by Dr Alex Jimenez DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP | Chiropractic
The feet are complex structures which function�to provide protection and support to the body in relation to the spine and head posture. The feet are essential towards balancing the body�s entire weight, allowing it to walk, run, stand, and, jump. Consequently, foot complications may cause severe issues throughout the spine, hips, knees, and ankles if left untreated.
Individuals who�ve suffered a prior injury or condition may often continue experiencing pain and other symptoms on the surrounding structures of the foot.�Bone fractures on the outside end of the ankle can occasionally occur but more often, the ligaments around the anterior and side of the ankle can tear and produce pain as well as visible swelling and bruising on the affected region. Generally, it can take 4-6 weeks to recover from a direct injury but, the ligaments can become full of scar tissue, which is non-elastic and stiff. This can increase the chance of damage or injury, often leading to further sprains. Repeated traumas can influence the mobility of the ankle and cause complications on the joint and other structures, such as the knee and spine.
Chiropractic care can be effective for treating injuries or conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and ankle sprains, among others. Foot health is essential towards establishing the body�s proper support and balance, together with a proper spinal posture. In the presence of foot complications, chiropractic treatment can be used to achieve long lasting health.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C.,C.C.S.T’s insight:
In the presence of foot complications resulting in pain and other symptoms, an individual�s gait, or manner of walking, can become altered, placing considerable stress and pressure on the spine, pelvis, hips, and knees. The body has the ability to compensate with posture modifications but this can often lead to limited mobility and further complications in other structures. For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at (915) 850-0900.
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by Dr Alex Jimenez DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP | Chiropractic
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain in many individuals. �Although most commonly diagnosed in runners, individuals who are overweight, women who are pregnant, and those who wear shoes with inadequate support, are at an increased risk of developing plantar fasciitis. The condition is characterized by a sharp pain that generally occurs during the first steps an individual takes first thing in the morning. After the foot warms up, the pain of the condition may decrease, but it may return after extended periods of time standing or after getting up from a seated position.
�The pain and symptoms associated with plantar fasciitis can develop gradually, most frequently affecting a single foot although it can occur in both feet simultaneously.
Plantar fasciitis can be caused by a variety of reasons but certain factors can increase the risk of developing the condition.�Overuse with age frequently irritates the plantar fascia, resulting in the well-known symptoms of heel pain and discomfort. Plantar fasciitis is most common in individuals between the ages of 40 and 60.�Because women who are pregnant can often experience plantar fascia complications due to their added weight, plantar fasciitis is statistically more likely to occur in women than men. Also, certain types of exercise or physical activities which place an increased amount of stress on the heel and attached tissue, can greatly contribute to the early development of plantar fasciitis.�Additionally, being flat-footed, having a high arch, or even having an abnormal pattern of walking or running can negatively affect the weight distribution within the body while standing, adding stress on the plantar fascia.�Occupations that require longer periods of time walking or standing while on hard surfaces can also aggravate the plantar fascia and result in plantar fasciitis. And last but not least, improper footwear can commonly cause plantar fasciitis.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C.,C.C.S.T’s insight:
The plantar fascia is a broad cord of tissue which normally functions to support the arch of the foot. For many individuals, when an excess amount of tension begins to build up on the plantar fascia, small tears can begin to develop on the tissue. With constant stretching and tearing, the fascia can become irritated and inflamed, causing pain and discomfort on the affected foot, a condition best known as plantar fasciitis.�
For individuals with plantar fasciitis symptoms, conservative treatment such as chiropractic care, stretching, shoe inserts or orthotics, night splints, and taping, can offer positive effects towards treating the condition. Through the use of chiropractic adjustments, soft-tissue manipulation, and exercises, many individuals can experience relief of their plantar fasciitis symptoms with chiropractic treatment.�For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at (915) 850-0900.�
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by Dr Alex Jimenez DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP | Chiropractic
Research has discovered that individuals with whiplash-type injuries may share various characteristics of those with Achilles tendonosis, offering further insight into possible new treatment options for chronic whiplash symptoms. The study analyzed the tendons of individuals with whiplash-associated disorders and found signs of pathological neovascularization, or the development of blood vessels in abnormal tissues, comparable to what has been found in individuals with Achilles tendonosis.
The research conducted to examine the symptoms of chronic pain in the Achilles and patellar tendons demonstrated the presence of high blood flow in the more painful areas of the tendons. Additionally, later studies revealed that these particularly painful tendons showed the characteristic similarity of blood vessel growth in abnormal tissues. Through the study, researchers also determined that injections of anesthetics into these vessels could provide temporary symptom relief.
The researchers from Umea University in Sweden utilized the same imaging techniques used in the Achilles tendonosis studies to determine changes in the tendons of individuals who suffered from whiplash injuries during auto collisions. Individuals with whiplash showed more areas with high blood flow, and the blood flow was intensified at each examined region. Areas of high blood flow were evident where the tendons entered into the bone. In the study, women with whiplash were more likely to have more areas of high blood flow than men, evidence that may suggest why there�s higher rates of whiplash injuries in women.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C.,C.C.S.T’s insight:
After being involved in an automobile accident,�it�s important so seek immediate medical attention to help prevent the development of chronic whiplash symptoms tied to tendonosis and muscle damage or injury. Chiropractic care�can ultimately help heal the damaged and/or injured tendons, ligaments, muscles, and other structures of the neck or cervical spine after whiplash-associated disorders. For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at (915) 850-0900.
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by Dr Alex Jimenez DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP | Chiropractic
Sciatica is described as a group of symptoms most commonly characterized by a persistent pain along the sciatic nerve, which travels from the low back, down through the buttocks, and into the lower leg. The sciatic nerve is the longest and widest single nerve in the human body and its mainly in charge of controlling the muscles of the lower legs as well as providing sensation to the thighs, legs, and the base of the feet.
While the most common symptom of sciatica includes radiating pain along the length of the sciatic nerve, the symptoms of sciatica can vary according to the affected area of the nerve. For several individuals, the signs and symptoms include mild tingling and numbness sensations, a dull ache, a burning sensation typically on one side of the body, and a pins-and-needles sensation on the toes or foot.
Through chiropractic care, a chiropractor can provide non-invasive and drug-free treatment options for sciatica. The goal of chiropractic care is to restore the natural mobility of the spine as well as improving the normal function of the structures within the body while reducing pain and inflammation. Depending on the cause of sciatica, chiropractic treatment may use various treatment methods, including but not limited to spinal adjustments, ice/heat therapy, ultrasound, TENS or Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, and a series of rehabilitative stretches and exercises.
While efficient treatment options for sciatica exist, however, it�s possible to prevent sciatica from occurring in the first place by followed a few suggestions to protect your spine and promote spinal health. Consuming a healthy diet to maintain a proper weight, regular exercise, practicing a proper posture as well as avoiding prolonged inactivity or bed rest are all efficient ways to improve the well-being of your spine and help prevent symptoms of sciatica.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C.,C.C.S.T’s insight:
Sciatica is commonly experienced by many as a frequent cause of low back and leg pain. The symptoms of sciatica generally occur in individuals between the ages of 30 and 50 years of age, most often developing as a result of a natural wear and tear, degeneration on the structures of the lower spine. Infrequently, sciatica can occur as a result of direct trauma from an injury that causes compression on the sciatic nerve. For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at (915) 850-0900.�
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by Dr Alex Jimenez DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP | Chiropractic
If you�re a person with a sedentary lifestyle, exercising more will bring many benefits for improving your health. Engaging in physical activity helps burn calories, preventing excess weight gain and supports weight loss. Exercise also stimulates several chemical reactions in the brain that can boost your mood as well as relieve stress, making you feel happier and more relaxed.
Following a balanced nutrition is also a great way to improve your health. Adding more quality food into your diet, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as reducing the amount of processed foods you consume will benefit your overall wellness. A proper diet together with an exercise routine can help maintain a healthy weight. Eating vitamin and mineral rich foods while avoiding fats, sugars, and salts can help avoid heart disease and hypertension from developing.
Hydration, along with a good diet and physical activity, is also very important for your health. Drinking the appropriate amount of water necessary for each individual has many benefits on the body. Most importantly, the body requires water for the majority of its functions and without proper hydration, the body may not function to its fullest capacity.
And last but not least, make sure you�re getting good quality rest. Sleeping should be a top priority when it comes to achieving your optimal health, fitness, and wellness goals as it has many benefits for the body. Getting proper rest improves your mood and can also assist in weight loss.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C.,C.C.S.T’s insight:
In order to live to our fullest capabilities, its important to follow a healthier lifestyle although achieving this can often be difficult for many individuals whom don�t know the proper ways to maintain optimal health, fitness, and wellness.�With a couple of lifestyle modifications, you can enhance your life to maintain your health and make the best of your well-being. For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at (915) 850-0900.�
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by Dr Alex Jimenez DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP | Chiropractic
A study published in the journal BMC Public Health found that only 44% of individuals suffering from whiplash had returned to work after two years as compared to 57% of individuals with other musculoskeletal injuries.
Approximately 19-60% of individuals with whiplash-associated disorders still experience symptoms six months after the injury, and up to half of that percentage will fail to return to work within a year due to their symptoms. Researchers from Denmark conducted a study to determine whether the high rates of continuous and consistent symptoms actually affected the return-to-work rates of individuals with whiplash type injuries.�By the end of the study, 56% of individuals with whiplash injuries were still on sick leave after two years.�The results for this study proved to be much higher compared to the results found in earlier studies. For example, a study conducted in 2001 demonstrated that only 12% of individuals with whiplash-associated disorders hadn�t returned to their normal activities or they had resumed back only to modified job functions a year after their initial injuries.�
Regardless, both research studies showed that for individuals with chronic symptoms of whiplash, the chance of long-term work disability was greater.�Active rehabilitation, such as chiropractic treatment, physical therapy, and exercise can promote an individual�s recovery as well as ensure they can return quickly to their regular lifestyles and work responsibilities.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C.,C.C.S.T’s insight:
For individuals who�ve been injured during an automobile accident, recovering from their injuries quickly and returning to their regular lifestyles is a top priority but, unfortunately for some people, that may not always be the case. Studies suggest that individuals diagnosed with whiplash-associated disorders may have slower return-to-work rates than people who�ve experienced other musculoskeletal injuries. For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at (915) 850-0900.�
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by Dr Alex Jimenez DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP | Chiropractic
Back pain is among the most common physical complication affecting a majority of educators.�Whether you�re a preschool teacher or a college professor, injuries or conditions that affect your natural well-being can be prevented or reduced, principally by improving posture and then following through with a variety of health tips to avoid and improve further complications.
Teachers frequently stand for an extended period of time for lectures which can place an additional amount of pressure on the lower back, pelvis, and thighs, often leading to the development of an incorrect posture. Also, prolonged standing on hard surfaces can cause sore feet, swollen legs, and aggravate back pain.�Furthermore, sitting down for long periods of time, stooping over children at their desks, and even carrying small children, heavy objects, or paperwork, could cause damage or injury to the muscles and tissues surrounding the spine.�Stress�can be a huge factor towards a teacher developing mental and physical complications and symptoms, including back pain.�Increased levels of stress in teachers can prevent them from getting a good night�s rest, resulting in insomnia that can eventually lead to fatigue due to lack of sleep, triggering physical complications.�
Chiropractic treatment can be utilized by teachers to both treat and prevent spinal complications as well as help decrease levels of stress. Chiropractic care is not frequently used to directly treat stress but a careful realignment of the spine can provide relief and relaxation from many complications and symptoms that can help reduce stress. A chiropractor will also determine the source of the back pain and follow up with a specialized treatment plan to gradually restore an individual�s health. Chiropractic treatment can include spinal adjustments, manual manipulation, and several stretches and exercises to speed up the healing process and promote wellness.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C.,C.C.S.T’s insight:
The future of many students largely depends on teachers and educators to guide them through their many lessons and teachings. They are given the opportunity to create a tremendous impact on the lives of their students, however, teachers often face many mental and physical challenges through the process, which may frequently lead to stress, headaches, and insomnia, as well as injury, pains and aches. For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at (915) 850-0900.
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by Dr Alex Jimenez DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP | Chiropractic
Chiropractic care is not commonly utilized as a treatment option for stress but, many individuals who receive chiropractic treatment can often feel relief from stress due to a variety of reasons. Stress not only affects the human mind but the physical body as well. When a person has been under a lot of stress, the nervous system can become irritated and directly affect the muscular system, causing a build up of tension and tightness.
We are constantly being exposed to environmental stressors. Other stressors can derive within our own body and mind.�Although some levels of stress are normal and necessary in order for individuals to function efficiently and effectively under certain pressure, elevated and constant amounts of stress can be debilitating.�Using simple techniques to both recognize and regulate stress as well as developing healthy eating habits and exercise routines can tremendously help maintain healthy levels of stress in your life.�Through chiropractic care, a chiropractor can identify areas of the spine that lack proper functioning and locate any irritated nerves. Using spinal adjustments and manual manipulation, the original mobility of the spine can be corrected to remove the pressure on the nerves. When the additional tension being placed on the spine is reduced, many individuals feel great relief and relaxation.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C.,C.C.S.T�s insight:
Chiropractic focuses on naturally treating the spine to allow the body to heal itself from within. Individuals with high�levels of stress can consider chiropractic care to find relief for their symptoms. A chiropractor can work individually with a person to diagnose any spinal complications and determine an appropriate treatment procedure, including a series of exercises as well as nutritional recommendations, relaxation techniques, and massage. For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at (915) 850-0900.
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by Dr Alex Jimenez DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP | Chiropractic
Piriformis Syndrome is a painful condition that occurs when the piriformis muscle is tight and intrudes upon the sciatic nerve in the buttocks.
Piriformis Syndrome is a painful condition that occurs when the small muscle located deep within the buttocks, known as the piriformis muscle, becomes tight and intrudes upon the sciatic nerve in the buttocks. Causing pain and tenderness and sometimes numbness in the buttocks, piriformis syndrome pain may also radiate down the sufferer�s leg, and in some cases, even into the calf. The piriformis muscle performs the essential function of rotating the leg outwards.
Unfortunately, once an individual has suffered from piriformis syndrome, the condition can recur periodically, usually brought on by too much exercise or sitting for a long time without stretching.
Whatever the initial cause, piriformis syndrome treatment options are vital in relieving the painful symptoms and healing the condition.
Hands on therapy, used with other types of treatment or on their own, these types of therapies are popular because of their effectiveness, as well as the fact they are drug-free ways to gain relief from the pain. Massage is a commonly used therapy for piriformis syndrome, as it helps increase blood flow to the area. The physical therapist�can manipulate the area to relieve the tightness of the muscle.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C.,C.C.S.T�s insight:
Chiropractic care targets injuries and conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system. Piriformis syndrome causes pain and discomfort on the piriformis muscle, a small muscle located in in the buttocks. Through chiropractic care, a chiropractor can gradually relieve the symptoms of the condition and progressively restore an individual�s regular function. For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at (915) 850-0900.
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by Dr Alex Jimenez DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP | Chiropractic
For individuals who�ve been involved in an automobile accident, the symptoms of neck and back pain resulting from an injury can be disabling. The greatest issue with neck and back pain caused during an auto collision involves the continuous cycle of the body when it reacts to injury. Due to the traumatic nature of the accident, the damage or injury to the spine most often causes a chemical response to trigger, leading to symptoms of pain, inflammation, and swelling, well-known signs that unfortunately don�t resolve quickly.
Many chiropractors commonly diagnose and treat neck and back complications affecting individuals after being involved in an auto accident. After suffering an injury, it�s important to seek immediate medical attention to begin treatment for your injuries. When the body experiences trauma from an injury, its normal for the body to produce inflammatory chemicals that cause the region surrounding the tissue damage to become inflamed and swollen but if the individual doesn�t receive medical treatment, the chemical process will continue, causing worse symptoms to develop.
In addition to chiropractic care, applying ice therapy to the area of the injury and staying active can help improve the symptoms of the injury.�Using ice can help temporarily reduce the inflammation on the muscle tissues and it also offers relief from the pain. Walking, for example, is a simple physical activity that can help stimulate the body to produce natural pain killers as well as help maintain the body�s flexibility.
A chiropractor can easily diagnose the source of your neck and back pain to decide which spinal adjustments, exercises, and stretches will be the best option for your type of injury and level of symptoms in order to speed up the healing process and promote the best recovery.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C.,C.C.S.T’s insight:
Automobile injuries can cause neck and back complications as well as various symptoms that can alter an individuals regular lifestyle. After experiencing an injury, the body reacts with pain and inflammation but, early chiropractic treatment can help avoid the body’s chemical response and offer relief from the injury and its associated symptoms. For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at (915) 850-0900.
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