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Sugar Consumption Thickens Fascia: El Paso Back Clinic

Sugar Consumption Thickens Fascia: El Paso Back Clinic

The fascia is important for connecting the musculoskeletal system, stabilizing function, and keeping the body healthy and balanced. Sugar consumption and the abundance of sugar in the body that doesn’t get burned directly negatively affect the fascia, making it lose its elasticity and affecting other connective tissues. Excess sugar in the blood leads to a pathological process called glycation. One effect of glycation is binding sugar molecules to fascial proteins, causing them to thicken and stiffen. The body sees the tangled molecules as foreign bodies initiating an inflammatory response to get rid of them. This can lead to chronic inflammation causing various symptoms. The Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic Team will address soreness, pain, and discomfort associated with fascia problems.

Sugar Consumption Thickens Fascia: Functional ChiropractorMyofascial Tissue

Myofascia or fascia is a layer of tissue that connects and supports the spine and muscles. It wraps and links internal body parts in bands, fusing them. This ensures the muscles can move freely without experiencing friction with other body parts.

  • Fascia is made of collagen, creating a tough and flexible texture that provides tension and elasticity.
  • Fascia is found around muscles, nerves, blood vessels, blood and cells, organs, and bones.

When the body stays or moves in repetitive patterns, the fascia can memorize certain positions/postures and hold the fascia in a contracted state. For example, sitting at a desk workstation causes the gluteal muscles, tendons, and ligaments to stretch and pull the muscles around them. The gluteal muscles can become restricted without releasing and training the fascia to return to a retracted position, causing tension and myofascial discomfort. When the body is in balance/homeostasis, and the fascia is healthy:

  • The viscoelastic gel flows without restriction in all directions.
  • The collagen fiber network moves freely.
  • Lymph and blood circulation flow correctly.
  • Communication between cells, the nervous system, and all tissues in the body work correctly.

In the event of an injury and activation of the healing process, specific components interact with cells to create the condition for healing and generate inflammation, allowing new cells to easily move and heal the tissue. An obstruction in the circulation increases pressure where the fluid sits stationary, preventing tissue communication. Sometimes the healing process doesn’t stop, and the inflammation response worsens and can become chronic.

Sugar Consumption

Many think of sugar as candy, sweets, chocolates, and desserts. However, all carbohydrates are sugar, and eating too much bread, pasta, grains, fruit, and cereals, contributes to a lot more sugar consumption.

  • Foods believed to be healthy such as wholemeal bread, low-fat alternatives, and granola cereal, have high amounts of sugar.
  • The connective tissues need collagen for the smooth functioning of joints.
  • High blood sugar exacerbates aches and pains and can lead to impaired joint movement and, eventually, arthritis.

Fascia Problems

  • Impaired flow and mobility
  • Fascia that has thickened and hardened impairs gliding ability.
  • The body feels heavy and sluggish.
  • Pain symptoms
  • Edema
  • Poor balance
  • In places where the body has become stiff and numb, the nervous system can’t transmit signals as quickly to control movements.
  • Muscles can constantly twitch or go into convulsions from misinterpreted signals.
  • A tight connective tissue chain can distort the skeleton causing the joints to wear faster.

Chiropractic Myofascial Massage Release

Chiropractic myofascial massage and release provides several benefits to the body’s health and well-being, including:

  • Relieves the overall effects of stress on the body.
  • Relieves soreness and pain.
  • Increases blood and lymph circulation.
  • Improves tissue recovery.
  • Improves joint range of motion.
  • Restores proper-length-tension relationships for dynamic movement.
  • Maintains normal functional muscular length.
  • Improves neuromuscular function.

Nutritional Guidelines Fascial Health


References

Barros-Neto, João Araújo et al. “Selenium and Zinc Status in Chronic Myofascial Pain: Serum and Erythrocyte Concentrations and Food Intake.” PloS one vol. 11,10 e0164302. 18 Oct. 2016, doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0164302

Dong, Shoubin, et al. “A three-dimensional collagen-fiber network model of the extracellular matrix for the simulation of the mechanical behaviors and microstructures.” Computer methods in biomechanics and biomedical engineering vol. 20,9 (2017): 991-1003. doi:10.1080/10255842.2017.1321113

Mattei, Giorgio et al. “Engineering Gels with Time-Evolving Viscoelasticity.” Materials (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 13,2 438. 16 Jan. 2020, doi:10.3390/ma13020438

Okumus, M et al. “The relationship between serum trace elements, vitamin B12, folic acid and clinical parameters in patients with myofascial pain syndrome.” Journal of back and musculoskeletal rehabilitation vol. 23,4 (2010): 187-91. doi:10.3233/BMR-2010-0264

Vlassara, Helen, and Jaime Uribarri. “Advanced glycation end products (AGE) and diabetes: cause, effect, or both?.” Current diabetes reports vol. 14,1 (2014): 453. doi:10.1007/s11892-013-0453-1

Biologics For Ankylosing Spondylitis: El Paso Back Clinic

Biologics For Ankylosing Spondylitis: El Paso Back Clinic

Ankylosing spondylitis is an inflammatory condition that causes pain and stiffness in the spine’s joints. Over time, it can progress to fusing the bones of the spine/vertebrae, limiting the spine’s mobility and leading to discomfort symptoms. The condition is more common in men but also affects women. There is not a known, singular cause, but individuals with a particular gene, HLA-B27, have an increased risk of developing the condition. However, the gene itself does not mean an individual has ankylosing spondylitis; genetics and other outside and environmental factors also play a role. DMARDs, or Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs, suppress inflammation. An emerging DMARD treatment uses biologics that further target and suppresses specific inflammatory compounds.Biologics For Ankylosing Spondylitis: Chiropractic Clinic

Biologics

Unlike regular medications, which are synthesized, biologics are made from and inside living sources.

  • They are grown in cultures or harvested from blood.
  • Biologics are complex and expensive.
  • Biologics provide some of the most powerful treatments for many conditions.
  • Two biologics commonly used to treat ankylosing spondylitis are:
  • TNF inhibitors.
  • IL-17 inhibitors.

TNF Inhibitors

  • TNF – tumor necrosis factor, TNF inhibitors are a biological medication that targets and suppresses TNF, which is involved in inflammatory processes throughout the body.
  • Blocking or suppressing TNF decreases inflammation and can delay the progression of ankylosing spondylitis.
  • It could be administered through an injection or infusion to provide the medication.

Side Effects

Side effects associated with this medication, along with other conditions, include:

IL-17 Inhibitors

  • IL – interleukin – IL-17 is a protein involved in inflammatory processes and conditions.
  • IL-17 inhibitors suppress inflammation which are newer medications that have been shown to benefit those with ankylosing spondylitis.
  • Doctors often administer IL-17 inhibitors through an injection.

Side Effects

Minor side effects include:

  • Headaches
  • Runny nose
  • Irritation at the injection site.

More serious side effects include:

  • Certain cancers
  • Severe infections
  • High blood pressure

Other Treatments

Treatment goals for ankylosing spondylitis include:

  • Slowing the disorder’s progression.
  • Decreasing inflammation.
  • Reducing pain.
  • Improving or maintaining joint and spinal range of motion.

Biologics are not the first-line treatment for ankylosing spondylitis.

  • Providers usually first treat an initial diagnosis with anti-inflammatory medications, like NSAIDs, to decrease inflammation and slow the condition’s progression.
  • Chiropractic care and physical therapy are recommended to maintain and/or improve posture, muscle strength, and endurance.
  • Recommended lifestyle and nutritional modifications.
  • Posture training stretches and exercises.
  • Optimal movement strategies to safely and confidently complete everyday tasks.

Biologic Medications

Biologics for ankylosing spondylitis may or may not be suitable. These medications are meant to help relieve the inflammation associated with the condition and slow the disorder’s progression. Your healthcare team will work with you to determine the right treatment option/s and explain the benefits, risks, and types of treatment. They will monitor the condition, track progress, and adjust the plan accordingly.


Assessing Hormone Therapy


References

Ankylosing spondylitis. (n.d.) National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Available at: https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/ankylosing-spondylitis#:~:text=Ankylosing%20spondylitis%20is%20a%20type,the%20spine%20can%20cause%20stiffness (Accessed: October 12, 2022).

Chen C, Zhang X, Xiao L, Zhang X, Ma X. Comparative Effectiveness of Biologic Therapy Regimens for Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Systematic Review and a Network Meta-Analysis. Medicine (Baltimore). 2016 Mar;95(11):e3060. doi: 10.1097/MD.0000000000003060. PMID: 26986130; PMCID: PMC4839911.

Gerriets V, Goyal A, Khaddour K. Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitors. [Updated 2022 July 4]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482425/

Lindström, U., Olofsson, T., Wedrén, S. et al. Biological treatment of ankylosing spondylitis: a nationwide study of treatment trajectories on a patient level in clinical practice. Arthritis Res Ther 21, 128 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13075-019-1908-9

Yin, Y., Wang, M., Liu, M. et al. Efficacy and safety of IL-17 inhibitors for the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Arthritis Res Ther 22, 111 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13075-020-02208-w

Kidney Detox: El Paso Back Clinic

Kidney Detox: El Paso Back Clinic

Maintaining kidney health is important to the body’s overall health and well-being. The kidneys are fist-sized organs located beneath the rib cage on both sides of the spine. A kidney detox maintains health allowing the body to filter and expel waste properly and produce hormones to help the body function at its full potential.Kidney Detox: Chiropractic Functional Medicine Clinic

Kidney Health

The kidneys perform several functions that include:

  • Filters and cleanses out impurities from the blood.
  • Produces hormones that regulate blood pressure and control the production of red blood cells.
  • Filter’s waste products stored in the bladder and expelled through urine.
  • Filters toxins.
  • Expels excess water.
  • Regulates pH, salt, and potassium levels.
  • Balances electrolytes.
  • Activates vitamin D to support body absorption of calcium for bone repair and regulating muscle function.

Kidney Detox

A key measure of keeping the kidneys clean and healthy is to engage in a healthy nutrition plan. Doctors recommend implementing lifestyle changes to help the kidneys filter at full capacity. Certain foods can help detox the kidneys and promote their health.

Pumpkin seeds

  • Pumpkin seeds can help prevent the accumulation of uric acid, one of the compounds that cause kidney stones.

Grapes

  • These fruits contain a compound called resveratrol to reduce kidney inflammation.

Lemons

  • Lemons help with digestion.
  • They have vitamin C, which enhances the immune system and supports white blood cells to fight infections.
  • Citrate binds with calcium in the urine to stop the growth of calcium crystals, preventing kidney stones.

Carrots

  • Carrots have beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, and vitamin A.
  • Antioxidants for inflammation.

Ginger

  • Ginger can help in the dissolving process of kidney stones and prevents them from reforming.

Beets

  • Improves blood circulation to the kidneys.

Celery

  • Celery has alkaline and diuretic properties to help expel excess fluids.
  • It has coumarins which can help to increase vascular flow.
  • It is rich in vitamins D, C, and K.

Apples

  • Apples contain fiber to unclog the arteries, specifically the kidney arteries will improve filtration.

Maintain Hydration

The human body is almost 60 percent water, with every organ requiring water.

  • The kidneys (body filtration system) require water to secrete urine.
  • Urine is the primary waste product that allows the body to eliminate unwanted and unnecessary substances.
  • Low water intake means low urine volume.
  • Low urine output can lead to kidney dysfunction, like kidney stones.
  • Maintaining the body’s hydration is crucial so the kidneys can thoroughly flush out excess waste materials.
  • The recommended daily intake of fluids is around 3.7 liters a day for men and 2.7 liters a day for women.

Functional Medicine

This is an example of a two-day kidney cleanse to help strengthen the kidneys and detoxify the body.

Day 1

Breakfast

  • Smoothie made with:
  • 8 ounces of fresh lemon, ginger, and beet juice
  • 1/4 cup of sweetened dried cranberries

Lunch

  • Smoothie made with:
  • 1 cup almond milk
  • 1/2 cup tofu
  • 1/2 cup spinach
  • 1/4 cup berries
  • 1/2 apple
  • Two tablespoons of pumpkin seeds

Dinner

  • Large mixed-greens salad
  • 4 ounces of lean protein – chicken, fish, or tofu
  • Top with 1/2 cup of grapes
  • 1/4 cup peanuts

Day 2

Breakfast

  • Smoothie made with:
  • 1 cup soy milk
  • One frozen banana
  • 1/2 cup spinach
  • 1/2 cup blueberries
  • One teaspoon spirulina

Lunch

  • A bowl of:
  • 1 cup orzo rice
  • 1 cup fresh fruit
  • Two tablespoons of pumpkin seeds

Dinner

  • Large mixed-greens salad
  • 4 ounces of lean protein – chicken, fish, or tofu
  • Top with 1/2 cup of cooked barley
  • Add fresh lemon juice
  • 4 ounces each of unsweetened cherry juice and orange juice

Consult a healthcare provider, nutritionist, or dietitian to ensure it is safe.


Dietary Prescription


References

Chen, Teresa K et al. “Chronic Kidney Disease Diagnosis and Management: A Review.” JAMA vol. 322,13 (2019): 1294-1304. doi:10.1001/jama.2019.14745

Den Hartogh, Danja J, and Evangelia Tsiani. “Health Benefits of Resveratrol in Kidney Disease: Evidence from In Vitro and In Vivo Studies.” Nutrients vol. 11,7 1624. 17 Jul. 2019, doi:10.3390/nu11071624

https://nap.nationalacademies.org/read/10925/chapter/6

Pizzorno, Joseph. “The Kidney Dysfunction Epidemic, Part 1: Causes.” Integrative medicine (Encinitas, Calif.) vol. 14,6 (2015): 8-13.

Saldanha, Juliana F et al. “Resveratrol: why is it a promising therapy for chronic kidney disease patients?.” Oxidative medicine and cellular longevity vol. 2013 (2013): 963217. doi:10.1155/2013/963217

Tack, Ivan MD, Ph.D. Effects of Water Consumption on Kidney Function and Excretion. Nutrition Today: November 2010 – Volume 45 – Issue 6 – p S37-S40
doi: 10.1097/NT.0b013e3181fe4376

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

Breathing Back Discomfort Causes: Back Clinic

Breathing Back Discomfort Causes: Back Clinic

Back discomfort symptoms include stiffness, spasms, tenderness, and headaches often caused by unhealthy posture and overuse muscle strain. Breathing back discomfort can be caused by injuries to the spinal musculoskeletal system, conditions and/or disease in the back, lungs, or heart, and other conditions unrelated to the back. When taking a breath, the intercostal muscles surrounding the rib cage contract, expanding the chest and allowing the lungs to fill with air. These muscles directly affect the spine, which is why back issues can present when breathing. Chiropractic care, decompression, and massage therapy, combined with a functional medicine approach, can realign the spine, release tight muscles, and restore function.Breathing Back Discomfort Causes Chiropractor

Breathing Back Discomfort

A problem in the back could be a root cause for discomfort and back problems while breathing.

Spinal Conditions

Scoliosis

  • Scoliosis causes the spine to curve sideways, either in one direction, creating a C shape, or generating an S shape in two directions.
  • The curvature can be so minimal that it cannot be seen or so severe that it can be life-threatening. Most scoliosis cases fall in between.
  • Taking deep breaths can cause discomfort and pain because the spine curvature puts extra strain on certain muscles meant to support the body’s weight in tandem with other muscles that have limited function or are no longer functioning.
  • The condition normally begins in adolescence but can start later in life.

Scoliosis treatment varies depending on the severity.

Monitor

  • A spinal physician will monitor the individual for mild curvature, as sometimes the process stops before it becomes serious. This is known as the wait-and-see, what-happens approach.

Activity, Chiropractic, and Physical Therapy

  • Yoga can stop and even reverse the progression.
  • Chiropractic care and physical therapy can help alleviate symptoms.

Bracing

  • Bracing can be effective at stopping the progression.

Surgery

  • For severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
  • In this case, spinal fusion is the most common surgical procedure for this condition.
  • Newer procedures like vertebral body tethering and ApiFix have been approved and could be an option.

Kyphosis

Kyphosis is another curve in the back that is supposed to be there.

  • Instead of curving like scoliosis, kyphosis causes a curve forward in the thoracic spine/upper back.
  • Problems arise when the curve is too pronounced.
  • This curve can come from unhealthy posture, Scheuermann’s disease, or being born with it.
  • Kyphosis causes breathing back discomfort by straining the muscles in the upper back, which are used for each breath.
  • Treatment often involves chiropractic and/or physical therapy to restore proper curvature and reduce inflammation.
  • A back brace could be prescribed if discomfort and pain continue.
  • Spinal fusion could be recommended for severe cases.

Lungs

The lungs and the spine are close to each other, which is why back discomfort and problems with breathing are connected.

Pneumonia

  • Pneumonia is an infection in the lungs that causes the tiny sacks known as alveoli to fill with fluid.
  • This is where the body takes oxygen from the inhaled air to the bloodstream.
  • The infection causes inflammation and discomfort symptoms in and around the chest and back while taking deep breaths.

Lung Cancer

  • Lung cancer can cause back issues and pain.
  • Frequently coughing causes the muscles around the ribs and back to become overused and strained from the jerking and heaving.
  • The strained muscles cause discomfort and pain when taking a breath.
  • Tumors can push on sensitive nerves in the back, causing inflammation and pain.

Pleurisy

  • There is a thin layer of protective tissue surrounding the lungs called pleura.
  • Pleurisy describes the layer becoming infected and/or inflamed, which causes discomfort symptoms in the back when breathing.
  • Pleurisy can be caused by injury, infection, or cancer.
  • Individuals with autoimmune disorders are more at risk of developing the condition.

Pneumothorax

  • Pneumothorax describes a full or partial lung collapse, usually on one side.
  • The lung can collapse as a result of severe illness or injury.
  • The lung collapses because air gets between the pleura and the lung and not allowing the lung to expand.
  • Pain with breathing is a common indicator of pneumothorax.
  • Individuals with this condition also experience severe shortness of breath and chest pain on one side.

Pulmonary Embolism

  • A pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot gets stuck in an artery, blocking blood flow to part of the lung.
  • The lungs will display signs of distress through back pain when trying to take a deep breath.
  • This is a life-threatening condition that causes chest pain, coughing up blood, a heart rate over 100 beats per minute, dizziness or leg swelling, and painful breathing; get to an emergency room immediately.

Heart

Heart Attack

  • The nerves associated with pain in the muscles and bones differ from those surrounding the organs, including the heart.
  • However, a heart attack can cause back pain as the nerves of the heart travel along the same path as spinal nerves, specifically in the upper back.
  • The brain can misinterpret pain signals from the same roots that supply peripheral nerves in the chest, arm, jaw, and back.
  • Because they share nerve pathways, the upper back can present with pain during a heart attack.

Aortic Dissection

  • The largest artery in the body is called the aorta.
  • It comes off the top of the heart and then drops to supply blood to the rest of the body.
  • Sometimes, the vessel can get a small tear in the chest area, which grows from the blood circulation pressure.
  • Aortic dissection can cause intense back pain while breathing.

Chiropractic care, decompression, and massage therapy combined with functional medicine can help realign the spine, stretch and loosen the overused and strained muscles, and provide postural training and nutritional planning to help alleviate symptoms and restore function.


Deep Breathing Back Pain


References

Costumbrado J, Ghassemzadeh S. Spontaneous Pneumothorax. [Updated 2022 Jul 25]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459302/

Floman, Y., Burnei, G., Gavriliu, S. et al. Surgical management of moderate adolescent idiopathic scoliosis with ApiFix®: a short peri- apical fixation followed by post-operative curve reduction with exercises. Scoliosis 10, 4 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13013-015-0028-9

Hunter MP, Regunath H. Pleurisy. [Updated 2022 Jul 4]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK558958/

https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/pneumothorax/symptoms-diagnosis-treatment

https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/lung-disease-lookup/pulmonary-embolism/treating-and-managing

Mansfield JT, Bennett M. Scheuermann Disease. [Updated 2022 Aug 21]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499966/

Raitio A, Syvänen J, Helenius I. Vertebral Body Tethering: Indications, Surgical Technique, and a Systematic Review of Published Results. Journal of Clinical Medicine. 2022; 11(9):2576. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11092576

Stomach Back Pain Causes: El Paso Back Clinic

Stomach Back Pain Causes: El Paso Back Clinic

Back pain is one of the most common reasons individuals go to a doctor, massage therapist, physiotherapist, osteopath, and chiropractor. Various health conditions, some spine-related, others not, list back pain as a symptom. Many of these conditions begin in the stomach or abdominal cavity, which leads to stomach and back pain. Stomach and back pain happening simultaneously, independently, or in combination could be caused by gut problems, back issues, or something completely different. Understanding what causes these two types of pain simultaneously can help figure out a treatment plan.

Stomach Back Pain Causes and Functional ChiropracticStomach Back Pain Causes

Problems in the abdominal cavity and stomach issues can cause back pain and vice versa. Symptoms can also include referred pain when the pain is felt in one part of the body but is caused by pain or injury in another area. Stomach back pain causes depend on the type of condition/s that can include:

Appendicitis

  • Inflammation in the appendix can cause sudden sharp pain in the abdomen.
  • It presents mostly in the lower right area of the abdomen but can appear in or spread to other sites, especially the back.

Dysmenorrhea

  • The medical term for painful menstrual periods.
  • Dysmenorrhea can cause pain in the abdomen and back at the same time.
  • This type of pain can be:
  • Primary – A condition experienced throughout life.
  • Secondary – Starts later in life due to another condition.

Endometriosis

  • Endometriosis causes tissue to grow outside of the uterus.
  • Similar to dysmenorrhea, symptoms include:
  • Abdominal pain
  • Referred low back pain

Fibromyalgia

  • This condition generates pain across the muscles and joints of the body.
  • It shows up with irritable bowel syndrome -IBS.
  • Fibromyalgia can simultaneously present a wide range of stomach problems and back pain.

Gallstones

  • Gallbladder stones or gallstones can cause blockages, inflammation, and painful swelling.
  • A major symptom of gallstones is pain in the upper right of the abdomen, which can spread to the back.

Kidney Dysfunction

  • Kidney stones, infections, and chronic kidney disease can cause pain that’s felt in the abdomen/flank and the mid and/or upper back.

Irritable bowel syndrome – IBS

Inflammatory Bowel Disease – IBD

  • Inflammatory Bowel Disease is a family of immune-mediated, similar to autoimmune conditions with back pain as a symptom that includes:
  • Crohn’s disease
  • Ulcerative colitis

Pancreatitis

  • An inflamed pancreas can cause symptoms like:
  • Stomach issues.
  • Pain across the abdomen and back.

Pancreatic Cancer

  • A common symptom of pancreatic cancer is a dull pain in the upper abdomen/belly and/or middle and/or upper back that is on and off.
  • This can be because of a tumor that has formed on the tail of the pancreas or an area where it presses on the spine.

Stomach Bloating and Low Back Pain

  • Bloating is caused by pressure in the abdomen increasing to the point that it causes discomfort and pain.
  • It can cause simultaneous stomach and back pain as the bloating adds pressure on the muscles, organs, and spine.
  • One of the most common causes of bloating is trapped gas in the GI tract.
  • This happens when the body cannot properly move the gas through the system.
  • Bloating can also be caused by extra sensitivity to regular pressure increases.
  • In these cases, the amount and movement of gas in the system are normal, but the body reacts as though something is wrong.
  • Several GI tract disorders can cause similar bloating issues that include:
  • Dyspepsia
  • Gastritis
  • Celiac diseaseDiverticular disease
  • Food allergies

A chiropractic functional medicine team can work with an individual’s primary physician or specialist to develop a personalized treatment plan to alleviate back pain symptoms, re-balance the body, strengthen the musculoskeletal system and restore function.


Back and Stomach


References

Clauw DJ. Chapter 258, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and Myofascial Pain. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. Goldman L (ed.). 26th ed. Elsevier; 2020. 1774-1778. https://www.clinicalkey.com/#!/content/book/3-s2.0-B9780323532662002587

Ford AC, Talley NJ. Chapter 122, Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Feldman M (ed.). Sleisenger and Fordtran’s Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 11th ed. Elsevier: 2021. 2008-2020. https://www.clinicalkey.com/#!/content/book/3-s2.0-B9780323609623001223?scrollTo=%23hl0001104

Inadomi JM, Bhattacharya R, Hwang JH, Ko C. Chapter 7, The Patient with Gas and Bloating. Yamada’s Handbook of Gastroenterology. 4th ed. John Wiley & Sons; 2019. https://doi.org/10.1002/9781119515777.ch7

Kliegman RM, St Geme JW, Blum NJ, et al. Chapter 378, Pancreatitis. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 21st ed. Elsevier; 2020. 2074-2080. https://www.clinicalkey.com/#!/content/book/3-s2.0-B9780323529501003783

Krames E, Mousad DG. Spinal Cord Stimulation Reverses Pain and Diarrheal Episodes of Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Case Report. Neuromodulation. 2004 Mar 22;7(2):82-88. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1094-7159.2004.04011.x

Sifri CD, Madoff LC. Chapter 78, Appendicitis. Mandell, Douglas, and Bennett’s Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases. 9th ed. Bennett JA (ed.). Elsevier; 2020. 1059-1063. https://www.clinicalkey.com/#!/content/book/3-s2.0-B9780323482554000783

Stephen Norman Sullivan, “Functional Abdominal Bloating with Distention,” International Scholarly Research Notices, vol. 2012, Article ID 721820, 5 pages, 2012. https://doi.org/10.5402/2012/721820

Wang DQH, Afdhal NH. Chapter 65, Gallstone Disease. Feldman M (ed.). Sleisenger and Fordtran’s Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 11th ed. Elsevier: 2021. 1016-1046. https://www.clinicalkey.com/#!/content/book/3-s2.0-B9780323609623000655?scrollTo=%23hl0001772

Weisman, Michael H et al. “Axial Pain and Arthritis in Diagnosed Inflammatory Bowel Disease: US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey Data.” Mayo Clinic proceedings. Innovations, quality & outcomes vol. 6,5 443-449. 16 Sep. 2022, doi:10.1016/j.mayocpiqo.2022.04.007

Whorwell PJ. Chapter 13, Abdominal Bloating. Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Diagnosis and Clinical Management. Emmanuel A, Quigley EMM (eds.). John Wiley & Sons; 2013. https://doi.org/10.1002/9781118444689.ch13

Yarze JC, Friedman LS. Chapter 12, Chronic Abdominal Pain. Feldman M (ed.). Sleisenger and Fordtran’s Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 11th ed. Elsevier; 2021. 158-167. https://www.clinicalkey.com/#!/content/book/3-s2.0-B9780323609623000126?scrollTo=%23hl0000408

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