Accidents and Injuries

Individuals dealing with back pain problems could be suffering from a bulging disc. Could knowing the difference between slipped and herniated disc symptoms help with treatments and finding relief?

Bulging Disc Pain

Back pain can become debilitating if not treated properly. A bulging disc is a common cause of cervical, thoracic, and lower back pain symptoms. It happens when one of the fluid-filled cushions between the vertebrae begins to shift out of place. Instead of being aligned with the edges, the disc bulges over. This begins to generate pressure on the nerves causing pain and inflammation.

• Bulging discs are often caused by age, but repetitive movements and/or lifting heavy objects can contribute to the condition.
• Symptoms can resolve on their own, but individuals are recommended to consult with a physical therapist and/or chiropractor to make sure the disc healed properly, otherwise, it can lead to worsening and/or further injuries.

Bulging Disc vs. Herniated Disc

Bulging and herniated discs cause pain symptoms.

• They both can be linked to injuries and degenerative disc disease but are not the same condition. (Penn Medicine. 2018)
• Sometimes the terms bulging and herniated disc are used interchangeably, which can be confusing. (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 2022)

1. Bulging - the intervertebral disc moves out of place but stays intact.
2. Herniated - the thick outer layer of the disc ruptures, causing the cushioning gel inside to leak onto the spinal nerves.

Location of Symptoms

• A bulging disc can happen anywhere along the spine.
• However, most occur between the last five vertebrae in the lower back.
• This is the lumbar spine. (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 2022)
• This is because the lower back is subject to all kinds of pressure and movement with daily activities, increasing the chances of pain and injuries.
• The next most common place is the neck/cervical spine where there are constant movements making it prone to injury and pain symptoms.

Causes

Bulging discs are most often caused by body aging and normal wear and tear. As time goes on the intervertebral discs naturally degenerate, known as degenerative disc disease. This can cause the discs to pull downward, causing them to bulge from their placement. (Penn Medicine. 2018) Factors that can cause or worsen the condition include:

• Practicing unhealthy postures.
• Repetitive motions.
• Lifting heavy objects
• Spinal injuries.
• Medical history of spinal or disc disease in the family.

Treatment

Treating a bulging disc takes time and patience. (American Academy of Neurological Surgeons. 2023)

Examination

Individuals with back pain that interferes with daily functions or has lasted longer than six weeks, should see a healthcare provider for diagnosis. They will order a magnetic resonance imaging scan/MRI, which can show where a disc is protruding. (American Academy of Neurological Surgeons. 2023)

Rest

• For bulging disc pain, resting the back is necessary. However, 
• Many patients benefit from a day or two of bed rest. (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 2022)
• After that, start light activities like walking. Avoid any movements that make your pain worse.

NSAIDs

• NSAID pain medications like Advil, Motrin, or Aleve can keep pain symptoms and inflammation reduced.
• However, this is for short-term use, as the underlying cause still needs to be addressed.
• A healthcare provider will recommend safe dosage and how long these medications should be taken. (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 2022)

Physical Therapy

• Individuals may be recommended by their healthcare provider for a referral to a physical therapist.
• A physical therapist will address the injury for rehabilitation and introduce strengthening exercises. (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 2022)
• Chiropractic Adjustments (NIH. 2022)
• Non-surgical spinal decompression
• Traction therapy
• Therapeutic massage
• Muscle Energy Technique

Steroid Injection

• An epidural steroid injection can provide relief for individuals still experiencing symptoms after six weeks.
• A healthcare provider will inject cortisone into the spine to reduce inflammation and pain. (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 2022)

Surgery

• If conservative treatments don't work, a healthcare provider may recommend surgery, like a microdiscectomy.
• This procedure uses small incisions to remove all or part of a bulging disc.
• Most individuals with a bulging disc will not require surgery. (American Academy of Neurological Surgeons. 2023)

Inflammation: Integrative Medicine Approach

General Disclaimer *

The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional or licensed physician and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make healthcare decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified healthcare professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from various disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and directly or indirectly support our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has reasonably attempted to provide supportive citations and identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request.

We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please contact Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, ATN*

email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

Licensed in: Texas & New Mexico*

References

Penn Medicine. (2018) Bulging disc vs. herniated disc: What’s the difference?

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. (2022) Herniated disk in the lower back.

American Academy of Neurological Surgeons. (2023) Herniated disc.

National Institutes of Health. (2022) Spinal Manipulation: What You Need To Know.

Individuals who have suffered cervical acceleration-deceleration/CAD more commonly known as whiplash, can experience headaches, and other symptoms like neck stiffness, pain, fatigue, and shoulder/neck/back discomfort. Can non-surgical and conservative treatments help alleviate the symptoms?

Cervical Acceleration - Deceleration or CAD

Cervical acceleration-deceleration is the mechanism of a neck injury caused by a forceful back-and-forth neck motion. It happens most commonly in rear-end vehicle collisions when the head and neck whip forward and backward with intense acceleration and/or deceleration causing the neck to flex and/or extend rapidly, more than normally, straining and possibly tearing muscle tissues and nerves, ligaments, dislocation of spinal discs and herniations, and cervical bone fractures.

• For symptoms that do not improve or worsen after 2 to 3 weeks, see a healthcare provider or chiropractor for further evaluation and treatment.
• Whiplash injuries strain or sprain the neck muscles and/or ligaments, but can also affect the vertebrae/bones, disc cushions between the vertebrae, and/or the nerves.
• For individuals who experience a headache that starts at the base of the skull following a motor vehicle accident is more than likely a whiplash headache. (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. 2023)

Symptoms

Whiplash symptoms can present right away, or after several hours to a few days after the incident, and tend to worsen in the days after the injury. Symptoms can last a few weeks to a few months, and can severely limit activity and range of motion. Symptoms can include: (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. 2023)

• Pain that extends into the shoulders and back.
• Neck stiffness
• Limited neck motion 
• Muscle spasms
• Numbness and tingling sensations - paresthesias or pins and needles in the fingers, hands, or arms.
• Sleep problems
• Fatigue
• Irritability
• Cognitive impairment - memory and/or concentrating difficulties.
• Ringing in the ears - tinnitus
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Depression
• Headaches - A whiplash headache usually starts at the base of the skull and can vary in intensity. Most individuals experience pain on one side of the head and toward the back, though some can experience symptoms all over their head, and a small number experience headaches on the forehead or behind the eyes. (Monica Drottning. 2003)
• The headaches can become aggravated by moving the neck around, especially when looking up.
• Headaches are often associated with shoulder pain along with sensitive neck and shoulder muscles that when touched can increase pain levels.
• Whiplash headaches can lead to chronic neck-related headaches known as cervicogenic headaches. (Phil Page. 2011)

Causes

The most common cause of whiplash is rear-end automobile accidents and collisions. (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. 2023)
However, cervical acceleration-deceleration injuries can also occur from:

• Playing sports - hockey, martial arts, boxing, tackle football, gymnastics, basketball, volleyball, soccer, and baseball.
• A slip and fall that causes the head to suddenly jolt forward and back.
• Physical assault - getting punched or shaken.
• Being struck on the head by a heavy or solid object.

Treatment

1. Symptoms usually resolve within 2 to 3 weeks.
2. Icing the neck for 10 minutes several times a day can help reduce pain and inflammation. (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. 2023)
3. It is also important to rest your neck area following the injury.
4. A cervical collar can be utilized temporarily to stabilize the neck, but for long-term recovery, it is recommended to keep the area mobile.
5. Physical activity reduction until the individual can look over both shoulders, and tilt their head all the way forward, all the way back, and from side to side without pain or stiffness.

Additional Treatments

• Traction and decompression therapies.
• Chiropractic adjustments
• Therapeutic various massage techniques.
• Electronic nerve stimulation
• Posture retraining
• Stretching
• Sleep position adjustments.
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories - NSAIDs - Ibuprofen or Naproxen.
• Muscle relaxers

If symptoms do not improve, a healthcare provider may recommend physical therapy and/or stronger pain medications. For whiplash headaches that last for several months, acupuncture, or spinal injections may be recommended.

Neck Injuries

General Disclaimer *

The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional or licensed physician and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make healthcare decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified healthcare professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from various disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and directly or indirectly support our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has reasonably attempted to provide supportive citations and identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request.

We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please contact Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, ATN*

email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

Licensed in: Texas & New Mexico*

References

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Whiplash Information Page.

Drottning M. (2003). Cervicogenic headache after a whiplash injury. Current pain and headache reports, 7(5), 384–386. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11916-003-0038-9

Page P. (2011). Cervicogenic headaches: an evidence-led approach to clinical management. International journal of sports physical therapy, 6(3), 254–266.

Automobile accidents and collisions can cause knee and ankle injuries in various ways. Automobile crashes are considered high-energy collisions versus slip and fall traumas which are generally low-energy. However, a 30mph or under-collision can have serious and detrimental effects on the knees and ankles. The sudden forces can cause the knees to collide with the dashboard or push the feet and legs into the body, generating intense pressure and compressing the bones, muscles, and ligaments damaging soft tissues and bone structures from the impact. The Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic Team can rehabilitate, realign, strengthen, and restore function to individuals with minor to severe auto collision injuries.

Knee and Ankle Injuries

Musculoskeletal motor vehicle crash/collision injuries affect the body's movement. The impact can pull, tear, crush, and smash bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, discs, and nerves. These injuries restrict the range of motion and can cause pain and sensation symptoms. The National Accident Sampling System reports 33% of injuries sustained during vehicle collisions are to the lower extremities.

• Despite the knees and ankles having soft tissues that absorb and distribute the energy's impact, the forces from the collision often happen instantly and unexpectedly, causing the individual to tense up, which overwhelms the structures.
• Even panic stepping on the brake pedal can cause injury to the ankle and foot.
• A passenger's reflex of trying to resist forces can experience foot, ankle, and knee injuries from bracing off the vehicle's floorboard.
• Automobile collisions can cause strains, sprains, fractures, and dislocations.

Torn, Strained, or Sprained Knee

• If the foot becomes planted on the floorboard while the body continues to move forward or sideways, the force can travel into the knee, causing twisting or shearing.
• Depending on the injury type, the impact strength can damage different ligaments.
• The ligaments resist forces that push the knee inwards/medially and outwards/laterally and slightly resist rotational forces.
• When any of these ligaments are damaged, swelling, pain, and limited ranges of motion can result.
• Putting weight on the affected leg can be difficult.
• In some cases, the ligaments tear completely, necessitating surgical repair.
• Once the individual can engage in mild activity, they can begin a rehabilitation program to restore function.
• Recovery times vary based on the location and severity of the injury.

Fractured Knee or Ankle

• When a fracture occurs in a joint, like the knees or ankles, surgical procedures may be necessary to repair the broken bone/s.
• Broken bones can result in simultaneous damage and/or inflammation of the connective tissues that can cause the muscles to contract/tighten or atrophy during the recovery and healing phases.
• Joints and bones are kept healthy with moderate movement and weight-bearing.
• Fractures require immobilization of the affected area.
• A physical therapy rehabilitation program can begin when the brace or cast comes off.
• Targeted exercises and resistance will strengthen and stretch the joint to improve flexibility and promote healing through improved circulation.

Torn Meniscus

• The meniscus is a C-shaped area of cartilage that rests between the thigh and shin bones.
• It acts as a shock absorber.
• The meniscus can become torn, resulting in pain, stiffness, and loss of motion.
• This injury can heal independently with the right rest and therapeutic exercises.
• A chiropractic auto collision specialist can diagnose the severity of the tear and provide the recommendations needed to rehabilitate and strengthen the knee.
• If the tear is severe enough, surgery may be required.

Strained or Sprained Ankle

• Strained tendons and sprained ligaments can result from the ankle being subject to tremendous force.
• Strains and sprains vary in severity.
• Both indicate that the connective tissue has been damaged or stretched beyond normal limits.
• They can present with pain, inflammation, and problems moving the affected area.
• With proper medical attention and rehabilitation, recovery is possible.

Torn Achilles Tendon

• The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscle to the heel and is necessary for walking, running, physical activity, and bearing weight.
• If the tendon gets torn, surgery will be required to reattach the muscle and tendon.
• After recovery, the individual can begin physical therapy to work the tendon and muscle, slowly building strength and range of motion.
• It is critical to do this with the supervision of an expert in musculoskeletal rehabilitation to avoid re-injury or developing new injuries.

Chiropractic Treatment

Any musculoskeletal motor vehicle injuries can result in intense pain that worsens with activity, inflammation, swelling, redness, and/or heat in the affected area. This is why correctly diagnosing the injury is essential if the condition is to be properly and thoroughly treated. A physical examination will vary based on the individual's state and can include:

• Strength assessment
• Range of motion
• Reflexes
• Other variables to determine the underlying issues.
• Diagnostic imaging such as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans can help identify and clarify injuries' extent, nature, and location and rule out problems.

A qualified healthcare professional will combine the data with medical history to develop an accurate diagnosis. Our ability to effectively treat accident individuals is based on applying clinical expertise in musculoskeletal diagnosis and care. Our medical team takes a practical approach to helping individuals quickly heal from musculoskeletal injuries using the latest treatments possible. When you meet with one of our professionals, you will feel relaxed and confident that you have come to the right place.

From Injury To Recovery

General Disclaimer *

The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional or licensed physician and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make healthcare decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified healthcare professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from various disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and directly or indirectly support our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has reasonably attempted to provide supportive citations and identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request.

We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, don't hesitate to get in touch with Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, ATN*

email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

Licensed in: Texas & New Mexico*

References

Dischinger, P C et al. “Consequences and costs of lower extremity injuries.” Annual proceedings. Association for the Advancement of Automotive Medicine vol. 48 (2004): 339-53.

Fildes, B et al. “Lower limb injuries to passenger car occupants.” Accident; analysis and prevention vol. 29,6 (1997): 785-91. doi:10.1016/s0001-4575(97)00047-x

Gane, Elise M et al. “The impact of musculoskeletal injuries sustained in road traffic crashes on work-related outcomes: a protocol for a systematic review.” Systematic reviews vol. 7,1 202. 20 Nov. 2018, doi:10.1186/s13643-018-0869-4

Hardin, E C et al. “Foot and ankle forces during an automobile collision: the influence of muscles.” Journal of biomechanics vol. 37,5 (2004): 637-44. doi:10.1016/j.jbiomech.2003.09.030

Li, Wen-Wei, and Cheng-Chang Lu. “Knee deformity following a motor vehicle accident.” Emergency medicine journal: EMJ vol. 38,6 (2021): 449-473. doi:10.1136/emermed-2020-210054

M, Asgari, and Keyvanian Sh S. “Crash Injury Analysis of Knee Joint Considering Pedestrian Safety.” Journal of biomedical physics & Engineering vol. 9,5 569-578. 1 Oct. 2019, doi:10.31661/jbpe.v0i0.424

Torry, Michael R et al. “Relationship of knee shear force and extensor moment on knee translations in females performing drop landings: a biplane fluoroscopy study.” Clinical biomechanics (Bristol, Avon) vol. 26,10 (2011): 1019-24. doi:10.1016/j.clinbiomech.2011.06.010

When individuals experience a neuromusculoskeletal injury strain, can following basic pulled muscle treatment protocols help in healing and a full recovery?

Pulled Muscle Treatment

A pulled muscle or muscle strain occurs when a muscle is stretched beyond its ability resulting in discomfort symptoms and mobility issues. Microscopic tears can occur within the muscle fibers potentially worsening the injury. This type of injury usually causes mild to severe pain, bruising, and immobility, and nerve injuries can develop as well. Common muscle strains include:

• Pulled hamstrings
• Groin strains
• Pulled abdominal muscles
• Calf strains

Pulled muscle treatment requires patience to promote proper healing and restoration of optimal function.

• Individuals need to focus on the different stages of healing.
• Gradually increase activity levels as the body allows to prevent stiffness and atrophy which can cause complications.

Symptoms

The usual symptoms of this type of injury include:

• Pain
• Limited mobility
• Muscle spasms 
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Often individuals will feel a sudden grabbing or tearing sensation and are then unable to continue the activity.

Grading

Muscle strain injuries are graded by severity: (Hospital for Special Surgery. 2019)

Grade I

• Mild discomfort.
• Often there is no disability.
• Usually does not limit activity.

Grade II

• Moderate discomfort
• Can limit the ability to perform certain activities.
• May have moderate swelling and bruising.

Grade III

• Severe injury that can cause significant pain.
• Muscle spasms.
• Swelling.
• Significant bruising.

Basic Treatment Protocols

Most pulled muscle strain injuries heal with simple treatment. Following the right steps can ensure an expedited recovery. In the early stages after the injury, there is a balance between doing too much or not enough. The amount of activity an individual will be able to do, and the time required for recovery depends on the severity of the injury. Here are some guidelines in the right direction.

Rest

• Rest is recommended for the early recovery stage.
• Depending on the severity of the injury this could last from one to five days.
• Immobilization is usually not necessary, and not moving at all can lead to muscle and joint stiffness.
• This can be harmful and interfere with mobility. (Joel M. Kary. 2010)
• If immobilization is necessary, like using a splint or cast, careful supervision should be monitored by a healthcare provider.

Cold Therapy

• Cold therapy should begin as soon as possible after sustaining a pulled muscle.
• The therapy/ice helps reduce swelling, bleeding, and pain. (Gerard A Malanga, Ning Yan, Jill Stark. 2015)
• Cold therapy applications can be done frequently, but should not exceed 15 minutes at a time.

Stretching

• Stretching is important to relax the muscles and for pre-mobilization.
• Muscles that maintain flexibility help prevent further injury.

Strengthening

• The injury and the rest period can decrease the strength of the muscle.
• It is important to rebuild strength before returning to physical activities.
• Strengthened muscles help prevent re-injury.

Increased Activity to Prevent Muscle Fatigue

• Fatigued muscles are more likely to sustain injuries. (S. D. Mair, A. V. Seaber, R. R. Glisson, W. E. Garrett Jr. 1996)
• To avoid injuries make sure the muscles are not over-exerted.
• Gradually increase activity levels when starting an exercise program to build endurance.

Properly Warming Up

• Warming up before taking on physical activities will help loosen the muscles and prevent injuries.
• Beginning work or exercise with stiff muscles can lead to an increased chance of strain.
• Studies have shown that temperature can influence the stiffness of a muscle. (K. W. Ranatunga. 2018)
• Maintaining body and muscle warmth helps prevent injury and re-injury.

Injuries and Chiropractic: The Road To Recovery

General Disclaimer *

The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional or licensed physician and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make healthcare decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified healthcare professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from various disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and directly or indirectly support our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has reasonably attempted to provide supportive citations and identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request.

We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please contact Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, ATN*

email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

Licensed in: Texas & New Mexico*

References

Hospital for Special Surgery, Muscle Strain: What You Need to Know About Pulled Muscles.

Kary J. M. (2010). Diagnosis and management of quadriceps strains and contusions. Current reviews in musculoskeletal medicine, 3(1-4), 26–31. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12178-010-9064-5

Malanga, G. A., Yan, N., & Stark, J. (2015). Mechanisms and efficacy of heat and cold therapies for musculoskeletal injury. Postgraduate medicine, 127(1), 57–65. https://doi.org/10.1080/00325481.2015.992719

Mair, S. D., Seaber, A. V., Glisson, R. R., & Garrett, W. E., Jr (1996). The role of fatigue in susceptibility to acute muscle strain injury. The American journal of sports medicine, 24(2), 137–143. https://doi.org/10.1177/036354659602400203

Ranatunga K. W. (2018). Temperature Effects on Force and Actin⁻Myosin Interaction in Muscle: A Look Back on Some Experimental Findings. International journal of molecular sciences, 19(5), 1538. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms19051538

Overexertion and repetitive stress injuries make up a fourth of all work injuries. Repetitive pulling, lifting, punching in numbers, typing, pushing, holding, carrying, and scanning are the most common causes of job-related injuries. These types of injuries are the most common that cause missed days at work.  Overexertion can lead to lasting physical chronic conditions, ranging from chronic back pain to chronic joint pain caused by the advanced wearing and tearing of the various musculoskeletal tissues. Chiropractic medicine takes a comprehensive and whole-body approach to treating neuromusculoskeletal injuries. Chiropractic relieves tight or damaged muscles, increases nerve energy flow, and properly aligns the joints through adjustments, spinal traction, decompression, and various forms of manual manipulation.

Overexertion and Repetitive Stress Injuries

Overexertion and repetitive stress injuries typically occur over time/years of engaging in the same strenuous activity regularly. However, an overexertion injury can occur with one sudden or extreme movement. A worker can injure muscles, tendons, joints, and ligaments. Overexertion can lead to musculoskeletal disorders with symptoms including:

• Inflammation
• Swelling
• Numbness
• Stiffness
• Chronic pain
• Limited or total loss of mobility in the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints.

Types

A few of the most common examples of overexertion injuries include:

Soft-Tissue

• Injuries to muscles, ligaments, tendons, and joints.

Back

• Pulled, strained back muscles.
• Herniated discs.
• Compressed nerve roots.
• Fractured vertebrae.

Dehydration and Heat Stroke 

• Most common among workers doing outdoor manual labor.

Repetitive and Overuse

• Injuries range from carpal tunnel syndrome to stress fractures.
• Often the result of weeks, months, or years of repeated movements
• In many cases, two or more injuries can happen simultaneously.
• For example, a worker is more likely to sustain an injury if they are dehydrated or they are performing dual tasks.

Causes

Certain movements and activities are more likely to cause overexertion injuries. Some of the most common include:

• Daily lifting of objects, light and heavy.
• Performing awkward movements that cause the body to be in unhealthy positions.
• Standing and/or sitting or for long periods.
• Using excessive force to perform tasks.
• Operating heavy machinery.
• Working in hot and/or humid conditions.

High-Rate Injury Industries

Industries in which overexertion injuries are most common include:

• Education.
• Health services.
• Manufacturing.
• Construction.
• Warehouse work.
• Transportation.
• Wholesale trade.
• Retail stores.

Chiropractic Treatment

These injuries can lead to missed work, debilitating pain, and medical bills. Depending on the severity of the injury, chiropractic care will use massage techniques, spinal manipulation, traction, and decompression therapies, to increase flexibility and mobility to reduce the chances of a recurring injury. The benefits of chiropractic include:

• Prevents the risk of worsening or future injuries.
• Expedites recovery to help individuals rehabilitate and get back to work sooner.
• Improves physical and mental well-being.
• Provide recommendations on how to properly stretch and strengthen muscles.
• Nutritional anti-inflammatory recommendations.

By learning how to avoid overexertion injuries, workers can be more productive, enjoy work, and improve their quality of life.

From Injury To Recovery

General Disclaimer *

The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional or licensed physician and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make healthcare decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified healthcare professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from various disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and directly or indirectly support our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has reasonably attempted to provide supportive citations and identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request.

We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please contact Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, ATN*

email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

Licensed in: Texas & New Mexico*

References

Anderson, Vern Putz, et al. “Occupational fatalities, injuries, illnesses, and related economic loss in the wholesale and retail trade sector.” American Journal of industrial medicine vol. 53,7 (2010): 673-85. doi:10.1002/ajim.20813

Choi, Hyun-Woo, et al. “Characteristics of occupational musculoskeletal disorders of five sectors in the service industry between 2004 and 2013.” Annals of Occupational and environmental medicine vol. 29 41. 19 Sep. 2017, doi:10.1186/s40557-017-0198-4

Friedenberg, Rivi, et al. “Work-related musculoskeletal disorders and injuries among emergency medical technicians and paramedics: A comprehensive narrative review.” Archives of Environmental & occupational health vol. 77,1 (2022): 9-17. doi:10.1080/19338244.2020.1832038

Galinsky, T et al. “Overexertion injuries in home health care workers and the need for ergonomics.” Home health care services quarterly vol. 20,3 (2001): 57-73. doi:10.1300/J027v20n03_04

González Fuentes, Aroa, et al. “Work-related overexertion injuries in cleaning occupations: An exploration of the factors to predict the days of absence by means of machine learning methodologies.” Applied ergonomics, vol. 105 103847. 30 Jul. 2022, doi:10.1016/j.apergo.2022.103847

Schoenfisch, Ashley L et al. “Declining rates of work-related overexertion back injuries among union drywall installers in Washington State, 1989-2008: Improved work safety or shifting of care?.” American Journal of industrial medicine vol. 57,2 (2014): 184-94. doi:10.1002/ajim.22240

Williams, J M et al. “Work-related injuries in a rural emergency department population.” Academic emergency medicine: official journal of the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine vol. 4,4 (1997): 277-81. doi:10.1111/j.1553-2712.1997.tb03548.x

Spinal disc deterioration from aging is normal, but health issues or injuries can advance the degenerative process. Disc protrusions are related to herniated discs but are the mildest form of the condition and are a common form of spinal disc deterioration that can cause neck and back issues. However, individuals may have a small protruding disc that can go undetected unless it irritates or compresses the surrounding nerves. Chiropractic care, decompression, and massage therapy can realign the disc back into position, relieving discomfort and pain. 

Disc Protrusion

A disc is like a sturdy soft rubber shock absorber/cushion with added gel inside. The gel acts as a shock absorber. When the gel begins to protrude out slightly, this is a disc protrusion. Once a protruding disc begins to develop, it usually remains in that position. The disc can sometimes reabsorb on its own and realign back into position, but there is no way of knowing that will happen or how long it will take. With age and/or injuries, the body's parts change. The spine's discs dehydrate and lose elasticity weakening the discs and making them more vulnerable to herniation stages:

First Stage

• Following natural weakening can be classified as a disc protrusion when the disc's core begins pushing into the spinal column.
• Disc protrusions can be tiny or push out an entire side of the disc.

Second Stage

• Disc deterioration often consists of a bulging disc when the core pushes out farther around the circumference beyond the disc's outer layer, called the annulus fibrosus, creating the telltale bulge.
• A bulging disc involves more than 180 degrees of the disc's circumference.

Third Stage

• The third stage is a herniated disc, meaning the disc's outer wall has torn, allowing the inner gel to leak out, usually irritating the surrounding nerves.

Fourth Stage

• The fourth stage is sequestration, a herniated disc in which a piece of the nucleus breaks free of the vertebral disc fragments and falls into the spinal canal.

Types

A disc protrusion is one type of disc herniation that pushes out but remains connected. Different types compress and irritate the discs differently and produce various symptoms, including:

Paracentral

• This is the most common, where the disc protrusion jams the space between the central canal and the foramen.

Central

• This is where the disc protrusion impinges into the spinal canal, with or without spinal cord compression.

Foraminal

• The disc intrudes into the foramen, the space through which nerve roots branch off the spinal cord and exit the vertebrae.

Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Chiropractic Care

Individuals with a disc protrusion can have symptoms similar to sciatica, which includes back, buttock, and leg discomfort, numbness, and pain sensations.

• Treatment for disc protrusion will be based on the individual's symptoms.
• A chiropractor will take a detailed medical history and perform a physical examination.
• A spinal MRI test could be ordered depending on the injury or condition.
• A customized treatment plan will be developed to fit the individual's medical needs.

Most disc protrusions improve after a few weeks of rest, avoiding strenuous activities, activity modification, an anti-inflammatory diet, and gentle exercises that the chiropractic team will provide.

True Spinal Decompression

General Disclaimer *

The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional or licensed physician and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make your own healthcare decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified healthcare professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and directly or indirectly support our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has reasonably attempted to provide supportive citations and identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request.

We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of 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.

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, ATN*

email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

Licensed in: Texas & New Mexico*

References

Fardon, David F et al. "Lumbar disc nomenclature: version 2.0: Recommendations of the combined task forces of the North American Spine Society, the American Society of Spine Radiology and the American Society of Neuroradiology." The spine journal: official journal of the North American Spine Society vol. 14,11 (2014): 2525-45. doi:10.1016/j.spinee.2014.04.022

Mysliwiec, Lawrence Walter, et al. "MSU classification for herniated lumbar discs on MRI: toward developing objective criteria for surgical selection." 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. 19,7 (2010): 1087-93. doi:10.1007/s00586-009-1274-4

https://www.ninds.nih.gov/low-back-pain-fact-sheet#3102_7

Urban, Jill P G, and Sally Roberts. "Degeneration of the intervertebral disc." Arthritis research & therapy vol. 5,3 (2003): 120-30. doi:10.1186/ar629