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Functional Wellness and Healing from Autoimmune Conditions

Functional Wellness and Healing from Autoimmune Conditions

by | Chiropractic, Chronic Pain, Functional Medicine, Health, Holistic Medicine, Treatments, Viscerosomatic Reflex, Wellness

Learn about the role of functional wellness in addressing autoimmune conditions and supporting overall health.

Understanding Autoimmune Conditions: How Functional Wellness Can Transform Your Health

Treating Back Pain with a Rheumatologist: What You Need to Know

Treating Back Pain with a Rheumatologist: What You Need to Know

by | Arthropathies, Chiropractic Examination, Severe Back Pain

Back pain is one of the most common reasons for seeking health care. Individuals dealing with back pain but don’t know the cause may have some inflammatory joint disease or autoimmune condition. Can seeing a rheumatologist help?

Treating Back Pain with a Rheumatologist: What You Need to Know

Rheumatologist

Depending on what’s causing the back pain, individuals may need to see their primary doctor for a referral. Individuals are recommended to see a rheumatologist if they have back pain that doesn’t come from an injury that doesn’t go away after a few weeks, pain that comes back after treatment, or symptoms that suggest a rheumatic condition. Rheumatologists treat severe or persistent back pain and are experts in autoimmune diseases, including lupus, Sjogren’s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, axial spondylitis, Psoriatic arthritis, and other forms of inflammatory or autoimmune arthritis.

What Do They Do?

A rheumatologist is an internist or pediatrician who has completed special training in treating conditions that are:

  • Inflammatory
  • Autoimmune
  • Related to painful joint disease

The doctors diagnose, treat, and manage these conditions long-term. Depending on diagnosis and care needs, they may also lead or be part of a team that includes other healthcare providers.

Symptoms

When muscles ache, pain presents, or joints hurt, and especially if there are signs of inflammation that don’t go away, seeing a healthcare provider is recommended. Symptoms of inflammation include:

  • Redness
  • Swelling
  • Pain
  • Stiffness
  • Loss of joint function

Usually, to see a rheumatologist, individuals need a referral from their primary care provider and may be referred when:

  • There is no evidence of a back injury.
  • At-home therapies like heat application, prescription medications, or physical therapy are unsuccessful.
  • There is uncertainty about what’s causing the back pain, but I suspect it’s rheumatological.
  • Blood tests for inflammatory markers or certain antibodies yield abnormal results.
  • There is a diagnosis of a rheumatic condition and recommend a specialist to manage it.
  • There is a family history of a rheumatic or autoimmune condition that may cause back pain.
  • There is a chronic pain condition that later develops back pain (Hospital for Special Surgery, 2023)

Individuals may also be referred to a rheumatologist if their back pain is accompanied by:

Some types of arthritis can cause permanent, progressive joint damage.

Conditions

Conditions that can affect the spine and cause back pain and are treated by a rheumatologist include: (Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2024)

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)

  • This often starts in smaller joints of the hands and feet and later moves to the neck and/or back.
  • It can also affect different body organs and have systemic symptoms.

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS)

  • Primarily a disease of the spine, it may also impact the shoulders, hips, knees, and ankles.
  • Systemic symptoms, including fever and fatigue, can manifest.

Axial Spondylitis

  • This primarily affects the spine, chest, and pelvis.
  • It may also cause problems with the connective tissue, eyes, bowel, and skin.

Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)

  • Pain in the lower back is common, especially in severe cases.
  • It can affect other joints and cause psoriasis.

Reactive Arthritis

  • This is a reaction to infection.
  • It is more common in the limbs, hands, and feet joints but can involve the spine.

Enteropathic Arthritis

  • This mainly affects the spine but can include other joints.
  • It is associated with inflammatory bowel disease.

Autoimmune diseases that don’t specifically target the spine but can also cause back pain include:

  • Lupus
  • Sjögren’s syndrome
  • Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

Finding a Doctor

Individuals may be fine with their primary healthcare provider’s choice regarding which rheumatologist to see. However, they may want to research other options to ensure the right rheumatologist is chosen. Things to look at include:

  • Search online medical directories.
  • Visit the websites of the doctors being considered to learn more about their training, approach, and specialties.
  • Check online reviews.
  • Check on health insurance coverage.
  • Ask members of the healthcare team, friends, and family for recommendations.
  • Contact rheumatologists’ offices to see if they are accepting new patients.
  • Once decided, pass along the information to the primary care doctor so they can make the referral.

Preparing For The Initial Visit

Before seeing a new rheumatologist, take a few minutes to prepare so you can make the most of the appointment. Individuals will want to have:

  • A list of back-related symptoms, including frequency and severity.
  • A list of what makes symptoms better or worse.
  • A copy of recent test results and records from other doctors.
  • Individuals can ask their provider/s to send their medical information to the rheumatologist’s office in advance.
  • A list of treatments that have been tried and how well they worked.
  • A list of all medications, over-the-counter and prescription, supplements, and herbal products taken.
  • A list of medication allergies.
  • Complete medical history and family history of potentially related diseases.
  • A list of any questions regarding conditions, treatment, etc.
  • If possible, fill out any paperwork for the new office beforehand to save time on the appointment day.

Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic

Talking with a healthcare provider is important. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to develop personalized treatment programs. Using an integrated approach to treating injuries and chronic pain syndromes to improve flexibility, mobility, and agility and help individuals return to normal activities. If other treatments are needed, Dr. Jimenez has teamed up with top surgeons, clinical specialists, medical researchers, and rehabilitation providers.

Quick Patient Initiation Process

References

Hospital for Special Surgery. (2023). What Is a Rheumatologist and What Conditions Do They Treat? https://www.hss.edu/conditions_what-is-a-rheumatologist.asp#when

Yale University School of Medicine. Dee, J. E. (2021). 5 reasons why a patient should see a rheumatologist. https://medicine.yale.edu/news-article/5-reasons-to-see-a-rheumatologist/

National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. (2023). Autoimmune diseases. Retrieved from https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/autoimmune-diseases

Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2024). Spinal arthritis (arthritis in the back or neck). https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/spinal-arthritis

Cold Fingers Causes: El Paso Back Clinic

Cold Fingers Causes: El Paso Back Clinic

by | Injury Care, Nerve Injury

In cold weather, it’s normal to experience cold hands and fingers. But if there is a coldness in only one finger while the rest of the hand is normal, changes to skin color, numbness, tingling, or pain symptoms could be a sign of poor circulation or an underlying medical condition. Cold fingers could indicate various problems, including overuse injuries, vitamin deficiencies, Raynaud’s syndrome, hypothyroidism, anemia, arterial disease, or an autoimmune condition. Chiropractic care and massage therapy can increase circulation, release compressed nerves, relax the muscles, and restore mobility and function.

Cold Fingers Causes: EP's Chiropractic Functional Clinic

Cold Fingers

Blood circulates throughout, nourishing and maintaining body warmth. When compression, obstructions, or narrowing paths inhibit blood flow, the body cannot achieve proper circulation. Unhealthy circulation can cause several symptoms, including:

  • Pins and needles sensations along the shoulder, arm, hand, and fingers.
  • Weakened arm and hand muscles.
  • Numbness.
  • Cold finger/s.
  • Muscles aches, soreness, and tightness.
  • Swelling.
  • Pale or bluish skin color.

Overuse Injury

Repeating one movement or motion constantly over time can lead to overuse syndrome/repetitive motion disorder in the hands and arms. Certain jobs and activities can cause overuse syndrome, including:

  • Cashiers.
  • Food service work.
  • Graphic sign work.
  • Computer work.
  • Sewing work.
  • Landscaping.

All of these jobs and activities can put a lot of repeated stress on the hands and arms.

Vitamin B-12 Deficiency

Vitamin B-12 is required for proper red blood cell formation and neurological function. It is found in many foods, including eggs, fish, meat, poultry, and dairy products. A vitamin B-12 deficiency can cause neurological symptoms like numbness, tingling, and coldness in the hands and feet. Other symptoms include:

  • Anemia
  • Fatigue
  • Weakness
  • Difficulty maintaining balance
  • Depression
  • Soreness of the mouth

A doctor requires a blood sample to test for the deficiency. A common treatment is a high dose of an oral supplement or injections for individuals that have difficulties absorbing B-12 through the digestive tract.

Raynaud’s Syndrome

Raynaud’s syndrome is a condition that causes some areas of the body, usually the fingers, to feel cold and numb when exposed to cold temperatures or high-stress levels. This happens because the small arteries that supply blood to the skin are experiencing spasms. During an episode, the arteries narrow, which prevents blood from circulating correctly. The fingers can change color, going from white to blue to red. When the flare-up ends, and the blood flow returns to normal, there may be tingling, throbbing, or swelling. The condition isn’t usually debilitating, and treatment options often include medications that expand the blood vessels to improve circulation. These include calcium channel blockers, alpha-blockers, and vasodilators.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is when the thyroid doesn’t produce enough hormones. Hypothyroidism comes on gradually and rarely generates symptoms in the early stages. Hypothyroidism doesn’t cause cold fingers but increases the body’s sensitivity to cold. Other symptoms include:

  • Fatigue
  • Muscle weakness, tenderness, and achiness.
  • Joint swelling, stiffness, and pain.
  • Puffiness.
  • Dry skin.
  • Hoarseness.
  • Weight gain.
  • High or elevated cholesterol levels.
  • Thinning hair and hair loss.
  • Depression.

Over time, the condition can cause complications such as obesity, joint pain, heart disease, and infertility. A doctor can detect hypothyroidism with a simple blood test. Treatment involves taking a daily dose of synthetic thyroid hormone.

Anemia

Anemia is when the blood has a lower-than-normal amount of red blood cells. It also occurs when the red blood cells lack a crucial iron-rich protein called hemoglobin. Hemoglobin assists red blood cells in delivering oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. A low supply of hemoglobin to carry oxygen to the hands can result in cold fingers. There may also be fatigue and weakness. Iron deficiency is what typically causes most cases. A doctor may suggest nutritional adjustments if blood work indicates low iron levels. An iron-rich nutritional plan and taking iron supplements can help relieve symptoms.

Arterial Diseases

Diseases that affect the arteries can reduce blood flow to the hands, causing cold fingers. This can be from plaque buildup or inflammation in the blood vessels. Any blockage in the blood vessels can prevent blood from circulating normally. Another arterial problem is primary pulmonary hypertension, which affects the lungs’ arteries and can lead to Raynaud’s syndrome.

Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic adjustments can remove misalignments, restore proper nerve communication, increase blood flow, and correct an overactive sympathetic nervous system. Massaging the shoulders, arms, and hands relaxes the nerves, and muscles, breaks up compressed tissues, and increase blood flow. The circulation of lymphatic fluid around the body is also promoted, which carries toxins away from the muscles and tissues. To improve circulation, the following may be utilized:

  • Deep tissue pressure is effective at relieving congestion and tension.
  • Percussive massage to break up scar tissue.
  • Non-surgical Decompression to stretch the spine and body out.
  • Lymphatic drainage is designed to improve the circulation of the fluid.
  • Reflexology

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

References

Bilić, R et al. “Sindromi prenaprezanja u saci, podlaktici i laktu” [Overuse injury syndromes of the hand, forearm and elbow]. Arhiv za higijenu rada i toksikologiju vol. 52,4 (2001): 403-14.

Ernst, E. “Manual therapies for pain control: chiropractic and massage.” The Clinical journal of pain vol. 20,1 (2004): 8-12. doi:10.1097/00002508-200401000-00003

InformedHealth.org [Internet]. Cologne, Germany: Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG); 2006-. How does the blood circulatory system work? 2010 Mar 12 [Updated 2019 Jan 31]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279250/

Pal, B et al. “Raynaud’s phenomenon in idiopathic carpal tunnel syndrome.” Scandinavian journal of rheumatology vol. 25,3 (1996): 143-5. doi:10.3109/03009749609080004

Waller, D G, and J R Dathan. “Raynaud’s syndrome and carpal tunnel syndrome.” Postgraduate medical journal vol. 61,712 (1985): 161-2. doi:10.1136/pgmj.61.712.161

Dr. Alex Jimenez Presents: Therapeutic Uses Of Anti-Inflammatory Botanicals

Dr. Alex Jimenez Presents: Therapeutic Uses Of Anti-Inflammatory Botanicals

by | Chiropractic, Conditions Treated, Health, Holistic Medicine, Treatments, Viscerosomatic Reflex, Wellness

Introduction

Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., presents how anti-inflammatory botanicals and phytochemicals can reduce inflammatory cytokines that can cause pain-like issues in the body. We dive into how different pharmaceuticals could influence NF-kappaB and how chronic conditions can affect inflammation. We refer our patients to certified providers that incorporate techniques and multiple therapies for many individuals suffering from inflammation, and its correlating symptoms can affect the musculoskeletal system. We encourage and appreciate each patient by referring them to associated medical providers based on their diagnosis when it is appropriate. We understand that education is a fantastic way when asking our providers intricated questions at the patient’s request and understanding. Dr. Jimenez, D.C., only utilizes this information as an educational service. Disclaimer

 

How Does The Body Deal With Inflammation

Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., presents: Our objectives are to look at the evidence for using selective phytochemicals and botanicals as anti-inflammatory and analgesic agents. Controlled studies have grown into mass numbers over the years, and we can feel more confident in some of their findings because a lot of these studies have been done with good-quality investigators and well-designed studies. And even though we get those studies published, the problem is that we rarely hear about them. The media needs to pick them up, and they usually don’t make it into the medical community despite their studies. If you compare that to when pharmaceutical research is done, you know it often makes the headlines and news. Let’s look at some of these botanicals and phytochemicals today.

 

In autoimmune conditions, pain is a huge issue in the body, and we also want to use its analgesic properties. And then, we have to identify the most appropriate phytochemicals and botanicals for specific inflammatory and pain conditions. So, before we jump into that, we want to review some of the mechanisms of the pharmaceuticals that are very commonly prescribed for inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. Even some of the newer biologics we’ve referred to a little bit, we want to look into them and, and look at how they work and some of their drawbacks, and then we’ll delve into these botanicals that are at our disposal. So it is important to remind anyone that all degenerative diseases have this pro-inflammatory state or inflammation as part of their underlying biochemical ideology. And that inflammation is a final common pathway for all these different dysfunctions. Diabetes, Alzheimer’s, atherosclerosis, cancer, and even some psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia and depression all have inflammation as one of their root causes. Now in this module, we’re focusing on the ones that are in the circles and these.

 

As you know, most chronic diseases are linked to excessive, persistent inflammation. We’ve pounded that point home well enough, as chronic inflammation occurs when the injury is ongoing or when a predisposed immune system just doesn’t shut off. It fails at counter-regulation and acute inflammation, which is beneficial; however, it can turn into a chronic inflammation if left untreated. Many chronic diseases have been associated with excessive or persistent inflammation. When it comes to chronic inflammation develops when an injury or traumatic event is ongoing, causing the muscles to tense up or when the immune system begins to attack the body when there are no pathogens that are affecting the body. And that the conventional pharmacological treatment focuses on specific pathways that are often really downstream in that inflammatory process, and from a functional medicine perspective, we want to look a bit more upstream to figure out what is the cause of chronic inflammation that is causing this many issues to this person and how anti-inflammatory botanicals and phytochemicals can dampen these inflammatory effects in the body.

 

How Do Pharmaceuticals Affect The Body?

Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., presents: One of the factors that can enhance inflammatory markers is pharmaceutical drugs. So, for example, pharmacologic controls like NSAIDs can inhibit the COX enzyme, while leukotriene inhibitors inhibit the LOX enzyme. DMARDs can affect various immune mechanisms that can influence the development of chronic inflammation. Biologics can inhibit multiple cytokines in the body, including the TNF-alpha and steroids, which can affect NF-kappaB and phospholipase-A2. So there are numerous ways to influence the inflammatory pathway and cause muscle and joint pain issues.

 

Pharmaceuticals are not the only factors that can cause inflammatory triggers to affect the body; it can be the food we eat or the environment that we live in that can trigger NF-kappaB, which disassociates from I-kappaB while going into the nucleus and binding to the DNA. That point leads to the transcription of many different genes. The body’s genes not only make DNA but can make RNA. When the body makes RNA, it is then biotransformed into DNA, leading to the turning of different inflammatory pathways. So when the pharmaceutical starts entering the body, it can inhibit the other cytokines and enzymes from turning on and cause chronic inflammation, thus causing the anti-inflammatory markers to dampen and causing the immune system to focus on the NF-kappaB.

 

NSAIDs

Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., presents: So let’s start looking at the non-steroidal anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs, which are ubiquitous as they are very common for many people to reach for when they are in pain. And the reason they use them is that they do work. NSAIDs inhibit cyclooxygenase enzymes and prevent those inflammatory prostaglandins, which cause inflammation and pain in the muscles or joints. Now paracetamol is on here, or acetaminophen is not technically an NSAID, but we will look at that separately.

 

But these NSAIDs, you know, aren’t without issues, as 70 million prescriptions for NSAIDs are written in the U.S. annually. And that over-the-counter uses included 30 billion doses of NSAIDs. That’s an enormous amount, and it’s no wonder most of us have taken them; we’re part of that 30 billion. However, that amount can lead to a leaky gut in our body system. We know their association with peptic ulcers and G.I. bleeding while inhibiting that resolving pathway, which is important to shut off the inflammatory response. So let’s look at DMARDs or disease-modifying anti-rheumatic agents. They’re the first-line therapy for rheumatoid arthritis. And one of the reasons they’re the first line of treatment is that they’re inexpensive but are slow acting and do decrease inflammation, but they don’t work very well to relieve pain directly.

 

So methotrexate is hydroxychloroquine, or Plaquenil is a very well-known one right now, especially with its use today. Still, methotrexate inhibits RNA and DNA synthesis, which has been used as a chemotherapy agent in cancer. And when it inhibits, it affects the dihydrofolate reductase, which is needed to make DNA and RNA; however, it also suppresses T and B-cell activation while inhibiting IL1 beta from binding to its receptors. So, unfortunately, even though they’re the first-line therapy, they come with several fairly severe side effects. But we keep talking about this idea of side effects; it’s no side effects. They’re the direct effects of the medication.

 

The Effects Of Pharmaceuticals

Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., presents: You know, they may be unwanted effects like rashes, stomach upset, liver, bone marrow, toxicity, congenital disabilities, and, of course, which we’ll see repeatedly. Any time that you shut down your immune system, you open yourself up for infections. So you become much more susceptible to infections. So, look at these biological DMARDs, which work as TNF-alpha blockers. These biological DMARDs work by curbing either T-cell activation or blocking TNF, which is the most common one, but they also can stop things like IL-six, deplete T-cells, and work in other ways. These biologics are called biologics because they’re actually monoclonal antibodies. And so these monoclonal antibodies, as antibodies do, they have very strong specific binding affinities.

 

And so, using antibodies as medications has been a great advance. Now, as we’re going to see, they may not be the ultimate solution for treating autoimmune disease, but they hold a lot of promise, especially when we need their specificity. So there are many chronic conditions that NSAIDs DMARDs or Biologic DMARDs that can mask inflammation and cause pain to the muscles and joints. Some of the chronic conditions include:

  • Ankylosing-spondylitis
  • Arthritis
  • Crohn’s disease
  • Endometriosis
  • Psoriasis
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Lupus

 

Conclusion

Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., presents: These pharmaceuticals can reduce the pain that the person is experiencing with these conditions, but they are short-termed and only mask the issue until a person goes into treatment. When a person has an autoimmune or chronic disorder associated with inflammation, the cost of any medication is high. Even though good pharmaceuticals are important, we need to look at treatments that can examine the lesser-known or rarer conditions that can reduce the inflammatory effects that cause joint and muscle pain.  Incorporating anti-inflammatory botanicals and supplements like:

  • Fish oil
  • Curcumin
  • Ginger extract
  • Green Tea Extract
  • Resveratrol

All have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammatory cytokines from the muscle and joints and combine with physical therapy. Physical therapy can allow the body to heal itself and will enable the individual to be pain-free naturally.

Disclaimer

An Overview Of Polymyalgia Rheumatica

An Overview Of Polymyalgia Rheumatica

by | Chiropractic, Chronic Pain, Functional Medicine, Health, Hip Pain & Disorders, Lower Back Pain, Neck Pain, Treatments, Viscerosomatic Reflex, Wellness

Introduction

The body is exposed to various environmental factors daily. Whether it is the environment that a person is living, the foods being consumed, or the level of physical activities a person has plays a part in the body. Many individuals that want to live a healthier lifestyle will start small by incorporating nutritious foods they can add, sticking to an exercise regime they might enjoy, and finding time to meditate. Those who don’t want to change their lifestyle habits will continue eating foods that are high in fats, not exercising enough, or have problems sleeping. Over time, the body will be at risk of developing autoimmune disorders associated with musculoskeletal symptoms when exposed to environmental factors that impact a person’s lifestyle. Today’s article looks at an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammatory effects on the joints, known as polymyalgia rheumatica, the symptoms associated with this disorder, and how chiropractic care can help manage the symptoms of polymyalgia rheumatica. We refer patients to certified providers specializing in autoimmune treatments to help many individuals with autoimmune diseases associated with musculoskeletal disorders. We also guide our patients by referring to our associated medical providers based on their examination when it’s appropriate. We find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer

What Is Polymyalgia Rheumatica?

 

Have you been experiencing pain along your shoulders, neck, hips, or thighs? Does your body feel stiff in the morning and better throughout the day? Or have you been experiencing a limited range of motion in certain areas of your body? Many of these symptoms are signs that you might be at risk of developing polymyalgia rheumatica in your joints. Polymyalgia rheumatica is defined as a rheumatic disorder that is common in elderly adults over the age of 50. Polymyalgia rheumatica is an inflammatory musculoskeletal disorder that induces muscle pain and stiffness around the joints, especially in the morning. Studies reveal that polymyalgia rheumatica is often characterized by aching muscle pain in the shoulders, pelvis, and neck; it can mimic other rheumatic diseases like RA (rheumatoid arthritis), SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus), and polymyositis. When the body is dealing with the inflammatory effects of polymyalgia rheumatica, many people believe they are dealing with a different disorder affecting their bodies. To that point, diagnosing polymyalgia rheumatica is difficult.

 

The Symptoms Associated With Polymyalgia Rheumatica

Since polymyalgia rheumatica can mimic other rheumatic diseases, some of the symptoms associated with this inflammatory musculoskeletal disorder are similar to other chronic common diseases in the body. Studies reveal that the cause of polymyalgia is unknown, but environmental and genetic factors contribute to this inflammatory disease. Another disease that shares similar symptoms with polymyalgia is a disease known as giant cell arteritis. Giant cell arteritis causes inflammatory effects along the lining of the arteries, and individuals with this disease may have polymyalgia rheumatica. Some of the symptoms associated with polymyalgia rheumatica include:

  • Shoulder pain
  • Pelvic pain
  • Limited range of motion
  • Muscle stiffness
  • Joint pain
  • Inflammation
  • Neck pain

 

An Overview Of Polymyalgia Rheumatica- Video

Have you been experiencing pain in some regions of your body, like the shoulders, pelvis, and neck? Do you feel muscle stiffness every morning, but does it get better throughout the day? Have you been dealing with joint inflammation? If you have been experiencing these musculoskeletal symptoms, you might be at risk of developing polymyalgia rheumatica. The video above gives an insightful overview of what polymyalgia is and the symptoms associated with this inflammatory musculoskeletal disorder. Polymyalgia rheumatica is an auto-inflammatory musculoskeletal disorder that affects many adults over 50 and causes muscle stiffness in the body’s neck, shoulder, and pelvic regions. This inflammatory musculoskeletal disorder does mimic other rheumatic disorders like RA (rheumatoid arthritis) and lupus. The symptoms associated with polymyalgia rheumatica are generally similar to other common chronic disorders, making diagnosis challenging to pinpoint. Luckily there are ways to manage polymyalgia rheumatica and its associated musculoskeletal symptoms.

Managing Polymyalgia Rheumatica With Chiropractic Care

 

Since the body is dealing with symptoms from polymyalgia rheumatica is challenging to diagnose since it mimics other rheumatic disorders and their associated symptoms. When the body is suffering from joint pain associated with polymyalgia rheumatica, the surrounding muscles, and ligaments that help stabilize the joints become inflamed and cause discomfort to the body. Fortunately, treatments like chiropractic care are available to help manage the joint inflammation associated with polymyalgia rheumatica. Chiropractic care utilizes spinal manipulation of the body by manipulating spinal subluxation or misalignment of the joints. Spinal manipulation helps the body relax and incorporates healing properties into the inflamed joints. Chiropractic care helps loosen up the stiff muscles and ligaments surrounding the joints to reduce pressure on the nerves and help bring the range of motion back to the joints. Many individuals who incorporate chiropractic care to help manage musculoskeletal symptoms associated with rheumatic disorders like polymyalgia rheumatica will be pain-free on their wellness journey.

 

Conclusion

Polymyalgia rheumatica is an inflammatory musculoskeletal disorder common in elderly adults that induces muscle pain and stiffness around the joints. This inflammatory musculoskeletal disorder affects the shoulder, neck, and pelvic region while mimicking other rheumatic disorders like RA (rheumatoid arthritis) and lupus. Since the body is exposed to various environmental daily, over time may be at risk of developing autoimmune diseases associated with musculoskeletal symptoms that can impact the individual. To that point, making it difficult to diagnose. Fortunately, treatments like chiropractic care can help manage the musculoskeletal symptoms associated with polymyalgia rheumatica. Chiropractic care can help reduce stiff joint inflammation by manipulating the body, causing the aching muscles to relax and increase their range of motion. Utilizing chiropractic care can help a person get back to their health and wellness journey.

 

References

Acharya, Saurav, and Rina Musa. “Polymyalgia Rheumatica – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 21 June 2022, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537274/.

Al-Kaabi, Juma, et al. “Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Mimicking Polymyalgia Rheumatica in a Young Patient.” Oman Medical Journal, OMJ, July 2008, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3282323/.

Michet, Clement J, and Eric L Matteson. “Polymyalgia Rheumatica.” BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.), BMJ Publishing Group Ltd., 5 Apr. 2008, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2287267/.

Milchert, Marcin, and Marek Brzosko. “Diagnosis of Polymyalgia Rheumatica Usually Means a Favourable Outcome for Your Patient.” The Indian Journal of Medical Research, Medknow Publications & Media Pvt Ltd, May 2017, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5644293/.

Disclaimer

Hypothyroidism May Affect More Than The Thyroid

Hypothyroidism May Affect More Than The Thyroid

by | Chiropractic, Functional Medicine, Health, Hormone Balance, Hypo Thyroid, Viscerosomatic Reflex, Wellness

Introduction

The body is a functional being with the brain to control the host’s movements when going to places or resting, the immune system to battle viruses that enter the body, digest food through the gut system, and the endocrine system regulate hormones that maintain the body. The thyroid secretes hormones out and has a vital role in the body’s functionality, and when it gets affected, it can cause issues associated with the body. When the thyroid doesn’t produce more hormones in the body, it can be at risk of developing hypothyroidism. Today’s article looks at the thyroid’s role in the body, how hypothyroidism affects the body, and how to manage hypothyroidism in the body. We refer patients to certified providers specializing in endocrinology treatments to help many individuals with hypothyroidism. We also guide our patients by referring to our associated medical providers based on their examination when it’s appropriate. We find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer

What’s The Thyroid’s Role In The Body?

 

Have you been experiencing fatigue out of nowhere? What about having constipation issues in your lower abdominals? Or have you been experiencing frequent and heavy menstrual cycles? Some of these symptoms are associated with hypothyroidism. The thyroid is located at the neck’s base and produces hormones. Studies reveal that this small organ is mighty as it has a massive responsibility to the body by controlling its metabolism, growth, and functionality. As the thyroid secretes hormones for the body, these hormones travel with the bloodstream to different organs, muscles, and tissues throughout the body. Thyroxine(T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) are the two main hormones the thyroid gland produces. While the hypothalamus produces TRH (thyrotropin-releasing hormone), and the anterior pituitary glands produce TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone). All three of these organs work in synchronized harmony with the body by maintaining the proper mechanism and homeostasis. The thyroid hormone affects not only the body but the vital organs like:

  • Heart
  • Central nervous system
  • Autonomic nervous system
  • Lungs
  • Skeletal muscles
  • Metabolism
  • GI tract

 

The Effects Of Hypothyroidism In The Body

Since the thyroid helps regulate hormones in the body, environmental factors play a role in hormone production. When environmental factors begin to affect the body, they potentially involve hormones. When the thyroid gland cannot produce sufficient hormones in the body, it risks developing hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism is defined as a common condition that is the result of low hormone production overlapping various conditions and manifestations. When left untreated, hypothyroidism could associate with sympathetic and parasympathetic dysfunction. Studies reveal that the thyroid hormone influences the autonomic nervous system. Individuals suffering from hypothyroidism correlate to a dysfunctional autonomic system overlapping sympathetic reactivity. This means that hypothyroidism will cause the body’s metabolism to slow down and cause various symptoms to affect each vital organ. 

An Overview Of Hypothyroidism-Video

Have you been experiencing chronic fatigue? How about muscle weakness in your arms or legs? What about feeling cold all the time? Individuals experiencing these symptoms are dealing with a condition known as hypothyroidism. The video above explains hypothyroidism, how it is diagnosed, and its symptoms in the body. Many environmental factors do play a role when it comes to the development of hypothyroidism. Some of the symptoms associated with hypothyroidism include:

  • Constipation
  • Decrease in sexual function
  • Depression
  • High cholesterol
  • Weight gain
  • Chronic fatigue
  • Brain fog
  • Hashimoto’s

When the body is being affected by environmental factors correlating with hypothyroidism, studies reveal that factors like spinal cord injuries do cause an impact on the body’s metabolic function and derange various hormonal axes. This causes issues that could potentially involve co-morbidities like urinary tract infections. Fortunately, there are ways to manage hypothyroidism and regulate the hormones to make the body functional again.

Managing Hypothyroidism

 

One cornerstone in managing hypothyroidism and reducing its associated symptoms is following a proper treatment for health and wellness. Maintaining healthy hormone levels in the body is achievable regarding hypothyroidism. Taking thyroid medication as prescribed by a doctor help improve symptoms associated with hypothyroidism while regulating T3 and T4 hormones. Eating nutritious foods may help relieve some symptoms of hypothyroidism. Exercising helps enhance energy levels and strengthen weak muscles for individuals with hypothyroidism. Incorporating chiropractic care can help reduce somato-visceral disorders associated with hypothyroidism through spinal manipulation. Utilizing these treatments to manage hypothyroidism benefits one’s health and wellness journey.

 

Conclusion

The thyroid is an organ at the neck’s base as part of the endocrine system. This organ is mighty as it helps the body by secreting hormones for all the various organs, muscles, and tissues. When the thyroid can’t produce sufficient hormones to regulate the body, it risks developing hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism is a common condition that results in a low hormonal count, triggering symptoms that affect the body. If left untreated, it could become the mediator for sympathetic and parasympathetic dysfunction. Luckily, treatments are available to manage hypothyroidism and regulate hormonal secretion in the body. This allows the individual to incorporate healthy habits to maintain their hormones while their health and wellness journey continues impacting their lives.

 

References

Cheville, A L, and S C Kirshblum. “Thyroid Hormone Changes in Chronic Spinal Cord Injury.” The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Oct. 1995, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8591067/.

Hardy, Katie, and Henry Pollard. “The Organisation of the Stress Response, and Its Relevance to Chiropractors: A Commentary.” Chiropractic & Osteopathy, BioMed Central, 18 Oct. 2006, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1629015/.

Mahajan, Aarti S, et al. “Evaluation of Autonomic Functions in Subclinical Hypothyroid and Hypothyroid Patients.” Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Medknow Publications & Media Pvt Ltd, May 2013, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3712377/.

Patil, Nikita, et al. “Hypothyroidism.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 19 June 2022, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519536/.

Shahid, Muhammad A, et al. “Physiology, Thyroid Hormone – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 8 May 2022, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK500006/.

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How To Manage Inflammatory & Autoimmune Conditions In The Body

How To Manage Inflammatory & Autoimmune Conditions In The Body

by | Chiropractic, Chronic Pain, Functional Medicine, Health, Treatments, Viscerosomatic Reflex, Wellness

Introduction

Everyone tries to make healthy life choices by boosting their immune system. Getting adequate sleep, eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, drinking plenty of water, and exercising all help increase the immune system. The immune system is known as the “protector” of the body as it eliminates foreign invaders that enter the body and causes chaos to the effective systems. The immune system releases cytokines to the alien invaders causing inflammation in the affected area. When environmental factors affect the body over time, the immune system mistakenly attacks its cells, thinking it’s a foreign invader causing autoimmunity. Today’s article looks at autoimmunity, its triggers, how inflammation plays its role in the body, and what is D.I.R.T. We refer patients to certified providers specializing in autoimmune therapies to help many individuals dealing with autoimmune diseases and inflammation. We also guide our patients by referring to our associated medical providers based on their examination when it’s appropriate. We find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer

What Is Autoimmunity?

 

Have you been dealing with abdominal issues that affect you when you eat something? How about pain and swelling in your joints? How about unexplained skin problems? Some of these symptoms are signs that many individuals risk developing autoimmunity. Autoimmunity is defined as a self-directed inflammation of the body’s tissue, which results from a loss of tolerance by aberrant dendric cells and B & T cell responses. This causes the development of immune reactivity towards native antigens. When autoimmune diseases occur in the body, studies reveal that this is due to the immune system attacking self-molecules; many disorders are strongly associated with many predisposing factors. 

 

Things That Trigger Autoimmunity

 

When it comes to the link between the triggering factors and the immune system, studies reveal that the cause and pathway of many autoimmune diseases affecting the body are unknown but that the many factors that trigger the progression of autoimmune diseases are associated with different chronic issues. The adaptive immune response consists of antibodies and activated T lymphocytes that play a predominant role in clinical conditions. The multiple pathways that autoimmune diseases do to the body are ongoing and multifactorial due to the initial trigger for systemic and organ-specific disorders that may predate clinical diseases by many years. Some of the factors that may trigger autoimmunity in the body include:

  • Gut
  • Endothelial
  • Brain
  • Stress
  • Toxins
  • Infections
  • Food
  • Biotoxins (innate)

 

What Is Inflammation?-Video

Have you been dealing with swelling around your joints and muscles? Do the foods seem to cause issues in your gut? What about feeling radiating pain traveling down your arms or legs? These are signs that your body is experiencing inflammation. The video above gives an excellent explanation of what inflammation is and its role in the body. Inflammation is the immune system’s natural defenses triggered by various factors that affect the body while it promotes healing to the affected area. Inflammation can be good or bad; it depends on the severity of the body’s injury and location. Inflammation has a casual relationship with the immune system in acute and chronic forms. In its acute form, inflammation can minimize the injury or infection to promote healing in the affected area with heat, redness, and swelling. However, in its chronic condition, where the damage is more profound, various pathogens affecting the body’s tissues may result in chronic issues associated with inflammation. Luckily, there are ways to manage autoimmunity-related inflammatory symptoms.

What Is D.I.R.T?

 

The body needs the immune system to protect itself from foreign invaders that enter the body. Studies reveal that the immune system does more than protect the body; it can flush out old, damaged cells in the body and replace them with new ones. The immune system also mobilizes responses to the invaders with its ability to distinguish self from non-self. As stated earlier, the immune system has a causal relationship to inflammation. It may succumb to triggering factors that could be involved with the muscles and joints associated with pain. The immune system uses the acronym D.I.R.T. to regulate and defend the body when needed.

 

D: Detect & Defensive

The immune system in the body has a mechanism that identifies potentially threatening molecular structures like:

  • Strange signals found in microbes, food, plants & fungi, chemicals
  • Danger signals (alarmins) that are found in tissues or secreted by stimulated leukocytes or epithelia

When these structures attack the body, the immune system begins to detect and becomes a defense mechanism that will mount the appropriate responses to the threat level. Once the threat is eliminated, the body can regenerate new, healthy cells.

 

I: Internally Regulated

The body has immune responses that are tightly controlled and actively resolved through multiple cellular, genomic, and enzymatic mechanisms. Some of the regulations that the immune system provides are:

  • T regulatory lymphocytes
  • Lipid-derived pro-resolution mediators
  • Redox balance: Nrf2-ARE activation

Even though it is difficult to manipulate the immune system, finding ways to regulate the immune system from going crazy and finding the right balance for a healthy immune system is essential for a healthy body.

 

R: Restorative

The immune system’s function is to repair any damages resulting from injury or negative encounters that the body has gone through. When the body becomes injured, the immune system sends inflammatory cytokines to the affected area and begins the healing process. Other cellular structures that help the immune system restore the body include:

  • Phagocytes
  • Fibroblasts
  • Stem cells
  • Endothelial cells

There are other ways to restore the body and improve the immune system. Eating healthy foods to boost the immune system, exercising, and even getting chiropractic care may help the immune system. But isn’t chiropractic care used for the back? Yes, chiropractic care focuses on the musculoskeletal system, but they also support many individuals in maintaining their health and wellness. The immune system will function to its total capacity when any spinal misalignments or subluxations are corrected through spinal manipulation.

T: Tolerant

The immune system helps the body build a tolerance to the pathogens that are affecting the body. For example, food allergens. With many common food allergens, like nuts, gluten, milk, fish, and eggs, the body will begin to build a tolerance to these allergens when it is introduced slowly. Other healthy boundaries that the immune system provides to the body include:

  • Self or fetal antigens
  • Innocuous environmental antigens
  • Microbes
  • Plants and fungi

By building a healthy tolerance to these pathogens, the body has a solid chance to build up immunity to the pathogen. It can help the immune system be stronger when reencountering these pathogens.

 

Conclusion

Overall the immune system is the primary protector of the body from foreign invaders. When harmful pathogens enter the body, the immune system sends out cytokines to where the invaders are and get rid of them. This causes inflammation in the affected area in the body, causing swelling and redness in the skin. When these pathogens infect the body over time, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body, especially the vital organs causing chronic inflammation associated with autoimmunity. Autoimmunity is a cluster of disorders that causes body dysfunction, which overlaps with inflammation causing the body to be dysfunctional. Luckily it is treatable with the right foods, exercises, and treatments that can help lower inflammation and help regulate the immune system back to its original self.

 

References

Chaplin, David D. “Overview of the Immune Response.” The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Feb. 2010, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2923430/.

Chen, Linlin, et al. “Inflammatory Responses and Inflammation-Associated Diseases in Organs.” Oncotarget, Impact Journals LLC, 14 Dec. 2017, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5805548/.

Smith, D A, and D R Germolec. “Introduction to Immunology and Autoimmunity.” Environmental Health Perspectives, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Oct. 1999, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1566249/.

Vojdani, Aristo. “A Potential Link between Environmental Triggers and Autoimmunity.” Autoimmune Diseases, Hindawi Publishing Corporation, 12 Feb. 2014, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3945069/.

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