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Posterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries: El Paso Back Clinic

Posterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries: El Paso Back Clinic

The body has around 1,000 ligaments that connect bones and joints. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that support joint mobility and stabilize the muscles and bones. An injury to one or more ligaments can cause inflammation, swelling, discomfort, and instability. The PCL refers to the posterior cruciate ligament that runs along the back of the knee joint. This ligament connects the femur/thigh bone to the tibia/shinbone. Anyone can suffer from an injury to the posterior cruciate ligament. It can be caused by the knee hitting a dashboard in an automobile collision, a worker twisting or falling on a bent knee or a sports contact injury. The Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic Team provide soft tissue work, trigger point therapy, and targeted non-surgical treatment through advanced therapy methods and technologies.

Posterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries: Chiropractic Wellness TeamPosterior Cruciate Ligament

The posterior cruciate ligament – PCL is located inside the knee, just behind the anterior cruciate ligament – ACL. It is one of several ligaments that connect the femur/thighbone to the tibia/shinbone. The posterior cruciate ligament keeps the tibia from moving backward.

Injury

Posterior cruciate ligament injuries are far less common than ACL – anterior cruciate tears. PCL injuries make up less than 20% of all knee ligament injuries. It is more common for PCL tears to occur with other ligament injuries. A PCL injury can cause mild, moderate, or severe damage and is rated into four different categories:

Grade I

  • A partial tear is present in the ligament.

Grade II

  • There is a partial tear.
  • The ligament can feel loose.

Grade III

  • The ligament is completely torn.
  • The knee is unstable.

Grade IV

  • The PCL is injured.
  • Other knee ligaments are damaged.

Individuals with posterior cruciate ligament injuries can have short or long-term symptoms. Typically, long-term symptoms occur when an injury slowly develops over time. In mild cases, individuals may still be able to walk, and their symptoms may be less noticeable. Common symptoms associated with PCL injuries include:

  • Difficulty placing weight on the injured knee.
  • Stiffness.
  • Walking difficulties.
  • Difficulty descending stairs.
  • A wobbly sensation inside the knee.
  • Inflammation and swelling can be mild to severe.
  • Knee pain.
  • Pain that worsens over time.
  • Over time, tears could lead to the development of osteoarthritis.

There is an increased risk of extensive damage and chronic pain conditions if left untreated.

Chiropractic Care

The continued participation in work or activity following a mild injury is the primary reason individuals undergo therapy, injections, or surgical repairs. Knee injuries need immediate attention to prevent worsening or further damage. A chiropractor will examine the knee, check the range of motion and ask about symptoms. They may request imaging tests to determine the extent of the damage. These tests may include the following:

  • X-rays.
  • Magnetic resonance imaging.
  • CT scan.

During the physical examination, they will check all the structures of the injured knee and compare them to the non-injured knee. The wounded knee may appear to sag backward when bent or could slide back too far, specifically when beyond a 90-degree angle. Treatment depends on the severity of the injury. Common treatments include:

Crutches

  • Crutches may be recommended to limit the weight placed on the knee.

Knee Brace

  • A special brace can address instability and help prevent the tibia bone from sagging backward.
  • Gravity tends to pull the bone backward when lying down.

Chiropractic and Physical Therapy

  • As the swelling goes down, a carefully personalized rehabilitation program can begin.
  • A chiropractic regimen will reset and retrain the ligament.
  • Massage therapy will minimize scar tissue and increase circulation.
  • Specific exercises will stabilize the knee, restore function, and strengthen the leg muscles that support it.
  • Strengthening the muscles in the front of the thigh/quadriceps is a key factor in a successful recovery.

Surgery

  • In severe cases, surgery may be necessary for full rehabilitation.
  • Knee arthroscopy is performed to reconstruct the ligament.
  • This procedure is less invasive compared to traditional surgical methods.

Recovery time varies from person to person. If the injury is mild, it may only take around ten days to heal. If surgery was needed, recovery could take about six to nine months. Full recovery typically requires 6 to 12 months.


Best Knee Injury Chiropractor


References

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Posterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries. (https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/posterior-cruciate-ligament-injuries) Accessed 7/26/21.

Bedi A, Musahl V, Cowan JB. Management of Posterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries: An Evidence-Based Review. Journal of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgery. 2016 May;24(5):277-89. Accessed 7/26/21.

Lu, Cheng-Chang, et al. “Twelve Weeks of a Staged Balance and Strength Training Program Improves Muscle Strength, Proprioception, and Clinical Function in Patients with Isolated Posterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries.” International journal of environmental research and public health vol. 18,23 12849. 6 Dec. 2021, doi:10.3390/ijerph182312849

Pierce, Casey M et al. “Posterior cruciate ligament tears: functional and postoperative rehabilitation.” Knee surgery, sports traumatology, arthroscopy: official journal of the ESSKA vol. 21,5 (2013): 1071-84. doi:10.1007/s00167-012-1970-1

Schüttler, K F et al. “Verletzungen des hinteren Kreuzbands” [Posterior cruciate ligament injuries]. Der Unfallchirurg vol. 120,1 (2017): 55-68. doi:10.1007/s00113-016-0292-z

Zsidai, Bálint, et al. “Different injury patterns exist among patients undergoing operative treatment of isolated PCL, combined PCL/ACL, and isolated ACL injuries: a study from the Swedish National Knee Ligament Registry.” Knee surgery, sports traumatology, arthroscopy: official journal of the ESSKA vol. 30,10 (2022): 3451-3460. doi:10.1007/s00167-022-06948-x

Foods That Help Maintain Flexibility: El Paso Back Clinic

Foods That Help Maintain Flexibility: El Paso Back Clinic

Having and maintaining flexibility in the joints depends on the connective tissues surrounding the muscles. Proper lubrication in the connective tissues enables the fibers to slide over one another easily. Naturally occurring proteins collagen and elastin are key components of connective tissue that provide strength and elasticity. The more elastic the connective tissue, the more flexibility around the joint. If it is becoming difficult to stretch out or there is chronic stiffness and tightness, there are foods that help maintain flexibility and enhance overall health.

Foods That Help Maintain Flexibility: EP Chiropractic Clinic

Foods That Help Maintain Flexibility

Joint flexibility means functioning connective tissues that join the skeleton and muscles and the ability of different body parts to extend and complete motions. Connecting tissues assists with movement and stabilization. These issues include:

Ligaments

  • Ligaments can be band-shaped or string-shaped collagen fibers that connect bones.

Tendons

  • Tendons are similar to ligaments and are band or string shaped but connect muscles to the bones.

Fascia

  • Fascia is a densely woven mesh that wraps around the blood vessels, bones, muscles, organs, and nerves.

Flexibility keeps the muscles active and mobile as they are necessary for daily physical activities. When these tissues become stiff from inactivity or an unhealthy diet, it limits the body’s range of movement and increases the risk of injury. Stretching improves flexibility, and adding foods to a nutrition plan will help maintain limberness.

Nutrition

A nutrition plan full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants will nourish connecting tissues and cells and increase collagen production. Foods rich in essential fatty acids/EFAs, vitamin C, sulfur, and water will promote healthy connective tissue for enhanced flexibility.

Fatty Acids

  • Essential fatty acids include omega-3 and omega-6, primarily found in fish, flax seeds, and liquid oils.
  • These fatty acids are essential because they cannot be made in the body.
  • Foods like fatty fish, flax seeds, walnuts, or supplements, can help achieve the proper ratio.
  • For individuals not too keen on fish, consider omega-3 supplements.

Collagen

  • Collagen is the main protein from connective tissue, and vitamin C is essential for collagen production.
  • Vitamin C-rich foods – oranges, bell peppers, broccoli, strawberries, tomatoes, leafy green vegetables, raspberries, pineapple, cruciferous vegetables, parsley, and watermelon.
  • Make various smoothie recipes for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
  • For increased protein synthesis, add branched-chain amino acids.

Sulfur

  • Sulfur helps maintain the flexible bonds in connective tissues.
  • Animal proteins that provide sulfur include fish, poultry, beef, and eggs.
  • Vegetable sources include Brussels sprouts, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, onions, and garlic.

Hydration

Water is not considered food as it contains no calories, but it is vital as it makes up 76 percent of the muscles. A high percentage of water content is the key to muscle elasticity. When the body is dehydrated, it holds onto water, causing fluid retention and stiffness. The more the muscles stay dehydrated, the more they have trouble recovering from physical activities, fatigue levels increase, the range of motion decreases, and the risk of injury increases. Don’t wait until you are thirsty. Stay hydrated throughout the day to keep the joints lubricated and energy levels high.

Fruits high in water include:

  • Strawberries
  • Watermelon
  • Cantaloupe
  • Peaches
  • Grapefruit
  • Pineapple
  • Apples
  • Pears

Vegetables high in water include:

  • Cucumber
  • Lettuce
  • Zucchini
  • Celery
  • Eggplant

Limit Salt and Sugar Intake

  • Processed foods tend to have a high salt content.
  • Too much salt causes the joints to swell as the body retains fluid.
  •  Keeping sugar intake low is important in enhancing flexibility.
  • This is because sugar breaks down the collagen in the skin and connective tissues.
  • This means avoiding processed foods, ready meals, and junk food.

Flexibility can be improved by eliminating foods that destroy collagen, focusing on foods that reduce insulin spikes, and maintaining hydration in the connective tissues. A nutritionist can develop a personalized nutrition plan for optimal neuromusculoskeletal health.


Foods That Help Maintain Flexibility


References

Beba, Mohammad et al. “The effect of curcumin supplementation on delayed-onset muscle soreness, inflammation, muscle strength, and joint flexibility: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.” Phytotherapy research: PTR vol. 36,7 (2022): 2767-2778. doi:10.1002/ptr.7477

Kviatkovsky, Shiloah A et al. “Collagen peptide supplementation for pain and function: is it effective?.” Current opinion in clinical nutrition and metabolic care vol. 25,6 (2022): 401-406. doi:10.1097/MCO.0000000000000870

MacKay, Douglas, and Alan L Miller. “Nutritional support for wound healing.” Alternative medicine review: a journal of clinical therapeutic vol. 8,4 (2003): 359-77.

Shaw, Gregory, et al. “Vitamin C-enriched gelatin supplementation before intermittent activity augments collagen synthesis.” The American journal of clinical nutrition vol. 105,1 (2017): 136-143. doi:10.3945/ajcn.116.138594

Zdzieblik, Denise, et al. “Improvement of activity-related knee joint discomfort following supplementation of specific collagen peptides.” Applied physiology, nutrition, and metabolism = Physiologie applique, nutrition et metabolism vol. 42,6 (2017): 588-595. doi:10.1139/apnm-2016-0390

Increase Hip Flexion and Improve Hip Strength

Increase Hip Flexion and Improve Hip Strength

The iliopsoas muscle is a primary hip flexor that assists in the femur’s external rotation and maintains the hip joint’s strength and integrity. It also helps to stabilize the lumbar spine and pelvis. Athletes often overuse these muscles with all the sprinting, jumping, kicking, and changing directions when running, causing strains and/or tears. Repetitive hip flexion can result in chronic degenerative tendon changes. Chiropractic care and physical therapy can assist in the early phases of healing, safely transitioning to rehabilitation, and returning to physical activities.

Increase Hip Flexion and Improve Hip Strength

Iliopsoas Muscle

The hip flexors are the group of muscles, including the iliac and psoas major muscles/iliopsoas and the rectus femoris/quadriceps. One of the largest and thickest muscles in the body, the psoas, extends from the lumbar vertebrae, crosses in front of each hip, and attaches to the inside top of the thigh bone. The muscle works by flexing the hip joint and lifting the upper leg towards the body. These fibers can tear if tension is more than the muscle can bear. An iliopsoas strain occurs when one or more of these hip flexor muscles become overly stretched or begin to tear.

Injury

The injury can occur from sports or everyday physical activities. This leads to inflammation, pain, and scar tissue formation. An iliopsoas injury is commonly caused by sudden movements, including sprinting, kicking, and changing direction fast while running. Individuals participating in any sports, especially cycling, running, dance, tennis, martial arts, and soccer, are more likely to experience this injury. Other contributing factors include:

  • Muscle tightness
  • Joint stiffness
  • Muscle weakness
  • Inadequate core stability
  • Not warming up correctly
  • Improper biomechanics
  • Decreased fitness and conditioning

Individuals will feel a sudden stinging pain or pulling sensation, usually on the front of the hip, groin, or abdominal area. Other symptoms include:

  • Stiffness after resting.
  • Swelling
  • Tenderness
  • Bruising around the area.
  • Anterior hip pain and/or burning sensation.
  • Groin discomfort sensations.
  • Hip snapping or a catching sensation.
  • Discomfort when flexing the leg.
  • Walking problems and discomfort.
  • Lower stomach and/or back symptoms.

Healing and recovery depend on the severity of the injury. A minor iliopsoas muscle injury can take around three weeks to recover fully. More serious strains and tears take six to eight weeks before returning to activity, as the tissue needs time to repair before starting rehabilitation.

Chiropractic Rehabilitation and Recovery

The first steps when dealing with this injury should be P.R.I.C.E. protection, rest, ice, compression, and elevation. It is important to rest and seek treatment immediately; if left untreated, the condition could worsen, lead to a chronic condition, and require surgery. A chiropractic treatment and rehabilitation plan will consist of the following:

  • Soft tissue massage
  • Joint mobilization
  • A chiropractor may recommend crutches to keep the weight off the hip.
  • A brace can help compress and stabilize the hip flexor to expedite healing.
  • A flexibility and strengthening program will be implemented to target the muscles around the hip.
  • Core strengthening exercises will improve the stability of the pelvis area to prevent any further overuse problems.
  • Wearing compression clothing could also be recommended, as the clothing helps maintain muscle temperature.

Labral Tear


References

Dydyk AM, Sapra A. Psoas Syndrome. [Updated 2022 Oct 24]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (F.L.): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551701/

Lifshitz, Liran BPt, MSc, PT; Bar Sela, Shlomo BPt MPE; Gal, Noga BPt, MSc; Martin, RobRoy PhD, PT; Fleitman Klar, Michal BPt. Iliopsoas the Hidden Muscle: Anatomy, Diagnosis, and Treatment. Current Sports Medicine Reports 19(6):p 235-243, June 2020. | DOI: 10.1249/JSR.0000000000000723

Rauseo, Carla. “THE REHABILITATION OF A RUNNER WITH ILIOPSOAS TENDINOPATHY USING AN ECCENTRIC-BIASED EXERCISE-A CASE REPORT.” International journal of sports physical therapy vol. 12,7 (2017): 1150-1162. doi:10.26603/ijspt20171150

Rubio, Manolo, et al. “Spontaneous Iliopsoas Tendon Tear: A Rare Cause of Hip Pain in the Elderly.” Geriatric orthopedic surgery & rehabilitation vol. 7,1 (2016): 30-2. doi:10.1177/2151458515627309

Knee Neuropathy: El Paso Back Clinic

Knee Neuropathy: El Paso Back Clinic

Individuals dealing with aching knees is one of the most common health problems and affects people of all ages. The knee is the largest joint in the body, comprised of muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and bones. The knees support walking, standing, running, and even sitting. Constant use makes them highly susceptible to injuries and conditions. The knees are also surrounded by a complex network of nerves that transmit messages to and from the brain. Damage to the nerves from an injury or disease can create various symptoms of discomfort in and around the knee joint.

Knee Neuropathy: EP's Chiropractic Team

Knee Neuropathy

Causes

Knee discomfort symptoms can be brought on by injury, degenerative disorders, arthritis, infection, and other causes, including:

Rheumatoid arthritis

  • This is a chronic inflammatory disorder that causes the knees to swell and causes damage to the cartilage.

Osteoarthritis

  • This type of arthritis causes the cartilage to steadily wear away, causing damage to the joints and various symptoms.

Cartilage Issues

  • Overuse, muscle weakness, injury, and misalignments can cause compensating postures and movements that can wear down and soften the cartilage, generating symptoms.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing knee neuropathy, including:

  • Previous knee injury
  • Undiagnosed and untreated knee injury
  • Unhealthy Weight
  • Gout
  • Compromised leg muscle strength and/or flexibility

Symptoms

Symptoms associated with a knee injury or disorder can vary, depending on the severity and damage. Symptoms can include:

  • Joint stiffness
  • Swelling in the joint.
  • Reduced movement/flexibility in the joint.
  • Increased instability/feeling of weakness in the knee.
  • Changes in skin color around the knee joint, like increased redness or pale discoloration.
  • Numbness, coldness, or tingling in and/or around the joint.
  • Pain symptoms could be a dull ache or throbbing felt throughout the knee.
  • Sharp, stabbing discomfort in a specific area.

If left untreated, knee neuropathy could permanently affect the ability to walk and lead to partial or total loss of knee function and mobility. Doctors recommend taking note of the following:

  • What activity/s generates symptoms?
  • Where are the symptoms located?
  • What the pain feels like?

Treatments available for knee pain

Chiropractic treatment offers various approaches to addressing the pain caused by nerve damage. Standard treatment includes chiropractic adjustments, therapeutic massage, non-surgical decompression, stretching, posture and movement training, and nutritional anti-inflammatory plans. Our medical team specializes in non-surgical treatments that decrease symptoms and increase strength, flexibility, mobility, and restore function.


Knee Injuries Adjustment


References

Edmonds, Michael, et al. “The current burden of diabetic foot disease.” Journal of clinical orthopedics and trauma vol. 17 88-93. 8 Feb. 2021, doi:10.1016/j.jcot.2021.01.017

Hawk, Cheryl, et al. “Best Practices for Chiropractic Management of Patients with Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain: A Clinical Practice Guideline.” Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.) vol. 26,10 (2020): 884-901. doi:10.1089/acm.2020.0181

Hunter, David J et al. “Effectiveness of a new model of primary care management on knee pain and function in patients with knee osteoarthritis: Protocol for THE PARTNER STUDY.” BMC musculoskeletal disorders vol. 19,1 132. 30 Apr. 2018, doi:10.1186/s12891-018-2048-0

Kidd, Vasco Deon, et al. “Genicular Nerve Radiofrequency Ablation for Painful Knee Arthritis: The Why and the How.” JBJS essential surgical techniques vol. 9,1 e10. 13 Mar. 2019, doi:10.2106/JBJS.ST.18.00016

Krishnan, Yamini, and Alan J Grodzinsky. “Cartilage diseases.” Matrix biology: journal of the International Society for Matrix Biology vol. 71-72 (2018): 51-69. doi:10.1016/j.matbio.2018.05.005

Speelziek, Scott J A, et al. “Clinical spectrum of neuropathy after primary total knee arthroplasty: A series of 54 cases.” Muscle & nerve vol. 59,6 (2019): 679-682. doi:10.1002/mus.26473

Subluxation Chiropractor: El Paso Back Clinic

Subluxation Chiropractor: El Paso Back Clinic

Subluxation is when a joint shifts out of alignment, which can happen to any joint in the body. Spinal subluxation indicates a misalignment of one or more portions of the spinal vertebrae. It is common in the spine from all the reaching, bending, twisting, and flexing the body goes through. Spinal subluxations, if left untreated, can cause disc degeneration, permanent nerve damage, neurological conditions, and chronic pain symptoms. A subluxation chiropractor will realign and decompress the spine combined with massage therapy to relax the muscles and restore mobility and function.

Subluxation Chiropractor

Subluxation Chiropractor

Some subluxations don’t cause any problems or pain, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t affecting the back and body. A spinal subluxation can cause long-term problems by:

  • Advancing the disc degeneration process.
  • Gradually pushing, pulling, and/or compressing nerves.
  • Causing the body to compensate through unhealthy postures.
  • Delaying nervous system responses and signal transmissions.

Symptoms

While some spinal subluxations may not be symptomatic, the majority of them are and include:

  • Muscle tightness, weakness, or spasms around the back.
  • Back aching and pain.
  • Neck aching and discomfort.
  • Headaches.
  • Limited mobility.
  • Digestive issues.
  • Tingling or pain in the arms or legs.

Causes

Common causes include:

  • Unhealthy postures.
  • Sleeping in awkward positions.
  • Sitting or standing for long periods.
  • Lifting objects improperly.
  • Wearing a heavy bag on one shoulder for an extended
  • Heightened stress levels can cause the back muscles to tighten, which can cause subluxations.
  • Automobile accidents, falls, or other traumas.
  • Playing contact sports.
  • Edema
  • Hyperemia – lack of blood circulation.
  • Atrophy
  • Fibrosis

Effects

Research shows that spinal subluxations can affect many facets of the body. Long-term effects may include:

  • Sleep problems
  • Low energy
  • Brain fog
  • Mood swings
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Digestive issues
  • Respiratory problems
  • Bone spurs
  • Spinal arthritis

Chiropractic Care

When the spine is out of alignment, it can cause issues throughout the body. Changes in one area affect the rest of the body. A subluxation chiropractor looks at the spine’s neurological and mechanical components and aims to reset everything back into its proper position. Similar to the way a massage helps the mind and body relax and de-stress, a spinal adjustment helps by:

  • Increasing circulation
  • Relieving discomfort and pain
  • Releasing tension
  • Improving mood
  • Reducing stress levels
  • Improving sleep function
  • Increasing energy levels

When the spine is properly aligned, the body can operate at its full potential.


Adrenal Dysfunction


References

Brian S. Budgell, Reflex effects of subluxation: the autonomic nervous system, Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, Volume 23, Issue 2,
2000, Pages 104-106, ISSN 0161-4754, https://doi.org/10.1016/S0161-4754(00)90076-9. (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0161475400900769)

Green, J D et al. “Anterior subluxation of the cervical spine: hyperflexion sprain.” AJNR. American journal of neuroradiology vol. 2,3 (1981): 243-50.

Meyer, S. “Thoracic spine trauma.” Seminars in roentgenology vol. 27,4 (1992): 254-61. doi:10.1016/0037-198x(92)90004-l

Neva MH, Häkkinen A, Mäkinen H, et al. High prevalence of asymptomatic cervical spine subluxation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis waiting for orthopedic surgeryAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases 2006;65:884-888.

Nourollahi, Maryam, et al. “Awkward trunk postures and their relationship with low back pain in hospital nurses.” Work (Reading, Mass.) vol. 59,3 (2018): 317-323. doi:10.3233/WOR-182683

Vernon, Howard. “Historical overview and update on subluxation theories().” Journal of chiropractic humanities vol. 17,1 (2010): 22-32. doi:10.1016/j.echu.2010.07.001

Aging Arthritis: El Paso Back Clinic

Aging Arthritis: El Paso Back Clinic

Aging Arthritis: How the body changes as the years go by is determined by an individual’s diet, physical activity/exercise, genetics, stress levels, sleep patterns, and self-care. As the body ages, natural degeneration from everyday wear and tear will present. The focus is on understanding how age-related degeneration can affect the body and what to do to prevent and treat it.

Aging Arthritis: Injury Medical Chiropractic Functional Medicine

Aging Arthritis

Arthritis refers to joint inflammation and is the fundamental cause of various disorders that include:

  • Osteoarthritis
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Infectious arthritis
  • Gout – metabolic arthritis
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Lupus
  • Childhood arthritis

Inflammation is just one symptom usually accompanied by swelling, pain, stiffness, immobility, and loss of function.

Osteoarthritis

  • The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis, where the cartilage within joints begins to break down, and the bones begin to reshape.
  • It’s known as degenerative joint disease/wear and tear arthritis.
  • The hands, hips, and knees are the most commonly affected joints.
  • These changes often develop slowly but worsen if not treated.
  • Symptoms include intense pain, stiffness, and swelling.

Fibromyalgia

  • Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes pain in various areas of the body, sleep problems, and fatigue.
  • Individuals with fibromyalgia can be more sensitive to pain sensations.
  • Treatments and management plans are available to help ease symptoms and restor function.

Infectious Arthritis

  • Infectious arthritis or septic arthritis is caused by an infection in the joints.
  • Bacteria from another area of the body can invade a joint or the fluid surrounding it.
  • Bacteria can enter the body from open wounds, injections, or surgery.
  • Infectious arthritis is usually only present in one joint.
  • Staphylococcus aureus is a bacteria that lives on healthy skin and is the cause of most infectious arthritis cases.
  • A virus or fungus can also generate arthritic inflammatory symptoms.

Gout

  • Gout is a common type of arthritis that causes inflammation and pain.
  • It usually only affects one joint, most commonly the big toe joint.
  • Symptoms can intensify, known as flares, and other periods with no symptoms, known as remission.
  • Recurrent gout episodes can degenerate into gouty arthritis, a more serious form of arthritis.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

  • Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune and inflammatory disease in which the immune system attacks healthy cells, causing inflammation.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis attacks numerous joints simultaneously, specifically in the hands, wrists, and knees.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis causes the joint lining to become inflamed and starts to damage nearby tissues.
  • Tissue damage that is severe or chronic enough can cause pain, balance problems, and visible deformities.
  • Rheumatoid arthritis can also affect organs, like the lungs, heart, and eyes, by causing inflammation.

Lupus

  • Lupus is an autoimmune disease that affects various body systems.
  • An autoimmune disease is when the immune system mistakes its tissues for bacterial, viral, or fungal intruders and attacks them.
  • Lupus symptoms can be vague, making the disease hard to diagnose.
  • The disease is known as the great imitator because symptoms can mimic other diseases.
  • Symptoms range from mild to life-threatening.
  • Seeing a rheumatologist is recommended, as they are specialists that can diagnose and treat arthritis, lupus, and other joint-related diseases.

Childhood Arthritis

  • Arthritis in children is known as juvenile or childhood arthritis.
  • Juvenile idiopathic arthritis/juvenile rheumatoid arthritis is the most frequent form.
  • The condition can cause long-term joint damage that can lead to disability.

Aging Arthritis and Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care is recommended for the treatment of any form of arthritis. Chiropractic care can work with other therapies to reduce swelling and inflammation, alleviate pain, and improve mobility and flexibility.

  • A chiropractor will utilize body imagery before beginning treatment.
  • Imaging gives insight into the condition of the joints, and the visual, combined with a self-report from the individual, allows the chiropractor to create a personalized treatment plan.
  • Once a chiropractor has identified which techniques the body can handle, treatment will commence that can include:
  • Therapeutic massage
  • Percussive massage
  • Ultrasound
  • Electrotherapy
  • Low-level cold laser therapy
  • Infrared heat

A chiropractor’s objective is to rebalance, realign and strengthen the body, relieve pressure or stress at the junction of the joints, and expedite healing and rehabilitation.


LLT Laser Therapy


References

Abyad, A, and J T Boyer. “Arthritis and aging.” Current opinion in rheumatology vol. 4,2 (1992): 153-9. doi:10.1097/00002281-199204000-00004

Chalan, Paulina, et al. “Rheumatoid Arthritis, Immunosenescence and the Hallmarks of Aging.” Current aging science vol. 8,2 (2015): 131-46. doi:10.2174/1874609808666150727110744

Goronzy, Jorg J et al. “Immune aging, and rheumatoid arthritis.” Rheumatic diseases clinics of North America vol. 36,2 (2010): 297-310. doi:10.1016/j.rdc.2010.03.001

Greene, M A, and R F Loeser. “Aging-related inflammation in osteoarthritis.” Osteoarthritis and cartilage vol. 23,11 (2015): 1966-71. doi:10.1016/j.joca.2015.01.008

Sacitharan, Pradeep Kumar. “Ageing and Osteoarthritis.” Sub-cellular biochemistry vol. 91 (2019): 123-159. doi:10.1007/978-981-13-3681-2_6

Tendons and Ligaments Injuries Chiropractic Back Clinic

Tendons and Ligaments Injuries Chiropractic Back Clinic

Tendons and Ligaments: A tendon is a fibrous flexible, strong tissue similar to a rope that attaches the muscles to the bones. Tendons allow for the movement of the body’s limbs and help prevent muscle injury by absorbing muscles’ impact when running, jumping, or performing other actions. Ligaments are bands of solid elastic tissue that connect bone to bone, hold structures together and keep them stable, support the joints and limit their movement.Tendons and Ligaments Injuries Chiropractic Team

Tendons and Ligaments

  • Tendons are strong and non-flexible.
  • Ligaments are flexible and elastic.
  • Both comprise collagen and living cells, essential in joints and bones and integral to locomotion.
  • Tendons allow body movement by transmitting force from muscle to bone, allowing the body to stand, walk, and jump.
  • Ligaments work by allowing for the full range of motion.
  • Ligaments are around the knees, ankles, elbows, shoulders, and other joints.

Connective Tissue

  • The collagen connective tissue that makes up tendons and ligaments is the same; their patterns are different.
  • Tendon fibers are laid out in a parallel pattern.
  • Tendon connective tissue needs to have more elasticity to help move the muscles.
  • Ligament fibers are laid out in a crisscross pattern. 
  • Ligament connective tissue stabilizes and strengthens the bones’ joint structure.

Tendon Injury

A tendon that gets overstretched or torn is known as a strain. Common areas affected by strains are the:

  • Leg
  • Foot
  • Back

Strains often result from repetitive work movements, intense physical activity, and sports. Individuals who overuse their bodies without proper rest and muscle repair recovery have an increased risk of injury. Symptoms include:

  • Inflammation
  • Swelling
  • Pain
  • Cramping
  • Weakness

Ligament Injury

A ligament that gets overstretched or torn results in a sprain. Sprains can happen suddenly from a fall, awkward movement, or trauma. Sprains commonly occur in the:

  • Ankle
  • Knee
  • Wrist

Examples include:

  • Misstep causing the ankle to twist in an awkward position, snapping a ligament and causing unstableness or wobbliness.
  • There could be a popping sensation or the feeling of a tear when the injury occurs.
  • Wrist sprains often happen when reaching out and extending the hands to break a fall, and the wrist hyperextending back.
  • The hyperextension overstretches the ligament.

Symptoms of a sprained ligament include:

  • Inflammation
  • Swelling
  • Bruising
  • Pain
  • The joint may feel loose or weak and unable to take on weight.

The intensity of symptoms varies depending on whether the ligament is overextended or torn. Sprains are classified by grade:

  • Grade 1 – a mild sprain with slight stretching of the ligament.
  • Grade 2 – a moderate ligament tear, but not a complete tear.
  • Grade 3 – a complete ligament tear, making the joint unstable.

Chiropractic Care

Tendons and ligaments do not receive full blood circulation like other soft tissues. Depending on the severity of the injury, and the slower transfer of oxygen and nutrients, ligament and tendon injuries can take six to twelve weeks to heal, and repeatedly stressing the injured area from overuse can extend recovery. Chiropractic adjustments, and massage therapy, combined with corrective exercises and stretches, will reduce inflammation, decrease pain, improve the range of motion, increase nerve and muscle function, and strengthen the muscles. Chiropractic treatment involves:

  • Soft tissue work
  • Percussive massage
  • Cross friction massage
  • Deep tissue massage
  • Trigger point therapy
  • Rest
  • Ice
  • Compression
  • Elevation
  • Ultrasound
  • Anti-inflammatory nutritional recommendations

Knee Injuries Adjustment


References

Childress, Marc A, and Anthony Beutler. “Management of chronic tendon injuries.” American family physician vol. 87,7 (2013): 486-90.

Fenwick, Steven A et al. “The vasculature and its role in the damaged and healing tendon.” Arthritis research vol. 4,4 (2002): 252-60. doi:10.1186/ar416

Leong, Natalie L et al. “Tendon and Ligament Healing and Current Approaches to Tendon and Ligament Regeneration.” Journal of orthopedic research: official publication of the Orthopaedic Research Society vol. 38,1 (2020): 7-12. doi:10.1002/jor.24475

https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/sprains-strains-and-other-soft-tissue-injuries

Scalcione, Luke R et al. “The athlete’s hand: ligament and tendon injury.” Seminars in musculoskeletal radiology vol. 16,4 (2012): 338-49. doi:10.1055/s-0032-1327007

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