-impact exercises, such as walking, can help ease sciatic nerve pain during the process of rehabilitation.
The symptoms of sciatica can manifest due to a broad variety of factors, including trauma from an injury or an aggravated condition. It’s essential to be able to identify these signs in order to seek the proper care and treatment for the specific complication. Chiropractic care is a common form of treatment utilized to help reduce and improve the symptoms of sciatica.
For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
By Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Low Back Pain After Auto Injury
After being involved in an automobile accident, the sheer force of the impact can cause damage or injury to the body, primarily to the structures surrounding the spine. An auto collision can ultimately affect the bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments and other tissues surrounding the spine, commonly the lumbar region of the spine, causing symptoms such as low back pain. Sciatica is a common set of symptoms after an automobile accident, which may require immediate medical attention to determine its source and follow through with treatment.
The spine is a complex structure that consists of bone, muscle, tendons, ligaments, nerves and other tissues. Spine fitness is essential towards maintaining the body�s optimal performance as it functions to support an upright posture, provides flexibility to allow the body to bend and twist freely, and protect the spinal cord. While a healthy back can easily be taken for granted, a�back injury�or other type of complication may result in long-lasting consequences that could alter an individual�s aspect of daily life.
Unfortunately,�back injuries�are among the most common types of complications suffered after an automobile accident. Each day, thousands of individuals are involved in head-on, side-impact, and rear-end auto collisions, often leading to spinal injuries even during minor car crashes. Depending on the force of the impact, a single or multiple areas of the back may be affected. Automobile injuries can range from mild sprains and bruises to fractured vertebrae and spinal cord damage.
If you�ve had a car accident, it�s essential to take note of any symptoms of�back pain, as there are a variety of spine complications which could result after experiencing an auto collision.
Contents
Central Sensitization & Auto Injuries
Recovering From Auto Injuries
Disc Herniation
One type of spine injury among individuals who have suffered from an auto accident is a�herniated disc, or a slipped/ruptured disc. Discs are small, sponge-like structures found within the spinal column which function as cushions to separate and protect the vertebrae from the others while providing the spine with smooth flexibility. The force from an auto accident impact can damage a disc, causing it to break or deform, affecting its ability to cushion the bones of the spine.
Furthermore, a damaged disc can also place unnecessary pressure directly on the nerves surrounding it, leading to symptoms of pain, numbness and weakness on the region of the body where the affected nerve travels to.
Disc injuries to the�lower back�frequently lead to a group of symptoms commonly referred to as sciatica, which is characterized by radiating pain, numbness and tingling sensations in the leg and/or buttock on either side, or occasionally, in both sides, depending on the type of injury. The symptoms associated with sciatica can be impairing and may worsen over time if left untreated.
Auto Injury Back Pain
Spinal Cord Distress
Spinal cord injuries occur from the impact of an automobile accident. It sends a direct blow to the spine, that damages the delicate bundle of nerves within it. The spinal cord is the most important structure between the body and the brain. It is a vital link between the brain and the body, functioning to carry essential information back-and-forth from the brain to the central nervous system, facilitating motor control and sensory function. Spinal cord injuries impair the brain�s ability to communicate effectively with the rest of the body, resulting in paralysis and/or lack of sensation in all or part of the body. The more severe an injury to the spinal cord is, the more of the body will be affected.
Compression Fracture aka Bone Break
Car accidents can also cause compression fractures. Compression fractures or cracks in the bones of the spine may cause the vertebrae to collapse and deform. This can permanently alter the shape and structure of the spine.
Symptoms of a compression fracture include pain and postural changes as well as breathing difficulties. Due to the fact that compression fractures are common among older adults, many individuals mistake the symptoms for�signs of aging�or arthritis. An estimated two-thirds of compression fractures go undiagnosed.
While cars are built to withstand the great force of a collision, the human body is not. The complex structures of the body, especially the spine, are vulnerable even in low speed collisions, resulting in injuries or conditions more often than not. An individual who�s been injured in an accident should seek immediate medical attention in order to diagnose any possible injuries or conditions as early as possible to begin treatment.�Chiropractic care�can effectively treat a variety of spinal complications, including auto injuries. Through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, a chiropractor can gradually help restore the individual�s natural mobility and flexibility, as well as progressively strengthen the structures surrounding the spine to relieve the symptoms and restore the individual�s lifestyle.
After being involved in an automobile accident, injuries inflicted to the spine can be a common complication for many individuals. From herniated discs to compression fractions, the force of an auto collision can place great amounts of stress on the complex structures of the spine, often leading to damage, injuries and even aggravate an existing condition.
For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
The Clinic & Crossfit:
A Clients Story
Jacqulyn Quevas is up on her feet a lot as a hair stylist and she was�searching for�and overall become healthier and once she found Push-as-Rx ��, her amazing journey began. The motivation and enthusiasm of the trainers at Push as Rx has greatly influenced Jacqulyn.
The clinic and PUSH-as-Rx �� system is leading the field with laser focus supporting our youth sport programs.� The PUSH-as-Rx �� System is a sport specific athletic�program�of reactive agility, body mechanics and extreme motion dynamics. Through detailed and continued assessments of the athletes in motion and under stress loads offer a clear scientific picture of body dynamics. This system also has helped many athletes come back from injury faster, stronger, and ready to safely return to their sport without losing a beat after recovery. Results demonstrate clear improved agility, speed, decreased reaction time and advantageous postural-torque mechanics.� PUSH-as-Rx �� offers specialized extreme performance enhancements to our athletes no matter the age.
If you�ve had a car accident, it�s essential to take note of any symptoms of�back pain, as there are a variety of spine complications which could result after experiencing an auto collision.
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Most people don�t go to a 
Curl-ups train the rectus abdominus, the long abdominal muscle that runs vertically from your breastbone all the way down on both sides of your bellybutton.
The side bridge, also called the side plank, trains the quadratus lumborum, lateral obliques, and transverse abdominus muscles, all local muscles that help stabilize the�spine.
This exercise is great for training the back extensors, including the longissimus, iliocostalis and multifidii.
