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Non-Radiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis: El Paso Back Clinic

Non-Radiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis: El Paso Back Clinic

Non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis or nr-axSpA and non-radiographic ankylosing spondylitis/AS are related. However, non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis can present AS symptoms with active inflammation of the spine and sacroiliac/SI joints, causing back and hip pain but does not reveal joint damage on X-rays or MRIs. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic can explain what it means to have non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis, how it can be managed, and what to do to prevent it from turning into ankylosing spondylitis.Non-Radiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis: EPs Chiropractic Team

Non-Radiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis

Non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis means there are early AS symptoms but have not developed enough joint inflammation or damage to show up on an X-ray or other form of imaging. Early evidence of joint inflammation includes blurring of the joint edges and localized regions of joint erosion. It can be difficult for physicians to see these subtle changes on an x-ray.

Ankylosing Spondylitis

  • Ankylosing spondylitis, or AS, is a form of inflammatory arthritis that affects joints in the spine and elsewhere.
  • It is a chronic, inflammatory, autoimmune disease.
  • Medical research is still ongoing to determine the exact cause, but a genetic component is believed to be contributing factor.
  • Around 85% of individuals with ankylosing spondylitis have inherited the HLA-B27 gene, which is associated with multiple autoimmune conditions.
  • In the early stages, individuals will present lower back pain around the sacroiliac joints or the joints that connect the spine to the pelvis.
  • Later stages have more obvious X-ray findings, like the fusing of the sacroiliac joints and the lower spine that takes place over time.
  • Joint inflammation can progress, causing permanent joint damage and spine rigidity.
  • Most individuals with the condition can manage their symptoms with NSAIDs, chiropractic care, physical and massage therapy, and range of motion exercises.

Stage 1

  • There is no evidence of spinal inflammation on x-rays.
  • MRI provides more detailed images of bones and may reveal bone marrow edema or accumulation of fluid in the structures of the spinal bones and joints.
  • Individuals with non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis, you are here.

Stage 2

  • There is visible inflammation of the spinal joints on the x-ray.
  • The sacroiliac joints between the spine and the pelvis are the most affected.

Stage 3

  • Chronic inflammation of the joints has caused bone loss and permanent joint damage, resulting in spine rigidity.

Symptoms of Non-Radiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis

There are differences between back pain associated with muscle strain and arthritis. Back pain symptoms include:

  • Starts to present before age 40.
  • It has a gradual onset and can go unnoticed for years.
  • Improves with movement or activity.
  • Eases up throughout the day.
  • Starts up in the evening when resting.

Other symptoms include:

  • Joint stiffness
  • Swollen fingers
  • Heel pain
  • Bilateral buttock discomfort and pain

Slowing Progression

Progression from non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis to ankylosing spondylitis occurs in 10% – 20% of individuals over a two-year period. Progression factors include genetics, gender, degree of joint damage, and level of inflammatory markers at the time of diagnosis.

  • Early diagnosis and treatment can slow the progression before significant joint damage with anti-inflammatory therapy, rheumatological therapy, and targeted exercise.
  • Work with a specialist like an orthopedic spine specialist and rheumatologist that understands the disorder and is up to date on the most recent treatment modalities.
  • A rheumatologist will perform diagnostic tests, including spine X-rays, genetic blood work, and serum inflammatory markers.
  • Individuals with non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis should expect to have serial X-rays to gauge the progression of the disease.
  • Staying healthy and active is recommended to slow the progression of nr-AxSpA and AS.
  • Recent medical advances and lifestyle adjustments can slow the progression in most cases.

axSpA


References

Six tips for living well with ankylosing spondylitis. Available at https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ankylosing-spondylitis/in-depth/6-tips-for-living-well-with-ankylosing-spondylitis/art-20478753. Accessed 11/07/2022.

Ankylosing spondylitis. Mayo Clinic. Available at https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ankylosing-spondylitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20354808. Accessed 11/05/2022.

D. J. Pradeep, A. Keat, K. Gaffney, Predicting outcome in ankylosing spondylitis, Rheumatology, Volume 47, Issue 7, July 2008, Pages 942–945, https://doi.org/10.1093/rheumatology/ken195

Kucybała, Iwona, et al. “Radiologic approach to axial spondyloarthritis: where are we now and where are we heading?.” Rheumatology international vol. 38,10 (2018): 1753-1762. doi:10.1007/s00296-018-4130-1

Michelena, Xabier, López-Medina, Clementina, and Helena Marzo-Ortega. “Non-radiographic versus radiographic axSpA: what’s in a name?”.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. October 14, 2020. https://doi.org/10.1093/rheumatology/keaa422

Swift D. Ankylosing spondylitis: disease progression varies widely. Medpage Today. Accessed 11/05/2022.Available at https://www.medpagetoday.com/rheumatology/arthritis/49096

Nutrition Support For Adrenal Fatigue: El Paso Back Clinic

Nutrition Support For Adrenal Fatigue: El Paso Back Clinic

The adrenal glands are small and sit above the kidneys. The glands help the body burn fat and protein and regulate sugar, blood pressure, and stress response. They create, release, and regulate hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. Conditions like chronic fatigue, brain fog, and burnout cause individuals to be exhausted during the day and unable to fall asleep at night. Symptoms can also include hair loss, weight fluctuation, increased cravings, and difficulty recovering from illness. Nutrition support plays a major role in healing adrenal fatigue.Nutrition Support For Adrenal Fatigue: EP Functional Chiropractic

Nutrition Support

Adrenal fatigue nutrition support is a food-based approach to optimize adrenal gland function. The objective is to increase energy levels naturally, so the body doesn’t burn stored nutrients. Adrenal gland optimization involves learning ways to reduce and manage stress, getting healthy sleep, and making lifestyle adjustments.

Adrenal Fatigue

When stress activates, the adrenal glands release cortisol. Researchers theorize that when the body experiences high levels of chronic stress, the adrenal glands may not be able to produce enough cortisol to maintain healthy function, which can lead to adrenal fatigue.

  • Adrenal fatigue should not be confused with adrenal insufficiency, a verified medical condition where the adrenal glands cannot produce enough hormones.

Fatigue Symptoms

Symptoms of adrenal fatigue include:

  • Chronic low energy levels
  • Difficulty waking up
  • Difficulty falling asleep
  • Increased cravings for salt or sugar
  • Dependence on stimulants like caffeine

Other health conditions could also cause symptoms.

Foods to Avoid

Decreasing foods and drinks high in refined and processed sugar and unhealthy fats are recommended. Some foods to limit include:

  • Processed food
  • Fried food
  • Granulated sugar
  • All-purpose flour
  • Soda
  • Artificial sweeteners

It’s also recommended to time meals to help manage blood sugar levels. Skipping meals forces the body to burn stored nutrients that can reduce energy levels. Maintaining breakfast and lunch and regular balanced snacks can help maintain energy levels throughout the day. Maintaining hydration is also important, as dehydration can influence stress levels and cause the adrenal glands to produce cortisol.

Recommended Foods

Doctors and nutritionists recommend balancing nutrient-dense sources of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. Nutrition support foods include:

  • Lean meats
  • Fatty fish – Salmon and sardines are great protein sources as they are loaded with healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce inflammation and promote improved brain health.
  • Eggs
  • Dairy
  • Nuts
  • Legumes
  • Leafy greens – These vegetables contain magnesium, like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard. The body needs magnesium to carry out various functions, which also helps the body relax and manage stress more effectively. When there is trouble falling asleep, it could be a deficiency in this mineral.
  • Colorful vegetables
  • Whole grains
  • Fruits low-sugar
  • Sea salt – Individuals with adrenal fatigue experience electrolyte imbalances. This is caused by a deficiency in the steroid hormone aldosterone. Adding sea salt will help balance electrolytes and minimize symptoms, specifically those related to blood pressure.
  • Olive oil
  • Avocado – The body needs a good amount of healthy fat to help the body heal. A low-fat diet is not ideal for dealing with hormonal issues like adrenal fatigue, as the body needs fat and cholesterol to produce hormones. Avocados contain high monounsaturated fats and fiber that help the body detox and digest food more efficiently.

Healing

A nutrition plan addressing adrenal fatigue can increase energy levels, regulate blood pressure, and promote healthier eating habits. Talking with your doctor and a nutritionist is recommended for optimal results, as they can develop a personalized health plan that addresses the following:

  • Lifestyle adjustments
  • Healthy sleep schedule
  • Managing stress
  • Physical activity

We are here for you at Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Wellness Clinic to learn more about adrenal fatigue and how to manage it. Contact us for more information on our services or to schedule an appointment for a consultation.


Adrenal Dysfunction Patterns


References

ABDULLA, Jehan, and B. DJ Torpy. “Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.” Endotext, edited by Kenneth R Feingold et al., MDText.com, Inc., 20 April 2017.

Allen, Loyd V Jr. “Adrenal fatigue.” International journal of pharmaceutical compounding vol. 17,1 (2013): 39-44.

Galland, Leo. “The gut microbiome and the brain.” Journal of medicinal food vol. 17,12 (2014): 1261-72. doi:10.1089/jmf.2014.7000

https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/endocrine-diseases/adrenal-insufficiency-addisons-disease/eating-diet-nutrition

Pulled Back Muscles: El Paso Back Clinic

Pulled Back Muscles: El Paso Back Clinic

Back discomfort sensations and symptoms could indicate pulled-back muscles. Unless you’ve experienced the condition before, determining the cause can be difficult. A pulled-back muscle can start as a sudden, sharp sting when bending, reaching, or twisting. Or it can present gradually, worsening over a few days. It is a common injury, but if left untreated could take several weeks, and in severe cases, a few months, to heal correctly. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic can help diagnose the problem and develop a customized treatment plan to restore optimal function and health.

Pulled Back Muscles: EP's Chiropractic Team

Pulled Back Muscles

A pulled muscle describes a strained muscle.

  • A strain is a muscle or tendon injury that happens when the tissue overstretches or tears.
  • When a ligament stretches or tears, it’s called a sprain.
  • Most cases can be managed and treated at home.
  • But if the symptoms are not improving or make it difficult to move, see a doctor or chiropractor.

Symptoms

Common signs and symptoms of a pulled-back muscle include:

  • Swelling
  • Tenderness
  • Soreness – Sore muscles that feel tight and achy usually indicate a condition that is likely to improve in a few days. More severe soreness could indicate a more significant injury.
  • Spasms – A sudden convulsive spasm in the muscle can also indicate a pull. This can feel like a sudden tightening that does not release. The muscle can continue to spasm and lead to other symptoms.
  • Cramping – A muscle can cramp can lead to increased tightness whenever trying to use the muscle.
  • Pain – Can be characterized as a constant dullness and/or soreness in most situations or, in severe cases, sharp and shooting.
  • Discomfort when moving around. If pain flares up when trying to move or use the back muscles is usually an indication that something is wrong.
  • Relief during inactivity and rest. When lying down to rest or taking a temporary break, and the symptoms disappear could also be an indication of a pulled-back muscle or another injury.

Causes

The most common causes are:

A Strained Muscle

  • This causes some damage to a region of muscle tissue, usually the result of being over-used or torn from another injury.

Sprained Ligaments

  • Involves damage to the ligaments in a joint, usually those in the spinal vertebrae.

A Herniated Disc

  • This involves damage to the discs that can leak out, irritating the surrounding tissues and nerves and can cause shifting and misalignment of the spine.

These conditions are distinct, but the symptoms can be similar.

Therapies

It is important to consult a medical professional before treating an injury because symptoms of other injuries, such as disc problems or a broken bone, can resemble strains and sprains. Most treatments will utilize:

Ice and Heat

  • Ice helps reduce inflammation.
  • The faster ice can be applied to a pulled-back muscle, the quicker pain and swelling are reduced, and the healing process can begin.
  • Apply a cold pack for 15-20 minutes as soon as the injury occurs.
  • Take a 20-minute break between each cold application.
  • After the first days, alternate cold therapy with heat to increase circulation.
  • Try a 20-20-20 rule: 20 minutes of an ice pack followed by a 20-minute break, then 20 minutes of heat.
  • Repeat as necessary, allowing 20 minutes between heat or ice therapy.

Limited Rest

  • Right after a muscle strain, limiting physical activity levels and avoiding movements are recommended for a short period.
  • After the initial pain subsides, partial activity levels are recommended to help prevent the muscles from weakening.

Compression

Stretching

  • Returning to activities, gentle stretching exercises can improve tissue healing by increasing blood circulation to the injured area.
  • Applying heat to the area before stretching can also help.

Strength Training

  • Ask a doctor or chiropractor about the right strength exercises for your condition.
  • Strength training will develop the muscles to prevent future injuries.

Pain Medication

  • Pain levels are an important indicator during the recovery process.
  • Pain medications relieve symptoms but do not assist with healing and should only be used short-term to provide relief.
  • If you need pain medication, consult your physician to determine the appropriate type and dosage for your situation.

Massage

  • Blood circulation to the injured tissues is increased with massage therapy.

Chiropractic

  • A chiropractor can diagnose back pain from a muscle or disc injury and develop an individualized treatment plan.

Chiropractic Therapy


References

https://www.aans.org/Patients/Neurosurgical-Conditions-and-Treatments/Low-Back-Strain-and-Sprain

Allen, Laura. “Case Study: The Use of Massage Therapy to Relieve Chronic Low-Back Pain.” International journal of therapeutic massage & bodywork vol. 9,3 27-30. 9 Sep. 2016, doi:10.3822/ijtmb.v9i3.267

Kumar, Saravana et al. “The effectiveness of massage therapy for the treatment of nonspecific low back pain: a systematic review of systematic reviews.” International journal of general medicine vol. 6 733-41. 4 Sep. 2013, doi:10.2147/IJGM.S50243

https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/injuries-poisoning/sprains-and-other-soft-tissue-injuries/overview-of-sprains-and-other-soft-tissue-injuries

https://www.spine-health.com/conditions/lower-back-pain/exercises-lower-back-muscle-strain

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

Vitamins For Immune System Health: El Paso Back Clinic

Vitamins For Immune System Health: El Paso Back Clinic

Immune system health and keeping the system strong and healthy can be accomplished by maintaining healthy eating habits. Eating foods rich in specific vitamins and supplements can help the immune system fight off illness, maintain energy levels, and help during injury recovery. Here we look at choosing foods with the right vitamins to build and strengthen the immune system throughout the year.Vitamins For Immune System Health: Chiropractic Functional Clinic

Immune System Health

The immune system consists of complex cells, processes, and chemicals that constantly defend the body against invading pathogens, including viruses, toxins, and bacteria. Keeping the immune system healthy year-round is key to infection and disease prevention. Healthy lifestyle choices consist of the following:

  • Nutritious food, healthy sleep, physical activity, and exercise are the most important ways to strengthen the immune system.
  • Supplementing certain vitamins, minerals, and herbs can help improve immune response.
  • However, some supplements can interact with prescription or over-the-counter medications.
  • Certain supplements may not be recommended for individuals with certain health conditions.
  • Consult with a healthcare professional before starting any nutrition or supplement program.

Vitamin C

Scientists have found that vitamin C deficiency can cause over-susceptibility to viruses, bacteria, etc.

  • Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, protecting the body from toxins that cause inflammation.
  • Regular vitamin C intake is essential for optimal health because the body does not produce it independently.
  • Many foods contain vitamin C, so supplements are unnecessary unless a doctor recommends taking them.

Vitamin C foods

These foods are ranked from highest levels of Vitamin C to lower levels:

  • Red bell peppers
  • Oranges and orange juice
  • Grapefruit juice
  • Kiwi
  • Green bell peppers
  • Cooked broccoli
  • Strawberries
  • Brussels sprouts
  • Grapefruit
  • Raw broccoli

Vitamin B6

  • B6 is essential to supporting biochemical reactions in the immune system.
  • One of the major roles is producing white blood cells and T-cells.
  • These are the cells that respond to fight off viruses and bacteria.

Vitamin B6 Foods

B6-rich foods in order from highest levels of B6 to lower levels:

Vitamin E

  • Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant.
  • Research has found that vitamin E is effective because it maintains T-cell full performance.

Vitamin E Foods

From the highest levels to the lowest.

  • Wheat germ oil
  • Seeds – sunflower and pumpkin.
  • Nuts – almonds, peanuts, and associated nut butters.
  • Spinach
  • Broccoli
  • Kiwi
  • Mango
  • Tomatoes

Zinc

Zinc Foods

Foods from highest levels to lowest.

  • Oysters
  • Beef
  • Blue crab
  • Pumpkin seeds
  • Pork chops
  • Turkey breast
  • Cheddar cheese
  • Shrimp
  • Lentils
  • Canned sardines
  • Greek yogurt
  • Milk

Selenium

  • Research has found that selenium activates the immune system when there is a threat and signals when to slow or shut down immune responses.
  • Selenium keeps the immune system from overworking.
  • Selenium protects from chronic inflammation and autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and psoriasis.

Selenium Foods

Foods from highest to lowest levels of selenium.

  • Brazil nuts
  • Tuna
  • Halibut
  • Canned sardines
  • Lean meats
  • Cottage cheese
  • Brown rice
  • Eggs
  • Oatmeal
  • Milk
  • Yogurt
  • Lentils
  • Nuts
  • Seeds
  • Peas

Increase Water Intake

Maintaining healthy hydration can increase immune health.

  • Water helps the body produce lymph, which carries white blood cells and other immune system cells.
  • Try to balance out dehydrating beverages, like coffee and soda.
  • Try eating more hydrating foods like cucumbers, celery, lettuce, and strawberries.

Immune System Health


References

Chaplin, David D. “Overview of the immune response.” The Journal of allergy and clinical immunology vol. 125,2 Suppl 2 (2010): S3-23. doi:10.1016/j.jaci.2009.12.980

Halliwell, B. “Antioxidants in human health and disease.” Annual review of nutrition vol. 16 (1996): 33-50. doi:10.1146/annurev.nu.16.070196.000341

Lewis, Erin Diane, et al. “Regulatory role of vitamin E in the immune system and inflammation.” IUBMB life vol. 71,4 (2019): 487-494. doi:10.1002/iub.1976

https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/fight-off-the-flu-with-nutrients

Mora, J Rodrigo, et al. “Vitamin effects on the immune system: vitamins A and D take center stage.” Nature reviews. Immunology vol. 8,9 (2008): 685-98. doi:10.1038/nri2378

Nicholson, Lindsay B. “The immune system.” Essays in biochemistry vol. 60,3 (2016): 275-301. doi:10.1042/EBC20160017

Shakoor, Hira, et al. “Immune-boosting role of vitamins D, C, E, zinc, selenium and omega-3 fatty acids: Could they help against COVID-19?.” Maturitas vol. 143 (2021): 1-9. doi:10.1016/j.maturitas.2020.08.003

Healthy Gifts: El Paso Back Clinic

Healthy Gifts: El Paso Back Clinic

Making and maintaining healthy lifestyle changes does not have to be as challenging when surrounded by family, friends, and loved ones who support those goals. Healthy gifts or the gift of wellness can be the real difference in improving one’s or another’s health this season. With the right health tools, individuals can make, see and feel the changes happening. Here is a list of a few of the best healthy holiday gifts to help your loved ones begin the New Year with a healthy perspective.Healthy Gifts: El Paso's Chiropractic Team

Healthy Gifts

Compact Treadmill and Walking Pad

Walking daily is an integral part of overall wellness. The body was designed to move, and walking about 8,000 steps daily has been shown to reduce all-cause mortality compared to sedentary lifestyles. Unfortunately, it’s estimated that many individuals only walk around 5,000 steps daily.

  • Walking pads and compact treadmills allow the ability to incorporate more physical activity.
  • In inclement weather, they allow individuals to walk and complete a workout.
  • Smaller walking pads can be installed under a standing desk for easy and effective movement during the workday.

Top Blender

Individuals that take supplements could benefit from a high-quality, all-purpose blender.

  • A quality blender easily whips healthy smoothies, protein shakes, and other healthy beverages.
  • Athletes can incorporate protein powder into their drinks.
  • Certain high-tech blenders double as water infusers to reach hydration goals.

Percussive Massagers and Foam Roller Sets

Muscle recovery and maintaining flexibility are essential for body health. Recovery-specific tools can help immensely.

  • A personal percussive massager uses vibration therapy to keep the muscles loose and release endorphins.
  • Percussive massage treatment relieves soreness, stretches out the muscles, and improves flexibility and muscle strength in older individuals with sarcopenia or age-related muscle mass loss.
  • Self-myofascial release tools like foam rollers can help roll out sore muscles while improving range of motion and muscle strength.

Athletic Earbuds

Research from workout enthusiasts and athletes has shown that having the right music or podcast makes or breaks the workout or sport.

  • The research found that music can have an ergogenic effect on performance by increasing exercise duration and performance.
  • Sweat-free earbuds are recommended as they are designed specifically for athletes, increasing their comfort and staying in place during their entire workout, no matter how intense.

Air Fryer

Deep-fried foods can be full of unhealthy saturated fats and trans fats and are associated with various health concerns, including cardiovascular issues and type 2 diabetes.

  • Air frying offers a healthier way to cook favorite foods, like fried chicken, French fries, fried vegetables, etc.
  • Air fryers rely on convection heat that circulates to crisp up the food.
  • This method is healthier than traditional frying methods.
  • A study found that air-frying French fries led to a reduced formation of potential food hazards versus deep-frying.
  • In addition, air frying can also be incorporated into baking or roasting.

Body Composition Scales

Body composition scales are recommended for achieving health and fitness goals.

  • These units can keep track of lean body mass, metabolism, and neuromuscular function.
  • They measure body fluid balance, muscle mass, and fat distribution.
  • They offer real metrics for current skeletal muscle mass.
  • Data points help individuals better understand their health.

Meditation Mats and Benches

Mental health is as vital as physical health.

  • Incorporating mindfulness and meditation exercises daily can improve mental and physical well-being and encourage long-term behavioral changes.
  • Regular meditation practice can help improve sleep quality, mood, and body repair and recovery from work, school, sports, workouts, etc.
  • Meditation mats and benches can make seated and kneeling meditation practices more comfortable.

Therapeutic Environment of Insight


References

Dong, Lu et al. “Effects of Air Frying on French Fries: The Indication Role of Physicochemical Properties on the Formation of Maillard Hazards, and the Changes of Starch Digestibility.” Frontiers in nutrition vol. 9 889901. 27 Apr. 2022, doi:10.3389/fnut.2022.889901

Pinho, Alexandre S et al. “Can We Rely on Mobile Devices and Other Gadgets to Assess the Postural Balance of Healthy Individuals? A Systematic Review.” Sensors (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 19,13 2972. 5 Jul. 2019, doi:10.3390/s19132972

Rusch, Heather L et al. “The effect of mindfulness meditation on sleep quality: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.” Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences vol. 1445,1 (2019): 5-16. doi:10.1111/nyas.13996

Thakare, Avinash E et al. “Effect of music tempo on exercise performance and heart rate among young adults.” International journal of physiology, pathophysiology and pharmacology vol. 9,2 35-39. 15 Apr. 2017

https://www.verywellfit.com/best-healthy-gifts-4178843

Wu, S., Ning, HT., Xiao, SM. Effects of vibration therapy on muscle mass, muscle strength and physical function in older adults with sarcopenia: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur Rev Aging Phys Act 17, 14 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1186/s11556-020-00247-5

Ankylosing Spondylitis and Brain Fog: El Paso Back Clinic

Ankylosing Spondylitis and Brain Fog: El Paso Back Clinic

Ankylosing spondylitis, or AS, is a type of inflammatory arthritis that usually impacts the spine, causing back stiffness and pain, pain in the hips, and decreased range of motion. Brain fog can also be a symptom of AS and other chronic inflammatory conditions. Brain fog can affect memory, concentration, decision-making, learning, and problem-solving. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic can educate on the causes of ankylosing spondylitis brain fog and how to reduce its effects.

Ankylosing Spondylitis and Brain Fog: Injury Medical ChiropracticBrain Fog

Experts do not fully understand how conditions like AS cause brain fog and how it affects the brain and central nervous system. However, they believe brain fog is linked to chronic inflammation and pain associated with the condition, along with certain factors.

Chronic Inflammation

  • Inflammation occurs when the body’s immune system attacks healthy cells.
  • This triggers the release of inflammation-causing cytokines.
  • Cytokines can interfere with normal brain function.

Ankylosing Spondylitis Chronic Pain

  • Chronic pain can cause fatigue and unhealthy sleep quality.
  • Fatigue and poor sleep can worsen chronic pain, leading to intense fatigue and extreme sleep issues, becoming a vicious cycle.

Corticosteroids

  • Doctors typically treat ankylosing spondylitis with corticosteroids.
  • Individuals with cardiovascular risk factors have an increased risk of brain fog from the medications.

Depression

  • Individuals with AS can present symptoms of depression, which has been linked to cognitive impairment.
  • Depression can contribute to the development of brain fog.

Other Medical Conditions

Other Possible Causes

  • Stress
  • Sleep problems
  • Little to no physical activity or exercise.
  • Pregnancy
  • Menopause
  • Antidepressants
  • Chemotherapy

Effects

The effects of brain fog.

  • Thoughts are blurry and difficult to recall.
  • There are major lapses in concentration.
  • Thinking is harder.
  • There is constant confusion.
  • More effort is required to maintain thoughts in short-term memory.
  • Constantly forgetting what to do.

Chiropractic Care

Doctors recommend a multidisciplinary approach to manage AS brain fog. This includes:

  • An anti-inflammatory nutrition plan.
  • Ergonomic adjustments
  • Regular physical activity and exercise.
  • Mental exercises
  • Concurrent treatment with a rheumatologist in combination with chiropractic care.
  • Chiropractic care focuses on improving joint mobility and the function of the musculoskeletal system.
  • Manual and instrument-assisted adjustments are paired with the following:
  • Soft-tissue therapies
  • Non-surgical spinal decompression
  • Health Coaching
  • Fitness Coaching
  • Nutritional recommendations

Brain Cognition


References

Chiropractic. (2019). nccih.nih.gov/health/chiropractic

Cornelson, Stacey M et al. “Chiropractic Care in the Management of Inactive Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Case Series.” Journal of chiropractic medicine vol. 16,4 (2017): 300-307. doi:10.1016/j.jcm.2017.10.002

Creaky Joints. (September 17, 2018) “You can ease inflammatory arthritis brain fog with these 12 tips for a sharper mind.” https://creakyjoints.org/living-with-arthritis/arthritis-brain-fog/

Vitturi, Bruno Kusznir et al. “Cognitive Impairment in Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis.” The Canadian journal of neurological sciences. Le journal canadien des sciences neurologiques vol. 47,2 (2020): 219-225. doi:10.1017/cjn.2020.14

Zhang, Jun-Ming, and Jianxiong An. “Cytokines, inflammation, and pain.” International anesthesiology clinics vol. 45,2 (2007): 27-37. doi:10.1097/AIA.0b013e318034194e

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