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Wrestling Injuries Chiropractic Team

Wrestling Injuries Chiropractic Team

Wrestling is a sport that requires speed, strength, and endurance that involves intense physical contact, pushing and pulling the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints to their limits. Wrestlers’ are constantly contorting their bodies. Pushing the body to its limits increases the risk of developing wrestling injuries that include:

Wrestling Injuries Chiropractor

Wrestling Injuries

The most common injuries usually occur from forceful contact or twisting forces. And if a wrestler has been injured, there is an increase for re-injury. Wrestling tournaments typically take place over days, often with back-to-back matches, which significantly fatigues the body and increases injury risk. The most common wrestling injuries include:

  • Muscle strains of the lower extremities and/or the back.
  • Chronic problems can result from hours in the forward stance posture and repetitive motions.
  • Trigger points.
  • Neck injuries.
  • Ligament knee injuries – Meniscus and MCL tears.
  • Pre-patellar bursitis/Osgood Schlatter’s syndrome from consistently hitting the mat.
  • Ankle injuries.
  • Hand and finger dislocations and fractures.
  • Dislocations and sprains of the elbow or shoulder from take-downs.
  • Cauliflower ear – is a condition that can cause ear deformity and develops from friction or blunt trauma to the ears.
  • Skin infections occur from constant contact, sweating, bleeding, and rolling on the mats. Infections include herpes gladitorium, impetigo, folliculitis, abscesses, and tinea/ringworm.
  • Concussions are usually caused by hard falls/slams or violent collisions with the other wrestler.

Injuries can cause wrestlers to alter/change their technique, exacerbating the existing damage and potentially creating new injuries.

Chiropractic Rehabilitation and Strengthening

There can be a variety of pain generators/causes when it comes to wrestling injuries. Joints and muscles can get overstretched, muscles can spasm, and nerves can become compressed and/or irritated. For example, a neck muscle spasm could be caused by nerve irritation from a shifted vertebrae. To determine the specific cause or causes of the injury/pain, a detailed chiropractic examination will be performed that includes:

  • Range of motion testing
  • Ligament tests
  • Muscle palpation
  • Gait testing

Injuries often relate to the proper weight, neuromuscular control, core strength, proper technique, hygiene, and hydration management. Successful treatment depends on identifying the root cause of the wrestling injury. Chiropractic restores proper alignment through massage, specific manual adjustments, decompression, and traction therapies. Adjustments can include the back, neck, shoulder, hips, elbows, knees, and feet. Once correct body alignment is achieved, rehabilitative exercises and stretches are implemented to correct and strengthen muscle function. We work with a network of regional medical doctors specializing in referral situations and strive to return the athlete to their sport as soon as possible.


Wrestling Match


References

Boden, Barry P, and Christopher G Jarvis. “Spinal injuries in sports.” Neurologic clinics vol. 26,1 (2008): 63-78; viii. doi:10.1016/j.ncl.2007.12.005

Halloran, Laurel. “Wrestling injuries.” Orthopedic nursing vol. 27,3 (2008): 189-92; quiz 193-4. doi:10.1097/01.NOR.0000320548.20611.16

Hewett, Timothy E et al. “Wrestling injuries.” Medicine and sport science vol. 48 (2005): 152-178. doi:10.1159/000084288

Mentes, Janet C, and Phyllis M Gaspar. “Hydration Management.” Journal of gerontological nursing vol. 46,2 (2020): 19-30. doi:10.3928/00989134-20200108-03

Wilson, Eugene K et al. “Cutaneous infections in wrestlers.” Sports health vol. 5,5 (2013): 423-37. doi:10.1177/1941738113481179

Function Restoration Chiropractor To The Sciatic Nerve

Function Restoration Chiropractor To The Sciatic Nerve

The sciatic nerve is the longest in the body and is the central nerve in the leg. A critical nerve that comes off the spine runs through the pelvis, into the buttocks, down the back of each thigh, and finally into the feet. It is a mixed nerve meaning it is made up of both motor/movement) and sensory/sensation fibers. The nerves merge with the spinal nerve roots before they enter the spinal cord, where the sensory information travels to and from the brain. If the nerve is inflamed, compressed, twisted, damaged, or injured, this can negatively affect the muscles’ function, leading to chronic pain conditions. Injury Medical  Function Restoration Chiropractors will do precisely that for the sciatic nerve and the rest of the body. 

Function Restoration Chiropractor: Sciatic Nerve

Nerve Roots and Branches

Different nerve roots make up the sciatic nerve, with two starting in the lower back and three at the bottom of the spine or sacrum. At the  knees, the nerve splits into two branches:

  • The peroneal nerve runs from the knee’s outer part to the foot’s outer part and splits into two main branches below the knee.
  • The tibial nerve goes down the back of the calf, extending to the heel and sole.

There are smaller branches at the:

  • Hips
  • Inner thighs
  • Calves
  • Feet

Sciatic Nerve Function

The sciatic nerve’s purpose serves motor functions by assisting the muscles in the legs and feet to move, walk, run, and stand. And for the sensory function of feeling sensations in the legs and feet includes pain, numbness, burning, and electrical sensations.

Motor Functions

The nerve provides motor functions that power movement to the muscles that move the thighs, legs, and feet. Essential motor functions:

Hip adduction

  • Bringing the thighs together inward toward the body

Knee flexion

  • Bending the knee.

Inversion of the foot

  • Movement of the foot inward to the body.

Eversion of the foot

  • Movement of the foot away/outward from the body

Dorsiflexion of the foot

  • Pointing the foot up.

Plantarflexion

  • Pointing the foot down.

Flexion of toes

  • Pointing the toes down.

Extension of toes

  • Pointing the toes up.

Motor function signs of sciatic nerve problems include difficulty or inability to walk, bend the leg, and/or stand on tiptoe or the heel.

Sensory Functions

The nerve provides sensation to the different areas; when the nerve is injured, the corresponding area may feel unique/abnormal sensations with differing degrees of numbness, pins-and-needles, and pain. Commonly affected areas include:

  • Front, back, and outside the thigh.
  • Front, back, and outside the lower leg.
  • The top and outer side of the foot.
  • Bottom of the foot.
  • Between the toes.

Like motor function disruption, sensory impairment is determined by where the problems are occurring.

Function Restoration Chiropractor

Affected, reduced, and inhibited motor and sensory functions can lead to muscle weakness, chronic pain, and permanent nerve damage. Function restoration chiropractor and physical therapeutic massage can help manage nerve compression and irritation. Spinal manipulations restore misaligned vertebral discs taking the pressure off the nerve relieving the pain, and regaining nerve signal flow and mobility. Chiropractic will induce deep muscle relaxation to stop muscle spasms, release tension, soothe the nerve, release endorphins, and restore sciatic nerve function.


Spinal Decompression


References

Bouche, P. “Compression and entrapment neuropathies.” Handbook of clinical neurology vol. 115 (2013): 311-66. doi:10.1016/B978-0-444-52902-2.00019-9

Cook, Chad E et al. “Risk factors for first-time incidence sciatica: a systematic review.” Physiotherapy research international: the journal for researchers and clinicians in physical therapy vol. 19,2 (2014): 65-78. doi:10.1002/pri.1572

Giuffre BA, Jeanmonod R. Anatomy, Sciatic Nerve. [Updated 2021 Jul 29]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. Available from: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482431/

Fatigue Ankylosing Spondylitis Back Clinic

Fatigue Ankylosing Spondylitis Back Clinic

Fatigue Ankylosing Spondylitis: Fatigue is a significant complaint for individuals dealing with ankylosing spondylitis. Ankylosing spondylitis is chronic inflammation of the spine’s joints that can cause them to become fused or locked up. The process can cause the spine to stiffen, limiting movement, reducing flexibility, and generating a severe hunched posture. Symptoms can include back pain, stiffness, and the inability to take a deep breath if the ribs are involved. Fatigue can have a variety of causes, but in ankylosing spondylitis, inflammation and cytokines play a significant role. The underlying cause of ankylosing spondylitis is still being researched, but it currently affects around 300,000 Americans.

Fatigue Ankylosing Spondylitis

Fatigue Ankylosing Spondylitis

Most individuals with ankylosing spondylitis experience pain in the lower back but can also feel pain in their hips and neck, have abdominal pain, or experience problems with vision. Inflammatory back pain is usually strongest in the morning but can also come from inactivity.

Spinal Condition and Extreme Exhaustion

The inability to move along with a decreased spinal range of motion impacts body functionality, sleep quality, and respiratory function affecting energy levels and leading to mild to severe fatigue. Studies have shown that 50% – 85% of individuals with ankylosing spondylitis experience fatigue.

Fatigue is brought on by inflammation, as the body generates the same chemicals when fighting a cold or flu; an individual’s body constantly works to reduce inflammation, leaving them drained and unable to perform ordinary tasks. Inflammatory diseases take a significant toll on the whole body, leading to an increased risk of depression and increased fatigue levels.

Exercise, Massage, and Diet

Many individuals find that their symptoms flare up after long periods of inactivity, like sleeping. This can make wanting to fall and stay asleep complicated, exacerbating fatigue and vice versa, creating a vicious cycle. Even though it can be challenging to move, gentle exercise is recommended. Exercise can help slow the disease progression, build muscle, and improve sleep. It is recommended to speak with a spine specialist, doctor, chiropractor, physical therapist, or exercise trainer about a customized exercise treatment program.

Many individuals with ankylosing spondylitis find therapeutic massage helpful in temporarily relieving pain, and stiffness, reducing stress and improving flexibility from increased blood circulation. A combination of gentle chiropractic massage, exercise, ergonomic adjustments, and rheumatology treatment is recommended for many cases. An anti-inflammatory diet comprised of foods like fatty fish, fruits, nuts, and leafy green vegetables can fight inflammation and decrease fatigue.


AS Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Pathology


References

Cornelson, Stacey M et al. “Chiropractic Care in the Management of Inactive Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Case Series.” Journal of chiropractic medicine vol. 16,4 (2017): 300-307. doi:10.1016/j.jcm.2017.10.002

Li, Ting, et al. “Fatigue in Ankylosing Spondylitis Is Associated With Psychological Factors and Brain Gray Matter.” Frontiers in medicine vol. 6 271. 21 Nov. 2019, doi:10.3389/fmed.2019.00271

Zhang, Jun-Ming, and Jianxiong An. “Cytokines, inflammation, and pain.” International anesthesiology clinics vol. 45,2 (2007): 27-37. doi:10.1097/AIA.0b013e318034194e

Gardening Tips and Stretches: Back Pain Prevention

Gardening Tips and Stretches: Back Pain Prevention

Gardening is healthy for the body and does count as exercise, which works the major muscle groups that include the neck, shoulders, arms, abdomen, back, glutes, and legs. However, gardening can cause stress to the body with unhealthy posture/positioning, not using proper lifting techniques, using the wrong tools, and not taking breaks to stretch out the body, move around, and rehydrate. This can lead to body soreness, pain, and injuries. Here are some recommended gardening tips and stretches for pain prevention.

Gardening Tips and Stretches For Pain Prevention

Gardening Tips and Stretches

A sore back and body can stem from staying in a single posture for too long and repetitive motions/movements. Here are a few tips to help maintain musculoskeletal health while gardening:

Tools

  • Choosing the right garden tools can spare a lot of pain and money.
  • Focus on the fundamental tools and purchase the best quality tools that the budget will allow.
  • Size weight, task level, material, grips, handle length, and attachments are things to consider
  • Maintaining quality tools will go a long way.

Digging

  • Digging requires the right tools to get the job done safely and efficiently.
  • Make sure the shovel is sharp enough to reduce using extra force to break up the dirt.
  • The shovel handle should be long enough to avoid excessive bending.
  • Utilize proper digging posture while using a shovel.
  • If using too much pressure, soak the soil to loosen it up.
  • Try not to twist when shoveling the dirt/soil; instead, move the whole body to where the dirt needs to be.

Lifting

  • Prolonged lifting of bags, plants, pots, and equipment can take a toll on the spine and spinal muscles.
  • Bend the knees and use the hips to lift, as the hip muscles are stronger than the low back muscles.
  • Do not bend the waist to come back; use the hips.
  • Investing in an elevated garden or gardening seat/stool is recommended to avoid bending.

Weeding

  • Weeding can require prolonged sitting or bending, depending on the number of weeds.
  • To avoid excessive sitting and bending, a gardening seat/stool can help, as well as a standing weeding tool will reduce the pressure on the back.
  • This is also helpful for knee and/or hip pain.

Mowing

Take Breaks

  • Do not push through; take a break even if the body feels great.
  • Every half hour, the body needs to rest.
  • Try to work in 30-minute increments then break to move around, stretch, relax, and rehydrate.
  • Squatting, bending, digging, lifting bags, and pushing wheelbarrows is a form of strength training that helps achieve stronger muscles, healthier bones, and joints.
  • But if there are no breaks, the chances for pain and injuries increase.

Stretches

Simple stretches can reduce the strain and pain of gardening. Stretching before, during, and after the gardening session is recommended.

Cat Stretch

  • This is a simple yoga pose that helps with back soreness.
  • On your hands and knees, keep the hands at shoulder distance and the knees at hip distance.
  • Pull the navel up to the spine and arch/round the back.
  • Slowly straighten the back.

Cow Stretch

  • The cow stretch is the opposite of the cat pose.
  • Start in the same position.
  • Drop the stomach to the floor and lift the head up and back.
  • The spine will arch and gently stretch the back.

Head Rolls

  • Head rolls will help with shoulder and neck pain.
  • Drop the chin down toward the chest.
  • Gently roll the head to one side going around back to the center.
  • Repeat in the opposite direction.

Supine Twists

  • Supine twists can help the lower back.
  • Lay down with the legs at a 45-degree angle and the arms out to the sides.
  • Twist the legs to one side and look in the opposite direction.
  • Hold the pose until the stretch is felt, and then move back to the starting point.
  • Repeat on the opposite side.

Chiropractic

Chiropractic medicine can help alleviate aches and pains and rehabilitate, realign, and strengthen the body to optimal health. Individuals are educated on the musculoskeletal system, injury prevention, nutrition, and exercise to maintain wellness and a pain-free lifestyle.


Pain-Free Gardening Tips and Stretches


References

Howarth, Michelle et al. “What is the evidence for the impact of gardens and gardening on health and well-being: a scoping review and evidence-based logic model to guide healthcare strategy decision making on the use of gardening approaches as a social prescription.” BMJ open vol. 10,7 e036923. 19 Jul. 2020, doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2020-036923

Masashi Soga A et al. “Gardening is beneficial for health: A meta-analysis” www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5153451/pdf/main.pdf.

Scott, Theresa L et al.”Positive aging benefits of home and community gardening activities: Older adults report enhanced self-esteem, productive endeavors, social engagement, and exercise” SAGE open medicine vol. 8 2050312120901732. 22 Jan. 2020, doi:10.1177/2050312120901732

Causation and Viscerosomatic Pain

Causation and Viscerosomatic Pain

A viscerosomatic response or VSR is when the internal organs are going through some distress, illness, or injury, causing pain symptoms. An example is the right shoulder presenting with pain when the gall bladder is inflamed. The pain signals are transmitted through the spinal cord, and the muscles in the area could spasm, creating sensitivity or pain when touched. However, viscerosomatic pain is often not worsened or changed by bending, reaching, or twisting in different directions causing musculoskeletal/MSK pain. Without a thorough exam, it’s easy to confuse a VSR with an MSK or basic back ache. Individuals may sometimes feel visceral pain more through emotional symptoms like anger, anguish, or sadness than physical discomfort. Causation varies for everybody and can overlap with underlying conditions.

Visceral Pain Causation

Causation

The visceral organs’ pain receptors are not as tightly packed or evenly spread out, which makes finding the pain’s source challenging to pinpoint.‌ The most common causes include:

Inflammation

A process of the body’s white blood cells protecting the body from infections, bacteria, and viruses. In autoimmune diseases, the immune system reacts as if normal tissues are infected or have changed and attacks them causing damage. But in some conditions, like arthritis, the body’s immune system triggers inflammation despite no infections, bacteria, or viruses. When inflammation activates, chemicals from the body’s white blood cells enter the blood or tissues to protect the body raising the blood flow to the injured or infected area. Symptoms include:

  • Redness
  • Heat
  • Irritation
  • Chemicals can cause fluid to leak into the tissues.
  • Swelling
  • Pain

The symptoms depend on which organs are affected. Examples include:

  • Inflammation of the heart/myocarditis can cause shortness of breath and/or fluid buildup.
  • Inflammation of the tiny tubes in the respiratory system can cause shortness of breath.
  • Inflammation of the kidneys/nephritis can cause high blood pressure and/or kidney failure.

Circulatory Issues

Decreased blood circulation can strain areas of the body. The body pulls oxygen into the lungs that enter the blood. It travels throughout the body through blood vessels, veins, and arteries. If circulation becomes obstructed or gets stopped, a severe problem called ischemia can develop. This means areas of the body are not getting enough blood and enough oxygen. Ischemia usually originates from a buildup, blockage in the arteries, or a blood clot. Atherosclerosis is plaque, a hard, sticky substance made mostly of fat that collects in the arteries. It builds up slowly over time and can harden and narrow the arteries slowing down blood flow because the blood has less space to circulate.

Swelling/Stretching Organs

Swelling occurs when excess fluids are trapped in the body’s tissues, which can cause the affected organs to enlarge and stretch. Swelling can be internal or external. Internal swelling is usually caused by:

Menstrual Cramps

Menstrual cramps are throbbing, aching cramps experienced in the lower stomach just before and during a woman’s monthly period. They can range from mild to severe but are common and can strike right before and/or during the menstrual cycle. Some women can experience dysmenorrhea. Symptoms include:

  • Aching in the stomach
  • Pressure in the stomach
  • Constipation
  • Pain in the hips, low back, and inner thighs.

Severe cramp symptoms can include:

  • Upset stomach
  • Loose stools
  • Vomiting

Cysts and Tumors

  • Cysts and/or tumors in the pelvic or abdomen region can cause distress, irritation, inflammation, swelling, and pain viscerosomatic and musculoskeletal.

Chiropractic Causation Diagnosis

There is a connection between the spinal nerves and internal organ function. Internal organs connect to the brain through the spinal cord and nerve ganglia plexuses. The organs cannot function properly if the transmitted signals are interrupted or blocked. A chiropractor uses manual and mechanized manipulation to realign the spine. Chiropractic treatment diagnoses causation, restores joint function, eliminates pain, and prevents further injury, preventing degeneration and slowing disease processes in bone, muscle, and organs.


Spinal Decompression


References

Bath M, Owens J. Physiology, Viscerosomatic Reflexes. [Updated 2022 May 8]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. Available from: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559218/

Berrueta, Lisbeth, et al. “Stretching Impacts Inflammation Resolution in Connective Tissue.” Journal of cellular physiology vol. 231,7 (2016): 1621-7. doi:10.1002/jcp.25263

Carver AC, Foley KM. Types of Pain. In: Kufe DW, Pollock RE, Weichselbaum RR, et al., editors. Holland-Frei Cancer Medicine. 6th edition. Hamilton (ON): BC Decker; 2003. Available from: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK12991/

Sikandar, Shafaq, and Anthony H Dickenson. “Visceral pain: the ins and outs, the ups and downs.” Current opinion in supportive and palliative care vol. 6,1 (2012): 17-26. doi:10.1097/SPC.0b013e32834f6ec9

Viscerosomatic Pain Affecting Thoracic Spine

Viscerosomatic Pain Affecting Thoracic Spine

Introduction

The spine has three areas: cervical, thoracic, and lumbar in the back, encased with muscles, tissues, ligaments, and joints that help protect the spinal cord from injuries. With the spinal cord being part of the central nervous system, this long cord has many nerve roots that are spread all over the body and help function each section of the body. When the back muscles become damaged or injured in the thoracic region of the spine, it can cause painful symptoms and other issues that correspond with the thoracic spine. Today’s article will look at the thoracic spine, how back pain in the upper-mid section of the back, and how visceral referred pain affects the thoracic region in the body. We refer patients to certified, skilled providers specializing in osteopathic and chiropractic treatments that help those suffering from chest pains and thoracic back pain. 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 critical for asking insightful questions to our providers. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer

 

Can my insurance cover it? Yes, it may. If you are uncertain, here is the link to all the insurance providers we cover. If you have any questions or concerns, please call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900.

The Thoracic Spine

 

Have you been experiencing herniation in the upper-mid section of your back? Have you felt chest pain occur frequently? Do your back muscles feel stiff or constantly ache even after you stretch? All these symptoms are signs that affect the thoracic region of the spine. Research studies have defined the three spinal areas: the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar help keep the upper half of the body upright. The thoracic area of the spine has added support from the rib cage and allows the body to rotate and flex the upper body. The thoracic region of the spine is also the first curvature that is tight enough to protect the vital organs and loose enough to allow respiratory movement in the body. Additional research studies have also mentioned that the thoracic segments in the spine are susceptible to injuries that can affect the back entirely. The thoracic segments can succumb to structural alterations, disc herniation, and even trauma in the spine from environmental factors like lifting or carrying heavy objects, muscle strain, and forceful impact. 

 

How Thoracic Pain Affect The Body

When the thoracic region of the spine begins to suffer from environmental factors or traumatic events, it can affect the body and aggravate the nerves that encase the spinal column. Research studies have found that when the thoracic spine has succumbed to injuries, it can affect the upper half of the body. Structural changes in the thoracic T 1 through 3 regions of the spine can cause the cervical area to develop neck pain. This causes restricted segmental mobility in the cervical and thoracic regions of the spine. Another research study has mentioned that individuals suffering from thoracic pain will often complain about paravertebral pain aggravated by prolonged standing, hyperextension, and even hyper rotation in the thoracic spinal column. When this happens, it can cause discomfort to the individual and limit their range of motion since their muscles are stiff. Thoracic pain can even affect the corresponding muscles connected to the body’s internal organs.


Referred Pain Affect The Thoracic Spine-Video

Have you felt muscle stiffness in your upper-middle back? Have you been dealing with neck or chest pain? Have inflammatory issues affecting your esophagus? Many of these are signs and symptoms of visceral referred pain affecting the thoracic region of the spine. The video above explains how visceral referred pain can affect the thoracic spine and the corresponding muscle and organs in the area. Research studies have defined pain as damaged nociceptive sensory nerves that affect the peripheral tissues in the face. The broken nerve roots can affect one portion of the body but also a different section of the body. Additional research studies have also found that visceral pain affecting the thoracic regions of the spine can impact the cardiovascular system. This is due to hypertension caused by chronic stress from environmental factors.


Visceral Referred Pain Affecting The Thoracic Region

 

Research studies have noticed that thoracic spinal pain can become a common site for inflammation, degenerative discs, and other issues contributing to pain and disability in the spine. Visceral pain is a complex disorder that can cause the surrounding muscles and organs in the thoracic region to be compromised. When the body is suffering from visceral referred pain, the thoracic region of the spine will also begin to suffer. Additional research studies have found that visceral referred pain that affects the thoracic neurons will also affect the esophageal and cardiac input to the cardiovascular and gut systems. When the affected thoracic neurons begin to cause heart and esophageal problems, these two organs become hypersensitive due to noxious stimulation.

 

Conclusion

The spine has three areas: the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar, which help keep the body upright and is encased with muscles, tissues, and ligaments that protect the spinal cord from injuries. Injuries that affect the thoracic regions of the back can cause problems to the corresponding muscles and the internal organs, especially in the gut and cardiovascular systems. These organs become hyper-sensitive and can make the body develop hypertension and other issues that can make the body dysfunctional. When individuals realize that their upper-middle back pain in the thoracic region can affect their cardiovascular system, they can find ways to treat their back pain and prevent cardiovascular issues from forming.

 

References

Briggs, Andrew M, et al. “Thoracic Spine Pain in the General Population: Prevalence, Incidence and Associated Factors in Children, Adolescents and Adults. A Systematic Review.” BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, BioMed Central, 29 June 2009, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2720379/.

Brumovsky, P R, and G F Gebhart. “Visceral Organ Cross-Sensitization – an Integrated Perspective.” Autonomic Neuroscience: Basic & Clinical, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 16 Feb. 2010, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2818077/.

Gkasdaris, Grigorios, et al. “Clinical Anatomy and Significance of the Thoracic Intervertebral Foramen: A Cadaveric Study and Review of the Literature.” Journal of Craniovertebral Junction & Spine, Medknow Publications & Media Pvt Ltd, 2016, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5111324/.

Joshi, Shriya, et al. “Thoracic Posture and Mobility in Mechanical Neck Pain Population: A Review of the Literature.” Asian Spine Journal, Korean Society of Spine Surgery, 3 June 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6773982/.

Murray, Greg M. “Guest Editorial: Referred Pain.” Journal of Applied Oral Science : Revista FOB, Faculdade De Odontologia De Bauru Da Universidade De São Paulo, 2009, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4327510/.

van Kleef , Maarten, et al. “10. Thoracic Pain.” Pain Practice : the Official Journal of World Institute of Pain, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2010, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20492577/.

Ward, John, et al. “Immediate Effects of Upper Thoracic Spine Manipulation on Hypertensive Individuals.” The Journal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy, Maney Publishing, Feb. 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4459143/.

Waxenbaum, Joshua A, et al. “Anatomy, Back, Thoracic Vertebrae – Statpearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 12 Aug. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459153/.

Disclaimer

Viscerosomatic Reflex:  Internal Organ Distress Back Pain

Viscerosomatic Reflex: Internal Organ Distress Back Pain

Low back and mid-back pain could be caused by abdominal or pelvic organ distress/irritation or infection that an individual doesn’t know about. This could be a viscerosomatic reflex. This can be the case when there is no back injury, muscle strain, or sprain that would coincide with back aching and soreness. Identifying the symptoms and diagnosing the underlying cause is the first step in getting ultimate pain relief.

Viscerosomatic Reflex: Distressed Internal Organs Can Cause Back Pain

The Organs

Inflammation and other issues with any internal organs in the central, abdominal, or pelvic region can produce low back pain. These include the following:

  • Heart
  • Lungs
  • Stomach
  • Intestines
  • Liver
  • Gallbladder

Viscerosomatic reflex pain can also be felt in a completely different body part than where the organ is located. This can cause an individual to think something is wrong in that body region when there is not.

Kidneys

  • The kidneys help remove liquid waste from the body.
  • Urine that contains more chemical substances than what can be diluted can cause kidney stones to form and sharp pain in the side and the lower back.
  • Kidney stones can also cause difficulty urinating and blood to show up in the urine.
  • A kidney infection can result in mid-low back pain and fever.

Pancreas

  • The pancreas plays a vital role in digestion and blood sugar regulation.
  • Pancreatitis is inflammation that can cause severe and disabling pain that starts in the upper abdomen and radiates to the low back.

Appendix

Large Intestine

  • Inflammation of the large intestine/colon and/or ulcerative colitis can also cause:
  • Low back pain.
  • Abdominal cramps
  • Rectal pain.

Visceral Pain

Visceral pain is different as it can be harder to pinpoint a source and feels like a dull aching or tightening pressure.‌ The pain originates in the organs of the respiratory system, stomach, or pelvis that is often described as a dull ache but is also described as:

Visceral pain has distinguishing characteristics:

  • The pain originates in the middle of the body but can be felt in other areas.
  • The pain can be scattered, and difficult to locate a definitive source.
  • The affected area or other body regions can become sensitive.
  • It can accompany other symptoms like nausea, vomiting, sweating, or heart palpitations.
  • Psychological symptoms like depression can begin to present.

Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic focuses on healing the musculoskeletal system of aches and pain, muscle stiffness, and/or chronic conditions that complement traditional medical care. Adjustments can correct the body’s alignment and how the body physically functions. A chiropractor will use manual or mechanical decompression techniques to realign the spine. This will release the muscle, tendon, ligament, and nerve tension, bringing pain relief, and improving nervous system function, and viscerosomatic reflex. Treatments include:

Adjustments

  • Will gently realign the joints to decrease pain and increase range of motion.

Soft-tissue therapy

  • Will relax tight muscles, relieve spasms, and release tension in the surrounding connective tissues.

Exercises and stretches

  • Will restore and maintain joint stability and mobility.

Joint bracing and Kinesio taping

  • Will support sprained joints or muscles as the healing process continues.

Integrative medicine expert referrals

  • Experts will guide individuals on diet and nutrition to reduce inflammation and promote healthy eating for overall health.

DRX9000 Low Back Pain, Sciatica, Herniated Disc


References

Bath M, Owens J. Physiology, Viscerosomatic Reflexes. [Updated 2022 May 8]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. Available from: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559218/

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