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Ladder Falls and Injuries: El Paso Back Clinic

Ladder Falls and Injuries: El Paso Back Clinic

The ladder is one of the most utilized tools. Most individuals have a ladder or two in their homes or at work and never consider the dangers. Falling off a ladder can lead to serious injuries like muscle tears, broken bones, damage to the spinal cord, skull fractures, or traumatic brain injury. The objective is to educate homeowners and workers on being more alert, increasing awareness, and reinforcing safety protocols.Ladder Falls and Injuries: Injury Medical Chiropractic Team

Ladder Falls and Injuries

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, ladder falls account for more than 500,000 injuries and 300 deaths annually. Even professionals with experience in safety can make simple mistakes like carrying too heavy a load or not spotting signs of wearing or a defect that leads to injury.

Causes

Causes can arise from defects or user mistakes. These include:

A Defective Ladder

  • Old worn-out
  • Damaged or broken
  • Loose or cracking rungs
  • Ladders folding during use
  • Using the improper type of ladder for the job or task

Incorrect Ladder Use

  • Carrying dangerous objects or heavy loads
  • Stretching or reaching too far out
  • Failing to secure the ladder properly
  • Recklessness or horseplay

Injuries

Common falls can cause injuries severe enough to require professional medical care. Around one in five falls, on average, cause serious injuries that include.

  • Muscle sprains and/or tears
  • Neck and back injuries
  • Herniated discs
  • Hip injuries and fractures
  • Broken bones
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Skull fractures
  • Traumatic brain injuries

Any of these injuries could cause permanent disabilities or chronic conditions.

Chiropractic Care

A fall can damage joints, muscles, bones, and ligaments without realizing there is a problem or injury. The back and spine are most likely to be affected. When landing flat on your back, the joints that connect the spinal column can slip, causing inflammation and joint swelling. To prevent chronic pain and alleviate acute pain, seeking medical attention and chiropractic care as soon as possible is recommended. After confirming the spine is not fractured or broken, a chiropractor can bring relief and restore mobility and function. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic are committed to helping individuals rehabilitate and recover from injuries. We develop a personalized plan to maximize the potential of recovering and returning to daily activities as soon as possible.


Safer In Seconds


References

Cabilan, C J et al. “Impact of ladder-related falls on the emergency department and recommendations for ladder safety.” Emergency medicine Australasia: EMA vol. 30,1 (2018): 95-102. doi:10.1111/1742-6723.12854

Hicks, Cameron, et al. “Ladder Use in Older People: Type, Frequency, Tasks, and Predictors of Risk Behaviours.” International journal of environmental research and public health vol. 18,18 9799. 17 Sep. 2021, doi:10.3390/ijerph18189799

“Ladder falls.” Health news (Waltham, Mass.) vol. 4,2 (1998): 7.

Muir, L, and S Kanwar. “Ladder injuries.” Injury vol. 24,7 (1993): 485-7. doi:10.1016/0020-1383(93)90156-z

Partridge, R A et al. “Causes and patterns of injury from ladder falls.” Academic emergency medicine: official journal of the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine vol. 5,1 (1998): 31-4. doi:10.1111/j.1553-2712.1998.tb02571.x

Anti-Inflammatory Drinks: Chiropractic Back Clinic

Anti-Inflammatory Drinks: Chiropractic Back Clinic

When the body encounters a foreign element that can include a chemical, plant pollen, an invading microbe, or some other form of infection, it activates the immune system that triggers inflammation to protect the body and fight the illness. Heat and swelling are the body’s repair mechanisms to heal an injury, or if there is an infection, cells are activated to the location to combat the invading pathogens. However, Following an anti-inflammatory diet is important and part of the diet includes anti-inflammatory drinks.

Anti-Inflammatory Drinks

Immune System

The immune system markers in the blood and tissue are above normal levels in response to continual low-level inflammation. The white blood cells that help heal an injury are working against a threat of injury/infection that does not exist. Tissues, organs, and cells can become affected by an influx of white blood cells that should not be there. Studies have proven that inflammation leads to chronic disease, but there are ways to avoid the damaging progression that include:

  • Getting the proper amount of sleep.
  • Reducing or removing sugary soft drinks, juices, and snacks.
  • Decrease in consuming processed foods with added sugar and trans fats.
  • Limiting carbs like sugar and white flour.
  • Intermittent fasting can help the kidneys flush excess water and salt.
  • Getting more physical activity.
  • Eating more antioxidant-rich foods and drinks.

Inflammation Symptoms

Symptoms of inflammation can include:

  • Fatigue and lack of energy
  • Headaches
  • Joint pain
  • Bloating
  • Digestive issues like constipation or gas.
  • Memory loss
  • Brain fog
  • Irritability
  • Inability to lose weight
  • Weight gain

Anti-Inflammatory Drinks

Fruits and vegetables that help reduce inflammation.

  • Beets
  • Berries
  • Coconut
  • Red grapes
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Avocado
  • Citrus – oranges, and lemons
  • Dark, leafy greens – kale and spinach
  • Broccoli
  • Matcha
  • Spices – pepper, turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon
  • Dark chocolate
  • Dates
  • Pure maple syrup
  • Chia seeds

Anti-inflammatory drinks contain antioxidants and nutrients that can increase immune system health.

Apple Beet Carrot Smoothie

  • This smoothie contains antioxidants from beets, ginger, carrots, orange, and apple.
  • It helps with blood circulation, reduces blood pressure, and helps detoxify.

Pineapple Turmeric Smoothie

  • The pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain, which triggers the body’s ability to fight pain and reduce swelling.
  • It’s used for inflammation in sports injuries and may be effective in reducing symptoms of osteoarthritis.

Lemon Ginger Turmeric Tea

  • Curcuminoid is an anti-inflammatory compound that reduces pain, stiffness, and joint inflammation.
  • Lemon and ginger increase immune system health and help digestion, gut health, and weight loss.

Blueberry Smoothie

  • Blueberries contain vitamins, antioxidants, and flavonoids that regulate immune system function and help fight chronic inflammation.

Chai Tea

  • Traditional homemade chai tea is a blend of herbs with anti-inflammatory benefits.
  • Herbs include cinnamon, star anise, clove, ginger, and cardamom.
  • They help improve digestion, alleviate nausea, and increase immune system health.

These are just a few examples, but there are a variety of anti-inflammatory drinks that can benefit body and mental health.


Healthy and Refreshing


References

Alghadir, Ahmad H et al. “Green tea and exercise interventions as nondrug remedies in geriatric patients with rheumatoid arthritis.” Journal of physical therapy science vol. 28,10 (2016): 2820-2829. doi:10.1589/jpts.28.2820

Crozier, Stephen J et al. “Cacao seeds are a “Super Fruit”: A comparative analysis of various fruit powders and products.” Chemistry Central journal vol. 5 5. 7 Feb. 2011, doi:10.1186/1752-153X-5-5

Hunter, Philip. “The inflammation theory of disease. The growing realization that chronic inflammation is crucial in many diseases opens new avenues for treatment.” EMBO reports vol. 13,11 (2012): 968-70. doi:10.1038/embor.2012.142

Panche, A N et al. “Flavonoids: an overview.” Journal of nutritional science vol. 5 e47. 29 Dec. 2016, doi:10.1017/jns.2016.41

Teodorczyk-Injeyan, Julita A. PhD*; Triano, John J. DC, PhD*; Injeyan, H. Stephen DC, PhD†. Nonspecific Low Back Pain: Inflammatory Profiles of Patients With Acute and Chronic Pain. The Clinical Journal of Pain: October 2019 – Volume 35 – Issue 10 – p 818-825
doi: 10.1097/AJP.0000000000000745

Do’s and Don’ts After Chiropractic Adjustment

Do’s and Don’ts After Chiropractic Adjustment

Everybody is different in how the body reacts to a chiropractic adjustment. Body misalignment often leads to spinal misalignment or vice versa. Misalignments occur over time; individuals do not notice until soreness and pain begin presenting. Depending on the injury and/or condition, getting the full potential from a chiropractic adjustment means knowing the dos and don’ts following treatment. This involves maintaining a healthy posture, staying hydrated, getting proper rest, and staying active.

Do's and Don'ts After Chiropractic Adjustment

Adjustments

Adjustments are highly effective for the body. Benefits include:

  • Pain relief.
  • Restored full range of motion.
  • Increased strength.
  • Increased energy.
  • Improved sleep.
  • Lowered blood pressure in individuals with hypertension.

Do’s and Don’ts

Stay Properly Hydrated

  • One of the best things for the body is plenty of water every day. Water helps:
  • Circulate nutrients and oxygen to your cells.
  • Flush bacteria from the bladder.
  • Assist with digestion.
  • Prevent constipation.
  • Normalize blood pressure.
  • Stabilize heartbeat.
  • Cushion the joints.
  • Protect organs and tissues.

Stay Active

  • It is not recommended to take on intense workouts after an adjustment but to remain active to keep the muscles, tendons, ligaments flexible and strengthen the body during healing.
  • Activities should be done in moderation and include:
  • Walking
  • Jogging
  • Biking
  • Swimming

Proper Rest

  • Getting the proper amount of sleep is essential for the body to heal to the optimal level.
  • The body getting used to the adjustment can be an exhausting process.

Maintain Healthy Posture

  • Proper posture is essential to keep the body in healthy alignment and prevent further/new injuries.
  • A chiropractor and physical therapist will educate and train individuals on maintaining healthy, active postures.

Stretching

  • Stretching is prescribed as part of the treatment to maintain flexibility and strength.
  • A chiropractor will recommend and show how to perform specific stretches and exercises between adjustments.

What to Avoid

Recommendations on what to avoid after a chiropractic adjustment.

Explosive Movements

  • Stay active but limit any explosive movements for a few days after the adjustment.

Avoid Sitting Too Much

  • Too much sitting, even with a lumbar support chair, can cause the muscles to tighten pulling on the spine.
  • When sitting, get up and move around every 20 minutes.

Paying attention to the recommended do’s and don’ts will help expedite the healing and create new healthy habits.


Body Composition


Dairy Products

Conventional vs. Organic and Grass-fed Dairy

  • Studies have found that dairy cows consuming a diet of grass and hay significantly improved nutrient profiles of produced milk.
  • Milk from grass-fed cows has a higher omega-3 content when compared to organic and conventional grain-fed cows.
  • Omega-3s protect against:
  • Inflammation
  • Heart disease
  • Metabolic conditions

Fermented Products

References

Bourrie, Benjamin C T et al. “The Microbiota and Health Promoting Characteristics of the Fermented Beverage Kefir.” Frontiers in microbiology vol. 7 647. 4 May. 2016, doi:10.3389/fmicb.2016.00647

Licciardone, John C et al. “Recovery From Chronic Low Back Pain After Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association vol. 116,3 (2016): 144-55. doi:10.7556/jaoa.2016.031

Maher, C G. “Effective physical treatment for chronic low back pain.” The Orthopedic clinics of North America vol. 35,1 (2004): 57-64. doi:10.1016/S0030-5898(03)00088-9

Will, Joshua Scott et al. “Mechanical Low Back Pain.” American family physician vol. 98,7 (2018): 421-428.

Moving During Pregnancy Safely and Easily

Moving During Pregnancy Safely and Easily

Moving during pregnancy is not the way things are usually planned out, but it does happen. It is possible and can be done safely and with ease by:
  • Creating an optimal moving plan
  • Paying attention to the new house/apartment surroundings
  • Proper posture
  • Body mechanics
  • Getting plenty of help
Moderate physical activity for most expectant moms is encouraged for a healthy pregnancy. The CDC warns that bending too much while pregnant could lead to complications. However, moving boxes is not all there is to do. There are plenty of things like cleaning, organizing, packing, showing where to put the boxes, getting food and refreshments, etc.

Moving during pregnancy

Moving is exciting and stressful at the same time. Questions start to come up like bending, lifting, and wearing a back brace. Here are some tips during your move.  
11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 128 Moving During Pregnancy Safely and Easily
 

Talk to a doctor

Your doctor or chiropractor should know about the upcoming move giving them an opportunity to help and provide safety tips. If it is during the first trimester it could be stressful for the pregnancy if not careful. Moving during the first three months could cause preterm labor with other possible complications. This does not mean to not move just to make a plan with your doctor for keeping the stress low and avoiding the risk for potential issues.

Questions to ask:

  • What can I lift while pregnant?
  • Is there a specific bending technique?
  • Is lifting during the first trimester safe?
  • How long should I be on my feet during the move?
  • Is it safe to go up and down stairs consistently?

Brain fog and planning ahead

This is also known as baby brain or pregnancy brain and is the cognitive slowdown and memory issues that many pregnant women report. If there are issues with general cognitive functioning, fatigue, or other brain fog symptoms, careful planning can help.

Help for pregnancy brain fog:

  • Create detailed lists and save them to your phone or location where they won�t get lost.
  • Sleep a lot more as being tired will worsen symptoms.
  • During the move take frequent breaks.
  • Eat foods with Omega-3, these benefit brain function, and the baby�s development.

Packing fun

Packing the right way can mean all the difference between a smooth move and a chaotic one. It is recommended to allow for a week longer than anticipated for packing. Declutter a month before packing. Then donate, sell, and give away whatever is not needed to lighten the load. Create a moving day kit with a change of clothes, snacks, water, vitamins, a cooling pack, and anything else that a pregnant woman will need. Having fun during the packing process can be accomplished by turning the tasks into a game or some type of fun activity. Working/dancing with fun music can ease the monotony, keeps the joints loose, proper blood circulation is achieved and the stress is worked out. Light aerobic dancing has shown to decrease the risk of disorders while pregnant, and the recovery time after giving birth.  
 

Get plenty of help

Nobody wants to help family, friends move. Therefore throw a party or some event where everyone will be of the mindset that it was worth helping out. More help is needed during pregnancy because of the added rest times and minimal heavy lifting. If there is not enough help, an investment in professional movers could be necessary. Prices vary depending on where someone lives and the companies available. However, with some research, it can be money well spent while pregnant.

Safety checklist

Create a safety checklist that includes:
  • Regular water breaks – hydration is extremely important while pregnant, especially if prone to morning sickness. Dehydration symptoms can include:
  • Precautions when walking up and down the stairs.
  • Frequent work breaks every half hour.
  • Stress relief methods/techniques
  • First aid kit
  • Moving can create more sweating than normal, therefore keep ice and electrolyte drinks close by.
  • Leave the packing of products with harmful chemicals like cleaning products, paint thinners, or ammonia to a helper.
11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 128 Moving During Pregnancy Safely and Easily
 

Lifting and bending

It is highly recommended to not lift furniture or other heavy items while pregnant. Lifting a heavy object can contribute to: Doctors generally recommend twenty-five pounds as the threshold during pregnancy. However, it depends on the trimester and what the individual is already used to lifting. An example is a woman lifting something heavy in the third trimester is different than when they were only five weeks. Proper lifting techniques need to be implemented like bending the knees not the back, keep the back straight while doing so, and avoid quick jerking movements.

Proper moving attire

On moving day, wear lightweight, breathable, stretchy clothing, so discomfort and malfunction won’t pop up. Cotton stays cool and free of sweat or itchiness. When pregnant the center of balance shifts, therefore, the right shoes are a must. Here are some shoes that can help during pregnancy.

Don’t rush the nursery

Getting the nursery finished for the baby, creates added pressure. Pretty much all newborns sleep in the same room with their parents, and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends this for the first months. So cut yourself some slack when it comes to the perfect baby nursery. The baby is not going to hold it against you and there is time after the move to settle in.

Proper rest

This is a stressful time that requires a lot of energy. But just like proper hydration is important, so is plenty of sleep and embrace the positive aspects rather than focus on the complications. Talk to your doctor, enlist plenty of help, drink lots of water, and leave the heavy lifting to those that are not pregnant. At the end of the day, it will all be worth it.

Back Pain During Pregnancy 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*
Self-Massage Techniques

Self-Massage Techniques

Dealing with chronic back pain along with the COVID-19 pandemic can make it difficult to find relief on a regular basis. When regular massage sessions are not available these self-massage techniques can relieve pain and loosen tense muscles. Massage therapy has been shown to reduce low back pain, specifically for short-term purposes. There are massage therapist/s that are open with precautions in place. But there�s a good chance the massage therapist will not be able to see an individual right away when the pain presents. Back pain will not wait so here are a few tips on self-massage that individuals can do at the house.  
11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 128 Self-Massage Techniques
 

Safety First

Consult your spine pain specialist, chiropractor, or doctor to determine the cause of the pain and if massage will be beneficial. Before starting a self-massage regimen, be sure pain levels are not severe and you are able to perform the massage techniques. Any muscle region, spine included, can benefit from massage both professionally and self. If at any time during the massaging different pain presents other than the massage soreness, stop and evaluate what could be happening. These self-massage tips are aimed at reasonably healthy individuals. Be mindful of herniated discs, any type of impingement, or spinal compression. If an individual has this type of injury acquire medical instruction on how to perform self-massage techniques specifically for these conditions from a physician, chiropractor, or physical therapist.  
 

Self-massage

Massage therapy helps in relieving back and neck pain in different ways.
  • Relaxes muscles
  • Improves range of motion
  • Reduces injury
  • Maximizes healing
  • Better sleep
If working from home and too much sitting has your back tight, in knots, with muscle tension, and stress, self-massage is an answer that works. It is a great alternative until the massage therapy appointment.

Applied Pressure

One way to give yourself a massage is to locate the painful area/s and gently apply pressure with the thumb/s, moving the muscle/s statically by just rotating the arm/hand together with the thumb pressing on the area. If possible get into a comfortable stretching position and massage the area while the muscle, joint, ligament is stretched out and find the painful area and work it if not with the thumb technique then use a foam roller, massage tool, tennis ball, massage ball, etc, also done in slow circular motions. When applying pressure, don�t push it to the limit like working out. That is not the goal. The objective is to work out the pain/soreness and loosen up the area. Therefore it�s best to start gently and gradually build up to stronger pressure as long as it feels correct and the pain does reduce. Gradually increase the intensity of the pressure, heat, sessions, etc. But do not overdo it, as that could worsen or cause further injury.

Stretch

Although not directly massaging an area, stretching is a form of self-care that keeps the body loose and limber. Stretching out is recommended at the beginning of the day and before exercising. An example is runner�s lunge pose and a yoga pose called pigeon. These are excellent stretches for releasing the psoas muscle, located in the lower lumbar region.  
 
Yoga can help by stretching and releasing the hips, glutes, and back muscles. As with massage don�t overdo the moves, overstretch, or hold the poses for too long. Consult with a doctor for any medical concerns where yoga could be dangerous and impair health. Additionally, a family member, spouse, partner, or friend can be very helpful when stretching. Assisted stretches help and reduce the effort required to stretch oneself. Some assisted stretches include the supine twist and hamstring stretches. If you are the one assisting and want to guide the pain-relieving stretches, start gently, slowly, and pay attention to verbal and non-verbal cues, like a wincing face, and short breathing.

Utilize Massage Tools/Devices

Utilize self-massage tools and devices that can help deliver pain relief. Foam rollers and tennis balls can help with trigger points, areas of muscle pain and can help with the hard to reach areas. Massage balls can also help to apply balanced pressure and even circular massage motion. These tools are typically sandwiched between the wall or floor and the individual who rolls drags or creates friction to effectively work the muscle/s tightness, and knot/s out. Motorized massagers can help with muscle tension in the lower side of the back, hips, and glutes.  
11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 128 Self-Massage Techniques
 

Partner

Sometimes however there are areas difficult to reach and even if reachable massaging the area isn’t the same because of the awkward position. When this happens if possible use a spouse, family, friend, or partner to massage out those points. This could be the middle back and hamstrings to get a thorough massage. Just like a professional massage therapist having someone else can be a great help in applying heat or ice to areas that can be troublesome. But if not then make do with what you’re able. Self-massage can be very helpful and beneficial until you are able to see your massage therapist, chiropractor, or physical therapist.

Whiplash Massage Therapy

 
 

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*
Ease Pregnancy Back Pain at Home the Smart Way

Ease Pregnancy Back Pain at Home the Smart Way

Pregnancy back pain is very common. At least 50 percent of pregnant women and up to 80 percent will experience back pain at some point during their pregnancy. This is completely natural from the added weight of the baby. However, combined with all the other issues that arise during pregnancy ranging from:

  • Mood swings
  • Morning sickness
  • Fatigue
  • Urinary issues
  • Lower back pain
 
11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 128 Ease Pregnancy Back Pain at Home the Smart Way
 

This can cause uncomfortable symptoms and take a serious toll on the body. Severe back pain during pregnancy is rare. We’ll look at why you could develop pregnancy back pain, along with steps and proven ways to feel better.

Back Pain Causes

Pain can occur at any trimester, but it usually arises in the later months as the baby and belly grow. Pain can be mild to severe and usually happens in the lower back. There does not have to be pre-existing back problems.

Pregnancy itself changes the body in ways that can lead to back pain. Example: As the uterus gets heavier, there is the added strain placed on the back muscles. This can alter proper posture and cause discomfort/pain. Pregnancy changes the center of gravity and accentuates the spine’s curve in the lower back. When the abdominal muscles and core are weak and not strong enough, the changes of the curvature worsen since it is these muscles that stabilize the back.

When pregnant, the body releases a hormone called relaxin that loosens ligaments, which is the tissue that connects the bones to each other inside the pelvis. The ligament loosening can affect back support and be a cause for pain. Other reasons women experience pregnancy back pain include:

  • Stress
  • Poor posture
  • Standing for too long
  • Injury
  • Trauma

 

Tips for Relief

There are ways to ease pregnancy back pain without medical intervention. Here’s how:

Pay Attention to Posture

When standing up, make sure to stand straight with the shoulders held back. If you must remain standing for a long time, elevate one foot on a box, chair, or stool to relieve the pressure on the spine. Try to avoid standing for long periods. Remember to take regular breaks and get off your feet. Maintain proper posture when sitting, as well.

Utilize an Ergonomic Chair

Both at home and at work that offers plenty of support for the back. Also, a small cushion or pillow placed behind the lower back, along with a stool or footrest for elevating the feet can be highly beneficial.

Proper Lifting

Of course, do not lift heavy objects, and avoid bending at the waist to pick up items off the floor. Instead squat, bend the knees, and lift with the legs, not with the back.

Exercise

The best time to start an exercise regiment is before conception. Regular physical activity/exercise can help prevent and ease back pain, along with all of the other benefits.

Doing simple exercises before getting pregnant can improve core strength, which can go a long way. Try to get as close as possible to a healthy weight before getting pregnant. This has the added benefit of reducing pregnancy risks and cesarean delivery.

 

11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 126 Is My Pregnancy Causing Back Pain or Something Else El Paso, TX?

 

Once pregnant, mild or moderate exercise can help get a handle on back pain and prep the body for childbirth. Gentle workouts are the way to go. These will strengthen the back, core, and leg muscles. Recommended for pregnant women are:

  • Walking
  • Swimming
  • Prenatal yoga
  • Stretches

Ask your provider which exercises, stretches are best for you. Remember movement is far better than resting too much. Also, working with a physical therapist or chiropractor in back strength will help immensely.

Exercise Clothes

Wear comfortable, spine supportive shoes. High heels should be removed altogether and take caution with flats, as these can and do often lack arch support. Shoe inserts/orthotics can help.

Maternity support belts for back pain relief can also be an added tool. Currently, there is not a great deal of scientific proof that they work. But many women swear by them when they were pregnant.

Sleep Adjustments

Try sleeping on one side with the knees bent, along with a pillow between the knees or under the abdomen. Another possibility is using a firmer mattress. This can support the back better than a soft sinking mattress. If a firm mattress is not possible, consider placing a stiff board under the mattress for added firmness.

Take naps, making sure to get the proper sleep that the body needs. This is especially true as the later weeks of pregnancy approach. This is easier said than done, but a warm bath can help the body relax before bed.

Complementary practices

Some women have found alternative medical approaches like acupuncture and prenatal massage to be quite helpful in easing pregnancy back pain. Before trying it out talk to your OB/GYN. Once discussed, you can decide if it’s a healthy choice. Make sure the masseuse or alternative practitioner has experience working with pregnant women.

Pain Meds

Pregnancy back pain is a leading cause of opioid prescriptions. When it comes to medication, a critical issue is a potential for opioid abuse. There are some over-the-counter meds that can help ease back pain.

However, Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs have been linked to pregnancy complications, and most doctors recommend not using them. Instead, try acetaminophen, which is just as effective and safe during pregnancy. Using hot and cold compresses and pain relief creams/ointments can also help. Pregnant women should always speak with a healthcare provider before starting any medication.

Medical Help for Pregnancy Back Pain

During pregnancy, some back pain is normal. When there is severe pain, sudden pain, or pain that lasts longer than two weeks this could be a sign of a more serious condition. It could be an indication of preterm labor, a urinary tract infection, or kidney stones.

Call a doctor if you experience any of the following:

  • Back pain that does not get better/improve
  • Back pain on one side of the body
  • Back pain along with weakness in one or both legs
  • Rhythmic back pain/s
  • Accompanied back pain with vaginal bleeding, fever, urinary burning or change in vaginal discharge
  • Suddenly unable to walk due to pain or weakness
  • Lose feeling in the back, legs, buttocks, and pelvis
  • Numbness could be the sign of a compressed nerve

Conclusion

Pregnancy back pain usually fades away once the baby is born, these steps can be taken in the meantime to ease any discomfort. Don’t forget to ask your OB/GYN for recommendations.


Weight Loss Techniques – Push as Rx Fitness

 

 

Working from Home with Back Pain

Working from Home with Back Pain

Companies are doing what they can to keep operations moving and workers employed. Those that are able to work-from-home are doing so. But working from home is new to many and creates new challenges of converting an area in the house, apartment, etc, to become the workspace.

Back pain is common whether at the office or at the house. Everyday activities like the way you sit or lift can cause back pain if you�re not careful. At the house, it can be easy to lose track of time working. However, sitting with the wrong chair, at an improper height is not great for the body and overall health.

 

11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 128 Tips On Working from Home with Back Pain El Paso, TX.

 

Working from Home and Back Pain

You probably thought you�d be comfortable working while lounging in bed or slouching on the sofa. However, after a few hours,�you would have a sore back, neck, or shoulders muscles. Working on a laptop for hours daily�at the kitchen counter or hunched over a coffee table and not sitting at a table or desk with a proper chair can lead to pain.�The best way to reduce and avoid back/neck pain is to make a few changes to the workstation.

 

Setting Up The Workspace

A comfortable workspace will increase productivity and physically help you feel good.

Working comfortably for hours, maintaining proper posture, it would be wise to invest in practical office appliances that can support physical well-being. Proper office ergonomics include:

  • The correct chair height
  • Footrest
  • Working desk posture that keeps muscles and joints comfortable

Choosing the ergonomic office chair is important, considering you will be using it for back support. Office chairs are not a one size fits all. The choice could be the difference between having continuing back pain or improving comfort, health, and overall productivity.

Ergonomic Back Support

Despite the adjustable ergonomic chair, you might still have back pain while working. Consider the following because it might not be the chair that�s not working.

 

11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste. 128 Tips On Working from Home with Back Pain El Paso, TX.

 

Keep Moving Around

Step counts could take a dive when working from home. Exercise and stretching at regular intervals are extremely important to protecting the spine throughout the day. Remembering to do this at home can be harder than working in an office environment. Use an automatic reminder on the phone. Our bodies need regular low-impact aerobic activity. It provides the tissues with vital blood flow and helps minimize back pain.

 

Be Sure To Check Your Posture

The spine is not fixed in abnormal positions. Sitting and slouching forward for a long time will contribute to back pain. The advantages of sitting straight:

  • Keeps the Joints Aligned
  • Keeps the Bones Aligned
  • Supports the Muscles
  • Supports the Ligaments
  • Prevents Muscle Fatigue

Sit all the way back in your chair and take full advantage of the lower back support. The knees should be bent at a 90-degree angle with the feet flat on the floor or on a footrest.

 

Proper Screen Height

The height of the computer screen should not be too high or too low. Your eyes should aim at the center of the screen without having to crane your neck up or down. It should be directly in front to avoid tilting or turning your head. A laptop should be raised anywhere from 5 to 10 inches to provide the proper height.

 

Speaker Setting

Don’t go for the multitask when it comes to the phone. Having the phone between your neck/shoulder and working at the same time can lead to stressing your back and hurting/injuring the muscles. Turn on the speaker or use a headset to avoid the awkward neck position.

 

Breathe Deep

Proper breathing keeps the body and the muscles in the mid and lower back nicely relaxed. Improper breathing can make the nervous system react, causing pain or discomfort. Breathing exercises can be a way to target lower back pain/s. No special equipment is needed and can be done anywhere, anytime. Concentration is the key. Inhale and bring the navel towards the spine and then exhale. This exercise will engage the core muscles and will support the upper body.


 

Eliminate Low Back Pain


 

NCBI Resources