by Dr Alex Jimenez DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP | Chiropractic, Integrative Functional Wellness, Integrative Medicine
Lt. Col. Scott Griffith, MD, and Army�s pain management consultant, quoted in a recent interview, �Chronic pain can be very challenging so we focus a lot on their functionality, being able to restore their function as well as bringing their pain down to the extent that we can. Even for people who cannot have their pain eliminated, many of them can have an improvement in the quality of their life.�
For military healthcare providers, managing acute and chronic pain has become a tremendous problem than ever before. In a June 2014 report in JAMA Internal Medicine, of 2,597 evaluated individuals, researchers found that 44 percent of troops experienced chronic pain symptoms after being deployed for combat while 15.1% of those individuals reported regularly using opioids. Furthermore, Veterans Affairs administrators gave a testimony before a Congress hearing that chronic pain was among the most common medical complication in veterans returning from the last decade of conflict. The frequent cause for chronic pain is due to musculoskeletal injury, which is usually unrelated to battlefield wounds. Causes for musculoskeletal injury include training and job performance with the use of increasingly heavy protective equipment as well as sports and recreation.
The challenge for federal medicine providers still lies on relieving chronic pain symptoms among active duty military members and veterans while also decreasing the chance of opioid addiction and abuse among individuals. In 2003, the Defense & Veterans Center for Integrative Pain Management (DVCIPM) was established to support and regulate pain research and education as well as improving pain management methods. Six years later, the Army surgeon general organized a pain task force membership that included representatives from military services, TRICARE and VHA, to give guidance and approval for a comprehensive pain management strategy. That same task force distributed a report in May 2010 recommending the military to use a holistic, multimodal and multidisciplinary approach to pain management, including complementary and alternative medicine.
Through the project, the VA will analyze the extent and cost-effectiveness of complementary and alternative medicine utilization among veterans being treated at the Veterans Affairs Medical Clinics for musculoskeletal disorder-related pain and other related conditions. On a wider spectrum, changes in drug development are giving clinicians other means to helping active-duty service members and veterans as well as others avoid opioid addiction.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C.,C.C.S.T’s insight:
Both acute and chronic pain relating to trauma from an injury, have constantly been a common complication among troops. Fortunately, in recent years, efforts by the United States Department of Defense and Veterans Affairs officials to solve the issue of pain among active duty service members and veterans have started offering a larger variety of non-drug alternative methods. 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
Fibromyalgia symptoms are presumed to occur subsequently from physical or emotional trauma where there�s been considerable psychological stress, after surgery, or as a result of an infection. In several cases, the symptoms can also progressively accumulate over time without a single event to trigger them. The widespread pain that most frequently accompanies fibromyalgia sufferers can be described as a continuous, dull ache which has lasted for a minimum of three months.
Other symptoms for fibromyalgia include fatigue, where the individual awakes feeling tired despite sleeping for long periods of time, restless leg syndrome or sleep apnea as a result of an interrupted sleep, cognitive difficulties, and other complications, such as depression, headaches and pain or cramping in the lower abdomen.
For years, traditional pain relievers such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and the opioids like Morphine, have been used as a form of treatment for fibromyalgia but due to the drug�s high probability of dependency as a source for pain and symptom relief, especially over long term use, opioids are not recommended by any current guidelines for the treatment of fibromyalgia symptoms. Fibromyalgia is not a fatal or terminal disease but its symptoms of chronic pain where the pain can recur throughout an individual�s lifetime can often be a common reason for drug abuse and addiction.�Despite the absence of recommendations and studies that prove the benefit of opioids in fibromyalgia, currently about 30% of Canadian and American patients with fibromyalgia report to using opioids for pain relief.�
Studies have shown that individuals who use and abuse opioids tend to have more severe pain, a more severe impairment in daily functioning as well as the presence of mood disorders compared to those who did not use opioids.�Several alternatives for treating the symptoms of fibromyalgia include physical therapy and chiropractic care to relieve chronic pain naturally.�
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C.,C.C.S.T’s insight:
Fibromyalgia is a well-known condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain that usually follows with fatigue as well as sleep, memory and mood complications. While there are currently no known causes and no known cures for the condition, many individuals who suffer from this painful disorder can often be misunderstood. Researchers believe that fibromyalgia heightens pain sensations by altering the way the brain processes pain signals. 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
The Foundation for Chiropractic Progress (F4CP) outlined the inclusion of chiropractic services by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) as a portion of the standard medical benefits package which has been provided to all eligible veterans for approximately 10 years. Researchers from the VA Connecticut Healthcare System published a study in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, conducted to demonstrate the substantial growth in the utilization of chiropractic services and the chiropractic workforce in the VA within a decade. According to the new study, the annual number of chiropractic visits increased by roughly 700 percent, indicating that more veterans have increased access to chiropractic care then ever before.
The lead author of the study, Anthony J. Lisi, CD, Director of the Veterans Affairs Chiropractic Program and Chiropractic Section Chief at the Veterans Affairs Connecticut Healthcare System, stated, �Our work shows that the VA has steadily and substantially increased its use of chiropractic services each year following their implementation in late 2004.� He added, �VA chiropractic care evidence-based, patient-centered treatment options that are in demand by veterans and referring providers. VA continues its efforts to ensure appropriate access to chiropractic care across the whole system, but as this study shows, the progress to date has been remarkable.�
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C.,C.C.S.T’s insight:
For about a decade now, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has included chiropractic services as a part of the standard medical benefits package for eligible veterans. Annually, there’s been a recorded increase in the number of chiropractic visits, suggesting the VA values chiropractic treatment as a portion of their treatment options available to many veterans and active duty military members alike. 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, Veterans
Many clinicians at the VA frequently argue whether chiropractic treatment methods, such as spinal adjustments and manual manipulations, are actually effective towards improving injuries and conditions causing chronic back pain. A new research was conducted to determine the effects chiropractic care had with chronic pain symptoms. While the study concluded that spinal adjustments and manual manipulations were similarly as effective as placebo for pain relief, the study did find that individuals demonstrated an increased improvement in disability at 12 weeks after receiving consistent chiropractic treatment, according to a report published in the journal, �Geriatric Orthopedic Surgery & Rehabilitation�.
With the contribution of Paul Dougherty, DC, a staff chiropractor at the Canandaigua VA Medical Center in upstate New York, the authors of the study described that the almost identical improvements between the individuals of the different study groups suggested the presence of a non-specific therapeutic effect from the treatments.
For the study, researchers classified 136 veterans, 65 years old or older, with lower back pain whom had never received chiropractic treatment. The individuals were then divided into two separate groups, with 69 of the veterans receiving spinal adjustments and manual manipulations.
Dougherty explained, �spinal manipulative therapy, or SMT, is where you take a joint to its end range. When you crack your knuckles and squeeze them together, you hear the pop. That pop is the joint changing pressure. SMT is basically doing that, taking a joint that isn�t moving enough and trying to maneuver it to where it moves normally again and changes pressure.�
The other 67 veterans participating in the study were enrolled in a procedure known as sham intervention, where a water-based ultrasound gel is spread across the lower back while the individuals lay face down, followed by the chiropractor rubbing a detuned ultrasound machine across the affected area for approximately 10 minutes. The ultrasound machine made noise but did not transmit any sound waves.
Additionally, the participating veterans from both groups were given an educational pamphlet from the Arthritis Foundation on different varieties of back pain and other symptoms.
After four weeks of twice-a-week treatment, the individuals were evaluated on the fifth week to rate their pain on a standardized scale. Both groups showed comparable pain improvement. Paul Dougherty explained that pain is perception-based, originating equally from the mind as it does from the body, but that disability is a better measure of effectiveness. Dougherty quoted, �Twice a week for four weeks, we met with these patients. We talked to them about their pain. They were touched in a caring and meaningful way. It comes down to this: If people believe they�re going to get better, it changes the way they thing about pain.�
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C.,C.C.S.T’s insight:
For many veterans, since the introduction of chiropractic care as a part of their Medical Benefits Package, their disabilities caused by injuries or conditions as a result of their military service have been effectively improved through the use of spinal adjustments and manual manipulations. In a recent study, chiropractic treatment demonstrated an improvement in veterans disabilities after consistent 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 | Auto Accident Injuries, Chronic Back Pain
Back Pain: The worst injuries are the invisible ones. Even a slower impact collision can result in serious whiplash that last for weeks, months, or years. Similarly, the most minor tweaks of the back can result in lasting pain for years. The accident does not need to be a traumatic rollover or a head-on collision; a severe back injury can result from a rear ender, of which there are 1.7 million rear end accidents each year, according to the Washington Post.
As we all know, back injuries can occur from an afternoon of chopping wood, a game of touch football, or simply by sitting at a desk for too long. It is no wonder, then, that incredibly severe injuries occur regularly for victims of auto accidents. Often, the back injury may be overlooked, as other, more pressing injuries require medical attention first, such as broken bones, lacerations, or a traumatic brain injury. What began as a stabbing, acute pain can transform into chronic, lasting pain even if the patient is treated right away.
This can result in a serious disability that hurts everything from home life to your work. If you have been injured in a car accident and have developed chronic or acute back pain, contact an experienced El Paso, TX.� car accident attorney at once for legal guidance.
Short-Term Acute Back Pain
Back pain that lasts less than three months or up to half a year can be described as acute back pain, according to Spine Health. It is directly caused by tissue damage (muscles or ligaments) and the symptoms include stabbing pain, aches, stiffness, decreased range of motion, and difficulty standing up as straight as you once did. The lower back is more susceptible to injury and acute pain than the upper back, and is the second most likely reason that Americans see their doctor. It is important to take care of acute back pain as soon as possible, because the longer it lasts, the more likely it will develop into chronic pain. Not only does long-lasting acute pain ruin a person�s mood and attitude towards their injury, it also increases the neurological pain signals even when the tissue damage is no longer present.
Long-Term Chronic Back Pain
The two types of chronic back are identifiable and non-identifiable pain sources. The first, identifiable, results from muscle, ligament, or spinal disc damage. A herniated disc, loss of disc fluid, or spinal stenosis all cause pain by putting extra pressure on the spinal cord. Spinal decompression surgery may offer relief for patients suffering from these types of spinal compression injuries. The second type of chronic back pain stems from no identifiable generator. This chronic �benign� back pain is caused by a neurological pain pathway that was created when the original injury occurred, and has lasted when the tissue or disc damage went away or was repaired. Now, the pain is the problem itself, not the injury, which can be incredibly frustrating for those seeking a cure. If your back has been injured in an auto crash, contact an El Paso, TX. car accident attorney today.
The post Chronic and Acute Back Pain From a Car Crash appeared first on Chester Law Group.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C.,C.C.S.T�s insight:
Back pain that lasts less than three months or up to half a year can be described as acute back pain, according to Spine Health. It is directly caused by tissue damage (muscles or ligaments) and the symptoms include stabbing pain, aches, stiffness, decreased range of motion, and difficulty standing up as straight as you once did. The lower back is more susceptible to injury and acute pain than the upper back, and is the second most likely reason that Americans see their doctor. It is important to take care of acute back pain as soon as possible, because the longer it lasts, the more likely it will develop into chronic pain.
If I can help do call 915-850-0900 Dr. Alex Jimenez Chiropractor El Paso, Tx
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by Dr Alex Jimenez DC, APRN, FNP-BC, CFMP, IFMCP | Chiropractic
Automobile accidents are one of the principal causes of spine complications and are responsible for more than 40 percent of spinal injuries every year, according to the Mayo Clinic. While the best possible precautions can be taken to avoid tissue damage or injury in the case of an auto collision, car accidents can be unpredictable and may not always be prevented, but knowing the right information can help an individual recognize a possible injury as well as be aware of the next steps to take for recovery.
�The spine is a complex structure consisting of bone, muscle, tendons, ligaments, blood vessels and nerves. Although its capable of supporting the whole weight of your body in order to promote a proper balance, the spine can also be considered to be a delicate structure. The spine is not built to withstand the impact of a car accident and unfortunately, neck and back injuries are common during car accidents. The force of the impact causes strain on the ligaments and muscles in the back, and the facet joints endure the majority of the brunt from the collision. This can lead to several injuries including, whiplash, disc herniation, compression fractures, and spondylolisthesis.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C.,C.C.S.T’s insight:
After being involved in an automobile accident, it can be difficult to determine the presence of neck or back pain as a simple muscle strain or a more serious injury. It�s important to seek immediate medical attention to properly diagnose any possible spinal damage. A doctor of chiropractic, or DC, can diagnose an individual for the underlying cause of pain and other symptoms as some symptoms may suggest that medical help is needed. 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, Veterans
Cheri Bustos, U.S. Representative, D-Moline, toured Healing Heroes in the Heartland, a nonprofit organization which implements alternative medical treatment and care to active duty military members and veterans.
�During the visit, Rep. Bustos joined several HHH volunteers and Ernest Ledtje, a veteran who was being treated by the organization at the time. Healing Heroes in the Heartland provides free chiropractic, acupuncture, reflexology, herbal medicine, nutritional supplements, massage therapy, life coaching and group and art therapy to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) through holistic care.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C.,C.C.S.T’s insight:
A majority of veterans and active duty military members experience a variety of musculoskeletal injuries or conditions as a result of their services. Similarly, many of these individuals are affected by emotional disorders, such as post-traumatic stress. Many are in great need of medical services but currently, a diverse amount of organizations and institutions located around the nation have started providing medical benefits for these valuable individuals. 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, Veterans
In 2002, President George Bush signed Public Law 107-135, which assures chiropractic treatment for all eligible Veterans Affairs patients. Although, many veterans are not aware this service is available to them, despite its inclusion in their Medical Benefits Package since 2004.
�Additionally, the VA is still seeking to make this service accessible to all veterans requiring care. According to the American Chiropractic Association, or ACA, only 48 of 152 Veterans Affairs Medical Centers currently offer chiropractic care for their patients.
Veterans in general have a higher chance of developing any of these conditions due to the strict nature of their military duties. The Seattle Times stated that merely walking and wearing heavy gear has caused many veterans a variety of musculoskeletal injuries. According to the article by Hal Bernton, �The number of soldiers medically retired from the Army with at least one musculoskeletal condition increased nearly 10-fold from 2003 to 2009.� These numbers were determined according to Army statistics.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C.,C.C.S.T’s insight:
Generally, active duty service members and veterans may be at a higher risk of developing musculoskeletal injuries or conditions as a result of the strict nature of their military duties. Even simply wearing heavy gear and walking can cause complications for these valuable individuals. Treating their injuries is important and according to a law signed in 2002, veterans may be eligible for free chiropractic care at participating medical clinics. 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 Canadian study found that a considerable percentage of individuals who�ve been injured in these types of car crashes may eventually develop a form of chronic pain.
�The research was conducted at the University of Alberta where 268 people who had suffered a grade 1 or 2 neck injury as a result of an automobile accident were evaluated. These were the least severe types of injuries as the scale also consists of grade 3 and 4. Each individual was examined at 3 months, 6 months, and at 1 year after the time of the accident. Additionally, the individuals were specifically asked the question, �Do you feel that you have recovered from your injuries?�
The end results of the study revealed that 3 months post-injury, about 38% of individuals reported pain and other symptoms. Then, 6 months post-injury results revealed that about 22% of individuals reported pain and other symptoms. Finally, the end results of the study revealed that 1 year post-injury, about 18% of individuals still reported pain and other symptoms. The results confirmed what previous research had found. A British research paper from 2009 described that as many as 5% of individuals may be permanently disabled from an auto collision and that a considerable amount of more than 5% of individuals may experience painful symptoms even 10 years or more after the initial injury.
If you�ve been involved in an automobile accident and experienced an injury that is causing you symptoms of pain and discomfort, it�s essential to seek immediate medical attention to diagnose a possible injury or aggravated condition after the collision.�Early treatment can be the key to preventing chronic symptoms from developing in the first place.�
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C.,C.C.S.T’s insight:
From being in a hurry, to being frustrated or distracted, automobile accidents can be unpredictable under circumstances of heavy traffic. Rear-end auto collisions are common in the suburbs and cities, causing injuries most frequently affecting the neck. Whiplash and other neck injuries resulting from auto accidents can develop into chronic pain if left untreated and it’s important to seek immediate medical attention post-injury. 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, Veterans
Healing Heroes of the Heartland held an open house at its offices at 2508 25th St., Rock Island, where many veterans and supporters assembled to discover more information about the non-profit organization. �The organization is devoted to contributing holistic services to heroes,� explained Angel Hong of Milan, doctor of chiropractic and holistic medical director. Holistic services are focused on treating an individual completely, both physically and emotionally.
�Although Healing Heroes in the Heartland inaugurated in 2013, utilizing holistic procedures to help individuals with anxiety, trauma, or pain is not a recent approach. �Three thousand years ago, people had depression,� Hong quoted.
�From individuals curious of the group�s services to supporters who�ve previously benefited from its services, more than 60 people attended the open house event, including soldiers who�ve been referred by doctors.
Dr. Alex Jimenez D.C.,C.C.S.T’s insight:
A holistic approach, or the treatment of an individual as a whole, including both mental and physical factors, has been used before to treat a variety of injuries or conditions but a current group, Healing Heroes of the Heartland, has currently organized to begin holistic treatment for active duty military members and veterans. The procedures have been greatly effective in helping many individuals. For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at (915) 850-0900.
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