Chiropractic athletics is a natural treatment focused on athletes and sports injuries. It is a non-surgical, non-drug option that can help individual athletes prevent injury/s from happening, maintain optimal athletic performance, and relives sports musculoskeletal injuries.Athletes of all types can benefit from chiropractic athletics.
Sports leagues and professional athletes including Major League Baseball and the National Football League have full-time chiropractors on their teams. Athletes from all over the world utilize chiropractic medicine. With the advancement in sports technology, intense training and superb athleticism come injuries that can turn into game-ending conditions. Because of this, there is a wide variety of treatment needs and is where chiropractic athletics comes in.
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Commonly athletes are referred to chiropractors for neck, lower back, and extremity conditions. Chiropractic athletics help them get them back into play after an injury faster, with added flexibility and agility. And for those without injuries chiropractic helps athletes prevent injuries by increasing strength and power to help perform at peak level.
Chiropractic sports doctors are highly trained with the tools and skills that will optimize the performance of an athlete’s musculoskeletal and nervous system. This training is what allows these athletic chiropractors to provide sports therapy/s that is focused on maintaining agility, flexibility, strength, and quick rehabilitation after an injury. Why chiropractic athletics should be essential?
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Chiropractic Athletic Importance
Regular chiropractic improves range of motion. Athletes place intense pressure on their bodies when training, weight-lifting, and playing. This can shift the spine out of alignment affecting movement, along with the rest of the body, generating a high probability of injury.
Athletes have to deal with soreness, stiffness, and pain from their basic training regiment. An injury can easily compound the soreness into something more severe. Spinal alignment problems can cause the range of motion to be hindered and limited, inhibiting overall ability. Chiropractic athletics undoes the damage. Once a chiropractic regiment is in place injury prevention kicks in, all the while keeping the athlete moving pain-free. �
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Pain Reduction
Anyone especially the strongest athletes can have an episode of back pain, specifically in the low back. A chiropractor promotes proper alignment and movement of the delicate spine. Chiropractors can recommend treatments both professional and self-care that will reduce all types of back pain short and long-term. Research confirms that a manual spine manipulation is an effective form of pain relief.
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Less Need for Pain Meds
Too often aches and pain are treated with pain meds, cortisone shots, and other drugs that provide short-term relief. Chiropractic is drug-free. This means athletes are not subject to side effects or dependencies that unfortunately arise from prescription med use.
Because of the increasing dependency on opioids, the American College of Physicians has updated their guidelines when it comes to low back pain, a very common reason for opioid prescriptions. Now, those with low back pain are encouraged to utilize various complementary and alternative medicine techniques that include chiropractic spinal manipulation before having to use prescription medication.
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Non-invasive
Chiropractic is non-surgical and can provide relief from injuries throughout the body. It can even serve as an alternative to surgery/s that would keep athletes on the sidelines because of a long recovery period. Treatments include:
All of these can be used to treat athletic injury.
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Athletic Benefits
Whether a neighborhood sports league or advanced competitive league athletes need chiropractic specialists for injury treatment to get them back to play. Kids are now traveling at a younger age meaning more practices and tournaments. Kids are also committing to only one sport early on. This is known as specializing. A study by The American Journal of Sports Medicine found that athletes that specialize too early are subject to continued injury/s. �
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Chiropractic decreases recovery time
Normal wear and tear happens to all of us but can wear down faster especially in an extremely healthy athlete�s body.
A baseball pitcher uses a consistent repetitive throwing motion.
A volleyball player jumps, constantly hitting and blocking.
A skateboarder falls repeatedly, sometimes over one-hundred times trying to land a trick.
At some point and quite often an athlete experiences muscle fatigue and soreness. Practices and games have only a few days between them. Younger athletes and their growing bodies need a lot more than rest to keep them in shape. After practice or a game, a chiropractor can do some soft tissue massage or instrument-assisted soft tissue techniques to make the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints flexible, relaxed, with decreased lactic acid, and improved blood circulation.
Physical therapy and the equipment used like ultrasound or cold laser therapy can be used to help with areas that are highly inflamed. This along with adjustments can improve joint mobility. Chiropractic athletics also helps with proper rehydration and customized dietary plans to assist with recovery and maintaining top-level performance. �
Lacrosse players experience knee injuries and muscle strains
Chiropractic adjusting of joint segments, no longer moving, can enhance mechanical motion. Soft tissue techniques improve muscle tone and blood flow to injured areas and decrease tissue buildup around the injured areas. Chiropractic along with the aforementioned treatment options can significantly reduce inflammation and pain.
All of these treatment options can be enhanced with Kinesio Taping. It can add support and various taping techniques can assist in blood circulation to the injured area. A sports chiropractor has a complete understanding of sports injury repair and knows the proper guidelines for safely returning the athlete to their sport. �
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Health and Wellness
Athletes have to focus on body awareness, health, diet, and optimal function. But they also need to be injury prepared through preventive awareness. Think of it as defensive driving. A chiropractor can assist an athlete with:
Proper training strategies that can become life-long habits
Body mechanic evaluation
Gait analysis
Continually keeping an athlete�s body in top form, allows them to train more efficiently and effectively.
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A Vital Role
With athletes training year-round and specializing earlier, chiropractic assistance can keep an athlete at a top level of body function. Chiropractic combined with certified athletic trainers can help with muscle development, ligament, and tendon stability. These specialists play a vital role in obtaining and maintaining whole-body wellness.
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Consider Chiropractic
Chiropractic athletics includes a whole health assessment to ensure there are no underlying issues that could be contributing to an injury, or that could cause future problems. Athletes, consider seeing a chiropractor regularly for those that want to maintain physical strength and range of motion, or if they want to recover from an injury without taking prescription meds and surgery. Sports performance will improve when the body is in alignment and pain-free!
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Functional Fitness Fellas
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
Summer footwear, although light and comfortable can lead to low back pain. Individuals with low back pain conditions/issues should opt for custom flip-flops or sandals. A few tips on how to choose the right summer footwear and avoid back pain. With the temperature going up we’re all ready to take out the shorts, t-shirts, and flip-flops or sandals. That’s when back pain can flare-up.
There are a variety of things that can generate back pain like improper posture, muscle spasms, and various medical issues. However, everyday shoe choices can also impact the spine and cause back pain. NCBI studies backed by podiatrists have found that unstable shoes, e.g., cheap flip-flops, and sandals can cause low back pain. �
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Improper footwear allows biomechanical abnormalities affecting the feet to be compounded and worsened. This leads to increased pain in the knees, hips, and lower back. Accurately fitted shoes and orthotics are some of the best footwear for lower back pain. While flip-flops and sandals unless they are orthotic based offer little to no support.
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Summer Footwear Back Pain
Like any type of mechanical system, if there is something wrong in one area, other problem issues begin to arise in other areas. It is the same with the body. If there is an issue with the feet it can affect the knees and hips, rising up to the spine causing back pain.
Summer shoes can worsen any of these underlying issues that often individuals don’t even know they had until they see a doctor for their back pain. This usually begins with the foot type. Those with flat feet tend to force the muscles and tendons in the feet to work more leading to tendinitis.
Arches that have fallen or droppedand remain unsupported can lead to arthritis development in the knees and the wearing down of the medial meniscus. Knees that do not function properly place added stress on the hips and lower back. This can lead to disc degeneration of the intervertebral discs. �
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Foot Arch Type
Anatomical anomalies like fallen arches/flat feet and high arches can cause back pain differently. Hyperpronation happens in flat feet causing the arches to collapse. This places more pressure on the inside of the legs and knees, which creates more imbalance in the hips and low back. �
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Hyper supination happens in high-arched feet causing the arches to rise. This places the pressure on the outside of the legs and knees, leading to muscle imbalances on the outside of the legs along with the hips and low back. Wearing unsupportive shoes like flip-flops, sandals, and heels for a long time, can cause back pain or make an existing condition worse. �
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Either flat feet or high-arched feet left untreated can lead to long-term injuries and extended/over wear and tear of the spine’s vertebrae and intervertebral discs. Summer footwear choices can influence discomfort and back pain.
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The Right Shoes
Summer footwear that doesn’t generate back pain doesn’t mean that you have to throw out the flip-flops. Look for shoes or flip-flops that are highly durable, sturdy, that don’t bend in the middle, and only at the toes.
For those with flat feet look for sufficient arch support to prevent hyperpronation. Pay attention to the details of the shoes/flip-flops/sandals. For example, added cushion, or ankle support could mean the difference between pain and relief. There are sandals that have ankle straps to keep the feet in place. This prevents the feet from slipping out, provides better stability during walks, and can help prevent tendinitis. �
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It is better to avoid anything with a heel, especially sandals or flip-flops that have a heel/high lift. These force the individual to shift their center of gravity forwardforcing the arching of the spine when standing. This position definitely contributes to back pain.
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Customized Footwear
Customized flip-flops or sandals that won�t cause any back pain are available with the help of a podiatrist or a chiropractor that helps and works with podiatrists. 3D-scans can be done to make fully-customized flip-flops that support the arches based on the scan. �
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Excessive Foot Pronation and Custom Foot Orthotics
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Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
Chronic back pain does not have to ruin the summer season. The best approach is planning ahead remembering a few self-care warm/hot weather tips. The hot weather can worsen pain symptoms. With all the family activities going on, maintaining back pain wellness can be difficult. This is where the planning/preparing for chronic pain comes in.
Individuals should begin thinking around April what they will be doing once the hot months arrive and plan accordingly. However, self-care should be implemented for all seasons. �
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Water Therapy
Depending on the condition, water can be a friendly sanctuary from the pain with the ability to do some spine exercises. Light stretching can bring relief and keeps the muscles and ligaments stretched. Outside of the pool, a misting fan can create a relaxing atmosphere along with ice packs during summer pain flares. �
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Avoid high heat
Sunburn or prolonged heat exposure can cause burning nerve pain. The changes in temperature and barometric pressure can trigger joint pain. Plan on doing activities in the morning or after the sun has set. Keep a hand-held fan close-by whenever going out. Wear loose light sun friendly clothing, comfortable shoes, possibly a hat to shield the face and keep an ice-cold water bottle with you. �
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Proper seating
Summer activities typically include uncomfortable seating, like small chairs, bleachers, and activities where everyone sits on the ground. Plan ahead for these situations and store a comfortable possibly therapeutic folding or travel chair that fits in an automobile. Add a lumbar cushion to support the lower back. �
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Immune system health
Fruits and vegetables can boost the body’s vitamin and mineral bank. Better quality food will make you feel so much better. Whatever you can get at the market, get it and turn it into a cold healthy smoothie. The USDA found that cherries contain pain-fighting and inflammation-reducing compounds that can help reduce pain, specifically arthritis. �
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Air quality
Pay attention to the air quality rating during the summer. Studies have shown that air pollution can increase inflammation, specifically for individuals with:
Don�t let summer vacation or road trips get in the way of your chiropractic treatment plan. Check-in before you go and ask for help to navigate the adventure with as little pain as possible. Self-sufficiency can be achieved by planning ahead. Reduce stress and increase your independence.
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Why Chiropractic Works
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Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
An individual may need to wear a neck brace or cervical collar after cervical spine surgery, or after experiencing a traumatic injury to the neck, from an automobile accident, sports, work, or personal injury. Neck braces are some of the most common spinal braces. A doctor might call these orthoses or orthotics. There are different types of neck braces also called cervical collars, and function for different purposes.
They can be utilized in stabilizing the neck after cervical/neck surgery.
They can provide non-surgical relief after experiencing trauma or injury to the neck
Neck braces or collars are used to limit movement, support the head, and take the load off the neck. This gives the muscles time to rest, recover, and heal properly and thoroughly. �
Soft braces are made to be flexible and are made of a polyurethane foam rubber. They easily wrap around the neck and are secured with Velcro.
Soft collars are usually worn for a minor injury that just needs to be worn for a short time or to transition from wearing a hard brace from a more serious injury or surgery. Soft braces are worn typically at the end or completion of the healing process. The main purpose is to help with the gradual transition to remove the brace.
Hard neck braces look sort of like soft braces. The difference is that they are made of hard polyethylene and are rigid/stiff to really keep the neck from moving. These braces provide support and pain relief for spinal conditions like cervical spondylosis and acute neck pain. �
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Philadelphia
A Philadelphia brace is made of stiff foam and is made in two pieces that attach with Velcro. The upper portion supports the lower jaw with the lower brace extending down to cover the upper back.
This brace is made to protect more of the neck area than a soft or hard brace. However, it does place a higher restriction on the neck and body’s range of motion. Because of its effectiveness for limiting movement, it is usually prescribed after cervical surgery for a healthy recovery. The Philadelphia neck brace is also used for stabilization of minor cervical fractures and to reduce pain brought on from neck muscle strain. �
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Sterno-Occipital-Mandibular Immobilization
The Sternooccipital mandibular immobilization brace is a highly rigid braceused to position the neck in straight alignment with the spine. This brace immobilizes the neck completely by preventing the head and neck from moving at all. This allows the injured/damaged structures to heal correctly and quickly. Sterno comes from the sternum. The brace has a front chest plate, and bars that go over the shoulder. �
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It is secured with straps that attach to the front chest plate. It also has a removable chin piece where the mandibular comes from, which is the lower jawbone. And there is an optional headpiece for added protection and support. Occipital is referring to the occipital bone at the back of the head. This type of brace is used for the treatment of severe neck injury/s or cervical pain caused by a chronic condition, like arthritis. It can also aid in recovery after cervical spine surgery.
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Halo
The halo brace is the most rigid of the neck braces. It completely immobilizes the head and neck from moving. Sometimes it is necessary to immobilize the spine after a major neck procedure or for stabilizing fractures in the neck or middle back area. Halo bracing is considered a form of spinal traction. Traction pulls the spine in 2 different directions.
The tension reduces the abnormal curvature associated with spinal conditions, like scoliosis. A halo brace has a metal ring secured to the head using pins. The ring is connected to bars that are attached to a properly weighted vest. The weight of a halo brace is different depending on the individual wearing it. A halo brace is worn at all times until completely healed and recovered. �
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Effectiveness
Neck braces are the most effective when they are used as directed by a doctor, chiropractor, or spine specialist. Working with an orthotist, or a specialist that designs and custom fits spinal braces can be extremely beneficial. Any questions about how to wear and care for a spinal brace should be brought up with a doctor or orthotist. They will help ensure a full understanding of how to get the most benefit from the treatment.
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Neck Pain Chiropractic Treatment
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
Alexander Jimenez grew up knowing he was going to be a chiropractic doctor. As a child, Dr. Jimenez’s grandmother (Rebecca Tinoco of Bogota, Columbia)� experienced pain symptoms and would ask little Alex to massage the painful areas. His grandmother found relief and Dr. Jimenez began to think about how he could help others experiencing pain. �
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It was through this care that Dr. Jimenz realized being a health care chiropractic practitioner was the best way to help people. Like his grandfather, many others have experienced profound results thanks to chiropractic treatment. Dr. Jimenez knew that he wanted to be able to treat patients naturally. He would learn and develop the skills required to practice as a chiropractic physician. He enrolled in a university chiropractic program, graduated, has put in almost 30 years of work, and the rest is history. What to know about chiropractic physicians.
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A Chiropractic Physician*
A Doctor of Chiropractic also known as a D.C. is far more than a back doctor. Chiropractors study the same sciences as doctors of medicine or MDs. They are trained in the latest techniques and approaches, diagnostic tools, and developing effective treatment plans to manage various health conditions. However, chiropractic physicians specialize in non-invasive/non-surgical/non-pharmacological health care protocols and focus on whole-body health and natural healing. Wide range of factors that can impact an individual�s health like:
Biomechanical dysfunction
Diet
Genetics
Trauma
Hygiene
Emotions
Environment – Home/work
Infection/s
Lack of exercise
Posture
Stress levels
Based on these factors a chiropractor is able to determine the most effective, beneficial natural treatment plan.
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Work
Chiropractic physicians encourage individuals to look at natural, medication/surgery-free approaches to improve health, reduce, and alleviate painful symptoms. They are often called upon for preventive and rehabilitative health care. �
� Chiropractic treatment is responsible for thousands of back surgeries being avoided, as well as injuries being prevented with conservative care. Chiropractors perform manual, and tool-assisted adjustments of the spine and the body’s other joints. Depending on their training, they could practice:
Acupuncture
Functional medicine
Nutritional medicine
Physical rehabilitation
Provide supplements like vitamins and natural botanicals
Chiropractors utilize diagnostic tests like X-rays, ultrasound, and check blood pressure. They can order and interpret blood samples, urine samples, and other medical lab tests. Chiropractic physicians are able to:
Practice as primary-care physicians in most states
Doctors of chiropractic are able to treat individuals of all ages, and a variety of health conditions. Most know about chiropractors and their expertise in treating back pain, neck pain, and headaches. However, chiropractors can also treat many types of injuries and disorders involving the musculoskeletal system. They can:
Release tight muscles
Stretch out ligaments
Return joint mobility
Relieve overuse/repetitive injuries
Ease migraines
Rehabilitate/Prevent sports injuries
Treat automobile accident injuries
Reduce/Alleviate arthritis
The Most Effective Chiropractor
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Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
NOTICE: The Texas Board of Chiropractic and The Texas Supreme Court defines a Chiropractor as a Doctor. New Mexico State Bylaws and New Mexico Chiropractic State Board define a Chiropractor as a Chiropractic Physician*.
Both are the same however the bylaws require legal and literal defining.�
Surgery for sciatica is sometimes necessary if medications, chiropractic, and physical therapy are not working to relieve sciatica symptoms, but don�t worry. Individuals sometimes have sciatica that just does not respond to conservative treatment can find relief through surgical procedures.
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Questions begin to pop up, as to which procedure makes the most sense, what will the experience be like, and how long will it be until you can get back to a normal, pain-free life?
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Sciatica
Sciatica is pain that runs down the longest nerve in the body, known as the sciatic nerve. Pain starts in the lower back and spreads down one leg, into the calf and possibly the foot. It is rare but sciatica can occur in both legs. The pain is mild to severe and feels worse when sneezing, coughing, bending, and standing/sitting in certain positions. The pain is often accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness in affected legs. �
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Sciatica a set of symptoms caused by other medical problems like an injury, tumor, or the most common cause around 90% of the time is a herniated disc in the lower back. The soft-gel center of the disc pushes through the tough exterior, where it can pinch or press on the sciatic nerve causing pain.
Research shows that sciatica affects 1% to 5% of the population, and around 40% will experience sciatica at some point in their life. Men between the ages of 30 and 50 have a higher risk along with smokers, individuals that sit for a long time, and those that perform physically strenuous work. Doctors and chiropractors can diagnose cases of sciatica with a medical history and physical exam. Diagnostic imaging can also be used in some cases.
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When it’s Time to Consider Surgery for Sciatica
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Most individuals with sciatica respond positively with non-surgical treatments like chiropractic, physical therapy, acupuncture, medication, spinal injection/s, etc. This makes spine surgery a rarely needed treatment for low back and leg pain caused by sciatic nerve compression. But there are situations when surgery for sciatica could be beneficial.
Symptoms become severe and non-surgical treatment is no longer effective
There are different types of surgical procedures for spine surgery. A spine surgeon will recommend the best approach for each patient’s sciatica. Which procedure they recommend will be based on the disorder causing sciatica with the entire procedure clearly explained so that you understand completely. Ask any questions to better understand the surgeon’s recommendation. Remember, the final decision is always up to you. A second opinion is recommended before deciding.
Sciatica usually goes away on its own with the majority of cases managed with conservative treatment. Depending on the cause, this could be heat or ice packs, chiropractic, therapeutic massage, pain medication, stretching exercises, physical therapy, or injections. �
Sciatica for Surgery Options
Surgery for sciatica is performed to relieve the added compression/pressure on the nerves and relieve the pain. Options include a microdiscectomy and laminectomy. Each has its similarities and differences when it comes to the preparation, process, and recovery for the operation. �
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Microdiscectomy
During a microdiscectomy, part or all of the herniated disc is removed. Research has shown the effectiveness of relieving pain to be around 80 to 95 percent of patients. The operation is done in a hospital or surgery center and requires about one hour to complete. General anesthesia is administered during this procedure.
A surgeon will make an incision over the affected disc.
Skin and tissue covering the disc will be opened and moved for better access. Some of the bone could be taken out as part of the procedure called a laminotomy.
The surgeon will use various tools to remove all or part of the herniated disc.
Once the removal is done, the surgeon will close the incision and send you to a recovery room.
To quicken the healing process patients are encouraged to start walking within hours of the procedure.
Most go home the same day. Some patients will have to stay at the hospital for observation. This could be from other conditions present.
You will not be allowed to operate a vehicle the same day. Therefore a designated driver will be necessary.
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Laminectomy
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Preparation for a laminectomy is similar to a microdiscectomy. The lamina is the back part of the vertebrae, which protects the spinal canal. This procedure relieves pain by creating space for the nerves to move around.
The procedure takes about one to three hours from start to finish.
Both sides of the laminae are removed, along with the spinous process in the middle.
The patient lies face-down as the surgeon makes an incision near the affected vertebrae.
Skin and muscles are moved around and various tools/instruments are used to remove all or part of the lamina. Overgrowth of bone or spinal disc could also be removed.
The incision is stitched or stapled, bandaged, and sent to a recovery room.
Just like a microdiscectomy the individual will be encouraged to begin walking the same day.
Most individuals leave the hospital after surgery, however, a one to possible three-night could be required for others.
A driver does need to be designated for the ride home.
A microdiscectomy is recommended for stenosis caused by a herniated disc. However, if the stenosis is caused by another health issue/condition like bone spurs developed from arthritis, then a laminectomy could be the best approach. Laminectomies are usually performed on individuals in their 50s or 60s. While micro discectomies vary when it comes to age but are usually performed on younger individuals.
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Recovery
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At home, post-op rules need to be followed no matter what surgery for sciatica was performed. The incision area needs to stay clean and no lifting of heavy objects, bending and sitting for extended times. Surgery for sciatica is considered safe with complications being uncommon. All operations come with risks. These include nerve damage, blood clots, and infection.
The provider needs to know about unusual symptoms after the procedure. This could be fever, excess drainage, or pain around the incision area. Pain meds could be prescribed to ease the post-surgery pain, and chiropractic along with physical therapy could be implemented to speed recovery. Individuals are typically cleared to return to work two to four weeks after the procedure. It could be six to eight weeks if their job/occupation is physically demanding and strenuous.
Depending on how complex the spine surgery is an individual could be sitting upright the same day and walking within 24 hours. A course of pain meds could be prescribed to help manage postoperative pain. Instructions will be given on how to sit, rise, get out of bed, and stand in a careful manner. The body needs time to heal, so a doctor could recommend activity restriction. This could be anything that moves the spine too much. For sure contact sports, twisting, or heavy lifting during recovery are to be avoided. Report any problem/s like fever, increased pain, infection right away.
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Spine Surgery Relief
Many individuals benefit from sciatica surgery, but it doesn�t work for everyone. A small percentage of individuals continue to feel discomfort in the weeks/months after. And sciatica can return in the future and in a different location. Your healthcare provider can help you decide if surgery for sciatica is the right choice for you.
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Treating Severe & Complex Sciatica Syndromes
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Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
Accident/Collisions are seeing a rise and along with those crashes are spinal injuries. What you need to know about:
Accident-related injuries
Treatment
Recovery
Legal issues
We take a risk, however small, every time we get in the car/truck, of being involved in a car wreck that results in injuries and specifically a spinal injury/s. The National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center has seen that motor vehicle accidents/collisions with the majority being car/truck accidents. �
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However, with all the construction taking place nowadays, excavators, bulldozers, steamrollers, forklifts, and other vehicles are also seeing a rise in accidents. This is also generating a rise in spinal cord injury/s. Auto accidents are now ranked as the number one cause of spinal injury. The risk of an accident is small and the risk of a resulting serious spine injury is smaller still, it�s not anything. What you need to know about a motor vehicle accident/collision includes:
Injuries
Treatment
Recovery
Insurance
Legal issues
Common Motor Vehicle Accidents/Collisions
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Whiplash
Whiplash is one of the most typical injuries following an accident, especially when rear-ended or a rear-end collision. Its a neck injury that happens when the neck snaps suddenly back and forth causing trauma to the tissues in the neck. Symptoms often develop a few days after the accident including:
Limited neck movement
Stiffness and pain in the neck
Pain or tenderness in the upper back, shoulders, and arms
Numbness or tingling in the arms
Dizzyness
Headaches starting at the base of the skull
Problems with concentration or memory
Ringing in the ears
Sleep issues
Depression
Herniated Disc
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The discs in the spine cushion the vertebrae by absorbing the weight, force, and overall impact of a regular day. They are made of a soft, gel-like substance in the center that behaves like the gel in foot orthotics, shoes, mattresses, etc made to feel soft and comfortable. It has a tough outer membrane.
A herniated disc happens when that soft gel springs a leak/s out from a tear, meaning the shock-absorbing cushion has been compromised and is not delivering the absorption it’s supposed to and places added pressure on the surrounding nerve/s and roots. Herniations can happen naturally from age and from jobs that involve consistent and constant repetitive:
Pushing
Pulling
Bending
Twisting
Herniations also happen after going through some type of physical trauma like a motor vehicle accident/collision. Symptoms depend on where the herniation occurs and include:
Muscle weakness around the affected nerve/s
Sharp shooting pain that can spread out from the shoulders to the arms, legs and low back
Tingling in arms or legs
Numbness
There could also be no symptoms and no discovery of a herniated disc until tested for something else.
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Vertebral Fractures
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The vertebrae are highly susceptible to fractures of all types and can appear at any spot along the spine. For many, the injuries are mild and heal with non-surgical treatment and time. Major trauma to the spine can cause severe injuries/conditions which include:
Burst fractures
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This is where the vertebra fractures in multiple places into bony fragments that fall into the spinal cord getting lodged inside with the jagged edges of the bones creating tears, cuts, etc that can result in paralysis and even death.
Flexion fracture
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This is an injury seen in head-on collisions where the upper part of the body gets thrown forward and the bottom part stays in place likely from the seatbelt. This tears the vertebra apart resulting in a flexion teardrop fracture.
Vertebral compression
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These types cause the front of the vertebra to collapse while the back keeps its position that forms a wedge-like shape. However, more often it is associated with osteoporosis, healthy individuals can experience a vertebral compression fracture from a serious traumatic event like an auto accident. Fractures can cause mild to severe pain that is exacerbated with movement. If the spinal cord is injured the individual could experience:
Tingling
Numbness
Weakness in the limbs
Loss of bladder/bowel function
Because of the increased safety features in today’s vehicles, fractures of the spine are rare except for severe motor vehicle accidents/collisions.
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Diagnosis and treatment
A doctor will review medical history along with the accident information. Imaging tests will follow like:
X-ray
CT or computed tomography scan
MRI or magnetic resonance imaging
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The way these techniques of imaging are done depends on the accident and the state of the spine. Being brought into the hospital from a motor vehicle accident/collision with a suspected spinal injury means the imaging will be done first to rule out or not potentially life-threatening injury/s to the spine. Treatment for spinal injuries can range from:
Soft collar
Chiropractic
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications
Corticosteroid injection/s
Nerve blocks
Physical therapy
Surgery to correct certain injuries when all other forms of treatment are not working
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Recovery
Every case, accident, and injury is different�and depends on several factors, like age, health, and how severe the accident/collision was. Severe and extreme injures like a burst fracture can take a long time to heal. �
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Legal Issues
Individuals with a spinal injury can face thousands in medical bills. If there is medical equipment involved along with therapeutic services for long-term care, like physical therapy then bills will accumulate.
Also, a personal injury claim could be necessary to pay for everything, especially, if the accident/collision is no fault of your own. Compensation could help with:
Loss of employment
Employment benefits
Wages lost
Ability to work/earn income
Medical expenses
Pain
Suffering
Consult with a specialist when considering filing a personal injury claim
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Work Compensation
If a spinal injury accident happens at work there could be worker’s compensation. Workers� compensation is insurance that replaces wages and medical benefits to workers that have been injured while doing their job. These are injuries that happened during the operation of a motor vehicle, like a truck, or forklift. The worker must file an injury report immediately so there is documentation supporting the injury claim. Waiting to file can make the employer question if there even was an injury. A workers� compensation claim works differently than a personal injury claim, based primarily on what is covered under the job’s insurance policies.
An example is the legal term pain and suffering. This is not covered by workers� compensation. However, a work training accident would be covered by work comp in the event that the individual cannot return to their job/occupation after the injury. However, any injury/s after a motor vehicle accident/collision should never be taken lightly or ignored. Individuals must be proactive in their treatment after an accident/collision. This is to prevent and avoid further injury.
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Auto Accident Doctors & Chiropractor Treatments
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