Healthy aging has been linked to a lifestyle consisting of proper nutrition and exercise. However, even with a healthy lifestyle, the body undergoes changes that include conditions, disease, and compromises in physical performance. Because of the effects of aging on muscle and joint tissue, cardiovascular fitness, and other physical parameters, older athletes need to take consideration, but this doesn’t mean slowing down. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic can develop a training and treatment plan to build and maintain musculoskeletal system health, flexibility, and optimal function.
Older Athletes
Research has shown that the physical and mental declines that go with aging can be reduced with fitness and nutrition programs and that it is not too late to start improving fitness, no matter what age. Systemic changes that happen to an aging body include:
Nervous System
Imbalances happen more easily and more often.
Sensation changes.
Musculoskeletal System
Bone Strength Decreases.
Muscle Strength Decreases.
Flexibility issues occur more frequently.
Respiratory System
Decreased Vital or Breathing Capacity of Lungs – The maximum amount of air that can be exhaled after a full inhalation.
Cardiovascular System
Maximum Heart Rate slows down.
A slower return to resting heart rate after and during physical activity and exercise.
Maintaining Endurance
Common aging fitness declines include:
Changes in body composition.
Increased body fat.
Decreased muscle mass.
Loss of height – can be brought on by osteoporosis.
Diminished cardiorespiratory capacity.
Muscle atrophy.
Research has found that when seniors start to exercise, their health improves quickly. It’s estimated that the physical declines associated with aging are not necessarily inevitable but can also happen by losing fitness/deconditioning effects from reduced exercise levels, frequency, and/or intensity. Despite the losses, older athletes are often able to compete and excel in endurance activities because they tend to have higher proportions of slow twitch fibers.
Memory and Fitness
Evidence suggests that seniors who exercise reduce the physical effects of aging and prevent their brain/memory from advanced degeneration.
Physical fitness has been linked with reduced memory decline in middle-aged adults.
Training Options
Training methods to maintain athletic performance.
Hill Running or Interval Training
This type of training can improve fitness and condition the aerobic and anaerobic systems.
Weight Training
Weight training maintains muscle tone, fast twitch muscle fibers, and strength.
Supplements may help improve performance during repetitive, intense exercise sessions.
Nutrition
Aging causes the joints to become less flexible, resulting in a range of motion loss leading to limitations and compromised physical abilities. Proper nutrition in older athletes can protect the joints and prevent advanced degeneration. The following nutrients are recommended:
Omega-3’s – nuts, seeds, and fatty fish provide anti-inflammatory effects.
Vitamin C for collagen production.
Sulfur amino acids – certain vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, and dairy products improve joint cartilage health.
Bioflavonoids – all fruit and vegetables provide anti-inflammatory effects and improved circulation.
Antioxidants – selenium and vitamin E protect against free radicals that multiply with age.
Supplements may also be helpful but check with a doctor before beginning a program.
Move Better, Live Better
References
Gillis, Angela, and Brenda MacDonald. “Deconditioning in the hospitalized elderly.” The Canadian nurse vol. 101,6 (2005): 16-20.
Lexell, J. “Human aging, muscle mass, and fiber type composition.” The Journal of Gerontology. Series A, Biological Sciences and medical sciences vol. 50 Spec No (1995): 11-6. doi:10.1093/gerona/50a.special_issue.11
Marriott, Catherine F S, et al. “High-Intensity Interval Training in Older Adults: a Scoping Review.” Sports medicine – open vol. 7,1 49. 19 Jul. 2021, doi:10.1186/s40798-021-00344-4
Rogers, Michael E et al. “Balance training for the older athlete.” International Journal of sports physical therapy vol. 8,4 (2013): 517-30.
Tayrose, Gregory A et al. “The Master’s Athlete: A Review of Current Exercise and Treatment Recommendations.” Sports Health vol. 7,3 (2015): 270-6. doi:10.1177/1941738114548999
Townsend, Danyelle M et al. “Sulfur-containing amino acids and human disease.” Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy vol. 58,1 (2004): 47-55. doi:10.1016/j.biopha.2003.11.005
Van Roie, Evelien, et al. “An age-adapted plyometric exercise program improves dynamic strength, jump performance and functional capacity in older men either similarly or more than traditional resistance training.” PloS one vol. 15,8 e0237921. 25 Aug. 2020, doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0237921
Wu, Tingting, and Yanan Zhao. “Associations between functional fitness and walking speed in older adults.” Geriatric nursing (New York, N.Y.) vol. 42,2 (2021): 540-543. doi:10.1016/j.gerinurse.2020.10.003
Breathing nourishes the whole body and regulates important functions like heart rate and blood pressure. It also reinforces proper body mechanics to lessen the stress on the body when moving. Busy lives combined with sedentary work and lifestyle can condition the body to take only quick, shallow breaths, which can weaken lung muscles and cause tension to build, worsening posture and leading to other adverse symptoms and conditions. Learning deep breathing can positively affect heart rate, mental alertness, and blood pressure and improve posture. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic can create personalized postural treatment and training plans.
Breathing and Posture
Inhalation causes the lungs to get filled with air, and exhalation releases and empties the lungs. For the lungs to work optimally, the rib cage needs to expand constantly in a gentle, rhythmic way. The respiratory muscle/diaphragm muscle needs to go up and down with each breath cycle. This can only happen when the muscle is not contracted or tense. Tension in the upper body can increase unhealthy postures and undermine health. Continued unhealthy postures at school, work, and home will compress the ribs, intercostal muscles, diaphragm, and base of the neck. This prevents the ribcage from expanding fully, which impairs optimal breathing. Over time, the strength of the respiratory muscles weakens.
Healthy Posture
Proper body alignment reduces strain on supportive structures like ligaments, muscles, joints, and discs. A healthy posture allows individuals to breathe more easily, move more efficiently, relax, and sleep better.
Symptoms Of Unhealthy Posture
Research shows that prolonged practice of unhealthy posture can lead to health problems, including:
Aching and chronic pain in the back, neck, and shoulders.
Tight, sore muscle knots/trigger points.
Tension headaches, limited sleep, and digestive problems.
Brain fog.
Shifting moods.
Digestive problems.
Breathing from the chest relies on secondary muscles around the neck and collarbone instead of the diaphragm. Shallow breathing patterns accompanied by unhealthy postures cause muscles in the upper body to function improperly. The longer the body sits, the less the body can resist the force of gravity and maintain a stable core. Tight muscles around the chest cause rounded shoulders and forward head posture, further weakening the muscles that help maintain an upright posture. Chest and rib discomfort symptoms can result from the tight intercostal muscles and inadequate expansion of the ribs.
Chiropractic Treatment
Shallow breathing can be reversed by regular physical activity, and sessions of respiratory muscle training will help to improve posture and quality of life. Deep or belly breathing involves learning to use the abdominal muscles. Inhaling slowly and deeply through the nose fills the lungs with air and expands the stomach. Learning to breathe deep regularly provides benefits like stress reduction, improved cardiovascular health, stronger lungs, and improved cognitive performance.
Posture correction techniques relieve back and neck pain, improve muscle and joint function, maintain brain health, increase mood stability, and improve spinal health.
Learning how to breathe deeply takes practice.
One beginning technique is to breathe deeply and count to 4 before slowly releasing the breath with another count to 4.
Individuals will notice their abdomen, ribs, and chest push forward as they breathe.
The shoulders, neck, and spine properly align during this action.
Place a hand on the abdomen to check for correct breathing.
It should move outwards slightly as air fills the lungs.
Real Patients, Real Results
References
Albarrati, Ali, et al. “Effect of Upright and Slouched Sitting Postures on the Respiratory Muscle Strength in Healthy Young Males.” BioMed research international vol. 2018 3058970. 25 Feb. 2018, doi:10.1155/2018/3058970
Aliverti, Andrea. “The respiratory muscles during exercise.” Breathe (Sheffield, England) vol. 12,2 (2016): 165-8. doi:10.1183/20734735.008116
Pickering, Mark, and James F X Jones. “The diaphragm: two physiological muscles in one.” Journal of Anatomy vol. 201,4 (2002): 305-12. doi:10.1046/j.1469-7580.2002.00095.x
Sheel, A William. “Respiratory muscle training in healthy individuals: physiological rationale and implications for exercise performance.” Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.) vol. 32,9 (2002): 567-81. doi:10.2165/00007256-200232090-00003
When the body sustains an injury or a virus, the immune system springs into action by sending out cytokines to the affected area and causes a process known as inflammation. Inflammation in the body is good for eliminating numerous pathogens, damaged cellular structures, viruses, or infections. Inflammation causes the affected area to be warm to the touch and causes swelling that will decrease in the recovery state. However, inflammation in the body can be positive and negative depending on the severity of the injury. When inflammation is in its chronic form, it can cause muscle and tissue damage to the musculoskeletal system while being associated with other conditions in the body’s system, like the gastrointestinal, nervous, and reproductive systems. In today’s article, we will focus on how chronic inflammation affects the body’s muscles and how the MET technique can help relieve muscle inflammation in soft tissues. We utilize valuable information about our patients to certified medical providers who use methods like MET combined with manual stretching therapy to reduce inflammation associated with musculoskeletal conditions. We encourage patients by referring them to our associated medical providers based on their findings. We support that education is a marvelous way to ask our providers the most interesting questions at the patient’s acknowledgment. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., incorporates this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
How Inflammation Works In The Body
Have you been experiencing pain in different muscle areas in your body? What about dealing with aches and pains in the morning? Or do your muscles feel tight and hurt more when you bend to pick up an object? Many of these issues affecting the musculoskeletal system are associated with inflammation. As stated earlier, inflammation can positively and negatively impact the body depending on the severity of the injury. Inflammation is a natural healing process for the body that is characterized by redness, swelling, and heat to the soft tissues so that they can be repaired within a few days to weeks. Studies reveal that when the body deals with various pathogenic factors, the immune system releases inflammatory cytokines to the pathogenic factor and starts to heal the affected area.
Inflammation helps the sprained muscle tissues heal naturally and can be healed within 2-3 days to a few weeks in its acute stage. However, when inflammation is in a chronic state of the body, it causes damage to not only the affected muscle and tissue areas but can even affect the surrounding ligaments, joints, and vital organs. A great example is when a person has a sprained ankle, the affected area swells up, becomes red, and is tender to the touch when its acute inflammation. For chronic inflammation, the body is in constant pain that can be slow and long, and it takes several months to years to heal. Another great example would be gut disorders associated with chronic muscle inflammation.
What Does Chronic Inflammation Do To The Body’s Muscles?
So what does chronic inflammation do to the body’s muscles, and how does it affect the surrounding structures? According to research studies, chronic inflammation has been associated with musculoskeletal disorders that can cause an impact in reducing muscle strength and muscle mass. When this happens, it can cause the muscles to weaken and generate the surrounding muscle groups to compensate by working harder. This leads to misalignment in the body and causes overlapping risk profiles in the various muscle groups. In “Clinical Applications of Neuromuscular Techniques,” Dr. Leon Chaitow, N.D., D.O., and Dr. Judith Walker DeLany, L.M.T., stated that numerous factors associated with inflammation could impact how a person sleeps, eat, and function throughout the day. The book also noted that when pathogens can disrupt the natural cycling between the defensive and repair modes of inflammation correlating with the immune system can be disrupted in ill health. A chronic inflammatory cytokine shift could lock the body into a pro-inflammatory state.
Reducing Inflammation In The Body- Video
Have you been dealing with constant inflammation in your muscles? Do you feel muscle weakness or strain when you are in motion? Or do other portions of your body starts to feel aches or pains? Many of these issues are associated with chronic inflammation affecting the musculoskeletal system. Inflammation is part of the immune system’s natural defense that sends cytokines to the affected area and starts the healing process. Inflammation has two patterns: acute and chronic. Acute inflammation is associated with sprains from a twisted ankle or wrist, a sore throat, or an infection. While at the same time, chronic inflammation is associated with muscle pain, sleep disorders, or rashes that affect the skin. When the body is suffering from chronic inflammation, it can be due to many overlapping factors that can cause the body to be in pain. Luckily numerous treatments can help the body and reduce the effects of inflammation. The video above explains how incorporating an anti-inflammatory diet and chiropractic care can help reduce chronic inflammation effects in the body.
The MET Technique & Muscle Inflammation
Regarding chronic muscle inflammation, the musculoskeletal system deals with numerous symptoms like pain, stiffness, and weakness associated with various pathological factors. Chronic inflammation can develop from insufficient sleep, eating high-cholesterol foods, not getting enough exercise, and being stressed, which can affect the body and its systems. Fortunately, numerous available treatments can reduce inflammation. Studies reveal that treatments like MET therapy can help reduce pain correlated with muscle inflammation and increase the range of motion to the joints. The body can reduce the effects of chronic inflammation and keep it under control when MET therapy is combined with an anti-inflammatory diet. Also, practicing mindfulness can help reduce the stress contributing to chronic inflammation, which can help relax the body and naturally heal itself. Making these small changes can benefit many individuals trying to be healthier.
Conclusion
When it comes to inflammation in the musculoskeletal system, it can lead to overlapping risk profiles that can cause the body to be misaligned and have many pain-like symptoms that can make a person’s life miserable. Since inflammation is part of the immune system’s natural response to fight off infections, incorporating anti-inflammatory diets and MET stretching can help reduce the effects of inflammation and help the body heal itself from the inside out.
References
Chaitow, Leon, and Judith Walker DeLany. Clinical Applications of Neuromuscular Techniques. Churchill Livingstone, 2003.
Chen, Linlin, et al. “Inflammatory Responses and Inflammation-Associated Diseases in Organs.” Oncotarget, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 14 Dec. 2017, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5805548/.
Thomas, Ewan, et al. “The Efficacy of Muscle Energy Techniques in Symptomatic and Asymptomatic Subjects: A Systematic Review.” Chiropractic & Manual Therapies, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 27 Aug. 2019, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6710873/.
Tuttle, Camilla S L, et al. “Markers of Inflammation and Their Association with Muscle Strength and Mass: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” Ageing Research Reviews, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 26 Sept. 2020, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32992047/.
Pretty much everyone experiences a muscle cramp at some point. A muscle cramp is an involuntarily contracted muscle that does not relax, similar to a spasm, but a cramp lasts longer and is usually a forcible contraction. During a cramp, the muscles tighten without voluntary input from the brain and over-tighten. They can last anywhere from a few seconds to an hour or longer. They can be prevented through adequate nutrition and hydration, attention to safety when engaged in physical activity or exercise, and attention to posture and ergonomics. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic can develop personalized treatment plans for individuals experiencing musculoskeletal issues.
Muscle Cramp
Muscle cramps can occur in any muscle. The cramp may involve a portion of a muscle, the entire muscle, or several muscles that function together. A muscle or a few tissue fibers that involuntarily contracts is in a spasm. If the spasm is forcefully sustained, it turns into a cramp. They can cause a noticeable and/or hardening of the involved muscle/s. They can be experienced as mild twitches or can be excruciatingly painful. Some can involve the simultaneous contraction of muscles that normally move body parts in opposite directions. It is not uncommon for a cramp to flare up multiple times until it finally stops.
Causes
They can occur during physical activity, exercise, rest, or night, depending on the cause. There are various causes that, include:
Most times, they are not a cause for alarm; however, depending on the individual, their age, type of physical activity, and medical history, cramps could indicate a more serious underlying problem such as a thyroid disorder, liver cirrhosis, atherosclerosis, ALS, or a problem or condition of the spine or spinal nerves.
Muscles Involved
The muscles involved can indicate the mechanism and cause.
If the cramp is triggered by fatigue, a drop in muscle glycogen, dehydration, or an electrolyte imbalance, it’s most frequently to the calf muscles, feet, or back of the thigh/hamstring muscles.
This is typically due to a combination of fatigue and dehydration.
If it is triggered by nerve irritation, like a spinal disc injury, cramps tend to present in the forearm, hand, calf, and foot, depending on whether the disc injury is in the neck or lower back.
If there is a joint sprain in the neck, mid-back, or lower back, the cramp will present where the injury is and around the surrounding muscles.
A calf cramp happens when lying down because the foot points down, shortening the calf muscles.
A shortened muscle is more likely to go into spasm, especially if it is exhausted from activities and if the body is dehydrated, which is pretty common.
For two muscles that work together performing the same movement, called agonists, and the one muscle is weaker, the secondary muscle has to work harder, often going into a spasm or cramp from the added stress.
For example, if the buttock/gluteal muscles are weak, the hamstrings eventually spasm when exhausted.
Chiropractic
First, the cause needs to be identified through medical history and examination. There can be an underlying nerve irritation and interference, restricting the muscle or muscle group, which needs to be dealt with for the therapy to be effective. Chiropractic care, combined with therapeutic stretching and massage therapy, can:
Relieve muscle cramping
Improve blood circulation
Increase muscle movement
Improve musculoskeletal function
All help to diminish and prevent muscle cramping.
Adjustments will restore proper alignment and restore nerve communication. These treatments help to release toxins, loosen and relax the muscle tissues, and provide relief.
Say Goodbye to Pain With Chiropractic
References
Blyton, Fiona, et al. “Non-drug therapies for lower limb muscle cramps.” The Cochrane Database of systematic reviews vol. 1,1 CD008496. 18 Jan. 2012, doi:10.1002/14651858.CD008496.pub2
FIELDS, A. “Leg cramps.” California Medicine vol. 92,3 (1960): 204-6.
Garrison, Scott R et al. “Magnesium for skeletal muscle cramps.” The Cochrane Database of systematic reviews vol. 9,9 CD009402. 21 Sep. 2020, doi:10.1002/14651858.CD009402.pub3
Katzberg, Hans D. “Case Studies in Management of Muscle Cramps.” Neurologic clinics vol. 38,3 (2020): 679-696. doi:10.1016/j.ncl.2020.03.011
Miller, Kevin C et al. “An Evidence-Based Review of the Pathophysiology, Treatment, and Prevention of Exercise-Associated Muscle Cramps.” Journal of athletic training vol. 57,1 (2022): 5-15. doi:10.4085/1062-6050-0696.20
Miller, Timothy M, and Robert B Layzer. “Muscle cramps.” Muscle & nerve vol. 32,4 (2005): 431-42. doi:10.1002/mus.20341
Muscle knots or trigger points are tissues/segments of muscle fibers stuck in a contracted state and balled up or become entangled. To the touch, they can feel like small bumps, nodules, or knots. They are primarily found in muscles, but they can also be found in tendons, fascia, periosteum, and ligaments. Tight muscles can limit flexibility, increase discomfort and pain symptoms, and cause further injury that can develop into chronic conditions. Trigger points can develop in all muscles and multiple muscles simultaneously. The Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Team can create a personalized treatment plan for trigger point alleviation.
Muscle Knots Trigger Points
When muscle fibers are stuck in contraction, blood circulation decreases in and around the affected area, and the necessary nutrients and oxygen cannot be delivered. The excessive accumulation of the chemicals – acetylcholine, and calcium leads to a lack of oxygen in the area, which causes muscle fiber contraction and spasms. As the muscle fibers overly contract, they form a knot. Waste materials build up in the fibers as the blocked circulation doesn’t allow removal. This irritates the trigger point, which reacts by sending out pain signals. The brain responds by telling the body not to use that muscle, causing the muscle to tighten, become weak, and lose range of motion. The other muscles have to work harder to compensate.
Trigger Point Types
Active and Latent
One type is an active trigger point.
The trigger point causes pain and discomfort even when the muscle or tissue rests.
The other type is latent, which means that the point does not cause pain or is sometimes even noticed until pressure is applied to the point or area.
Because key trigger point muscles are weakened, the muscles around that point need to work harder, causing multiple knots to form.
Referred pain happens when a satellite trigger point causes sensations in a different area from the point itself.
Causes
The main causes include the following:
Direct Trauma
Muscle trauma or injury can cause fibers not to heal properly, causing segments to stay deprived of oxygen and knotted.
Excessive and Extended Exercising
During exercise/physical activity, profound muscle strain and injury can occur from pushing too hard for too long without proper recovery and repair.
Maintaining Healthy Posture
Unhealthy postures can cause tension, stiffness, and aches and pains.
Stress and Fatigue
Emotional and physical stress takes a toll on the body, which can result in excessive muscle contraction.
Most of the time, it happens subconsciously without realizing that the body is tensing up.
This is why engaging in relaxation activities, including therapeutic massage, is important.
Inactivity
Lack of physical activity and a sedentary lifestyle can cause muscle spasms and over-contracting, leading to muscle knots.
Medical Conditions
Conditions that affect muscles, like arthritis and fibromyalgia or medications, can cause muscle spasms and the development of trigger points.
Chiropractic and Massage Therapy
Chiropractic and therapeutic massage is an effective treatment to relieve muscle knots and symptoms and restore the body to optimal function. Massage uses various techniques to increase blood circulation, break down inflexible scar tissue and stretch and loosen muscles. Pain and discomfort decrease by allowing the muscles to move and restoring blood flow.
Massage Therapy Chiropractic Care
References
Barbero, Marco, et al. “Myofascial pain syndrome and trigger points: evaluation and treatment in patients with musculoskeletal pain.” Current Opinion in Supportive and palliative care vol. 13,3 (2019): 270-276. doi:10.1097/SPC.0000000000000445
Cheung, Karoline, et al. “Delayed onset muscle soreness: treatment strategies and performance factors.” Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.) vol. 33,2 (2003): 145-64. doi:10.2165/00007256-200333020-00005
Money, Sarah. “Pathophysiology of Trigger Points in Myofascial Pain Syndrome.” Journal of Pain & palliative care pharmacotherapy vol. 31,2 (2017): 158-159. doi:10.1080/15360288.2017.1298688
Moraska, Albert F et al. “Responsiveness of Myofascial Trigger Points to Single and Multiple Trigger Point Release Massages: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial.” American Journal of physical medicine & Rehabilitation vol. 96,9 (2017): 639-645. doi:10.1097/PHM.0000000000000728
Weerapong, Pornratshanee, et al. “The mechanisms of massage and effects on performance, muscle recovery, and injury prevention.” Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.) vol. 35,3 (2005): 235-56. doi:10.2165/00007256-200535030-00004
The various muscle groups in the body allow the host to move around and function through many actions without feeling any discomfort or pain. The body has two sections: upper and lower portions that have different functions, from turning the neck from side to side to allowing the legs to enable the body to move around. When various issues or factors begin to affect the body over time, like muscle injuries or normal factors like poor posture and prolonged sitting, it causes overlapping risk profiles that can lead to chronic musculoskeletal conditions. When musculoskeletal disorders affect the body, it can lead to muscle and joint pain that can cause misalignment in the spine and cause the muscle fibers to become short and tense. Luckily there are available treatments that allow the body to realign itself and stretch those short muscles. Today’s article looks at how muscle pain affects the body and how different variations of the MET technique are used to reduce and stretch muscle pain. We mention and provide valuable information about our patients to certified medical providers who use techniques like the MET and therapy for individuals with muscle strain associated with body pain. We give encouragement to patients by referring them to associated medical providers based on their diagnostic findings. We support that education is a marvelous way to ask our providers the most interesting questions at the patient’s acknowledgment. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., incorporates this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
How Does Muscle Pain Affect The Body?
Have you been dealing with muscle strain or pain in different body areas? Are you experiencing any referred pain in other body locations? Or are your muscles feeling extremely tight that it is causing you pain? When the body is dealing with various issues that are causing the muscle fibers to be tensed, it can lead to muscle pain and cause many people to suffer. Studies reveal that muscle pain is caused when painful conditions like mechanical forces, ischemia, and inflammation stimulate the body’s free nerve endings. Many of these factors also correlate with musculoskeletal disorders like fibromyalgia and myofascial pain that can develop trigger points (palpable, small nodules) in the muscle fibers to cause the muscles to become stiff and contract. Additional studies also reveal that when the muscles begin to cramp up, especially the calves, it can become extremely painful and involuntary as it affects the entire muscle group, the muscle itself, or any selected muscle fibers. This causes the individual to be in pain in an acute setting as the muscle relaxes; however, if the muscle fibers are still in constant contraction, it can lead to chronic issues that affect the muscle group.
Overcoming Pain With Chiropractic Care-Video
Regarding muscle pain in the body, studies reveal that the nociceptive nerve endings in the muscles and tissue fibers can cause the neuron signals from the central nervous system to become hyperexcitable, and hyperactivity can lead to muscle pain. This causes the muscle group and the surrounding muscles to tense and invokes pain when in motion. To that point, it can cause the individual dealing with muscle pain to try and find various treatments to alleviate the pain and continue their lives. When it comes to pain can be relieved through treatments like chiropractic care and massage therapy to reduce the effects of the muscle pain associated with musculoskeletal disorders. The video above explains how treatments like chiropractic care incorporate different techniques to realign the body from subluxation and help stretch the tight, short muscles using manual manipulation and the MET technique.
Variations Of The MET Technique
When the muscles in the musculoskeletal system are dealing with pain in different locations or one location in the body, it can cause the individual to be in constant pain. Luckily treatments like chiropractic care are non-invasive and therapeutic as they utilize different techniques to realign the spine and stretch the tight muscle groups. In “Clinical Applications of Neuromuscular Techniques,” written by, Leon Chaitow, N.D., D.O., and Judith Walker DeLany, L.M.T., stated that when muscle pain affects tone muscle or causes structural changes to the joint’s ROM (range of motion) can lead to shortness and stress to the muscle group. Studies reveal that MET is a stretching technique therapists use to contract the affected muscle in a precisely controlled direction voluntarily. Many stretch variations of the MET technique allow the muscles to be stretched, strengthening and improving local circulation while mobilizing joint restriction. Down below are some of the variations of stretching techniques with MET.
Isometric Contraction: Reciprocal Inhibition In Acute Setting
The isometric contraction technique is used for reciprocal inhibition in an acute setting where the affected muscles are dealing with symptoms of muscle spasms. The isometric contraction allows the therapist to help relax acute muscular spasms and mobilize restricted joints while preparing the joints for manipulation.
Starting point: When acute muscles or joint problems affect the body’s functionality, therapists must commence an easy restriction barrier.
Modus Operandi: The affected muscles are used in an isometric contraction, allowing the short muscle to relax.
Forces: The therapist and individual forces are matched and involve 20% of the individual’s strength to increase no more than 50%.
Duration: Initially7-10 seconds while increasing up to 20 seconds.
Action following contraction: The area of the muscle and joint are taken to a new restricted barrier without stretching after complete relaxation. Therapists should perform the movement to a new restricted barrier on exhalation.
Repetitions: Repeat three to five times until no further gain in the range of motion is possible.
Isometric Contraction: Post-isometric Relaxation In Chronic Setting
The isometric contraction technique is used for post-isometric relaxation in a chronic setting where the muscles are severely contracted. The isometric contraction technique is known as post-facilitation stretching, where therapists stretch chronic or subacute restricted, fibrotic, contracted soft tissues or muscle tissues affected by myofascial trigger point pain.
Starting point: Short of resistance barrier
Modus Operandi: The affected muscles are used in the isometric contraction that allows the shortened muscles to relax and let an easier stretch.
Forces: Both the therapist and individual forces match and increase about 30% of the patient’s strength and increase to 50% of contractions up to 20 seconds.
Duration: Initially 7-10 seconds and increasing up to 20 seconds.
Action following contraction: The rest period is 5 seconds so the body can relax completely before being stretched, and during exhalation, the muscle goes through a painless, new restriction barrier position that is held for at least 10-60 seconds.
Repetitions: Repeat three to five times.
Isotonic Eccentric Contraction
The isotonic eccentric contraction is an isolytic technique to strengthen weak postural muscles that are tensed or tight from prolonged sitting or poor posture.
Starting point: At the restriction barrier
Modus Operandi: When the muscle is contracted and prevented, the therapist uses this technique to slowly overcome and reverse the contracting muscle so it can be stretched to full resting length.
Forces: Therapists use greater forces on the individual and build up subsequent contractions for the affected muscle (*Utilize this stretch on individuals who are not dealing with osteoporotic issues in their muscles and joints)
Duration: Five to seven seconds
Repetitions: Repeat three to five times if discomfort is not excessive.
Isokinetic
The isokinetic technique is a combination of isotonic and isometric contractions that many pain specialists like chiropractors and massage therapists use to tone weakened musculature, build strength in all the surrounding muscles that are involved in a particular joint function, and help train and balance the effects on the body’s muscle fibers.
Starting point: Easy mid-range position
Modus Operandi: The individual uses moderate resistance as the therapist puts the joint through a rapidly full range of movement as this technique is different than simple isotonic exercises, and resistance varies from each person. This technique progressively increases as the procedure progress.
Forces: The therapist uses moderate forces to prevent movement from the individual and then progresses to full forces.
Duration of contraction: Up to four seconds.
Conclusion
Different stretching techniques in MET therapy allow the affected muscles to be stretched and lengthened while reducing muscle pain affecting a body’s location. It is important to be mindful of the movements that can cause the muscles to be overstretched or cramped up, which can cause pain. Treatments incorporating these various stretching techniques allow the affected muscles to relax and restore naturally.
Chaitow, Leon, and Judith Walker DeLany. Clinical Applications of Neuromuscular Techniques. Churchill Livingstone, 2003.
Faqih, Anood I, et al. “Effects of Muscle Energy Technique on Pain, Range of Motion and Function in Patients with Post-Surgical Elbow Stiffness: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” Hong Kong Physiotherapy Journal : Official Publication of the Hong Kong Physiotherapy Association Limited = Wu Li Chih Liao, U.S. National Library of Medicine, June 2019, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6467834/.
Gregory, Nicholas S, and Kathleen A Sluka. “Anatomical and Physiological Factors Contributing to Chronic Muscle Pain.” Current Topics in Behavioral Neurosciences, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2014, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4294469/.
Mense, Siegfried. “The Pathogenesis of Muscle Pain.” Current Pain and Headache Reports, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Dec. 2003, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14604500/.
The muscles surrounding the hips in the lower extremities provide stability to the lumbar spine and pelvis while allowing mobility, flexibility, and rotation to the groin, legs, and thighs. The muscles surrounding the groin consist of three large muscle groups: the abdominals, iliopsoas, and adductors, which have a casual relationship with the various ligaments and soft tissues that can be succumbed to injuries or other symptoms that can lead to pain and misalignment to the body. This happens to many individuals who participate in sports or frequently exercise, which can cause strain near the groin and the surrounding muscles. Today’s article focuses on the causes of a groin strain, how it affects the hips and pelvis, and how available treatments can help reduce groin strain. We mention and provide valuable information about our patients to certified medical providers who use techniques like the MET and therapy for individuals with a groin strain and causing mobility issues when functioning. We give encouragement to patients by referring them to associated medical providers based on their diagnostic findings. We support that education is a marvelous way to ask our providers the most interesting questions at the patient’s acknowledgment. Dr. Alex Jimenez, D.C., incorporates this information as an educational service. Disclaimer
The Causes Of Groin Strain
Have you experienced any mobility issues when walking? Do you feel pain near your hips or groin? Or do you feel muscle weakness in your thighs when exercising? Many of these issues are associated with a muscle strain near the groin affecting your lower body. The muscles surrounding the groin allow the legs and thighs to move around in flexion, rotation, and extension without feeling pain. However, when a person starts to feel pain radiating around their groin, it can become an issue if not taken care of. Studies reveal that some of the causes, like adductor strain or injuries from physical activities, can cause the muscle fibers in the three muscle groups of the groin to be in pain. In “Clinical Applications of Neuromuscular Techniques,” authors Leon Chaitow and Judith Walker DeLany, stated that chronic joint and soft tissue conditions predate presenting acute symptoms to the groin muscle regions. To that point, if a person has predisposed injuries in the groin muscles, it can affect how a person walks and functions when in motion, potentially leading to issues affecting the hips and pelvis.
How Groin Strain Affect The Hips & Pelvis
Studies reveal multiple pathologies that can coexist in the hips and pelvis that could cause similar symptoms to the hips and pelvis that can correlate with several organ systems like the gut and reproductive system that causes referred pain to the groin. Additional studies also mentioned that groin pain is widely known as an issue among professional and amateur athletes. They could experience different symptoms and injuries from groin pain associated with the hips and pelvis. An example would be if an individual is participating in a sports event, they could be experiencing myofascial trigger points related to the groin, affecting the pelvis and hips. Some of the symptoms associated with groin strain include:
Stiffness
Swelling
Muscle weakness
Groin discomfort
Bruising around the area
Leg discomfort when flexing
Walking issues
Lower stomach or back symptoms
Many of these symptoms that affect the hips and pelvis can lead to many issues that cause people to be in constant pain or discomfort until they find relief.
Chiropractic Care: The Ancient Healing Art for Modern Life- Video
Have you been experiencing mobility issues? What about pain in your hips, pelvis, or groin? Or do you often feel discomfort when stretching? Many of these issues are associated with groin strain along the hips and pelvic region. Groin strain occurs in the three large muscle groups: the abdominals, iliopsoas, and adductors, when they are overstretched and cause referred pain to the hips and pelvis. This causes many individuals to have instability and mobility issues. Some of the present symptoms that occur to these muscles include:
Pain in active movement
Pain during palpation
Localized swelling
Pain while stretching the muscle-tendon
When pain is causing issues in the groin, many individuals will go to available treatments to help reduce the pain and regain mobility when exercising. One of the available treatments is chiropractic care. The video above shows how chiropractic care is incorporated into modern life as it uses non-invasive hands-on treatment to realign the body and help lengthen the affected muscles.
Available Treatments To Reduce Groin Strain
Numerous treatments can help reduce groin strain from affecting the lower extremities and help bring mobility back to the surrounding muscles. Many individuals would utilize ice packs, resting and elevating the leg to prevent future injuries from re-occurring. However, if left untreated, it can worsen and lead to chronic conditions. Luckily treatments like chiropractic care combined with soft tissue stretching techniques like MET (muscle energy techniques) can help to mobilize restricted joints and relax acute muscular spasms or contractions while preparing the joint for manipulation. A chiropractor will utilize these techniques to realign the spine from subluxation and loosen stiff joints and surrounding muscles that have been affected. Chiropractors will also inform their patients to incorporate various exercises and stretches to help strengthen the affected muscle group and become more aware of their bodies.
Conclusion
Overall, the various muscles, tendons, and ligaments surrounding the lower extremities, like the thighs, legs, and groin, allow mobility, flexibility, and rotation to the lower portion of the body. When injuries begin to affect these extremities, it can lead to referred pain to the hips and pelvis, causing groin strain and invoking pain. If not treated right away, it can develop into chronic conditions that cause mobility and stability issues in the lower body. The upper body would have to compensate for the pain causing subluxation to the spine. Luckily, treatments like chiropractic care combined with stretching techniques like MET can help reduce the pain in the groin muscles while lengthening the short muscles. These techniques allow mobility back to the lower extremities and realign the body so the individuals can be pain-free.
References
Bisciotti, Gian Nicola, et al. “Groin Pain Syndrome: An Association of Different Pathologies and a Case Presentation.” Muscles, Ligaments and Tendons Journal, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 20 Oct. 2015, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4617224/.
Chaitow, Leon, and Judith Walker DeLany. Clinical Applications of Neuromuscular Techniques. Churchill Livingstone, 2003.
Kiel, John, and Kimberly Kaiser. “Adductor Strain.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 21 June 2022, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK493166/.
Tyler, Timothy F, et al. “Groin Injuries in Sports Medicine.” Sports Health, U.S. National Library of Medicine, May 2010, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3445110/.
IFM's Find A Practitioner tool is the largest referral network in Functional Medicine, created to help patients locate Functional Medicine practitioners anywhere in the world. IFM Certified Practitioners are listed first in the search results, given their extensive education in Functional Medicine
