High temperatures can disrupt the body’s sleep cycles, leading to health problems. Can knowing strategies and remedies help manage sleep quality?
Hot Weather Sleep
Sleep is important for refreshing the mind and body and being productive in school, work, relationships, and overall health. With record-breaking temperatures becoming the norm, consistently sleeping healthy is becoming difficult as forecasters predict another scorching summer with above-average temperatures. 2023 was the hottest year ever recorded. (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. 2024) Studies show that high temperatures make it hard to fall asleep and stay asleep, which can negatively affect the immune system, cardiovascular system, cognitive performance, and mood. (Zheng, G., Li, K., and Wang, Y. 2019) (Obradovich, N. et al., 2017) Throughout the night, the body cycles through different sleep stages. (National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, 2022)
Because the body’s temperature regulation is less effective during certain stages, a hot environment can cause waking so the body can thermoregulate. The right temperature is imperative for a healthy night’s sleep. For optimal sleep, it is recommended that the bedroom temperature be between 65 and 69 degrees Fahrenheit. However, this isn’t always possible without air conditioning, which increases electricity bills. Here are other strategies to help keep the body cool for better sleep in hot weather.
Cooler Sleeping Environment
Thinking creatively about sleeping arrangements can help. Try to find the place that is the coolest and has the most airflow. Shutters or curtains during the day can help keep the room dark and cooler, and opening the windows can increase airflow. (Fergus Nicol, 2019) Using a fan can help improve air circulation, and putting ice behind the fan can blow cooler air for improved sleep.
Cooling Pillows and Breathable Pajamas
Pajamas and bedding made from breathable fabrics can help keep the body cool, and cooling mattress toppers or pillows can also help. Cooling pillows have gel overlays that absorb body heat and cool the head and neck. Keep an ice pack on the bedside table and a towel and ice to keep the body cool.
Take a Slightly Warm Shower
Taking a cold shower can cool the body down quickly, but studies have shown that showering in warm water before bed can make it easier to fall asleep. (Tai, Y. et al., 2021) The warm shower signals the body into cooling mode, which can help promote sleep as the body temperature falls at night. However, the water shouldn’t be too warm, which could exacerbate sweating.
Sleep Hygiene
It can be difficult to create the perfect sleep environment in hot weather. A healthy going-to-bed routine is essential in the summer, as stress and anxiety can significantly affect sleep quality. Avoid eating close to bedtime, avoid alcohol, and add some time to relax and unwind before going to bed. Sleep experts suggest general sleep hygiene habits like keeping a consistent bedtime and turning off screens an hour before bed can help improve sleep, even in hot weather. (Baranwal, N., Yu, P. K., and Siegel, N. S. 2023)
Chiropractic Treatment
Chiropractic care, massage, and decompression therapy can help improve sleep. Treatment retrains the body to relax; stretching and pulling the muscles increases blood circulation and advanced and improved brain signals telling the body to relax. A chiropractor will evaluate the individual’s sleeping patterns and recommend various strategies. Benefits include:
Muscle tension relief.
Stimulates nerve and blood circulation.
Relaxes the whole body.
Enhances central nervous system function.
Relieves pain and discomfort.
A chiropractor will also provide:
Sleeping position recommendations.
Postural stretches and exercises.
Recommendations on supportive mattresses.
Ergonomics for work, home, and bed.
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to develop an optimal health and wellness solution through an integrated approach to treating injuries and chronic pain syndromes, improving flexibility, mobility, and agility programs to relieve pain and help individuals return to normal. Our providers create personalized plans for each patient. If other treatments are needed, Dr. Jimenez has teamed up with top surgeons, clinical specialists, medical researchers, and rehabilitation providers to provide the most effective treatments.
Beyond Adjustments: Chiropractic and Integrative Healthcare
References
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. (2024). April 2024 was Earth’s warmest on record. Retrieved from https://www.noaa.gov/news/april-2024-was-earths-warmest-on-record
Zheng, G., Li, K., & Wang, Y. (2019). The Effects of High-Temperature Weather on Human Sleep Quality and Appetite. International journal of environmental research and public health, 16(2), 270. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16020270
Obradovich, N., Migliorini, R., Mednick, S. C., & Fowler, J. H. (2017). Nighttime temperature and human sleep loss in a changing climate. Science advances, 3(5), e1601555. https://doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.1601555
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2022). Sleep phases and stages. Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/sleep/stages-of-sleep
Nicol F. (2019). Temperature and sleep. Energy and Buildings, 204. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enbuild.2019.109516.
Tai, Y., Obayashi, K., Yamagami, Y., Yoshimoto, K., Kurumatani, N., Nishio, K., & Saeki, K. (2021). Hot-water bathing before bedtime and shorter sleep onset latency are accompanied by a higher distal-proximal skin temperature gradient in older adults. Journal of clinical sleep medicine : JCSM : official publication of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 17(6), 1257–1266. https://doi.org/10.5664/jcsm.9180
Baranwal, N., Yu, P. K., & Siegel, N. S. (2023). Sleep physiology, pathophysiology, and sleep hygiene. Progress in cardiovascular diseases, 77, 59–69. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pcad.2023.02.005
Emotional challenges like anxiety and depression or digestive disorders can cause individuals to experience a nervous stomach. Can knowing common symptoms, what causes them, and when to see a healthcare provider help manage the disorder?
Nervous Stomach
A nervous stomach is usually nothing to worry about, but it can happen occasionally as a reaction to a new environment, groups of people, foods, stress, and anxiety. Symptoms include indigestion, fluttering stomach/butterflies, or a gut-wrenching feeling. (Anxiety and Depression Association of America. 2023) Causes include underlying psychological and physical health conditions, certain medications, and lifestyle factors. Individuals experiencing chronic or ongoing symptoms should speak with a healthcare provider about their full range of symptoms. Treatments include medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes.
Symptoms
Nervous stomach symptoms can vary. Stress and anxiety can lead to physical symptoms, and physical symptoms may also lead to stress and anxiety. This is because the brain and gut connection communicates which hormones and neurotransmitters will be released and when. Common symptoms include: (Anxiety and Depression Association of America. 2023)
Loss of appetite
Butterflies or fluttering feeling in the stomach
Upset stomach
Indigestion
Bloating
Flatulence
Gut-wrenching feeling
Cramping
Nausea, dry heaving
Increased need to urinate or have bowel movements
Constipation
Diarrhea
Out-of-sync hunger cues
Causes
In most cases, a nervous stomach will come and go. However, it can also be caused by disorders such as anxiety disorder, depression, or gastrointestinal and digestive disorders. Brain health contributes to gut health, and vice versa. The brain is always communicating with the digestive system, and the digestive system is always sending information back to the brain. (Foster, J. A., and McVey Neufeld, K. A. 2013) (University of Chicago Medical Center, 2024) Common causes of a nervous stomach include: (Anxiety and Depression Association of America. 2023)
Over-the-counter and prescription medications can cause a nervous stomach as a side effect. This can happen when taking a single medication or more than one simultaneously. It can also occur in those with food sensitivities or other medical conditions. (Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2024) This is why consulting and updating a healthcare provider on the current list of prescribed and over-the-counter medications is important. Some meds can irritate the stomach, while others can cause constipation or diarrhea, leading to discomfort and nervous stomach symptoms. Common medications that may cause stomach side effect symptoms include: (Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2024)
NSAIDs – non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen can weaken the stomach lining.
Iron, antacids, and pain meds can cause constipation.
Antibiotics can cause diarrhea.
Home Treatment
Treatment depends on the severity and cause/s. An infrequently nervous stomach may benefit from over-the-counter therapies to calm it and/or lifestyle changes to reduce stress. Tips for reducing stress and anxiety include (Anxiety and Depression Association of America. 2023)
More frequent short breaks during the day
Practicing slow and deep breathing
Listening to guided meditations for stress-relief
Adding exercise to the daily routine
Realizing that stomach problems are part of anxiety and worrying about symptoms may make them worse.
Medical Treatment
Individuals may benefit from additional support treatment options with a healthcare provider (Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2024)
Antidepressant treatment for nervous stomach and/or irritable bowel syndrome.
Cognitive behavioral therapy for stress relief and learning how to manage anxiety.
Medical hypnotherapy
If symptoms are a side effect of medication or certain foods, a healthcare provider can develop an effective treatment plan that includes using another medication that is easier on the stomach or seeing a dietician.
Complications
Left untreated, a nervous stomach can contribute to further symptoms and other health problems. One study looked at the relationship between irritable bowel syndrome and certain psychiatric disorders. (Fadgyas-Stanculete, M. et al., 2014) This does not mean that a psychiatric disorder causes a nervous stomach or that a nervous stomach causes a psychiatric disorder. It is more likely that a combination of chemicals released when stressed can hurt gut health. This creates imbalances known to be risk factors for digestive disorders and conditions. (Anxiety and Depression Association of America. 2023)
Seeing a Healthcare Provider
Most nervous stomach symptoms resolve on their own. However, certain signs and symptoms can indicate that it is time to see a healthcare provider. Discuss symptoms with a healthcare provider who will order lab tests to check for underlying causes like anemia. See a healthcare provider immediately if you notice the following (University of Chicago Medical Center, 2024)
Symptoms are making work and/or normal life challenging.
Chronic or unresolved gastrointestinal issues like heartburn.
Unexplained weight reduction – losing weight without exercising or diet changes.
Blood in stool or blackish, tarry stools.
Vomiting
If there is a medical history of digestive disorders or cancers such as stomach cancer or colon cancer, this will help a healthcare provider. Depending on overall symptoms and family medical history, individuals may be referred to a gastroenterologist and/or a mental healthcare provider, like a counselor or psychiatrist. At Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic, we treat injuries and chronic pain syndromes by developing personalized treatment plans and specialized clinical services focused on injuries and the complete recovery process. We work with primary healthcare providers and specialists to develop an optimal health and wellness solution through an integrated approach to treating injuries and chronic pain syndromes, improving flexibility, mobility, and agility programs to relieve pain and help individuals return to optimal health. If other treatments are needed, Dr. Jimenez has teamed up with top surgeons, clinical specialists, medical researchers, and rehabilitation providers to provide the most effective treatments.
Root Causes of Gut Dysfunction Part 3
References
Anxiety and Depression Association of America. (2023). How to calm an anxious stomach: The brain-gut connection. Anxiety and Depression Association of America.
Triumphing Through Science, Treatment, and Education. https://adaa.org/learn-from-us/from-the-experts/blog-posts/consumer/how-calm-anxious-stomach-brain-gut-connection
Foster, J. A., & McVey Neufeld, K. A. (2013). Gut-brain axis: how the microbiome influences anxiety and depression. Trends in neurosciences, 36(5), 305–312. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tins.2013.01.005
University of Chicago Medical Center. (2024). Stress and stomach pain: When should you see a specialist? Forefront. https://www.uchicagomedicine.org/forefront/gastrointestinal-articles/2024/january/stress-stomach-pain-when-to-see-a-doctor
Fadgyas-Stanculete, M., Buga, A. M., Popa-Wagner, A., & Dumitrascu, D. L. (2014). The relationship between irritable bowel syndrome and psychiatric disorders: from molecular changes to clinical manifestations. Journal of molecular psychiatry, 2(1), 4. https://doi.org/10.1186/2049-9256-2-4
Ness-Jensen, E., & Lagergren, J. (2017). Tobacco smoking, alcohol consumption and gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. Best practice & research. Clinical gastroenterology, 31(5), 501–508. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bpg.2017.09.004
Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2024). Medicines and the digestive system. Health. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/medicines-and-the-digestive-system
Can using a self-care traction device help and be a cost-effective method of providing cervical relief at home for individuals who have neck pain?
Neck Pain Traction Device
Neck Pain Traction Device: Individuals with neck or arm pain caused by neck/cervical radiculopathy may benefit from physical therapy to manage their condition. (Alshami, A. M., and Bamhair, D. A. 2021) Physical therapy can improve neck mobility, restore function, and decrease pain.
Traction
A physical therapist may use various treatments and modalities to treat the individual’s condition. Cervical traction is one treatment to help relieve neck pain and can help:
There are different neck traction techniques. The therapist may use a mechanical traction device that requires the individual to strap their head and neck to a machine that gently pulls the neck, providing relief. (Romeo, A. et al., 2018) The physical therapist may also use manual traction with their hands to help the process. This type allows the therapist to easily adjust the amount of traction force and the direction of the pull on the neck. (Romeo, A. et al., 2018)
Home Traction Devices
Cervical traction that works for individuals at the clinic may also benefit from using a traction device at home to maintain their gains. Over-the-door cervical traction may be an effective, safe, and simple way to administer neck traction in the comfort of one’s home to help decrease pain. (Fritz, J. M. et al., 2014) Medical supply stores and pharmacies carry over-the-door traction devices, which can also be found online. If finding an over-the-door traction unit is difficult, the therapy clinic can help order one from a medical supplier.
Setting Up The Device
Before using a neck pain traction device, consult a physical therapist or doctor to ensure neck traction is safe and on usage. Over-the-door traction units may be built differently but comprise the main parts:
A hook-and-pulley apparatus that hangs over the door.
A nylon cord that’s fed through the pulley.
A weight that could be a water bag that hangs on the end of the cord to provide traction force.
A harness to wear on your head.
The traction unit must be hung over a door secured to the top and closed.
It is recommended that the door be a closet door so no one will open it while using the device.
If a closet door is not available, be sure to lock the door so that no one can open it while attached to the device.
A small hook with a pulley attached to it hangs on the door.
The harness attaches to the end of the nylon cord opposite the weighted water bag.
The harness goes on the head, and the chin strap should fit snugly under the chin and be secured by the hook-and-loop fasteners.
The two straps on either side of your head should be hooked to the end of the nylon cord, which is fed through the pulley system.
After strapping on the head harness, fill the water bag using the markings on the bag to indicate its weight and hang it on one end of the cord.
Fill the bag until the water reaches the desired mark, usually 8–15 pounds.
After filling the water bag, sit in a chair facing the door and hang the bag on the other end of the cord not attached to the head harness.
Do not drop the bag; this could cause a sudden forceful traction motion on your neck.
How Long to Use
Individuals should generally use the traction device for about 15 to 20 minutes each session and can perform several sessions per day. (American Physical Therapy Association. 2020) While using the over-the-door traction device, there should be a gentle pulling sensation in the neck, relieving the neck pain, and if there is arm pain or tingling, it should also decrease. Traction does not replace neck exercises or postural correction in treating neck pain. Be sure to follow the therapist’s prescribed exercises. Active engagement is essential to treating and preventing neck pain from returning. If the pain increases while using the traction device, stop using it and consult a physical therapist or doctor. Ask a physical therapist or other neuromusculoskeletal medical professional if self-care traction is appropriate for specific conditions.
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to develop an optimal health and wellness solution that helps individuals return to normal. Our providers create personalized care plans for each patient, including Functional Medicine, Acupuncture, Electro-Acupuncture, and Sports Medicine principles through an integrated approach to treat injuries and chronic pain syndromes to improve ability through flexibility, mobility, and agility programs to relieve pain. If other treatment is needed, Dr. Jimenez has teamed up with top surgeons, clinical specialists, medical researchers, and rehabilitation providers to provide the most effective treatments.
Neck Injuries
References
Alshami, A. M., & Bamhair, D. A. (2021). Effect of manual therapy with exercise in patients with chronic cervical radiculopathy: a randomized clinical trial. Trials, 22(1), 716. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13063-021-05690-y
Madson, T. J., & Hollman, J. H. (2017). Cervical Traction for Managing Neck Pain: A Survey of Physical Therapists in the United States. The Journal of orthopaedic and sports physical therapy, 47(3), 200–208. https://doi.org/10.2519/jospt.2017.6914
Romeo, A., Vanti, C., Boldrini, V., Ruggeri, M., Guccione, A. A., Pillastrini, P., & Bertozzi, L. (2018). Cervical Radiculopathy: Effectiveness of Adding Traction to Physical Therapy-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Physical therapy, 98(4), 231–242. https://doi.org/10.1093/physth/pzy001
Fritz, J. M., Thackeray, A., Brennan, G. P., & Childs, J. D. (2014). Exercise only, exercise with mechanical traction, or exercise with over-door traction for patients with cervical radiculopathy, with or without consideration of status on a previously described subgrouping rule: a randomized clinical trial. The Journal of orthopaedic and sports physical therapy, 44(2), 45–57. https://doi.org/10.2519/jospt.2014.5065
American Physical Therapy Association. (2020). Physical therapy guide to cervical radiculopathy. https://www.choosept.com/guide/physical-therapy-guide-cervical-radiculopathy
Can knowing the difference between butter and margarine help Individuals looking to improve cholesterol levels?
Butter and Margarine
Individuals watching their cholesterol levels and switching from butter to margarine may have heard that it may be worse for heart health. What research has to say about the healthiest spread and the butter and margarine debate?
History
Butter was shown to be associated with an increased risk of heart disease because of its saturated fat content when margarine was developed as a substitute. Margarine is made from plant-based oils like canola, palm fruit, and soybeans. Nutritionists and researchers saw it as a healthier alternative. It is lower in saturated fat and has no cholesterol but contains high levels of trans fats, which raise unhealthy LDL cholesterol levels and lower healthy HDL cholesterol levels. (Ginter, E., and Simko, V. 2016)
Margarine Trans Fat and Butter Saturated Fat
Most of margarine’s unsaturated fats undergo hydrogenation, creating harmful trans fats. Trans fat raises unhealthy LDL cholesterol levels more than saturated fat. The trans-fatty acids solidify and maintain margarine consistency at room temperature. Stick margarines, the hardest type, contain the most trans fats and are still sold despite what is known about the damage they can do. (Brouwer, I. A. et al., 2010) Clinical studies showed these trans fats are associated with a 28% increased risk of death from heart disease and a 34% increased risk of death. (de Souza, R. J. et al., 2015)
Margarine Types
Some softer and liquid margarine products contain less trans fat than stick versions. They are low in saturated fat and high in unsaturated fat. Individuals can determine how much trans fat the margarine has by its softness. Those that are more solid at room temperature contain more trans fats than those in a tub, which are softer. However, some soft options can contain trans fats. If the label has partially hydrogenated oil, it’s recommended to avoid it. (Garsetti, M. et al., 2016) Some newer margarines are enriched with plant sterols, which block cholesterol absorption and help lower LDL levels. These are healthy choices if trying to lower LDL. (Ras, R. T. et al., 2014)
Butter
Butter is primarily made up of saturated fat and cholesterol and comes in a stick and spread. One tablespoon of butter contains around 30 milligrams of cholesterol and 7 grams of saturated fat. The maximum amount allowed daily is 200 milligrams and 10 milligrams, respectively. Both types of fat are linked to rising cholesterol levels and the risk of heart disease. Butter from grass-fed cows is higher in omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart health, making it far more nutritional than the more widely used butter from conventionally-fed cows. (Hebeisen, D. F. et al., 1993)
Other Options
Butter or margarine are not the healthiest options. Olive, avocado, and other vegetable-based spreads are the most heart-healthy options. (Yubero-Serrano, E. M. et al., 2019) Use avocado oil as a cooking oil when sautéing or roasting vegetables. Consider substituting applesauce, nut butters, or squash purees in baked goods. Look for soft versions of margarine as a bread spread that contain plant sterols and no hydrogenated oils.
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic uses an integrated approach to create personalized care plans for each patient to restore health and function to the body through Nutrition and Wellness, Functional Medicine, Acupuncture, Electro-Acupuncture, and Sports Medicine protocols. If the individual needs other treatment, they will be referred to a clinic or physician best suited for them. Dr. Jimenez has teamed up with top surgeons, clinical specialists, medical researchers, nutritionists, and health coaches to provide the most effective clinical treatments.
Enhancing Health Together: Multidisciplinary Evaluation and Treatment
References
Ginter, E., & Simko, V. (2016). New data on harmful effects of trans-fatty acids. Bratislavske lekarske listy, 117(5), 251–253. https://doi.org/10.4149/bll_2016_048
Brouwer, I. A., Wanders, A. J., & Katan, M. B. (2010). Effect of animal and industrial trans fatty acids on HDL and LDL cholesterol levels in humans–a quantitative review. PloS one, 5(3), e9434. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0009434
de Souza, R. J., Mente, A., Maroleanu, A., Cozma, A. I., Ha, V., Kishibe, T., Uleryk, E., Budylowski, P., Schünemann, H., Beyene, J., & Anand, S. S. (2015). Intake of saturated and trans unsaturated fatty acids and risk of all cause mortality, cardiovascular disease, and type 2 diabetes: systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies. BMJ (Clinical research ed.), 351, h3978. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.h3978
Garsetti, M., Balentine, D. A., Zock, P. L., Blom, W. A., & Wanders, A. J. (2016). Fat composition of vegetable oil spreads and margarines in the USA in 2013: a national marketplace analysis. International journal of food sciences and nutrition, 67(4), 372–382. https://doi.org/10.3109/09637486.2016.1161012
Ras, R. T., Geleijnse, J. M., & Trautwein, E. A. (2014). LDL-cholesterol-lowering effect of plant sterols and stanols across different dose ranges: a meta-analysis of randomised controlled studies. The British journal of nutrition, 112(2), 214–219. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0007114514000750
Hebeisen, D. F., Hoeflin, F., Reusch, H. P., Junker, E., & Lauterburg, B. H. (1993). Increased concentrations of omega-3 fatty acids in milk and platelet rich plasma of grass-fed cows. International journal for vitamin and nutrition research. Internationale Zeitschrift fur Vitamin- und Ernahrungsforschung. Journal international de vitaminologie et de nutrition, 63(3), 229–233.
Yubero-Serrano, E. M., Lopez-Moreno, J., Gomez-Delgado, F., & Lopez-Miranda, J. (2019). Extra virgin olive oil: More than a healthy fat. European journal of clinical nutrition, 72(Suppl 1), 8–17. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41430-018-0304-x
Can understanding the location of the funny bone and how pain can be managed after injury help expedite recovery and prevention for individuals who have hit their funny bone?
Elbow Funny Bone Nerve Injury
Behind the elbow is an area known as the “funny bone,” where the ulnar nerve has less tissue and bone protection. This is where part of the ulnar nerve passes around the back of the elbow. Because less tissue and bone protect the nerve in this area, taking a hit like bumping into something can cause an electric shock-like pain and a tingling sensation down the arm and to the outside fingers typical of an irritated nerve. Most injuries to the funny bone resolve quickly, and the pain disappears after a few seconds or minutes, but sometimes, an ulnar nerve injury can lead to more persistent symptoms.
Anatomy
The funny bone is not a bone but the ulnar nerve. The nerve runs down the arm, passing around the back of the elbow. (Dimitrova, A. et al., 2019) Because the ulnar nerve is on top of the elbow and there is very little fatty cushion, lightly bumping this spot can cause pain and tingling sensations down the forearm. Three bones comprise the junction of the elbow that include:
Humerus – arm bone
Ulna and radius – forearm bones
The humerus has a groove that protects and holds the ulnar nerve as it passes behind the joint. This is where the nerve can be injured or irritated when the nerve is hit or pinched against the end of the bone, causing the funny bone pain.
Electrical Pain Sensation
When hitting the ulnar nerve or funny bone where the ulnar nerve provides sensation, pain, and electrical/tingling sensations are experienced from the forearm to the outside fingers. This part of the arm and hand is called the ulnar nerve distribution. (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 2024) The ulnar nerve provides sensation into most of the pinky finger and about half of the ring finger. Other nerves, including the median and radial nerve, supply sensation to the rest of the hand.
Treatment
Usually, a sharp jolt to the elbow quickly resolves. Some recommendations to help symptoms improve faster include:
Shaking the forearm and hand out.
Straightening out and bending the elbow to stretch the nerve.
Decreasing mobility of the elbow.
Applying ice to the area.
Taking anti-inflammatory medications.
Treating Long-Lasting Pain
In rare circumstances, injuries to the ulnar nerve can cause more persistent symptoms, a condition known as cubital tunnel syndrome. Cubital tunnel syndrome can happen after an injury or from elbow overuse. Individuals with cubital tunnel syndrome may benefit from wearing a splint at night. Standard-sized splints can be ordered online, but most are fabricated by an occupational or hand therapist. If symptoms become more long-lasting, surgery may be recommended to relieve pressure and tension on the ulnar nerve (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 2024). The procedure decompresses the nerve by relieving any tight constrictions around it and releasing them. In severe cases, the nerve is repositioned to an area that doesn’t place as much pressure on the nerve, known as an ulnar nerve transposition.
Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to develop an optimal health and wellness solution that helps individuals return to normal. Our providers create personalized care plans for each patient, including Functional Medicine, Acupuncture, Electro-Acupuncture, and Sports Medicine principles through an integrated approach to treat injuries and chronic pain syndromes to improve ability through flexibility, mobility, and agility programs to relieve pain. If other treatment is needed, Dr. Jimenez has teamed up with top surgeons, clinical specialists, medical researchers, and rehabilitation providers to provide the most effective treatments.
Chiropractic Treatment For Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
References
Dimitrova, A., Murchison, C., & Oken, B. (2019). Local effects of acupuncture on the median and ulnar nerves in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome: a pilot mechanistic study protocol. Trials, 20(1), 8. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13063-018-3094-5
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. (2024). Ulnar nerve entrapment at the elbow. https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/ulnar-nerve-entrapment-at-the-elbow-cubital-tunnel-syndrome/
For individuals who sit at work for long hours, can years of practicing unhealthy posture be corrected through a step-by-step approach to ensure optimal body position while sitting?
Sitting Posture
Sitting up straight with a healthy posture requires the conscious alignment of the hips, pelvis, lower back, upper back, shoulders, neck, and head. Learning or retraining oneself to maintain correct sitting posture can relieve lower back pain, improve respiration and digestion, and reduce tension in the neck and shoulders. (Albarrati, A. et al., 2018) It starts by paying attention to posture throughout the day and correcting it whenever forward head posture, leaning, or slouching develops. Targeted exercises can also help build upper-body strength, and stretching can stabilize and strengthen the core muscles, lower back, and pelvic joints. (Albarrati, A. et al., 2018)
Sit Up Straight Guide
Sitting up straight can be uncomfortable because it is not a natural position for the body to be in for an extended time. Nowadays, work, school, appointments, and other activities require us to sit much longer than intended. The muscles also have to work against gravity, leading to muscle exhaustion, slouching, and slumping, which can cause chronic back, leg, neck, and/or shoulder pain. (Jung, K. S. et al., 2020)
Sitting up straight may seem simple, but the focus tends to be on straightening just the lower/lumbar spine. This posture is unsustainable and exhausts and stresses the upper and lower back. (Jung, K. S. et al., 2020) The whole body needs to be considered when protecting the stability and balance of the spine. Learning and maintaining the ability to sit up straight is a process that requires practice. Find a comfortable chair to sit in, and follow these steps to achieve the optimal postural alignment (Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, 2022)
Knee Spacing
The hips should be at a roughly 90-degree angle.
Knee Position
The knees should be at a 90-degree angle level with the hips.
Use a pillow to achieve the right knee position if the seat is too low.
Keep the Feet Flat on the Floor
If feet don’t reach the floor, place a footstool, box, book, or other flat object underneath them.
Sitting Bones
Also known as the ischial tuberosities, these are two knobby bones on the underside of the pelvis.
Feel around to find them.
Pelvis Adjustment
Shift the body so that the sitting bones are directly under the pelvis rather than situated too far back, stressing the lower back or too far forward, leading to slumping.
Spine Check
There should be a slight spinal curve, and one should be able to slip a hand between the lower back and the back of the chair.
Shoulder Check
The shoulders should be level and vertically aligned with the hips.
If the shoulder blades are pulled back or the shoulders are lifted or curled forward, relax them into a neutral position.
Head Positioning
The head tends to tilt too far forward while sitting as work and the day progresses.
Adjust the head position to align the neck with the upper spine.
The head should be slightly tilted forward, with the ears aligned with the shoulders.
Check for Pain and Discomfort
Pain may be due to structural imbalances of the spine, pelvis, or hips.
Use a lumbar chair support or place a rolled-up towel or cushion at the lower back to keep the back straight.
Added Tips
Tools and tricks to help prevent and avoid back, hip, and neck pain.
Chairs
All the bells and whistles for an ergonomic desk chair are unnecessary.
Focus on features like adjustable seat height and lumbar support. The correct seat depth recommendations are deeper if tall and shallower if short. (van Niekerk, S. M. et al., 2012)
Cushions
If sitting on a cushion or using one to bolster the back or hips, recommendations are not to go too soft.
Cushions that are too soft allow the ability to shift from one hip to the next, often without realizing it.
They usually eventually flatten and lose support.
Monitor Position
There is no point in sitting straight if the monitor is too high or too low.
The monitor should be at eye level to maintain the proper head and shoulder alignment.
If the monitor is too low, place a box or book underneath it.
If it is too high, raise the chair’s height and place a footrest under the feet to keep them flat.
Avoid Crossing Legs or Feet
Crossing the legs or feet places stress on the opposite hip, thigh, and knee and wears the body out faster.
If the hips or legs are tiring prematurely, the individual is not sitting correctly or in the wrong chair.
Use Comfortable Footwear
Maintaining flat feet on the floor while sitting is imperative.
This is not possible in high heels or platform shoes.
Change into a comfortable pair of flat shoes while sitting.
Take Regular breaks
Even with an ergonomic desk chair, the body is not meant to be sitting for hours and hours.
Get up at least every hour, walking and stretching to reactivate the muscles and circulation.
Sitting up straight requires body alignment awareness, stable core muscles, and balanced pelvis, hips, spine, shoulders, neck, and head positioning. It may take some time before these steps become normal, but they will become second nature with perseverance and practice. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to develop an optimal health and wellness solution that fully benefits the individual to get back to normal. Using an integrated approach to treat injuries and chronic pain syndromes to improve ability through flexibility, mobility, and agility programs to relieve pain. Our providers create personalized care plans for each patient, including Functional Medicine, Acupuncture, Electro-Acupuncture, and Sports Medicine principles. If other treatment is needed, Dr. Jimenez has teamed up with top surgeons, clinical specialists, medical researchers, and rehabilitation providers to provide the most effective treatments.
Posture and Mobility
References
Albarrati, A., Zafar, H., Alghadir, A. H., & Anwer, S. (2018). Effect of Upright and Slouched Sitting Postures on the Respiratory Muscle Strength in Healthy Young Males. BioMed research international, 2018, 3058970. https://doi.org/10.1155/2018/3058970
Jung, K. S., Jung, J. H., In, T. S., & Cho, H. Y. (2020). Effects of Prolonged Sitting with Slumped Posture on Trunk Muscular Fatigue in Adolescents with and without Chronic Lower Back Pain. Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania), 57(1), 3. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina57010003
Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety. (2022). Working in a sitting position – good body position. Retrieved from https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/ergonomics/sitting/sitting_position.html
van Niekerk, S. M., Louw, Q. A., & Hillier, S. (2012). The effectiveness of a chair intervention in the workplace to reduce musculoskeletal symptoms. A systematic review. BMC musculoskeletal disorders, 13, 145. https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2474-13-145
Can understanding night cravings help individuals who constantly eat at night plan meals that satisfy and choose nutritious snacks?
Eating At Night
Snacking after dinner and eating at night is common and not bad; however, snacking mindfully can help one truly enjoy and savor snacks. Consider some of the reasons why you might be hungry or not completely satisfied after dinner. Improving the nutritional value of nighttime snacks can make late-night hunger work toward meeting nutritional needs. Common reasons include:
Not meeting the right macronutrient balance during dinner.
Not being completely satisfied with dinner.
Dehydration.
Macronutrient Profile
Getting the right amount of carbohydrates, fat, and protein during dinner is integral to feeling satisfied. Adults need 130g of carbohydrates, 56g of protein, and 3.7L of water daily. The amount of fat required varies, but monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are the most healthy fats to consume, helping the body feel satisfied. Several studies show that eating protein during a meal reduces hunger and decreases cravings. (Kohanmoo, A. et al., 2020)
Unsatisfying Dinner
Another reason individuals eat at night is that they are unsatisfied with dinner. Eating satiating foods can help the mind and body feel full throughout the evening.
Satiety is the sense of satisfaction from food.
Foods high in fiber and healthy fats are known to help produce satisfaction.
When the body is full and satisfied, it produces hormones that signal to the brain there is no need to continue eating.
Try to plan healthy meals that are genuinely exciting to eat.
Create time to cook and make and eat meals you can genuinely enjoy.
Dehydration
Sometimes, when the body is dehydrated, it can have difficulty distinguishing thirst from hunger. As a result, some may eat in reaction to dehydration. This isn’t always bad, as some foods, specifically water-rich foods like melon and other fruits, can provide hydration. But sometimes, individuals don’t realize they are misreading their body’s thirst for hunger, and they reach for any food. They are still dehydrated, so they keep eating. If hunger persists after dinner, drink a glass of water and wait 20 minutes to see if that impacts hunger.
Maximize Nutrition
Snacking at night is not bad, but it is wise to plan to ensure the body gets the right balance of nutrients.
Satisfy Cravings
Many crave something sweet after dinner or later on. Eating healthy foods that satisfy cravings will help trigger hormones that tell the body it is done eating. Keep your favorite fruits and vegetables for a quick bite to get some sweetness and fiber. Vegetables like red bell peppers and carrots provide sweetness and crunchiness and can be satisfying. One small red pepper provides 100% of the daily recommended Vitamin C in 20 calories. (U.S. Department of Agriculture. Agricultural Research Service. 2018)
Foods that Promote Sleep
The foods chosen can affect sleep. Whole grains, walnuts, cherries, and kiwi increase serotonin and decrease the stress hormone cortisol. Complex carbohydrates contain melatonin, a hormone responsible for feeling sleepy. A whole-grain snack is a healthy choice before going to bed. (Nisar, M. et al., 2019) Some research shows that dark chocolate is rich in magnesium and can help promote deep sleep. However, it also contains caffeine, which can inhibit sleep. If dark chocolate is a favorite, make sure to eat it early enough in the evening.
Alternative Nighttime Routine
Some people eat out of boredom at night. To curb this, individuals in this category should change their routines. Here are a few tips to help adjust nighttime habits.
Healthy After-Dinner Activities
Go for a quick walk after dinner. 10 to 20 minutes can help, as physical activity signals the shift from dinner to other evening activities.
It also gives the body a chance to feel the fullness sensation.
Hobbies and other light meditative activities can help take the mind off eating.
Watch TV Mindfully
Many individuals eat more at night because snacking can go on and on in front of the television.
Use smart and healthy snacking strategies like portion control.
Remember to take a drink of water in between snacking.
Stay active – simple chores or activities while watching TV can help avoid overeating.
Rest and Sleep
Not getting enough sleep has been linked with increased appetite. (Hibi, M. et al., 2017)
Engage in activities to encourage rest.
Meditation can help calm down the mind and body.
Consider going to bed earlier.
Using an integrated approach, Dr. Jimenez’s Functional Medicine Team aims to restore health and function to the body through Nutrition and Wellness, Functional Medicine, Acupuncture, Electro-Acupuncture, and Sports Medicine protocols. We focus on what works for the individual through researched methods and total wellness programs.
Eating Right to Feel Better
References
Kohanmoo, A., Faghih, S., & Akhlaghi, M. (2020). Effect of short- and long-term protein consumption on appetite and appetite-regulating gastrointestinal hormones, a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Physiology & behavior, 226, 113123. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.physbeh.2020.113123
U.S. Department of Agriculture. Agricultural Research Service. FoodData Central. (2018). Peppers, sweet, red, raw. Retrieved from https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/170108/nutrients
Nisar, M., Mohammad, R. M., Arshad, A., Hashmi, I., Yousuf, S. M., & Baig, S. (2019). Influence of Dietary Intake on Sleeping Patterns of Medical Students. Cureus, 11(2), e4106. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.4106
Hibi, M., Kubota, C., Mizuno, T., Aritake, S., Mitsui, Y., Katashima, M., & Uchida, S. (2017). Effect of shortened sleep on energy expenditure, core body temperature, and appetite: a human randomised crossover trial. Scientific reports, 7, 39640. https://doi.org/10.1038/srep39640
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