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Cue Sports Injuries: El Paso Back Clinic

Cue Sports Injuries: El Paso Back Clinic

Cue sports use a cue stick to strike billiard balls off and around a pool or equivalent table. The most common game is pool. Although these are not contact sports, various musculoskeletal injuries can manifest. Therefore, it is recommended to know the common injuries so that they can be self-treated or treatment can be sought before the condition worsens. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic can relieve symptoms, rehabilitate the body, and restore mobility and function.

Cue Sports Injuries: EP's Chiropractic Functional Wellness Team

Cue Sports Injuries

Sports medicine doctors say cue sports players suffer from sprains, strains, and fractures, among other injuries. Cue sports players are constantly:

  • Bending
  • Reaching
  • Twisting
  • Stretching their arms
  • Using their hands and wrists

Performing these constant movements and motions for extended periods increases the risk of sustaining injuries. Common symptoms include:

  • Inflammation
  • Warmth or heat in affected areas
  • Swelling
  • Tightness in the affected areas
  • Pain
  • Decreased range of motion

Injuries

Back and Waist

The posturing can cause individuals to tense their muscles, increasing the likelihood of injury. With all the bending, waist and back injuries are common. Back issues include:

  • Pinched nerves
  • Sciatica
  • Sprains
  • Strains
  • Herniated discs

Individuals with existing spine conditions or osteoarthritis have an increased risk of injury.

Shoulder, Arm, Wrist, Hand, and Finger

  • The shoulders, hands, wrists, and fingers are in constant use.
  • This can lead to overuse injuries affecting the muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and bones.
  • Consistent stress can lead to sprains, strains, or bursitis.

Tendonitis

  • Tendonitis occurs when too much pressure is applied, causing tendons to inflame.
  • This could lead to swelling and pain and could lead to long-term damage.

Foot and Ankle

  • The feet can slip when stretching too far while setting up and taking a shot.
  • This injury usually happens when trying to balance on one foot.
  • Slipping can lead to a sprained ankle or something worse, like a torn ligament or fractured foot.

Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic adjustments combined with massage therapy and functional medicine can treat these injuries and conditions, relieving symptoms and restoring mobility and function. When the tendons, muscles, ligaments, and bones are properly aligned, recovery and rehabilitation progress faster. A chiropractor will also recommend stretching and exercise programs to help maintain the adjustments and prevent injuries.


Physical Therapy and Exercises


References

Garner, Michael J et al. “Chiropractic care of musculoskeletal disorders in a unique population within Canadian community health centers.” Journal of manipulative and physiological therapeutics vol. 30,3 (2007): 165-70. doi:10.1016/j.jmpt.2007.01.009

Hestbaek, Lise, and Mette Jensen Stochkendahl. “The evidence base for chiropractic treatment of musculoskeletal conditions in children and adolescents: The emperor’s new suit?.” Chiropractic & osteopathy vol. 18 15. 2 Jun. 2010, doi:10.1186/1746-1340-18-15

Orloff, A S, and D Resnick. “Fatigue fracture of the distal part of the radius in a pool player.” Injury vol. 17,6 (1986): 418-9. doi:10.1016/0020-1383(86)90088-4

Holiday Health: El Paso Back Clinic

Holiday Health: El Paso Back Clinic

Winter is when most children and adults are prone to catching colds, the flu, etc. The excitement of the holiday season can also take a toll on the body’s neuromusculoskeletal system, leaving the individual more susceptible to illness. Digestive issues such as bloating, cramping, and constipation are also common. Certain supplements can help maintain body, gut, and brain holiday health. Here are a few recommended supplements to take during the holidays.

Holiday Health: EP's Chiropractic Functional Wellness Team

Holiday Health

To help fill in the gaps from the holiday foods and increase energy, holiday health supplements to consider adding include:

Probiotics

  • Probiotics are healthy bacteria and microbes that populate the gut or microbiome.
  • They help digest nutrients, support proper digestion and elimination, and manage appetite and mood.
  • A quality probiotic supplement supports healthy digestion and immune health.
  • It can help reduce diarrhea, constipation, gas, and bloating while protecting the immune system against pathogens.
  • For the most benefits, it is recommended to take a supplement with a high CFU count, diverse probiotic strains, and a delivery method that ensures the probiotics will survive once consumed.
  • SBO – soil-based organism probiotics are also recommended.

Melatonin

  • The body produces melatonin naturally, especially at night, since this promotes sleep.
  • Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate the body’s circadian rhythm, which makes you feel tired or alert at the right times of the day.
  • Taking melatonin can help decrease jet lag symptoms.
  • Consider taking melatonin to help promote healthy sleep.
  • However, it’s usually only recommended for short-term use, so consult your doctor.

Vitamin D

  • During the winter, when less sunlight is available, low vitamin D levels are very common among adults.
  • The body naturally makes vitamin D when the skin is exposed to the sun’s UV light rays; however, most spend nearly all their time indoors once the weather becomes cold.
  • Vitamin D is responsible for hundreds of reactions related to brain function, hormone production, and immune defenses.
  • A vitamin D supplement can help maintain healthy levels, which is important for maintaining a strong immune system, cardiovascular and bone health, and mood.

Magnesium

  • Magnesium is a mineral and electrolyte providing cardiovascular and bone support, improved sleep, healthy muscle and nerve function, and healthy digestion.
  • A magnesium supplement can help with aches and pains, restlessness, headaches, and constipation.

Vitamin C

  • Vitamin C intake protects against colds and other illnesses.
  • It supports healthy immune defenses, healthy nervous system function, antioxidant activity, neuron function, and skin health.
  • A vitamin C supplement combined with probiotics further helps support healthy gastrointestinal function and absorption.

Chiropractic For Digestive Health

  • Chiropractic care supports the healthy functioning of the nervous system.
  • The vagus nerve extends from the brain stem and innervates digestive system organs.
  • Sympathetic nerves in the thoracic and lumbar regions and the parasympathetic nerves near the sacrum also support digestion.
  • Decompressing the spine and correcting posture allow room for the muscles to contract, open up the spine to circulate fluids throughout the body, and expand and properly circulate food and waste.

Functional Nutrition Lifestyle Change


References

https://ancientnutrition.com/blogs/all/soil-based-probiotics-vs-regular?utm_campaign=vitacost&utm_medium=Affiliate&utm_source=article

Ernst, Edzard. “Chiropractic treatment for gastrointestinal problems: a systematic review of clinical trials.” Canadian journal of gastroenterology = Journal canadien de gastroenterology vol. 25,1 (2011): 39-40. doi:10.1155/2011/910469

Govender, Mershen et al. “A review of the advancements in probiotic delivery: Conventional vs. non-conventional formulations for intestinal flora supplementation.” AAPS PharmSciTech vol. 15,1 (2014): 29-43. doi:10.1208/s12249-013-0027-1

Leboeuf-Yde, Charlotte, et al. “Self-reported nonmusculoskeletal responses to chiropractic intervention: a multination survey.” Journal of manipulative and physiological therapeutics vol. 28,5 (2005): 294-302; discussion 365-6. doi:10.1016/j.jmpt.2005.04.010

https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Probiotics-HealthProfessional/#:~:text=The%20seven%20core%20genera%20of,Enterococcus%2C%20Escherichia%2C%20and%20Bacillus.

Peterson, Caroline. “A case study of chiropractic management of pregnancy-related heartburn with postulated fetal epigenome implications.” Explore (New York, N.Y.) vol. 8,5 (2012): 304-8. doi:10.1016/j.explore.2012.06.001

Qu, Liuxin, et al. “Irritable bowel syndrome treated by traditional Chinese spinal orthopedic manipulation.” Journal of traditional Chinese medicine = Chung i tsa chih ying wen pan vol. 32,4 (2012): 565-70. doi:10.1016/s0254-6272(13)60072-2

Knee Neuropathy: El Paso Back Clinic

Knee Neuropathy: El Paso Back Clinic

Individuals dealing with aching knees is one of the most common health problems and affects people of all ages. The knee is the largest joint in the body, comprised of muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and bones. The knees support walking, standing, running, and even sitting. Constant use makes them highly susceptible to injuries and conditions. The knees are also surrounded by a complex network of nerves that transmit messages to and from the brain. Damage to the nerves from an injury or disease can create various symptoms of discomfort in and around the knee joint.

Knee Neuropathy: EP's Chiropractic Team

Knee Neuropathy

Causes

Knee discomfort symptoms can be brought on by injury, degenerative disorders, arthritis, infection, and other causes, including:

Rheumatoid arthritis

  • This is a chronic inflammatory disorder that causes the knees to swell and causes damage to the cartilage.

Osteoarthritis

  • This type of arthritis causes the cartilage to steadily wear away, causing damage to the joints and various symptoms.

Cartilage Issues

  • Overuse, muscle weakness, injury, and misalignments can cause compensating postures and movements that can wear down and soften the cartilage, generating symptoms.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing knee neuropathy, including:

  • Previous knee injury
  • Undiagnosed and untreated knee injury
  • Unhealthy Weight
  • Gout
  • Compromised leg muscle strength and/or flexibility

Symptoms

Symptoms associated with a knee injury or disorder can vary, depending on the severity and damage. Symptoms can include:

  • Joint stiffness
  • Swelling in the joint.
  • Reduced movement/flexibility in the joint.
  • Increased instability/feeling of weakness in the knee.
  • Changes in skin color around the knee joint, like increased redness or pale discoloration.
  • Numbness, coldness, or tingling in and/or around the joint.
  • Pain symptoms could be a dull ache or throbbing felt throughout the knee.
  • Sharp, stabbing discomfort in a specific area.

If left untreated, knee neuropathy could permanently affect the ability to walk and lead to partial or total loss of knee function and mobility. Doctors recommend taking note of the following:

  • What activity/s generates symptoms?
  • Where are the symptoms located?
  • What the pain feels like?

Treatments available for knee pain

Chiropractic treatment offers various approaches to addressing the pain caused by nerve damage. Standard treatment includes chiropractic adjustments, therapeutic massage, non-surgical decompression, stretching, posture and movement training, and nutritional anti-inflammatory plans. Our medical team specializes in non-surgical treatments that decrease symptoms and increase strength, flexibility, mobility, and restore function.


Knee Injuries Adjustment


References

Edmonds, Michael, et al. “The current burden of diabetic foot disease.” Journal of clinical orthopedics and trauma vol. 17 88-93. 8 Feb. 2021, doi:10.1016/j.jcot.2021.01.017

Hawk, Cheryl, et al. “Best Practices for Chiropractic Management of Patients with Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain: A Clinical Practice Guideline.” Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.) vol. 26,10 (2020): 884-901. doi:10.1089/acm.2020.0181

Hunter, David J et al. “Effectiveness of a new model of primary care management on knee pain and function in patients with knee osteoarthritis: Protocol for THE PARTNER STUDY.” BMC musculoskeletal disorders vol. 19,1 132. 30 Apr. 2018, doi:10.1186/s12891-018-2048-0

Kidd, Vasco Deon, et al. “Genicular Nerve Radiofrequency Ablation for Painful Knee Arthritis: The Why and the How.” JBJS essential surgical techniques vol. 9,1 e10. 13 Mar. 2019, doi:10.2106/JBJS.ST.18.00016

Krishnan, Yamini, and Alan J Grodzinsky. “Cartilage diseases.” Matrix biology: journal of the International Society for Matrix Biology vol. 71-72 (2018): 51-69. doi:10.1016/j.matbio.2018.05.005

Speelziek, Scott J A, et al. “Clinical spectrum of neuropathy after primary total knee arthroplasty: A series of 54 cases.” Muscle & nerve vol. 59,6 (2019): 679-682. doi:10.1002/mus.26473

Idiopathic Scoliosis: El Paso Back Clinic

Idiopathic Scoliosis: El Paso Back Clinic

Idiopathic scoliosis means that no cause congenital or neuromuscular that created the spinal deformation has been identified. However, idiopathic scoliosis is the most common type, affecting 2% to 3% of individuals. Individuals diagnosed with an idiopathic disease or condition can be frustrated with more questions than answers, but it can still be treated in adults and kids.

Idiopathic Scoliosis

Idiopathic Scoliosis: EP's Chiropractic Team

Congenital Scoliosis

  • Congenital scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine related to which the patient was born.
  • Usually, a failure of formation or segmentation during normal development leads to the spinal condition.

Neuromuscular Scoliosis

  • Individuals with neuromuscular scoliosis are usually born with neurological disorders that contribute to muscular unevenness, often resulting in the development of the condition.
  • For example, individuals with cerebral palsy are born with muscular unevenness that can contribute to scoliosis development.

Who Is Affected

Anyone can develop scoliosis, but children and adults are divided into separate categories.

Children

  • Children with this condition are divided into three subcategories:
  • Infantile idiopathic scoliosis
  • Juvenile idiopathic scoliosis
  • Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis

These classifications are based on age and skeletal maturity.

  • Infantile is zero to 3 years old.
  • A juvenile is 3 to 10 years old.
  • Adolescents are from 11 onward or when starting puberty, to the point where the skeleton fully matures.

Adults

  • Idiopathic scoliosis in adults results from undiagnosed or untreated scoliosis in childhood that gradually progressed.

Causes

Research has found a genetic predisposition to developing scoliosis, as it has been found to run in families. Genetic testing has been designed to help determine the risk of developing progressive scoliosis. Theories have been presented about abnormalities that affect the nervous system. These include:

  • Dysfunctions of the brain stem or equilibrium have been frequently identified in individuals with idiopathic scoliosis.
  • Other theories suggest skeletal growth abnormalities or hormonal/metabolic dysfunction may contribute to the condition.
  • However, determining its exact cause remains unknown.

Signs and Symptoms

Here are some things to look out for.

  • The body leans to one side.
  • There is an unevenness of the ribcage or hips.
  • Uneven shoulders.
  • Shoulder blades may protrude or stick out.
  • The head is not positioned directly above the pelvis.

Diagnosis

Idiopathic scoliosis curves tend to follow predictable patterns.

  • Right thoracic or middle back scoliosis
  • Left thoracolumbar or mid and low-back scoliosis
  • Relative thoracic hyper or hypo kyphosis

Magnetic resonance images/MRIs of the spine can show evidence of any significant abnormalities. If no other related condition is present to suggest different causes, then the idiopathic scoliosis diagnosis can be made.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the individual’s age and the degree of curvature in the spine.

  • In many cases, adolescent or juvenile idiopathic scoliosis patients that have a mild curve can be treated with a brace.
  • Adults could need surgical intervention, such as a fusion surgery where rods and screws are added to realign the spine and relieve the pressure on the nerves.

Chiropractor


References

Burnei, G et al. “Congenital scoliosis: an up-to-date.” Journal of medicine and life vol. 8,3 (2015): 388-97.

Clément, Jean-Luc, et al. “Relationship between thoracic hypokyphosis, lumbar lordosis and sagittal pelvic parameters in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.” The European spine journal: official publication of the European Spine Society, the European Spinal Deformity Society, and the European Section of the Cervical Spine Research Society vol. 22,11 (2013): 2414-20. doi:10.1007/s00586-013-2852-z

Giampietro, Philip F et al. “Congenital and idiopathic scoliosis: clinical and genetic aspects.” Clinical medicine & research vol. 1,2 (2003): 125-36. doi:10.3121/cmr.1.2.125

“Scoliosis – Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment.” https://www.aans.org/Patients/Neurosurgical-Conditions-and-Treatments/Scoliosis

“Thoracic Hyperkyphosis.” Physiopedia, 2009, https://www.physio-pedia.com/Thoracic_Hyperkyphosis

Pinched Nerves and Muscle Spasms: El Paso Back Clinic

Pinched Nerves and Muscle Spasms: El Paso Back Clinic

Pinched Nerves and Muscle Spasms: A pinched or compressed nerve can occur in various body regions, from the wrist to the foot. When a nerve is compressed, a pins and needles feeling can present until the pressure is relieved, or there can be no sensation symptoms, but other symptoms like muscle spasms, especially in the arm or leg, can appear. Individuals will feel a repetitive fluttering or twitching when the arm or leg is not in motion. A pinched nerve could be the cause of spasms in the back or extremities. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic can help if symptoms are not stopping or worsening.

Pinched Nerves and Muscle Spasms: EPs Chiropractic Team

Pinched Nerves and Muscle Spasms

When multiple symptoms appear, individuals may not realize they are connected. Individuals may think aches, pains, and spasms are normal aging processes. Pinched nerves occur when there is an impingement on any one of the numerous nerves of the spine. Impingements can be caused by:

  • Repetitive motion injuries
  • Disc degeneration
  • Herniated/ruptured discs
  • Bone spurs
  • Arthritis
  • Trauma injury

The pain symptoms from the spasm can be quick, sharp, or pulsating and throbbing. The muscles respond by tightening or spasming as the nerve sends interrupted/incomplete signals. In addition to muscle spasms, a pinched nerve can contribute to other symptoms, including the following.

  • Tingling
  • Numbness
  • Pins and needles sensation
  • Reduced range of motion
  • Muscle weakness

Signs a Pinched Nerve Might Be Causing Spasms

  • Sudden shooting pain that radiates down the leg or arm.
  • Weak muscles
  • Muscle atrophy – shrinking or deteriorating.
  • Chronic tingling in the extremities.
  • A burning sensation in a specific area; this could but is not necessarily the source of the pinched nerve.
  • Electrical shock-type pain accompanies the spasms.

If a pinched nerve is left untreated and continues to generate symptoms, it can affect daily life and lead to uncomfortable long-term issues. Severe nerve compression combined with inflammation can cause damage to nearby soft tissues and muscles, leading to chronic conditions. When the nerves are damaged, it can be harder to control the muscles making certain motions uncomfortable or difficult to move certain body parts.

Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care, massage, and decompression therapy will relieve pinched nerves and muscle spasms and restore neuromusculoskeletal system function. The body will be realigned, and patients will be trained on stretching exercises, muscle strengthening, posture training, and nutritional support to optimize the body’s natural healing abilities to repair the damaged nerves.


Low Back Pain


References

Bustamante, S, and P G Houlton. “Swelling of the leg, deep venous thrombosis, and the piriformis syndrome.” Pain research & management vol. 6,4 (2001): 200-3. doi:10.1155/2001/104091

Chu, Eric Chun-Pu, and Robert J Trager. “Thoracic Schwannoma as an Unusual Cause of Sciatic Pain in the Chiropractic Office: A Case Report.” The American journal of case reports vol. 23 e938448. 16 Nov. 2022, doi:10.12659/AJCR.938448

Coletti, Roger H. “The ischemic model of chronic muscle spasm and pain.” European journal of translational myology vol. 32,1 10323. 18 Jan. 2022, doi:10.4081/ejtm.2022.10323

Hirayama, Jiro, et al. “Relationship between low-back pain, muscle spasm and pressure pain thresholds in patients with lumbar disc herniation.” The European spine journal: official publication of the European Spine Society, the European Spinal Deformity Society, and the European Section of the Cervical Spine Research Society vol. 15,1 (2006): 41-7. doi:10.1007/s00586-004-0813-2

Kennedy, John G, and Donald E Baxter. “Nerve disorders in dancers.” Clinics in sports medicine vol. 27,2 (2008): 329-34. doi:10.1016/j.csm.2008.01.001

Waddell, Roger K. “Chiropractic care for a patient with spasmodic dysphonia associated with cervical spine trauma.” Journal of chiropractic medicine vol. 4,1 (2005): 19-24. doi:10.1016/S0899-3467(07)60108-6

Non-Radiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis: El Paso Back Clinic

Non-Radiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis: El Paso Back Clinic

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

Non-Radiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis

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

Ankylosing Spondylitis

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

Stage 1

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

Stage 2

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

Stage 3

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

Symptoms of Non-Radiographic Axial Spondyloarthritis

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

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

Other symptoms include:

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

Slowing Progression

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

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

axSpA


References

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nutrition Support For Adrenal Fatigue: El Paso Back Clinic

Nutrition Support For Adrenal Fatigue: El Paso Back Clinic

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

Nutrition Support

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

Adrenal Fatigue

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

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

Fatigue Symptoms

Symptoms of adrenal fatigue include:

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

Other health conditions could also cause symptoms.

Foods to Avoid

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

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

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

Recommended Foods

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

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

Healing

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

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

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


Adrenal Dysfunction Patterns


References

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

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

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

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

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