The thoracic spine known as the middle back starts below the cervical or neck spine at around the level of the shoulders. It continues down to the first level of the low back or lumbar spine. There are twelve vertebrae, numbered T1-T12 top to bottom, and it is these vertebrae that make up the thoracic spine. When seen from the side, a normal forward curve can be seen.
The ribs are attached to the thoracic spine�s vertebrae making this region of the spine strong and stable. However, this area has less range-of-motion than the neck region. Because of its location, the thoracic spine deals less with injury/s than other areas of the spine. But it is the most common area for fractures from osteoporosis. Scoliosis and abnormal kyphosis are also thoracic spine disorders.
Getting to know the body's spine and how it functions can help individuals have a better and thorough understanding of possible causes to upper and middle back pain, a doctor�s diagnosis, and the reasons for how simple lifestyle changes/choices can keep the middle back, as well as, the rest of the spine healthy.
Thoracic Support
The thoracic spine gives support to the torso, chest and provides an attachment point for each of the rib bones, minus the two at the bottom. The vertebral bodies are rounded with bony arches that project from the back of each and form a hollow protective space for the spinal cord. Facet joints are paired at the back of each and allow for limited movement.
Intervertebral Discs
There is a fibrous pad called an intervertebral disc that is held in place by the endplates between each level�s upper and lower vertebral bodies. Each disc acts like a spacer creating disc height/space between the upper and lower vertebrae. This space opens nerve passageways called a foramen or neural foramina at both sides. Nerve roots branch off the spinal cord and exit the canal through the neural foramina.
Soft Support Structures Limited Movement/s
The entire spinal column consists of:
Ligaments
Tendons
Muscles
These soft tissues attach to the bones, the discs, and work together to stabilize the midback when resting and when in motion. Ligaments are the strong bands of tissue that connect/protect the vertebrae, discs, provide stability, and help with excessive movement. Muscles hold the body upright and allow spinal flexion which is bending forward, extension bending backward, and rotation twisting from side to side. And the tendons are fibrous tissues that attach the muscle/s to the bone.
Nerves Role
The twelve pairs of nerve rootlets that branch off the cord through the neural foramen are to supply and generate sensation/feeling along with function/movement to the body. These nerves provide nutrients to the midback and chest area and relay signals between the brain and major organs, including:
Lungs
Heart
Liver
Small intestine
Spinal Disorders
Osteoporosis raises the chances of a thoracic fracture. A vertebral compression fracture can cause one or more bodies of bone to flatten or become wedge-shaped creating spinal cord/nerve compression. Sudden and severe back pain can be associated with vertebral compression fractures.
Scoliosis is an abnormal side to side curvature of the spine and is well known to develop in the thoracic spine causing deformity.
Abnormal kyphosis means the forward curvature has become extreme. The appearance of a kyphotic deformity can be seen as a hump.
Metastatic cancer where it travels from the chest, or lung causing spinal tumor/s that can develop and potentially lead to structural deterioration
Thoracic disc herniations are not common because of the middle back's strength and stability created by the ribcage.
Spine Maintenance
Talk with your doctor, chiropractor, spine specialist about stretches and exercises that will work for your specific situation to strengthen the core, and middle back musculature. This will help significantly with injury prevention during flexion, extension, and rotation.
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
Self-care practice when back pain flares up is a way for individuals to give themselves self-therapy attention in the midst of crazy schedules. It�s never been more important than now to be able to take care of oneself when back or any type of pain presents. For a few minutes, daily physical and mental health activities can make a difference.
Self-care is the ability to self-manage pain and take care of our constantly changing needs daily. Regular self-care is essential to our families, and friends well being. Pain is emotionally and physically taxing on the body. It brings and encourages mental/emotional and physical balance, which helps, especially when there is a condition that causes pain.
There is a connection between self-care and chronic pain that is being studied currently. Studies are finding that individuals practicing self-care in addition to regular medical care have significant reductions in pain and reduction in disability. So, alleviate back pain with a few self-care tips.
Hot Bath
Hydrotherapy better known as a hot bath can provide pain relief. Adding Epsom salt for these baths contains magnesium which can help relax muscles and the body.
Music can be an effective way to ease back pain. Research has shown that music can be a complementary treatment when addressing chronic pain. It helps especially when an individual is experiencing back pain along with a low/negative mood.
More Sleep
Poor sleep has been proven to increased back pain. Getting the proper amount of sleep is essential in addressing pain. Healthy sleep hygiene and bedtime routines will significantly help with the body�s recovery, healing, and general health.
Yoga
Yoga stretching is highly effective in relieving and avoiding/preventing back pain completely. Poses like the cat, cow, triangle, and child�s pose will generate relief along with improving balance.
Healthy Diet
Diet and lifestyle changes have been proven to reduce inflammation, which can cause chronic pain. Go with whole foods that are minimally processed. This will help reduce inflammation. Healthy weight along with healthy body mass keeps the spine healthy and free of the added stress from the weight. Therefore a sensible diet is the single most important factor in weight loss.
Connection
Isolation can exacerbate pain. Loneliness can be a significant risk factor in the development of pain, and with time, depression, and fatigue. Simply reaching out and connecting with loved ones, friends, co-workers, etc, could help in soothing the pain away.
Mindfulness
Mind-body therapy as a method to treat pain has been proven in various studies. Individuals taking part have reported significantly lower pain than those who only received traditional medical care. What happens is you are training your mind senses to be present and focused on what you are doing, the surroundings, etc, and not focusing, and getting lost in the pain. However, sitting down and meditating is not for everybody.
Drink the Proper Amount of Water
Hypohydration, which is not enough water can increase pain. Therefore, drink up.
Stretching
Stretching will definitely decrease pain and allow for practicing mindfulness. It doesn't matter when the stretching happens so long as, the individual sticks with it and continues development to further their ability and flexibility. Core abdominal exercises are very helpful for back pain and strengthening.
Go Outside
Many of us know that getting out in nature feels good mentally and physically, and it can actually relieve pain, too. Nature therapy or ecotherapy has shown to improve the psychological and physiological symptoms associated with chronic pain. Connecting to nature can have tremendous benefits for optimal health.
Heat Therapy
Heat, whether from a topical agent or heating pad can soothe the mind and spine. Check with a doctor before trying any type of heat treatment.
Frequent Breaks
Taking breaks is essential for the mind in keeping stress levels balanced. This can lessen back pain. Just a few minutes to stop whatever and take a few minutes for yourself and your health. Taking proper physical and mental rests throughout the day to stretch out, move around, and do something else. This will help keep things open and fresh, as opposed to going through the same thing over and over with less than optimal results. The mind needs to reflect.
Go Easy
Go easy on yourself, this is probably the most important form of self-care. If the pain is too intense, do not force yourself to work through it. Use the various techniques mentioned and go slowly, with the fundamentals of combating pain and chronic pain. Slow down whenever you feel the need.
Lower Back Pain Skating Boarding Injury Treatment
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
Individuals with chronic pain, whether back, neck, arm, hips, etc, want to avoid surgery or drug treatments. This is where a chiropractic physician comes in with natural/alternative medicinecombined with conventional approaches to pain management. New pain assessment and management standards now require hospitals to provide or inform and educate individuals on pain treatment options that are not drug-based. These include:
�Provide Safer, More Effective Care for patients with chronic pain� and that �non-opioid therapy is preferred for chronic pain outside of active cancer, palliative, and end-of-life care.� CDC
�
�
A widely recognized and highly effective form of pain management is chiropractic treatment. Chiropractic physicians are trained and equipped with a wide range of diagnostic tools and treatment/rehabilitation options to bring relief from pain without surgery or drugs.
A chiropractic physician is trained or incorporates acupuncture and physical and massage therapy into their pain management plans. The ability to provide this type of range of care is why many individuals keep a regular chiropractic regimen to keep them loose, limber, and in top form.
�
Myths
Individuals that have pain believe they have to live with it and that it�s just part of the wear and tear on the body. It is true that the body wears down, however continual pain does not have to be part of the cycle. Chiropractic adjustments keep the body balanced and in proper alignment bringing relief and providing pain prevention.
Then there are those that believe the answer is muscle relaxers or pain meds, not realizing that chiropractic can offer relief.
The most common myth is that chiropractic physicians only treat back pain. Chiropractic doctors treat a wide variety of acute and chronic pain syndromes including:
Headaches
Sports injuries
Auto Accident injuries
Personal injuries
Work injuries
Athletic performance enhancement
Neuropathy
Fibromyalgia
Stress
Fertility
Pregnancy
�
Chiropractic Pain Management
The principal focus for a chiropractic physician is the musculoskeletal and nervous systems and their impact on the health of an individual. They often work collaborate with the individual's primary or emergency health care providers in diagnosis, treatment, and management for their health condition/s. They take into account various factors that are affecting their patients� health, which include:
Treatment options vary depending on every individual�s specific needs and personal situation. A treatment plan could consist of a chiropractor recommending therapeutic massage, stretches, and exercises as part of a daily regimen combined with manual adjustments to:
Reduce pain
Prevent musculoskeletal deterioration
Improve strength
Increased range of motion
Another treatment plan could include soft tissue massage therapy to augment/enhance muscle and ligament function. The primary aim of chiropractic medicine is to identify the source of the pain and return the body to its proper alignment and function. These adjustments to gain proper alignment allow the body to heal itself without medication or surgery.
�
The Benefits
Chiropractic therapy as a no-meds approach to pain management has gained support. The misconceptions and myths are being debunked as individuals and science are seeing the effectiveness of chiropractic for many pain-related conditions. Many job insurance plans cover chiropractic. Medicare and Medicaid include chiropractic services and are offered at military facilities/clinics.
The benefits of chiropractic include:
The risk of pain meds dependence is significantly reduced
The causes of pain and treating them naturally is the goal
Reduces inflammation
Improves athletic performance
Natural rehabilitation for auto, personal, sports and work injuries
Health coaching
�
Treating Severe & Complex Sciatica Syndromes
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
Summer footwear, although light and comfortable can lead to low back pain. Individuals with low back pain conditions/issues should opt for custom flip-flops or sandals. A few tips on how to choose the right summer footwear and avoid back pain. With the temperature going up we're all ready to take out the shorts, t-shirts, and flip-flops or sandals. That's when back pain can flare-up.
There are a variety of things that can generate back pain like improper posture, muscle spasms, and various medical issues. However, everyday shoe choices can also impact the spine and cause back pain. NCBI studies backed by podiatrists have found that unstable shoes, e.g., cheap flip-flops, and sandals can cause low back pain. �
�
�
Improper footwear allows biomechanical abnormalities affecting the feet to be compounded and worsened. This leads to increased pain in the knees, hips, and lower back. Accurately fitted shoes and orthotics are some of the best footwear for lower back pain. While flip-flops and sandals unless they are orthotic based offer little to no support.
�
Summer Footwear Back Pain
Like any type of mechanical system, if there is something wrong in one area, other problem issues begin to arise in other areas. It is the same with the body. If there is an issue with the feet it can affect the knees and hips, rising up to the spine causing back pain.
Summer shoes can worsen any of these underlying issues that often individuals don't even know they had until they see a doctor for their back pain. This usually begins with the foot type. Those with flat feet tend to force the muscles and tendons in the feet to work more leading to tendinitis.
Arches that have fallen or droppedand remain unsupported can lead to arthritis development in the knees and the wearing down of the medial meniscus. Knees that do not function properly place added stress on the hips and lower back. This can lead to disc degeneration of the intervertebral discs. �
�
Foot Arch Type
Anatomical anomalies like fallen arches/flat feet and high arches can cause back pain differently. Hyperpronation happens in flat feet causing the arches to collapse. This places more pressure on the inside of the legs and knees, which creates more imbalance in the hips and low back. �
�
Hyper supination happens in high-arched feet causing the arches to rise. This places the pressure on the outside of the legs and knees, leading to muscle imbalances on the outside of the legs along with the hips and low back. Wearing unsupportive shoes like flip-flops, sandals, and heels for a long time, can cause back pain or make an existing condition worse. �
�
Either flat feet or high-arched feet left untreated can lead to long-term injuries and extended/over wear and tear of the spine's vertebrae and intervertebral discs. Summer footwear choices can influence discomfort and back pain.
�
The Right Shoes
Summer footwear that doesn't generate back pain doesn't mean that you have to throw out the flip-flops. Look for shoes or flip-flops that are highly durable, sturdy, that don't bend in the middle, and only at the toes.
For those with flat feet look for sufficient arch support to prevent hyperpronation. Pay attention to the details of the shoes/flip-flops/sandals. For example, added cushion, or ankle support could mean the difference between pain and relief. There are sandals that have ankle straps to keep the feet in place. This prevents the feet from slipping out, provides better stability during walks, and can help prevent tendinitis. �
�
It is better to avoid anything with a heel, especially sandals or flip-flops that have a heel/high lift. These force the individual to shift their center of gravity forwardforcing the arching of the spine when standing. This position definitely contributes to back pain.
�
Customized Footwear
Customized flip-flops or sandals that won�t cause any back pain are available with the help of a podiatrist or a chiropractor that helps and works with podiatrists. 3D-scans can be done to make fully-customized flip-flops that support the arches based on the scan. �
�
Excessive Foot Pronation and Custom Foot Orthotics
�
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
Chiropractor Dr. Alexander Jimenez of Injury Medical and Chiropractic Clinic focuses on long-haul truck driversand non-invasive spinal treatments. Truck drivers are at a much higher risk of developing degenerative spinal disorders from the stress that constant driving and repetitive lifting can place on the spinal muscles of the lower back.
Driving a huge truck for eight to ten hours every day/night means the person sits in a stationary position for a long time. The muscles, joints, and ligaments tend to become stiff, and proper blood circulation is affected over time. Ailments can last for weeks, even up to several years if drivers don't take time to focus on their health and find the right treatment.
Teams are in a truck that never stops. Even sleeping in the bunk, these drivers are subject to constant vibration and bouncing as the truck moves. Roads that are poorly maintained can cause impact trauma to both the driver and the person in the bunk. Various factors can cause musculoskeletal pain like:
Having limited mobility can lead to structural problems like pain in the back, hip, knee, shoulder, arms, and legs. This is compounded by the fact that prescription medications are the norm for these issues and can be dangerous.
Long Haul
These individuals are taught proper lifting techniques but with time forget to follow them during the rush to make the delivery/s on time. Driving for extended periods regularly places added strain on the back. This is due in part because these individuals can't use their feet to support the lower part of their bodies while working the pedals of the truck.
The continuous instability, vibrations, and positional changes that come with long-haul driving can cause tension in the spine and surrounding muscles in the area. Research has shown that vibration of the body while driving increases the load on the lower back and driving on roads that are not maintained can exacerbate the condition.
The continuous bouncing can lead to spinal disc compression, which in turn causes degeneration of pain in the spine and nerves. This continuous strenuous routine can lead to herniated/bulging discs, which can cause pain and lead to the development of other spinal conditions like sciatica. Improper alignment of the spine can lead to dysfunction and pain in one or several areas of the body. Other conditions that could develop include:
Facet joint syndrome - the cartilage wears away making the spinal joints stiff and swollen. This syndrome can lead to reduced mobility.
Spinal compression from sitting in a single position for a long time places pressure on the spinal column. As the spinal column compresses, it causes tightness in the lower and upper back muscles.
Sciatica is a combination of symptoms and pain that travel from the lower back to the knee and even into the foot. Usually, caused by a herniated disc that compresses the sciatic nerve, it can cause shooting electrical pain down the leg. Drivers with sciatica can also have tight gluteal muscles that place pressure on the nerve.
Neck pain from tight and tender muscles can affect the middle back and cervical/neck area of the spine causing soreness.
Tension headaches begin with the muscles at the base of the skull. When these muscles are tight, they can pinch the nerves, beginning a headache.
Shoulder pain can be caused by overuse when loading, along with rotator cuff injuries and bicep tendonitis. An inflamed bicep can cause inflammation and pain in the shoulder.
Preventable and Treatable
Prevention and proper treatment are key. Here are a few simple ways to improve the drive:
Better seating to reduce vibration
Correct sitting posture
Chiropractic/physical therapy
Exercise
Proper diet
Ice therapy
Proper sleep support
Proper Seat
The seats that are standard in a truck do not offer proper support for a driver's back, shoulders, neck, and legs. A seat pad for extra comfort or a memory foam seat with a massage base can relax the muscles. For quick lumbar supportroll up a pillow, towel, or t-shirt and place it behind the lower back.
An ergonomic truck seat helps fight the discomfort and awkward positions, that result in positive posture. A proper seat will force the back into its healthy arch. Driving with less strain helps:
Boost circulation
Distribute the body weight evenly
Helps drivers operate longer
Reduces the vibrations running through the body
These long-haul drivers can choose to bypass invasive procedures that can take months to heal. This is because the inability to drive means they don't earn a check. And being taken out of a driving job for any period can cause financial difficulties.
Chiropractic provides long-haul truck drivers with a non-invasive, drug-free way to treat injuries, manage conditions, and relieve pain. Regular chiropractic can help correct postural habits that expose the body to injury or move the body and the spine out of alignment. It can identify emerging issues before they become a severe condition.
Larger truck stops offer drivers access to medical and chiropractic services allowing them to get treatment when they need it. Long haul drivers can be out for weeks and may not be able to get their regular adjustments. But it is still a good idea to have a regular chiropractor at home so you can stay healthy and on the road.
Spinal injections are exactly what the name says. They are administered direct injections of medicine/s in a specific location of the spine. These are used to treat various conditions affecting the spine when non-invasive treatment/s are not working.
This could be an area along the upper cervical/neck spine all the way down to the sacrum. Injections are also utilized in helping to diagnose neck or back pain that radiates or spreads into an individual�s arms and legs. These are known as:
Cervical radiculopathy
Lumbar radiculopathy
Spinal injection/s for diagnostic or treatment purposes could be a part of an overall treatment plan along with chiropractic/physical therapy and possible medication.
�
�
The medicine in the injection
The medicine could be comprised of a local anesthetic on its own, steroid on its own, or a combination of the two. Steroids are short for corticosteroid, which is a strong anti-inflammatory medication. A contrast dye like an x-ray dye could be added to the injection mix. This dye acts as a guide for precise placement of the needle using image guidance.
�
Spinal disorders that could benefit
Proceeding with an injection treatment plan is based on an individual's unique factors that apply to their condition/state. This decision will be made after consultation, and diagnosis with your doctor, spine specialist, or chiropractor.
Healthcare providers recommend conservative treatment first. A treatment plan typically runs around 4-6 weeks. If there is no change or improvement in the individual's condition from the conservative therapy then injection treatment/s could be recommended. Conditions, where injection/s are used, include:
Disc herniation
Facet joint pain
Failed back syndrome
Sacroiliac joint pain
Sciatica
Spinal stenosis
�
Spinal injection and nerve block difference
Spinal injections are a general term that could mean any type of injection involving the spine. Nerve blocks are a precise type of injection that targets a specific nerve. As the medicine is injected into the target nerve/s, it blocks or creates a blockade of the pain signals being sent from the area (ex. neck, low back, etc.) that is generating the pain.
�
Injection types
Epidural
An epidural means an injection on the dura. The dura is the outermost layer that encloses the spinal cord. �
�
3 types of epidurals. They are named according to the direction and angle the needle takes to get to the dura.
Caudal epidural:
The spinal canal ends at an opening at the end of the sacrum called the spinal hiatus. The medicine is injected into the epidural space through the sacral hiatus. This is the method that is used to provide anesthesia to pregnant women when they're in labor. �
�
Transforaminal epidural:
There are nerve roots that come out of the spinal canal at each level through a bony opening called the intervertebral foramen or neuroforamen. The medicine is injected into the epidural space in these areas.
Interlaminar epidural:
The lamina is a section that forms the arch of each level and forms the spinal canal. The lamina at each level lays on top of the lamina right below. The needle is inserted between the lamina for delivery of the medicine into the epidural space. �
�
Selective Nerve Root Block - SNRB
These involve the injection of a local anesthetic onto a targeted nerve. They are typically used for diagnostic purposes. For individuals with multi-spinal compression/s, these combined with:
Medical history
Physical exam
MRI
These can help identify the pain generator such as spinal stenosis.
�
Medial Branch Block - MBB
The facet joints are bony projections that connect a vertebral level to the levels above and below. These can become arthritic and is responsible for different forms of back pain.
This type of spinal injection is local anesthetic injected on the medial branch nerves. These are the nerves that send pain signals from the facet joint/s. They are useful in determining if the facet joint is the pain generator. �
�
Facet Joint
These are injections directly into the facet joint itself. Much like injecting anti-inflammatory and pain meds into a knee with arthritis.
�
Sacroiliac Joint
The two sacroiliac joints help connect either side of the sacrum to the hip joint. Like other joints, these can get inflamed and cause painful symptoms. This is an injection directly into one or both of the sacroiliac joints.
�
Administration of the spinal injection or nerve block
Injections are only to be performed by doctors trained specifically in spinal injections. Injections are usually performed by an:
Anesthesiologist
Neurologist
Neurosurgeon
Orthopedic surgeon
Physiatrist
Radiologist
�
Role of these procedures
Reasons why an injection could be used:
Help as a diagnostic to identify the pain generator
Therapeutically to provide pain relief
As a prognostic pain predictor of the relief, an individual could expect from a more invasive procedure like nerve ablation.
�
How often
A maximum of 6 injections for one year is the recommended treatment protocol. Each injection should be based on the effect/s of the previous injection.
�
Potential benefits
The main benefit is to bring pain relief and the ability to function.
Major complications happen in less than one percent of those undergoing the treatment. Individuals with diabetes could see a temporary elevation of their blood sugar.
�
Lasting effects
How long the medicine lasts is different for everyone and comes with variables like:
Type of injection
Type of pathology
Diagnosis
Cause
How long the symptoms last
Most can expect to have one and a half to three months of relief. However, with some, they may only provide minimal relief, while others may see improvements for up to a year.
�
Treating Severe & Complex Sciatica Syndromes
�
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at�915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
Having the proper mattress can help reduce, prevent, and alleviate neck and back pain. Individuals spend around one-third of their life sleeping. However, when it comes to the mattress that we sleep on, there seems to be no consideration of how the mattress will affect our spines. No other piece of furniture in the house is used more often or affects overall health more than our beds. �
�
�
Down to sleep
Everybody needs to sleep, as the proper amount of rest is an essential part of life. When there is a lack of sleep or sleep disorder, this contributes and leads to health issues of all types and increased/exacerbated pain.
Specifically, the spine benefits tremendously from a proper sleep cycle. The spine works all day supporting the body and its functions. Rest is essential to maintain this level of activity day in and out. But when the surface that we sleep on does not support our body and spine in the correct form, then proper sleep can be impossible to achieve.
�
Proper Mattress Selection
The mattress we sleep on can make a significant difference in the quality of sleep we are getting on a regular basis. A mattress that does not provide optimal support for the spine can lead to muscle fatigue and sleep deprivation.
A proper mattress keeps the spine in the same natural alignment as when standing. When the body can rest in its natural position, the muscles are relaxed and the sleep is healthy following the five stages of a full sleep cycle.
�
Healthy sleep means the individual needs to cycle through five stages: 1, 2, 3, 4, and rapid eye movement or REM sleep. A full sleep cycle takes around 90 to 110 minutes to complete. Once the five stages have finished, it starts over at stage 1. Here is a look at the stages:
Stage 1
This is the lightest stage and is characterized by slow eye movement and relaxed muscle activity.
Stage 2
Eye movement stops and brain waves slow down.
Stage 3
This is the first stage of deep sleep where brain waves appear but are extremely slow. It can be quite difficult to wake someone from this stage.
Stage 4
This is the second stage of deep sleep with no eye or muscle activity. Just like stage 3, it can be more difficult to wake someone in this stage.
REM sleep
This is the dream phase where breathing quickens, heart rate, blood pressure increase, and eyes begin to move around in different directions. REM sleep could be considered the most important stage, as researchers believe REM sleep contributes to storing memories, learning, and regulating mood. Most adults spend half of their total sleep time in stage 2, 20% in REM sleep, and 30% in the other stages. �
Innerspring mattresses can offer more variety in terms of firmness and support. However, individuals find other types of mattresses just as comfortable. What makes a proper mattress the best is that it is the one that offers you the most support and the most comfort.
�
Foundation
This is usually called the box spring, which is just as important as the mattress. The box spring absorbs the weight along with the added stress of movement etc, from the mattress. Having the proper foundation extends the life of the mattress.
If possible try to purchase the box spring designed for the mattress. Using no box spring, an old box spring, or mixing the mattress and box spring can have a negative impact on the level of support and durability of the mattress.
�
Firmness
The belief that the firmer the mattress is the better is not exactly true. A too-firm mattress does not support the body in a balanced fashion. Which means that only the body's heaviest parts are supported. A too-soft mattress can sink, preventing the spine from keeping proper alignment. Too firm or too soft does not allow the muscles to relax and rest, because they have to keep working to find a comfortable position just to maintain correct posture.
�
Comfort
Make sure to take the time to lie on the mattress and test it out when shopping. Lie down and position yourself the way you would when sleeping. Take turns turning/moving from side to side. If sleeping with a spouse or partner, try out the mattress together to make sure there is enough space to move around comfortably. Be sure that the mattress can support the spine and maintain its natural curve.
Beware, mattress manufacturers use different terms for comfort and firmnessthat could be confusing. Mattress makers will use a term like orthopedic but it does not have any actual medical merit or benefit. That is why trying out the mattress before buying is the way to go. It will definitely help to tell which one is the most supportive and comfortable.
�
Durability
How long the mattress and materials that it's made of will last determines the durability. Top-quality materials are what to aim for. Especially, the core and the cover. Prices are determined by:
What the mattress is made out of
The quality of the construction
The size
A proper mattress and box spring should last for around 8-10 years. Therefore it is an investment in your spine and quality health. Don't automatically go for the mattresses on sale or that are the cheapest. Instead, search for the best quality and value.
�
Flip or Rotate
Keeping the mattress in top form means flipping or rotating the mattress on a regular basis. This will ensure even wear and tear giving you optimal spine and body support. �
�
Time for a new one
Even proper mattresses don't last a lifetime. But like most of us, we wait way too long when it comes to replacing. For those who've had the same mattress for 10 years or more, it is definitely time for a new one. There are other signs letting you know it's time to replace including:
Waking up tired and aching could signal that the mattress is no longer providing enough support for proper rest. Not feeling refreshed after sleep could be the sign it's time for a new mattress.
If the mattress looks old, worn, or strained, and the box spring rocks and squeaks are all signs that the mattress and foundation are worn out.
The bed is no longer comfortable with the mattress sagging/sinking or leaving an impression where you sleep. Slipping or rolling toward the center along with the inability to find a comfortable position means it's time to think about a new mattress.
�
Sleep position makes a difference
Sleeping on the side, with knees bent or with a pillow between the knees is considered the best way to maintain proper body posture. However, if you must sleep on your back, place a pillow under the knees to support the normal curve of the spine.
Sleeping on the stomach or with the head elevated on an oversized pillow creates an unnatural arch of the spine. This increases pressure on the diaphragm and lungs. These positions usually lead to restless tossing and turning and loss of proper sleep. �
�
Don't Worry
If there is difficulty getting the right amount of sleep or you are waking up exhausted then this could be the time to take a look at where and how you sleep. A proper mattress and box spring will generate proper comfortable rest all the while maintaining posture and protecting the spine. Remember that sleep is an essential nutrient for our bodies. Therefore, the bed that we sleep on can make a significant difference.
Three Points of Weight Loss @ PUSH Fitness Center
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at�915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico
IFM's Find A Practitioner tool is the largest referral network in Functional Medicine, created to help patients locate Functional Medicine practitioners anywhere in the world. IFM Certified Practitioners are listed first in the search results, given their extensive education in Functional Medicine
