ClickCease
+1-915-850-0900 spinedoctors@gmail.com
Select Page
Sciatic Nerve Branches

Sciatic Nerve Branches

The sciatic nerve is formed through a combination of motor and sensory fibers based on the spinal nerves of the lower back L4 to S3, known as the lumbosacral plexus. It is the largest and longest nerve in the human body and about as wide as an adult thumb. It begins at the base of the spine, runs along the back of each leg, and ends at the foot supplying the areas with fresh blood and nutrients. There are sciatic nerve branches that consist of primary branches and smaller branches.

Sciatic Nerve Branches

Sciatic Nerve Branches

  • The nerve splits into two main branches near the back of the knee called the popliteal fossa.
  • This fossa is located slightly above the joint behind the knee.
  • The popliteal fossa is a diamond-shaped space that acts as the conduit for the blood vessels and nerves.

Primary branches

From the popliteal fossa:

  • The tibial nerve continues down the back of the calf to the heel and bottom of the foot.
  • The common peroneal nerve, aka common fibular nerve, travels sideways along the outer part of the knee to the outer border of the lower leg and foot.
  • Both nerves convert into small sensory nerves in the calf that supply the outer side of each foot.
  • These sensory nerves are called sural nerves.

Collateral branches

The sciatic nerve breaks off into smaller branches, known as collaterals, that include:

  • These are muscle branches that supply the muscles in the thigh, including the hamstring group and the adductor magnus muscles along the inner thigh.
  • Other small branches supply the leg and foot muscles.
  • Articular branches supply the back of the hip joint, the back and side of the knee joint.

The sciatic nerve does not supply structures in the buttocks; however, pain commonly radiates/spreads into this area when the nerve is impaired, impinged, and inflamed.

Blood Supply

The delivery of nutrients to the sciatic nerve is done through blood vessels that also contribute to the nerve’s function. Any interruption of blood flow to the sciatic nerve can cause pain and dysfunction. The sciatic nerve and the sciatic nerve branches receive their blood supply from two sources that include:

  • The extrinsic system is made up of nearby arteries and veins.
  • The intrinsic system includes arteries and veins that run along the nerve and are embedded deep in a sheath known as the epineurium of connective tissue that envelops the nerve.
  • The intrinsic blood supply can be affected by conditions like diabetes, which can contribute to symptoms associated with diabetic neuropathy.
  • Both systems connect at various junction points.

Nerve Function

The combination of sensory and motor fibers that make up the sciatic nerve provides the essential functions in the lower limbs allowing the body to:

  • Stand
  • Walk
  • Run
  • Climb
  • Lift

A healthy sciatic nerve is well protected around the low back and buttock muscles where it starts, and it cannot be palpated or felt by touching or pressing on the area. When the nerve gets inflamed, injured, or pinched, the leg can feel stiff and inflexible when trying to move and can lead to pain, weakness, and tingling in the lower back, buttock, leg/s, and feet.

Anatomical Variations of the Nerve

Individuals can have variations in the anatomical structure of the sciatic nerve. These variations are considered normal, but they can increase the risk of developing sciatica brought on by impingement, entrapment, or irritation of the nerve root/s. Variations in sciatic nerve branches include:

  • The nerve divides above the piriformis muscle; one portion passes through the piriformis, with the other portion exiting the pelvis below the muscle. This is the most common variation.
  • The nerve divides above the piriformis muscle; one portion passes through the piriformis, with the other portion exiting the pelvis above the muscle.
  • The nerve divides above the piriformis, with one portion traveling in front while the other travels behind it.
  • Undivided sciatic nerve exits through the piriformis muscle.
  • Undivided sciatic nerve exits from behind the top part of the piriformis.
  • Around 10% of individuals have a nerve that divides above the popliteal fossa and does not merge but courses down in two separate branches.

The sciatic nerve and the sciatic nerve branches are significant components of the body. It supplies motor functions to move the legs and feet and provides sensory functions along the nerve path. Keeping the sciatic nerve healthy is key in helping to prevent back and spinal issues. Chiropractic can help realign the sciatic nerve and educate on maintaining the nerve’s health.


Body Composition


Fitness Motivation

New workout routine

Individuals that don’t feel like returning to previous workout routines are recommended to try out other fitness options. If the gym isn’t cutting it or there is burnout with the current routine, switch things up. This can include:

  • Virtual group classes.
  • 1-on-1 personal training.
  • Outdoor activities.
  • All are valid options to explore if in a rut with the current routine.
  • The important thing is to find what works for you.

Allow the body to rest

Individuals may want to push it to the limit to get back into shape, but rest days are essential for healthy muscle development and improved performance.

  • Noticing the body is more sore and exhausted after a workout is an indication that the body needs rest. This also includes:
  • Maintaining proper hydration.
  • Stretching out the muscles regularly.
  • Taking days off from exercising are necessary to:
  • Prevent muscle fatigue.
  • Reduce the risk of injury.
  • Allow for adequate muscle recovery.

Long term commitment is key

It can be discouraging to commit to a workout schedule only to notice minor changes to strength and fitness.

  • However, small improvements do accumulate over time.
  • Small increases over time can have a huge impact on overall strength and fitness.
  • Keep the bigger picture in mind to remain positive.
References

Davis D, Vasudevan A. Sciatica. [Updated 2019 Feb 28]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2019 Jan-. Available from: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507908/

Barral J, Croibier A. Manual Therapy for the Peripheral Nerves. Elsevier Health Sciences; 2007.

Ryan MM, Jones HR Jr. Mononeuropathies. In: Neuromuscular Disorders of Infancy, Childhood, and Adolescence. Elsevier; 2015:243-273. doi:10.1016/b978-0-12-417044-5.00014-7

Walking For A Healthy Back

Walking For A Healthy Back

Walking for a healthy back. This simple form of exercise can:

  • Trim the waistline.
  • Elevate mood.
  • Reduce the risk of chronic disease.
  • Improve back health.

Chiropractors recommend walking because of the ease of the workout and the health benefits it provides. It is a simple, low-impact exercise that can significantly improve the body’s overall health in a short amount of time. It improves back health by:

  • Strengthening the muscles that support the spine.
  • Improves posture.
  • Facilitates strong circulation.
  • Improves bone strength.

Walking For A Healthy Back

Walking For A Healthy Back

Strengthens Muscles

  • Walking engages all of the muscles which keep the body upright, including the core, leg, and back muscles. Muscle strength increases, providing optimal support of the spine.

Optimize Bone Health

  • Bone is living tissue like the muscles, and exercise stimulates bone the same way as muscle, gradually increasing strength.
  • Studies have found that walking improves bone density and reduces bone loss.
  • Walking also helps reduce the risk of degenerative bone diseases.

Posture Improves

  • Poor posture is one of the most common reasons why individuals have back pain.
  • Poor posture affects mobility and places a significant amount of strain on the back.
  • Walking a few times each week engages and strengthens the back muscles keeping the body straight.

Reduces Weight

  • Many individuals have lower back pain that is caused by excess weight.
  • The added weight causes the front of the body to shift forward, placing additional strain on the lower back.
  • Walking reduces the load on the lower back.

Improves Flexibility and Range of Motion

  • Combined with stretching, walking improves flexibility and range of motion, making it easier to perform everyday activities reducing the risk of back injuries.

Improves Circulation to the Spinal structures

  • Walking improves blood circulation, delivers nutrients to the soft tissues, and removes toxins.

Added Benefits include:

  • Stress relief.
  • Better sleep.
  • Improved skin tone.
  • Lower risk of diabetes.
  • Reduced risk of depression.
  • Improved cardiovascular health that lowers the risk of:
  • High blood pressure.
  • Heart disease.
  • Stroke.

Before Exercising

Before beginning an exercise program, it’s essential to consult a doctor or chiropractor for individuals that have not exercised for a while or are dealing with underlying condition/s. They will educate and recommend how much exercise is appropriate given their current fitness level and overall health. To maximize the benefits of walking and prevent injuries:

Use High-Quality Tennis or Walking Shoes

  • Walking is much more enjoyable and safer when the body is comfortable.
  • Improving comfort levels is by using a pair of high-quality walking shoes or trainers.
  • They will provide proper support, cushioning, and adequate traction.

Maintain Proper Posture

Stay aware of body position when walking. A few key points to keep in mind:

  • Place the heel down first.
  • Then roll through each part of the foot, ending on the point of the toes.
  • Keep the shoulders back and head up.
  • Lift from the hips to reduce the impact on the lower joints.
  • Keep a slight bend in the arms and smoothly swing them back and forth.

Turn Walking Into a Healthy Habit

  • In the beginning, aim for at least 5 to 7 walks each week that last 25 minutes.
  • Speed does not matter as the objective is to get out and walk.
  • Once walking starts turning into a healthy habit with improvements in health, then start walking faster and longer.

Interval Walking

  • Interval walking involves short periods of high-intensity walking followed by a longer period of slow walking.
  • This increases cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength.
  • Begin with a 1-minute interval of fast walking.
  • This is followed by 2 minutes of slower walking.

Take On Easy Obstacles

  • Makes the walks more challenging by walking up or down a hill.
  • Walk over objects like tree stumps or rocks.
  • This increases calorie burn.

Add Hand or Leg Weights

  • Increase workout intensity by adding leg or hand weights.
  • They will help strengthen the arms, shoulders, and upper back.

Body Composition


Building Lean Body Mass

Lean Body Mass is the body’s total weight minus the fat. This includes all the weight of the muscles, organs, and total body water. The best way to develop muscle and Lean Body Mass is to adopt a resistance training program. As stronger muscles are developed, the size and amount of the muscle cells increases. The muscles then require more intracellular water, which allows them to function at optimal levels. As the muscles grow and take in more water, Lean Body Mass increases.

References

Morris, J N, and A E Hardman. “Walking to health.” Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.) vol. 23,5 (1997): 306-32. doi:10.2165/00007256-199723050-00004

Nauman, Javaid et al. “Walking in the Fast Lane: High-Intensity Walking for Improved Fitness and Health Outcomes.” Mayo Clinic proceedings vol. 94,12 (2019): 2378-2380. doi:10.1016/j.mayocp.2019.10.020

Vanti, Carla et al. “The effectiveness of walking versus exercise on pain and function in chronic low back pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials.” Disability and rehabilitation vol. 41,6 (2019): 622-632. doi:10.1080/09638288.2017.1410730

The Efficacy of Low Laser Therapy | El Paso, TX (2021)

The Efficacy of Low Laser Therapy | El Paso, TX (2021)

Around the world, pain, especially chronic pain, is widespread to an individual. When the body goes through a tremendous amount of activity, the muscle tissues will rip and tear to strengthen the body for the next activity it overcomes. But when the muscle tissues tear and cause pain to the body, it can take a week or even months for the tissue to recover. Many recovery treatments can help alleviate the pain that a person is in, and one of the recovery treatments that most physicians use is low laser therapy.

 

Low Laser Therapy & Musculoskeletal Pain

 

Doctors have used low laser therapy to help patients alleviate pain and repair muscle tissue in the affected area of the body. Studies have found that the effects of low laser therapy had a positive impact on the treated area. The study showed that the low laser treatment has helped with relieving pain and has promoted tissue repair. The effects of the low laser wavelength have enhanced the healing process by promoting cell proliferation, causing pain relief. One of the efficient ways that low laser therapy is beneficial to the body is to alleviate musculoskeletal pain. 

 

 

Musculoskeletal pain is a variety of issues in the body. From muscle pain to fibromyalgia, it can render a person miss out on everyday activities, causing them to miss work or school. Studies have shown that when a patient is going in for low laser therapy, the effects from the laser wavelength can reduce inflammation and edema in the affected area. The studies even show that the laser light effects are photochemical and not thermal. The laser light will trigger a biochemical change in the body, causing the photons from the affected area to be absorbed, thus triggering a chemical change in the area.

 

Efficient Uses of Low Laser Therapy

 

 

Other studies even show that the low laser wavelength triggers chemical alterations and potential biochemical benefits to the human body. This means that if a person is suffering from chronic pain when going for low laser treatment, the laser can relieve chronic pain symptoms and even osteoarthritic conditions. Another efficient use of low laser therapy is that it can suppress the MMP or mitochondrial membrane potential in the DRG neutron while reducing adenosine triphosphate or ATP production in the body. In other words, the effects of low laser therapy can suppress and reduce inflammation receptors in the body, thus causing long-term results that last for years, improving tissue healing.

 

Another efficient way low laser therapy is beneficial is that it can be combined with light exercises as a staple of rehabilitation. Studies have found that the combination of low laser therapy and exercise has merit. When an individual combines stretches and low laser therapy as part of their rehabilitation, the data shows a reduction in pain symptoms and fatigue in the body.

 

Conclusion

 

All in all, the efficient effects of low laser therapy are beneficial by reducing inflammation and damping the pain receptors in the body. Since chronic pain is worldwide and can cause harmful effects to the body, using low laser therapy can dampen the pain receptors. Having low laser therapy treatments as part of their daily regime and light exercises for anyone with chronic pain can get their body moving pain-free. Since the body goes through so much, having low laser therapy is one of the many recovery treatments that can provide long-lasting results and promote overall wellness. 

 

References:

Cotler, Howard B., et al. “The Use of Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) for Musculoskeletal Pain.” MOJ Orthopedics & Rheumatology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 9 June 2015, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4743666/.

 

Dima, Robert, et al. “Review of Literature on Low-Level Laser Therapy Benefits for Nonpharmacological Pain Control in Chronic Pain and Osteoarthritis.” Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 24 Sept. 2018, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28987080/.

 

Enwemeka, Chukuka S., et al. “The Efficacy of Low-Power Lasers in Tissue … – Medical Laser.” Medical Summus Laser, 2004, medical.summuslaser.com/data/files/77/1585165534_SpHfd8kFyVara63.pdf.

 

Kingsley, J. Derek, et al. “Low-Level Laser Therapy as a Treatment for Chronic Pain.” Frontiers, Frontiers, 19 Aug. 2014, www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphys.2014.00306/full.

Tense Hips, Hamstrings, and Back Pain

Tense Hips, Hamstrings, and Back Pain

The body is a connected whole and more than just separate parts and regions. When back pain presents, it might not be the back muscles or spine but could be tense, tight hips, and hamstrings causing low back pain. How it happens, how to stretch and loosen up, and target these areas could help alleviate the pain.

Tense Hips, Hamstrings, and Back Pain

The Hips and Hamstrings

When the hip flexors and hamstrings become tense, the tightness can alter the pelvic alignment. This affects spinal alignment leading to discomfort and low back pain. The hip flexors are a group of muscles around the front of the hips, and they activate when moving the leg and knee upward. The hamstrings are the muscles in the back of the thighs that allow for flexion of the knees and hip extension. Muscle tightness in the hips and/or hip joint stiffness can also contribute to low back pain. Not being able to rotate, flex, or extend the hip forward or backward can affect:

  • Walking
  • Running
  • Swinging
  • Twisting movements
  • This increases mechanical strain on the lower back.

Hamstring tightness can be a side effect of:

  • Low back pain
  • Pelvic positioning
  • Muscle guarding
  • Weakness
  • All can contribute to the hamstrings feeling tight.

Tense Hips and Hamstrings

The factors creating this tightness can come from:

  • A sedentary lifestyle
  • Little to no physical activity
  • Sitting too long with no stretching or movement.
  • Injury
  • Intense workout

Losing the ability to function through the entire length of motion can also indicate muscle weakness and a lack of joint movement where the joint around the muscle becomes stiff. This can be caused by:

  • A lack of movement
  • Arthritis
  • Age-related changes

Stretching and Treatment

Stretching exercises can be the first line of treatment. It is recommended to start with gentle stretches targeting these areas. What works best for the individual is the stretch they are comfortable repeating enough to make a difference. Warming up the muscles first will generate the best results. An easy place to begin is a gentle forward fold stretch.

  • Stand up straight, or sit with the legs extended out in front.
  • Then, reach with the fingers toward the toes. Don’t worry if you can’t reach them.
  • Don’t bounce.
  • Hold the position for a few seconds.
  • Repeat five to 10 times.

For the hip flexors, stretches include:

If the stretching does not bring relief, it is recommended to progress to a personalized treatment and stretching program with a chiropractor or physical therapist. Chiropractic and physical therapy can relieve the problems without medication, injections, or surgery and provide lifelong techniques for maintaining optimal flexibility, mobility, and strength. The hands-on treatment loosens and relieves the tense tightness, reinforcing the flexibility and range of motion. Treatment includes:

  • Joint mobilization to the hips and spine.
  • Soft tissue mobilization.
  • A personalized strengthening program with stretches and exercises that target the specific muscles.
  • Health coaching.
  • Anti-inflammatory diet recommendations.

Body Composition


Monounsaturated Fats

Monounsaturated fat is considered healthy fat. This type of fat makes up a significant component of the Mediterranean diet. Studies have shown monounsaturated fats like extra-virgin olive oil can help prevent adverse events related to cardiovascular disease. A meta-analysis evaluating diets high in monounsaturated fats indicated a significant reduction in:

  • Triglycerides
  • Bodyweight
  • Systolic blood pressure in individuals with type II diabetes.
  • A significant increase in HDL or good cholesterol.

Another study showed the protective effects of monounsaturated fatty acids reduced the risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease. Monounsaturated fats can have a positive impact on overall health. Monounsaturated fat sources include:

  • Olive, peanut, and canola oil
  • Avocados
  • Almonds
  • Pecans
  • Hazelnuts
  • Sesame and pumpkin seeds
References

Estruch, Ramón et al. “Retraction and Republication: Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease with a Mediterranean Diet. N Engl J Med 2013;368:1279-90.” The New England journal of medicine vol. 378,25 (2018): 2441-2442. doi:10.1056/NEJMc1806491

Gillingham, Leah G et al. “Dietary monounsaturated fatty acids are protective against metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease risk factors.” Lipids vol. 46,3 (2011): 209-28. doi:10.1007/s11745-010-3524-y

American College of Physicians. (February 2017) “American College of Physicians issues guideline for treating non-radicular low back pain” www.acponline.org/acp-newsroom/american-college-of-physicians-issues-guideline-for-treating-nonradicular-low-back-pain

MedlinePlus. (2019) Hip flexor strain – aftercare medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000682.htm

NCBI. (2021) Hamstring Injury www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK558936/

Low Back Support Pillow

Low Back Support Pillow

The low back is made up of five vertebrae, L1 to L5. Pain in the low back is common, specifically because of all the sitting at work, school, and home. Individuals dealing with low back pain know how difficult it can be to sit without discomfort and have found that a low back support pillow can help.

Low Back Support Pillow

Low Back Support Pillow

A lumbar pillow is a pillow that supports the low back region of the spine. Different types include:

  • Lumbar rolls.
  • Lumbar pillows for sleep or laying down.
  • Vented lumbar pillows that allow airflow.
  • Specially shaped pillows made from materials like memory foam.
  • Lumbar pillows can be used on any chair at the office or home.
  • They are also helpful for travel with small-sized versions that can be packed and easy to carry.

How Lumbar Pillows Help

According to the CDC, the average adult spends around 6.5 and 8 hours a day sitting. Constant sitting hurts the body, specifically the spine and the back muscles, and is a significant cause of muscle stress. Properly supporting the low back helps remove the stress and strain. A low back support pillow can help correct sitting posture.

Pillow Options

There are plenty of options for low-back support pillow shapes, sizes, fillings, and materials. These include:

  • Memory foam.
  • Gel options.
  • Down and down-alternative.
  • No-fill lumbar support pillows offer airflow.
  • Some look like a half-cylinder in shape, rectangular, and curved.

Personal preference and comfort are different for everybody, and it could take some trial and error to find the right lumbar pillow. Some pillows are customizable, allowing the ability to add or remove filling as needed. Talking with a spine specialist, orthopedist or chiropractor can help in figuring out what type is best. Pillows come in various price ranges, with some at $10-15, while others can cost $100 or more. However, any pillow that provides enough support for the low spine’s natural curvature can work. It is important to be comfortable and supported to prevent pain and injury no matter where you sit.


Body Composition


Fermentable and Nonfermentable Fiber

The entire body can host trillions of beneficial bacteria. The majority live in the intestines and are referred to as the gut microbiome. Also known as the forgotten organ, these bacteria have a say in the body’s composition and overall health. The beneficial bacteria thrive on fermentable fiber, and fermentation in the gut produces short-chain fatty acids like:

  • Acetate.
  • Propionate.
  • Butyrate.
  • These help suppress gut inflammation and can reduce the risk of various digestive disorders like:
  • Irritable bowel syndrome
  • Crohn’s disease.
  • Ulcerative colitis.

Foods that are rich in fermentable fibers include:

  • Oats
  • Barley
  • Fruit
  • Vegetables
  • Cereal fibers that are rich in cellulose, like wheat bran, are nonfermentable.
References

“What is Memory Foam?” Sleep Foundation, Seattle, WA. August 2020. www.sleepfoundation.org/mattress-information/what-is-memory-foam

“Association Between Sitting Time and Cardiometabolic Risk Factors After Adjustment for Cardiorespiratory Fitness, Cooper Center Longitudinal Study, 2010–2013.” Centers for Disease Control, Atlanta, GA. December 2016. www.cdc.gov/pcd/issues/2016/16_0263.htm

“Ergonomics for Prolonged Sitting.” The University of California at Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA. www.uclahealth.org/spinecenter/ergonomics-prolonged-sitting

“Workplace sitting is associated with self-reported general health and back/neck pain: a cross-sectional analysis in 44,978 employees.” BMC Public Health, London, UK. May 2021. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33957889/

Relaxing The Low Back Muscles

Relaxing The Low Back Muscles

Relaxing the low back muscles. The low back supports the weight of the upper body and provides mobility. The lumbar spine/low back is a complex structure of interconnecting:

  • Bones
  • Joints
  • Nerves
  • Ligaments
  • Muscles
  • All work together to provide support, strength, and flexibility.

However, this complex structure is highly susceptible to injury and pain. The muscles in the low back support the spinal column and are responsible for flexing, rotating the hips when walking. The nerves in the low back supply sensation and power the muscles in the pelvis, legs, and feet. The most common acute low back pain cases are brought on from injury to the:

  • Muscles
  • Ligaments
  • Joints
  • Discs

The body also reacts to injury by triggering an inflammatory response. Inflammation can cause severe pain. The key is relaxing the muscles and keeping them loose.

Relaxing The Low Back Muscles

Lower back pain causes

The most common cause is muscle spasms, which can be triggered by:

  • Constant improper posture
  • Repetitive and overuse motions
  • Chronic inflammation brought on by underlying condition/s
  • Quick awkward movements like twisting, reaching, and/or bending at the wrong angle can set off pain symptoms.
  • If the same back muscles are getting strained and/or pulled continuously, this could indicate an underlying problem with a misaligned vertebra.

Correct improper postures

Improper posture and body positioning eventually present with discomfort and pain. Individuals are constantly hunched over and slumped in front of computers and devices, along with sitting with crossed legs, sleeping on a non-supportive mattress, and there is a perfect recipe for low back pain. Adjusting sitting, desk, and computer ergonomics and using smart devices with posture awareness will go a long way to correct improper posture.

Stretch and loosen tight muscles

Stretch out throughout the day and before going to bed. Sitting all day at work, then going home and sitting all evening is not healthy for the body’s muscles. The muscles shorten, as do the ligaments and tendons. Stretching keeps the body loose and limber. Try out different forms of stretching, as well as foam rolling for the back.

Get the body moving

Cramped or pulled muscles need time to recover. Too much rest or being completely inactive makes sense but is not recommended. Light movement keeps the blood flowing, especially in and around the injured/sore area. This increases healing and shortens recovery time.  Just some light walking is recommended. Getting up and moving while relaxing around the house will get the muscles back in shape.


Body Composition


Benefits of collagen

Gastrointestinal Health

Collagen generates a protective barrier effect on the intestinal mucosa that lines the digestive tract. One study found that collagen supplementation protects against the breakdown of the intestinal wall after a burn injury. A lack of collagen from aging or other factors could impair the structure of the intestinal mucosa. This could lead to digestive problems like leaky gut syndrome and irritable bowel syndrome.

Joint Health and Mobility

Collagen provides structure and cushion in the joints. As the body ages, the cushion wears down, and joint mobility decreases. This increases the risk of injury. Taking collagen supplements can help improve symptoms of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other conditions.

References

Finta, Regina et al. “The effect of diaphragm training on lumbar stabilizer muscles: a new concept for improving segmental stability in the case of low back pain.” Journal of pain research vol. 11 3031-3045. 28 Nov. 2018, doi:10.2147/JPR.S181610

Lugo, James P et al. “Efficacy and tolerability of an undenatured type II collagen supplement in modulating knee osteoarthritis symptoms: a multicenter randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.” Nutrition journal vol. 15 14. 29 Jan. 2016, doi:10.1186/s12937-016-0130-8

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Pain: Hope Through Research. www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Hope-Through-Research/Pain-Hope-Through-Research. June 9, 2017.

Volleyball Injuries: Chiropractic Treatment and Rehabilitation

Volleyball Injuries: Chiropractic Treatment and Rehabilitation

Around a half-million high school students in the U.S. play volleyball. Whether the parent of a volleyball player or part of a recreational league, the goal is to be ready for the season, which means preventing and addressing volleyball injuries. It is a highly demanding sport with quick movements, jumping, twisting, diving, spiking, etc. Despite being fit and healthy, extensive training along with match play takes a toll on the body. Chiropractic can benefit volleyball players.

Common Volleyball Injuries

Volleyball Injuries: Chiropractic Treatment and Rehabilitation

Why Chiropractic Works

Chiropractic treatment and rehabilitation, especially by a sports chiropractor, is recommended for volleyball injuries because it addresses acute and chronic injuries to all areas of the body. Chiropractic treats the entire musculoskeletal system. Proper joint alignment from chiropractic adjustments in the spine and throughout the body maintains the biomechanic integrity. This reduces high-impact forces in the joints. Soft tissue treatments like instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization can help resolve injuries by providing the tissues with more blood flow into the affected area allowing for faster healing. Most volleyball injuries result from overuse to the joints and muscles, resulting in repetitive strain. In volleyball, repetitive/overuse injuries are common in the knees, ankles, and shoulders. This comes from all the jumping, serving, and spiking.

Player Benefits

Body Soreness Is Reduced/Alleviated

Many athletes, including volleyball players, do not get the proper recovery time from training or playing.

  • Reduced recovery periods cause body soreness and stiffness that can overlap into an injury.
  • Chiropractic can reduce and alleviate body soreness.
  • Chiropractic promotes faster recovery.

Optimal Performance

Studies show that athletes that receive regular chiropractic care found speed and mobility performance enhanced.

  • Athletes require fast reflexes and optimal hand-eye coordination.
  • Speed, mobility, reflexes, and coordination depend on a healthy nervous system.
  • 90% of the central nervous system travels through the spine.
  • Spinal alignment can either allow for proper nerve flow or disrupt nerve flow.
  • Even when just one spinal segment is misaligned and out of place, the nervous system can impact reflexes, speed, mobility, and hand-eye coordination.
  • A properly functioning spine and nervous system will ensure the player is at their best.

Faster Injury Recovery Time

Healing the body properly takes time. Just like the body needs sleep/rest to function properly, so it is with injuries.

  • The issue for athletes is how much time healing takes.
  • Individual athletes receiving chiropractic care have been shown to heal faster.

Mobility and Strength

A chiropractic doctor can reduce the pressure around the nerve roots that exit the spine, which will help improve player performance. This includes:

  • Range of motion
  • Mobility and flexibility
  • Strength
  • Endurance

To find out how chiropractic can help, contact Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic. We will perform a thorough musculoskeletal and nervous system examination.


Ankle Sprain Treatment


How Many Calories Over 24 hours

Myths that offer strategies that avoid the hard work and commitment that diet and exercise demand should be avoided. Individuals cannot expect to experience healthy body composition changes by increasing/decreasing meal frequency if they are living a sedentary lifestyle. It is not important how often or what time an individual takes in calories (has a meal). What is important is how many calories an individual has over a 24-hour period. A study looked at healthy individuals that ate one large meal a day for two weeks and then later ate the same meal but spread out over five smaller meals for another two weeks. It was concluded that there was no statistical difference in body weight gain or loss between the two eating methods. 2000 calories over 3 meals is the same 2000 calories consumed over 5 meals. There is no substitute for proper diet and exercise. The focus should be on what and how much you eat.

References

Eerkes, Kevin. “Volleyball injuries.” Current sports medicine reports vol. 11,5 (2012): 251-6. doi:10.1249/JSR.0b013e3182699037

Gouttebarge, Vincent et al. “Preventing musculoskeletal injuries among recreational adult volleyball players: design of a randomized prospective controlled trial.” BMC musculoskeletal disorders vol. 18,1 333. 2 Aug. 2017, doi:10.1186/s12891-017-1699-6

Kilic, O et al. “Incidence, etiology, and prevention of musculoskeletal injuries in volleyball: A systematic review of the literature.” European journal of sports science vol. 17,6 (2017): 765-793. doi:10.1080/17461391.2017.1306114

Seminati, Elena, and Alberto Enrico Minetti. “Overuse in volleyball training/practice: A review on the shoulder and spine-related injuries.” European journal of sports science vol. 13,6 (2013): 732-43. doi:10.1080/17461391.2013.773090

Wolfram, G et al. “Thermogenese des menschen bei unterschiedlicher mahlzeitenhäufigkeit” [Thermogenesis in humans after varying meal time frequency]. Annals of nutrition & metabolism vol. 31,2 (1987): 88-97. doi:10.1159/000177255

Mastodon