Neuropathy "The Painful Enigma"

Certain neurological disorders can cause acute episodes of peripheral neuropathy, and for individuals diagnosed with chronic peripheral neuropathy, can physical therapy help improve the ability to move around safely along with medications, procedures, and lifestyle adjustments to help control and manage symptoms?

Peripheral Neuropathy Treatments

Peripheral neuropathy treatment includes symptomatic therapies and medical management to help prevent worsening nerve damage.

• For acute types of peripheral neuropathy, medical interventions and therapies can treat the underlying process, improving the condition.
• For chronic types of peripheral neuropathy, medical interventions and lifestyle factors can help to prevent the condition's progression.
• Chronic peripheral neuropathy treatment focuses on controlling the pain symptoms and protecting areas of diminished sensation from damage or infection.

Self-Care and Lifestyle Adjustments

For individuals who have been diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy or are at risk of developing the condition, lifestyle factors play a significant role in managing symptoms and preventing nerve damage from worsening and can even prevent the condition from developing. (Jonathan Enders et al., 2023)

Pain Management

Individuals can try these self-care therapies and see if and which help reduce their discomfort and then develop a routine that they can work off of. Self-care for pain symptoms include:

• Placing a warm heating pad on painful areas.
• Placing a cooling pad (not ice) on painful areas.
• Covering the area or leaving it uncovered, depending on comfort levels.
• Wear loose-fitting clothes, socks, shoes, and/or gloves not made with material that can cause irritation.
• Avoid using lotions or soaps that can cause irritation.
• Use soothing creams or lotions.
• Keeping the painful areas clean.

Injuries Prevention

Diminished sensation is one of the most common effects that can lead to problems like stumbling, difficulty getting around, and injuries. Preventing and regularly checking for injuries can help avoid complications like infected wounds. (Nadja Klafke et al., 2023) Lifestyle adjustments to manage and prevent injuries include:

• Wear well-padded shoes and socks.
• Inspect feet, toes, fingers, and hands regularly to look for cuts or bruises that may not have been felt.
• Clean and cover cuts to avoid infections.
• Use extra caution with sharp utensils like cooking and work or gardening tools.

Disease Management

Lifestyle factors can help prevent disease progression and are closely correlated with the risks and underlying causes. To help prevent peripheral neuropathy or its progression can be done by: (Jonathan Enders et al., 2023)

• Maintain healthy glucose levels if you have diabetes.
• Avoid alcohol for any peripheral neuropathy.
• Maintain a well-balanced diet, which can include vitamin supplements, especially for vegetarians or vegans.

Over-the-Counter Therapies

A few over-the-counter therapies can help with painful symptoms and can be taken as needed. Over-the-counter pain therapies include: (Michael Überall et al., 2022)

• Topical lidocaine spray, patch, or creams.
• Capsaicin creams or patches.
• Topical Icy Hot
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications -  Advil/ibuprofen or Aleve/naproxen
• Tylenol/acetaminophen

These treatments can help relieve painful symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, but they do not help improve diminished sensation, weakness, or coordination problems. (Jonathan Enders et al., 2023)

Prescription Therapies

Prescription therapies for treating peripheral neuropathy include pain medications and anti-inflammatories. Chronic types of peripheral neuropathy include:

• Alcoholic neuropathy
• Diabetic neuropathy
• Chemotherapy-induced neuropathy

The prescription treatments for chronic types differ from the treatments for acute types of peripheral neuropathy.

Pain Management

Prescription treatments can help manage the pain and discomfort. Medications include (Michael Überall et al., 2022)

• Lyrica - pregabalin
• Neurontin - gabapentin
• Elavil - amitriptyline
• Effexor - venlafaxine
• Cymbalta - duloxetine
• In severe cases, intravenous/IV lidocaine may be necessary. (Sanja Horvat et al., 2022)

Sometimes, a prescription strength supplement or vitamin B12 given through injection can help prevent progression when peripheral neuropathy is associated with a severe vitamin deficiency. Prescription treatment can help treat the underlying process in some types of acute peripheral neuropathy. Treatment for acute peripheral neuropathy, such as Miller-Fisher syndrome or Guillain-Barré syndrome, can include:

• Corticosteroids
• Immunoglobulins - immune system proteins
• Plasmapheresis is a procedure that removes the liquid portion of blood, returning the blood cells, which modifies the overactivity of the immune system. (Sanja Horvat et al., 2022)
• Researchers believe there is an association between these conditions and inflammatory nerve damage, and modifying the immune system is beneficial for treating symptoms and the underlying disease.

Surgery

In some cases, surgical procedures can benefit individuals who have certain types of peripheral neuropathy. When another condition is exacerbating the symptoms or process of peripheral neuropathy, surgery may help relieve symptoms and prevent disease progression. This has proved effective when nerve entrapment or vascular insufficiency are factors. (Wenqiang Yang et al., 2016)

Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Some complementary and alternative approaches can help individuals cope with the pain and discomfort. These treatments can serve as an ongoing option for those who have chronic peripheral neuropathy. Options can include: (Nadja Klafke et al., 2023)

• Acupuncture involves the placement of needles in specific areas of the body to help reduce pain symptoms.
• Acupressure involves applying pressure on specific areas of the body to help reduce pain symptoms.
• Massage therapy can help relax muscle tension.
• Meditation and relaxation therapies can help manage symptoms.
• Physical therapy can also serve as an important component of living with chronic peripheral neuropathy and recovering from acute peripheral neuropathy.
• Physical therapy can help strengthen weak muscles, improve coordination, and learn how to adapt to sensory and motor changes to get around safely.

Individuals considering complementary or alternative treatment are encouraged to speak with their primary healthcare provider to determine whether it is safe for their condition. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic will work with the individual's healthcare provider and/or specialists to develop an optimal health and wellness treatment solution to relieve pain and improve quality of life.

Peripheral Neuropathy: A Successful Recovery Story

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 studies 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

Enders, J., Elliott, D., & Wright, D. E. (2023). Emerging Nonpharmacologic Interventions to Treat Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy. Antioxidants & redox signaling, 38(13-15), 989–1000. https://doi.org/10.1089/ars.2022.0158

Klafke, N., Bossert, J., Kröger, B., Neuberger, P., Heyder, U., Layer, M., Winkler, M., Idler, C., Kaschdailewitsch, E., Heine, R., John, H., Zielke, T., Schmeling, B., Joy, S., Mertens, I., Babadag-Savas, B., Kohler, S., Mahler, C., Witt, C. M., Steinmann, D., … Stolz, R. (2023). Prevention and Treatment of Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN) with Non-Pharmacological Interventions: Clinical Recommendations from a Systematic Scoping Review and an Expert Consensus Process. Medical sciences (Basel, Switzerland), 11(1), 15. https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci11010015

Überall, M., Bösl, I., Hollanders, E., Sabatschus, I., & Eerdekens, M. (2022). Painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy: real-world comparison between topical treatment with lidocaine 700 mg medicated plaster and oral treatments. BMJ open diabetes research & care, 10(6), e003062. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjdrc-2022-003062

Horvat, S., Staffhorst, B., & Cobben, J. M. G. (2022). Intravenous Lidocaine for Treatment of Chronic Pain: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Journal of pain research, 15, 3459–3467. https://doi.org/10.2147/JPR.S379208

Yang, W., Guo, Z., Yu, Y., Xu, J., & Zhang, L. (2016). Pain Relief and Health-Related Quality-of-Life Improvement After Microsurgical Decompression of Entrapped Peripheral Nerves in Patients With Painful Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy. The Journal of foot and ankle surgery: official publication of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, 55(6), 1185–1189. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.jfas.2016.07.004

Can physical therapy treatment protocols aimed at improving range of motion and flexibility around the hip and relieving inflammation around the sciatic nerve help individuals experiencing deep buttock pain or piriformis syndrome?

Deep Buttock Pain

• Piriformis syndrome, a.k .a. deep buttock pain, is described as sciatic nerve irritation from the piriformis muscle.
• The piriformis is a small muscle behind the hip joint in the buttocks.
• It is about one centimeter in diameter and functions in the hip joint's external rotation or turning outward.
• The piriformis muscle and tendon are close to the sciatic nerve, which supplies the lower extremities with motor and sensory functions.
• Depending on an individual's anatomic variation of the muscle and tendon:
• The two cross over, under, or through each other behind the hip joint in the deep buttock.
• This relationship is thought to irritate the nerve, leading to sciatica symptoms.

Piriformis Syndrome

• When diagnosed with piriformis syndrome, it is thought that the muscle and tendon bind to and/or spasm around the nerve, causing irritation and pain symptoms.
• The theory supported is that when the piriformis muscle and its tendon tighten, the sciatic nerve becomes compressed or pinched. This decreases blood circulation and irritates the nerve from the pressure. (Shane P. Cass 2015)

Symptoms

Common signs and symptoms include: (Shane P. Cass 2015)

• Tenderness with pressure on the piriformis muscle.
• Discomfort in the back of the thigh.
• Deep buttock pain behind the hip.
• Electric sensations, shocks, and pains travel down the back of the lower extremity.
• Numbness in the lower extremity.
• Some individuals develop symptoms abruptly, while others go through a gradual increase.

Diagnosis

• Doctors will order X-rays, MRIs, and nerve conduction studies, which is normal.
• Because piriformis syndrome can be challenging to diagnose, some individuals with minor hip pain may receive a piriformis syndrome diagnosis even if they don't have the condition. (Shane P. Cass 2015)
• It is sometimes referred to as deep buttock pain. Other causes of this type of pain include back and spinal problems like:

1. Herniated discs
2. Spinal stenosis
3. Radiculopathy - sciatica
4. Hip bursitis
5. A piriformis syndrome diagnosis is usually given when these other causes are eliminated.

• When the diagnosis is uncertain, an injection is administered in the area of the piriformis muscle. (Danilo Jankovic et al., 2013)
• Different medications can be used, but the injection itself is used to help determine the specific location of the discomfort.
• When an injection is given into the piriformis muscle or tendon, it is often administered by ultrasound guidance to ensure the needle delivers the medication to the correct location. (Elizabeth A. Bardowski, J. W. Thomas Byrd 2019)

Treatment

Common treatments include the following. (Danilo Jankovic et al., 2013)

Rest

• Avoiding activities that cause symptoms for at least a few weeks.

Physical Therapy

• Emphasize stretching and strengthening the hip rotator muscles.

Non-Surgical Decompression

• Gently pulls the spine to release any compression, allowing optimal rehydration and circulation and taking the pressure off the sciatic nerve.

Therapeutic Massage Techniques

• To relax and release muscle tension and increase circulation.

Acupuncture

• To help relax the piriformis muscle, sciatic nerve, and surrounding area.
• Relieve pain.

Chiropractic Adjustments

• Realignment rebalances the spine and musculoskeletal system to alleviate pain. 

Anti-Inflammatory Medication

• To decrease inflammation around the tendon.

Cortisone Injections

• Injections are used to decrease inflammation and swelling.

Botulinum Toxin Injection

• Injections of botulinum toxin paralyze the muscle to relieve pain.

Surgery

• Surgery can be performed in rare cases to loosen the piriformis tendon, known as a piriformis release. (Shane P. Cass 2015)
• Surgery is a last resort when conservative treatments have been tried for at least 6 months with little to no relief.
• Recovery can take several months.

Sciatica Causes and Treatment

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 studies 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

Cass S. P. (2015). Piriformis syndrome: a cause of nondiscogenic sciatica. Current sports medicine reports, 14(1), 41–44. https://doi.org/10.1249/JSR.0000000000000110

Jankovic, D., Peng, P., & van Zundert, A. (2013). Brief review: piriformis syndrome: etiology, diagnosis, and management. Canadian journal of anaesthesia = Journal canadien d'anesthesie, 60(10), 1003–1012. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12630-013-0009-5

Bardowski, E. A., & Byrd, J. W. T. (2019). Piriformis Injection: An Ultrasound-Guided Technique. Arthroscopy techniques, 8(12), e1457–e1461. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eats.2019.07.033

Individuals experiencing headaches on top of the head could be caused by different factors. Can recognizing the what triggers pain or pressure help prevent this type of headache, and healthcare providers develop effective treatment plans?

Headache On Top of The Head

Various factors could cause a headache on top of the head; common causes include:

• Stress
• Sleep problems
• Eye strain
• Caffeine withdrawal
• Dental problems
• Hormonal changes
• Alcohol consumption

Causes

Many causes have to do with underlying issues happening in other parts of the body.

Stress

• Stress is a common cause of headaches, including one on top of the head.
• Researchers don't know exactly how stress causes headaches, but they think it causes tightening of the muscles in the back of the head or neck, which
• pulls the tissues down, resulting in pain or pressure in the scalp and/or forehead area.
• These are also called tension headaches.
• Headaches caused by stress generally feel like dull pressure rather than throbbing pain.

Sleep Problems

• Not getting enough sleep can induce a headache on top of the head.
• When the mind and body do not get proper sleep, it can interfere with body functions like temperature, hunger, and sleep-wake cycles, which can lead to headaches.
• It is common to feel more stressed when sleep-deprived, which can cause or compound a headache and other symptoms.

Eye Strain

• You may develop a headache on the top of your head after you've been reading, watching, or otherwise focusing on something for a while.
• Over time, your eye muscles tire and have to work harder, causing them to contract.
• These spasms can lead to headaches. Squinting can make the muscle contractions even worse.

Caffeine Withdrawl

• Individuals may feel pain on the top of their heads if they skip their regular coffee.
• Regular caffeine consumption can lead to dependency and withdrawal symptoms, which include headaches when intake is reduced or stopped.
• This type of headache can be moderate to severe and can feel worse with activity.
• Most individuals start to feel better from caffeine withdrawal after a week. (World Health Organization. 2016)

Dental Problems

• Teeth issues like cracks, cavities, or impaction can irritate the trigeminal nerve, setting off head pain.
• Teeth grinding can also lead to headaches.

Hormonal Changes

• Individuals who have a low level of thyroid hormone may experience headaches.
• This could be from having too little thyroid or a symptom of the condition.
• Like stress-induced headaches, this type is generally dull and not throbbing.
• Some women may feel pain on the top of their heads before menstruation triggered by estrogen levels dropping.

Alcohol

• Some individuals develop a headache on the top of their head or elsewhere within a few hours after drinking alcohol.
• This is known as a cocktail headache.
• Alcohol-induced headaches usually resolve within 72 hours.
• The mechanism behind this headache is not fully researched, but it's been thought that the widening of blood vessels in the brain/vasodilation when consuming alcohol may trigger head pain.
• This type of headache is different than a hangover headache that comes from overconsumption and is based on dehydration and the toxic effects of alcohol. (J G Wiese, M. G. Shlipak, W. S. Browner. 2000)

Rare Causes

Top-of-the-head pain can also result from more serious and rare causes:

Brain Tumor

• Headaches are one of the most common symptoms of brain tumors.
• A headache on the top of the head depends on the location and size of the tumor. (MedlinePlus. 2021)

Brain Aneurysm

• This is a weak or thin area in a brain artery that bulges and fills with blood, which can cause a life-threatening rupture.
• Headaches are the most common symptom. (Brigham and Women's Hospital. 2023)

Brain Bleed

• Also known as a brain hemorrhage, this condition can cause intensely painful and quick headaches.
• Brain bleeds can be caused by head trauma, high blood pressure, an aneurysm, a bleeding disorder, or liver disease. (New York-Presbyterian. 2023)

Treatment

Treatment for reducing a headache on top of the head includes:

• Putting an ice bag over the area to reduce inflammation.
• Getting an eye examination.
• Making healthy lifestyle adjustments like drinking more water throughout the day.
• Less caffeine intake.
• Changing sleep patterns for a healthier, rested mind and body. 
• Taking a therapeutic bath to relax the body.
• Gentle exercises like walking, pilates, or yoga.
• Practicing deep breathing.
• Mindfulness exercises like meditation.
• Taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication or NSAIDs like aspirin, Advil/ibuprofen), or Aleve/naproxen.

Depending on the cause and symptoms, a doctor may suggest specialist treatment options like:

• Physical therapy
• Cognitive behavioral therapy
• Chiropractic therapy
• Acupuncture
• Prescription medication

A medical professional will be able to help identify the type of headache being experienced, offer treatment options, and advise on how to manage triggers.

Neck Injuries, El Paso, Texas

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 studies 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

World Health Organization. (2016) Headache disorders.

Wiese, J. G., Shlipak, M. G., & Browner, W. S. (2000). The alcohol hangover. Annals of internal medicine, 132(11), 897–902. https://doi.org/10.7326/0003-4819-132-11-200006060-00008

MedlinePlus. (2021) Brain tumor.

Brigham and Women's Hospital. (2023) Brain aneurysm.

New York-Presbyterian. (2023) Brain hemorrhage.

Cisgender has nothing to do with an individual's sexual orientation. Therefore how do sex and gender differ and where does cisgender fall within the spectrum of gender identities?

Cisgender

Cisgender is a segment of the larger spectrum of gender identities. Also referred to as "cis," it describes an individual whose gender identity corresponds to the sex they were assigned at birth. Therefore if an individual assigned sex at birth is female and identifies as a girl or a woman they are a cisgender woman.

• The term describes how a person sees themselves and helps others communicate more accurately and respectfully.
• Although many individuals may identify as cisgender, a cisgender person is not typical nor has qualities or characteristics that inherently differentiate them from a person of other gender identities.
• Cisgender women commonly use the pronouns she and her.
• A common mistake is using the term cis-gendered.
• The proper usage of the term is cisgender.

Sex and Gender Differences 

• The terms sex and gender are often used interchangeably, however, they are not the same.
• Sex is a biological and physiological designation based on an individual's sex chromosomes and sexual organs.
• It refers to an individual's sex chromosomes and the characteristics assigned by those chromosomes. (Janine Austin Clayton, Cara Tannenbaum. 2016)
• This includes an individual's genitals and sex organs.
• It also encompasses secondary characteristics - like body size, bone structure, breast size, and facial hair - that are regarded as female or male.

Differences

Gender is a social construct that refers to roles and behaviors that society assigns as being masculine or feminine. The construct infers behaviors that are accepted or appropriate based on how an individual behaves, speaks, dresses, sits, etc.

• Gender titles include sir, ma'am, mister, or miss.
• Pronouns include him, she, he, and her.
• Roles include actress, actor, prince, and princess.
• Many of these suggest a power hierarchy of who has it and who does not.
• Cisgender women often fall victim to these dynamics.

Sex

• Refers to an individual's chromosomes and the way that their genes are expressed.
• Typically described in terms of male and female characteristics or the sex assigned at birth.

Gender

• A social construct.
• Refers to the social roles, behaviors, and expectations considered and/or deemed appropriate for men and women.
• Historically defined as masculine and feminine, however, definitions can change as society changes.

Gender Identities Glossary

Today, gender is viewed as a spectrum where an individual might identify as one gender, more than one gender, or no gender. The definitions are often subtle and can often overlap, co-exist, and/or change. Gender identities include:

Cisgender

• An individual whose gender identity matches their assigned sex at birth.

Transgender

• An individual whose gender identity does not align with their assigned sex at birth.

Non-binary

• An individual who feels their gender identity cannot be defined.

Demigender

• An individual who experiences a partial, but not full/complete connection to a particular gender.

Agender

• An individual who feels neither male nor female.

Genderqueer

• Similar to non-binary but infers refusal of societal expectations.

Gender-neutral

• Non-binary similarities but focuses on abandoning gender labels.

Gender fluid

• An individual who experiences multiple genders or shifts between genders.

Polygender

• An individual who experiences or expresses more than one gender.

Pangender

• An individual who identifies with all genders.

Third gender

• Third gender is a concept in which individuals are categorized, either by themselves or by society, as neither male nor female, not transitioning.
• They are a different gender altogether.

Twin gender

• A Native American term describing someone who is male and female or of two spirits simultaneously.

Cis Woman Identity

The terms cis woman or cis female are used to describe individuals who were assigned female at birth and identify as a woman or female. For cisgender woman, this means their gender identity aligns with their primary sex organs and secondary sex traits that include:

• Higher pitch voice.
• Wider pelvis.
• Broadening of hips.
• Breast development 

It can also involve cisnormativity - a concept that everyone identifies as the gender they were assigned at birth. This could inform how a cis woman is expected to dress and act. An even more extreme concept is gender essentialism - this is the belief that gender differences are rooted purely in biology and cannot be changed. However, even cisnormativity beauty standards can influence the perceptions of transgender women that end up reinforcing gender stereotypes. (Monteiro D, Poulakis M. 2019)

Cisgender Privilege

Cisgender privilege is the concept that individuals who are cisgender receive added benefits compared to individuals who don't conform to the gender binary norm. This includes cisgender women and men. Privilege happens when a cisgender individual assumes they are the norm and consciously or unconsciously takes action against those who are outside the definition of masculine and feminine. Examples of cisgender privilege include:

• Not being denied work and social opportunities because of not fitting into the boy's or girl's club.
• Not having to have sexual orientation questioned.
• Not being denied healthcare due to provider discomfort.
• Not fearing that civil rights or legal protections will be taken.
• Not worrying about being bullied.
• Not having to worry about attracting questioning looks in public.
• Not being challenged or questioned about the clothes being worn.
• Not being demeaned or mocked because of pronoun use.

Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation

• Gender identity and sexual orientation are not the same. (Carla Moleiro, Nuno Pinto. 2015)
• Gender identity and sexual orientation are not the same.
• A cisgender individual can be heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, or asexual and so can a transgender individual.
• Being cisgender has no correlation to an individual's sexual orientation.

Chiropractic Care After Accidents and 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

Clayton, J. A., & Tannenbaum, C. (2016). Reporting Sex, Gender, or Both in Clinical Research? JAMA, 316(18), 1863–1864. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2016.16405

Monteiro, Delmira and Poulakis, Mixalis (2019) "Effects of Cisnormative Beauty Standards on Transgender Women’s Perceptions and Expressions of Beauty," Midwest Social Sciences Journal: Vol. 22: Iss. 1, Article 10. DOI: https://doi.org/10.22543/2766-0796.1009 Available at: https://scholar.valpo.edu/mssj/vol22/iss1/10

Moleiro, C., & Pinto, N. (2015). Sexual orientation and gender identity: review of concepts, controversies and their relation to psychopathology classification systems. Frontiers in Psychology, 6, 1511. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2015.01511

Neuropathy therapeutic massage is a system of structured palpations or movements of the body's soft tissues. When the nerves don't get enough oxygen and nutrients from blood circulation, symptoms like tenderness, tingling, numbness, and pain can present. The best way to move the blood is by massaging the circulation in and around the numb and sore areas and throughout the body. Many types of massage therapy are available for various health-related issues. This includes:

• Pain alleviation and management
• Injury rehabilitation and prevention
• Stress alleviation
• Anxiety and depression therapy
• Immune system restoration
• Increasing relaxation
• Facilitating overall wellness

Neuropathy Therapeutic Massage

Neuropathy therapeutic massage: The objective is to stimulate blood flow throughout the body. This is because the more muscles move, the better they can maintain blood circulation to nourish the nerves and the body, which is why physical activity/exercise/movement is encouraged. Benefits include:

• De-stressing the nerves that are causing tingling, numbness, and burning.
• The discomfort eases as the muscles are lengthened and loosened, releasing the tightness and pressure.
• Endorphins (natural painkillers) are released, minimizing the pain.
• Increase in circulation
• Reduced spasms and cramping
• Increased joint flexibility
• Mobility restoration
• Symptom relief
• Decreased anxiety
• Improved sleep quality
• Increased energy levels
• Improved concentration
• Reduced fatigue

Massage Techniques

Massaging techniques include:

• Kneading
• Stroking
• Gliding
• Percussion
• Vibration
• Friction
• Compression
• Passive stretching
• Active stretching

Effleurage

• This can be firm or light soothing, stroking movements without dragging the skin, using the fingertips or the palms.

Petrissage

• Lifting or picking up muscles and rolling the skin.

Tapotement

• Striking with the side of the hand, usually with slightly flexed fingers, rhythmic finger movements, or short rapid movements with the sides of the hand.

These techniques may be applied with or without massage oils, topical ointments, salt or herbal preparations, hydromassage, thermal massage, or massage instruments/tools.

Massage Types

There are different types of massage, those that are for comfort and those for specific conditions or diseases. A few include:

Swedish Massage

• Generally regarded as the most common form of massage, this technique involves a combination of five basic strokes and concentrates on the muscles and connective tissues.
• Used to improve circulation, relaxation, pain relief, and overall maintenance and well-being.

Sports Massage

• Sports massage therapies are used in preventative and therapeutic settings.
• Athletes use the technique during warm-ups, training, and competition to treat and/or help in:
• Injury prevention
• Improved flexibility
• Full range of motion
• Improved performance
• Helps to focus and mental clarity.

Reflexology

• This technique uses a system of points on the hands, feet, and ears that correspond to or reflex other body areas.
• Reflexologists apply appropriate pressure to these points to stimulate energy flow, to relieve pain or blockages throughout the body.
• Reflexology is also used to ease stress and promote relaxation.

Aromatherapy

• Various essential oils derived from plants, herbs, flowers, and roots have therapeutic qualities.
• Aromatherapy involves essential oils to produce a certain effect; for example, lavender is used to induce calmness and relaxation.
• When combined with body massage, aromatherapy can enrich the experience immensely.
• A few drops can be added to massage cream or oil and applied to the skin.
• Professional aromatherapists also blend oils to treat specific conditions.

Connective Tissue Massage

• Connective tissue massage is similar to myofascial release in that it involves working with the fascia, or soft tissue, to relieve pain, tightness, and discomfort.
• The theory of connective tissue massage is that tight, restricted body areas negatively affect other body areas.
• Practitioners/therapists hook their fingers into the connective tissue and use pulling strokes to lengthen the tissues.
• This releases tension, improves mobility and reduces stress.

Deep-Tissue Massage

• Deep-tissue massage utilizes slow strokes, direct pressure, and/or friction across the grain of the muscles with the fingers, thumbs, and/or elbows.
• Its purpose is to reach the fascia beneath the muscles going deep into the muscles and connective tissue to release aches and pains.
• Therapists thoroughly understand the human body and have been trained to administer deep-tissue massage.
• The technique is used in treating chronic pain, inflammation, and injury.

Geriatric Massage

• Geriatric massage involves treating the elderly and addressing specific needs related to age, conditions, and illness.
• The sessions are usually shorter and involve gentle techniques to facilitate pain relief, relaxation, and overall wellness.

Lymph Drainage Therapy

• This technique involves the application of light, rhythmic strokes to alleviate various conditions related to the body's lymph system.
• The lymph system supports the immune system and is responsible for flushing toxins and draining fluid.
• When lymph circulation slows down or stops, fluid can build up and cause physical problems like inflammation, edema, and neuropathies.
• Therapists restore lymph flow by using a mapping system to assess problem areas, then apply gentle pressure using the fingers and hands to reactivate circulation.

Neuromuscular Therapy

• Neuromuscular therapy is massage applied to specific muscles, often used to increase blood circulation, release muscle tension knots/trigger points, and/or release pain/pressure on nerves.
• This therapy is also known as trigger-point therapy in that concentrated finger pressure is applied to specific points to alleviate muscular pain.

HealthCare

Neuropathy therapeutic massage is used in combination to enhance regular medical care. Let a doctor know when trying massage therapies, and follow any standard treatment plans. Some forms of massage can cause soreness the next day but should be combined with a sense of improvement and being healthier. If any part of the massage doesn't feel right or is painful, let the therapist know immediately. Most serious issues come from too much pressure during the massage or sensitivity or allergy to massage oils. Massage therapy caution includes the following:

• Vigorous massage should be avoided by individuals with bleeding disorders or low blood platelet counts and taking blood-thinning medications.
• Massage therapy should not be done in areas with blood clots, fractures, healing wounds, skin infections, weakened bones from osteoporosis or cancer, or after recent surgery.
• Cancer patients should discuss any concerns about massage therapy with their oncologist.
• Pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider before using massage therapy.

Peripheral Neuropathy 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 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

American Massage Therapy Association defines massage therapy and basic massage therapy terms. www.amtamassage.org

Complementary and alternative methods: types of bodywork. Available at www.cancer.org

Gok Metin, Zehra, et al. "Aromatherapy Massage for Neuropathic Pain and Quality of Life in Diabetic Patients." Journal of nursing scholarship: an official publication of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing vol. 49,4 (2017): 379-388. doi:10.1111/jnu.12300

MassageTherapy.com. www.massagetherapy.com

National Institutes of Health, National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine

Samuels, Noah, and Eran Ben-Arye. "Integrative Approaches to Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy." Current oncology reports vol. 22,3 23. 11 Feb. 2020, doi:10.1007/s11912-020-0891-2

Sarısoy, Pınar, and Ozlem Ovayolu. "The Effect of Foot Massage on Peripheral Neuropathy-Related Pain and Sleep Quality in Patients With Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma." Holistic nursing practice vol. 34,6 (2020): 345-355. doi:10.1097/HNP.0000000000000412

Thomas, Ewan, et al. "Peripheral Nerve Responses to Muscle Stretching: A Systematic Review." Journal of sports science & medicine vol. 20,2 258-267. 8 Mar. 2021, doi:10.52082/jssm.2021.258

Zhang, Yong-Hui, et al. "Exercise for Neuropathic Pain: A Systematic Review and Expert Consensus." Frontiers in medicine vol. 8 756940. 24 Nov. 2021, doi:10.3389/fmed.2021.756940

Tinnitus is defined as the perception of sound without an external acoustic stimulus. It is a prevalent complaint in ENT offices, but the etiology of this condition has not yet been elucidated fully. However, it is believed that the root cause of the sound is perceived without any external stimulation is due to abnormal neural activity along the hearing path from the cochlear apparatus to the auditory cortex. In addition, tinnitus accompanies a wide array of conditions like sleep disturbances, stress, and reduced work efficiency. Furthermore, its treatment is complex, and 5-15% of those patients with tinnitus report that the symptoms are still present. Therefore, alternative therapies such as supplements and acupuncture have been proposed to reduce tinnitus symptoms positively.

Acupuncture Therapy as Tinnitus Treatment:

Acupuncture as tinnitus treatment has been extensively reported in books. Indeed, acupuncture’s effectiveness in treating tinnitus relies on the electric stimulations promoted by the needles, which initiates action potentials to rebalance the body’s systems. 

A study to determine acupuncture efficacy to reduce tinnitus symptoms was performed in 105 patients. This study compared the effects of two types of acupuncture, verum acupuncture and sham acupuncture, for five weeks, twice weekly. In addition, the study used the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI) questionnaire and the visual analog scale to measure the treatment’s efficacy.

THI: 

The Tinnitus Handicap Inventory is a survey of 25 questions that are answered by the patient with a scoring system of 3 options:

Yes (4 points)

Sometimes (2 points) 

No (0 points)

After answering the 25 items, the points are added, and the result classifies the degree of tinnitus as grade 1 (0–16 points), grade 2 (18–36 points), grade 3 (38–56 points), grade 4 (58–76 points), or grade 5 (78–100 points). This survey is associated with the quality of life of the patient.

VSA

The Visual Analog Scale is a verbally administered scale to determine the degree of discomfort caused by tinnitus. It is ranged by scores starting with 0, indicating no discomfort, up to 10, which means an unbearable amount of pain.

Furthermore, this study reported that the group with the lowest THI and VAS scores was the one who received verum acupuncture. Additionally, this study reported a three-month follow-up, which determined that the tinnitus symptoms increased after stopping the acupuncture sessions.

One of the most exciting findings in tinnitus acupuncture treatment is that the VAS score decreases from 9.56 to 2.88. This same finding is reported by many authors who used the THI score in their studies. Nevertheless, this study concluded that acupuncture therapy is highly effective in reducing tinnitus symptoms, and it can potentially increase the patient’s quality of life. However, the changes promoted by this treatment are temporary and seem to diminish over time. 

Ginkgo biloba:

Over time pharmaceutical treatments have been used to diminish the severity of tinnitus. Indeed, medications like calcium channel blockers, vasodilators, muscle relaxants, anticonvulsants, antihistamines, anesthetics, and even barbiturates form part of the tinnitus treatment. However, these medications have shown little to no effects when compared with placebo. 

Once again, the lack of an etiology makes tinnitus hard to treat. However, new research has pointed to oxidative stress as one of the proposed mechanisms for the development of tinnitus. In addition, the increase of glutamate as an excitatory neurotransmitter in combination with neurotoxicity leads to the inflammation and necrosis of dendrites. Consequently, dendrite damage and inflammation of the afferent cochlear Corti organ cells is due to the production of free radicals.

The literature strongly supports the use of Gingko Biloba to treat tinnitus due to its varied bioactive constituents such as phytochemicals including alkanes, lipids, sterols, benzoids, carotenoids, phenylpropanoids, carbohydrates, flavonoids, and terpenoids. Furthermore, the Gingko Biloba acts like a monoamine-oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), improving tinnitus symptoms caused by ischemia. This mechanism of action is mainly due to myricetin, quercetin, ginkgolide, and bilobalide terpenoids. In conclusion, Gingko Biloba can reduce tinnitus symptoms by regulating vascular tone, and it acts as a scavenging agent of primary and secondary free radicals.

Despite all the medical research in tinnitus, no recommended treatment can reduce all the symptoms. Indeed, this is associated with tinnitus being a multifactorial disease and should be carefully evaluated to determine its treatment. The conclusion of many experts on this topic determines that the treatment should be a combination of sustainable and secure treatments. Therefore, Ginkgo Biloba and acupuncture studies can be used together to improve tinnitus outcomes in a conservative measure. – Ana Paola Rodríguez Arciniega, MS

References:

Mahmoudian Sani, M. R., Hashemzadeh-Chaleshtori, M., Asadi-Samani, M., & Yang, Q. (2017). Ginkgo biloba in the treatment of tinnitus: An updated literature review. International Tinnitus Journal, 21(1), 58-62.

Kuzucu, I., & Karaca, O. (2020). Acupuncture Treatment in Patients with Chronic Subjective Tinnitus: A Prospective, Randomized Study. Medical acupuncture, 32(1), 24–28. https://doi.org/10.1089/acu.2019.1367

Additional Online Links & Resources (Available 24/7)

Online Appointments or Consultations: https://bit.ly/Book-Online-Appointment

Online Physical Injury / Accident Intake Form: https://bit.ly/Fill-Out-Your-Online-History 

Online Functional Medicine Assessment: https://bit.ly/functionmed

General Disclaimer *

The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional, licensed physician and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified health care 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 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 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*

Many healthcare professionals believe that peripheral neuropathy, which affects the peripheral nerves or the nerves which connect from the brain and spinal cord to the upper and lower extremities, can be permanent or irreversible. However, healthcare professionals like Dr. John Coppola and Dr. Valerie Monteiro have demonstrated that peripheral neuropathy can be treated through the utilization of a variety of treatment methods and techniques.

Dr. Coppola and Dr. Monteiro describe that because peripheral neuropathy can manifest due to a variety of health issues, such as diabetes, treating the underlying cause of a patient's peripheral neuropathy can help treat their symptoms. The 5 critical keys for defeating peripheral neuropathy are ultimately described to help promote overall health and wellness. Dr. Alex Jimenez, a chiropractor in El Paso, Tx, can help ease symptoms associated with peripheral neuropathy. Dr. Alex Jimenez is the non-surgical choice for peripheral neuropathy.

Peripheral Neuropathy Relief & Treatment | El Paso, TX (2019)

Neuropathy is a medical term used to describe a collection of general diseases or malfunctions which affect the nerves. The causes of neuropathy, or nerve damage, can vary greatly among each individual and these may be caused by a number of different diseases, injuries, infections, and even vitamin deficiency states. However, neuropathy can most commonly affect the nerves that control the motor and sensory nerves. Because the human body is composed of many different kinds of nerves which perform different functions, nerve damage is classified into several types.

Neuropathy can also be classified according to the location of the nerves being affected and according to the disease-causing it. For instance, neuropathy caused by diabetes is called diabetic neuropathy. Furthermore, depending on which nerves are affected will depend on the symptoms that will manifest as a result. Below we will discuss several specific types of neuropathies clinically treated by chiropractors, physical therapists and physical medicine doctors alike, as well as briefly describing their causes and their symptoms.

Peripheral neuropathy, which is often simply referred to as “neuropathy,” is a state that happens when your nerves become damaged or injured, oftentimes simply disrupted. It’s estimated that neuropathy affects roughly 2.4 percent of the general populace and approximately 8 percent of people older than age 55. However, this quote doesn’t include people affected by neuropathy caused by physical trauma to the nerves.

Types

Neuropathy can affect any of the three types of peripheral nerves:

• Sensory nerves, which transmit messages from the sensory organs, eyes, nose to the brain
• Motor nerves, which track the conscious movement of the muscles
• Autonomic nerves, which regulate the involuntary functions of the body

Sometimes, neuropathy will only impact one nerve. This is medically referred to as mononeuropathy and instances of it include:

• Ulnar neuropathy, which affects the elbow
• Radial neuropathy, which affects the arms
• Peroneal neuropathy, which affects the knees
• Femoral neuropathy, which affects the thighs
• Cervical neuropathy, which affects the neck

Sometimes, two or more isolated nerves in separate regions of the body can become damaged, injured or disrupted, resulting in mono neuritis multiplex neuropathy. Most often, however, multiple peripheral nerves malfunction at the same time, a condition called polyneuropathy. According to the National Institute for Neurological Disorders and Stroke, or the NINDS, there are over 100 kinds of peripheral neuropathies.

Causes

Neuropathies are often inherited from birth or they develop later in life. The most frequent inherited neuropathy is the neurological disease Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, which affects 1 in 2,500 people in the USA. Although healthcare professionals are sometimes not able to pinpoint the exact reason for an acquired neuropathy, medically referred to as idiopathic neuropathy, there are many known causes for them, including systemic diseases, physical trauma, infectious diseases, and autoimmune disorders.

A systemic disease is one which affects the whole body. The most frequent systemic cause behind peripheral neuropathy is diabetes, which can lead to chronically high blood glucose levels that harm nerves.

Other systemic issues can cause neuropathy, including:

• Kidney disorders, which permit high levels of nerve-damaging toxic chemicals to flow in the blood
• Toxins from exposure to heavy metals, including arsenic, lead, mercury, and thallium
• Certain drugs and/or medications, including anti-cancer medications, anticonvulsants, antivirals, and antibiotics
• Chemical imbalances because of liver ailments
• Hormonal diseases, including hyperthyroidism, which disturbs metabolic processes, potentially inducing cells and body parts to exert pressure on the nerves
• Deficiencies in vitamins, such as E, B1 (thiamine), B6 (pyridoxine), B12, and niacin, that can be vital for healthy nerves
• Alcohol abuse, which induces vitamin deficiencies and might also directly harm nerves
• Cancers and tumors that exert damaging pressure on nerve fibers and pathways
• Chronic inflammation, which can damage protective tissues around nerves, which makes them more vulnerable to compression or vulnerable to getting inflamed and swollen
• Blood diseases and blood vessel damage, which may damage or injure nerve tissue by decreasing the available oxygen supply

Signs and Symptoms

Depending on the reason and unique to each patient, signs, and symptoms of neuropathy can include:

• Pain
• Tingling
• Burning/prickling sensations
• Increased sensitivity to touch
• Muscle weakness
• Temporary or permanent numbness;
• Paralysis
• Dysfunction in glands or organs
• Impairment in urination and
• Sexual function

Such signs and symptoms are dependent on whether autonomic, sensory, or motor nerves, as well as a combination of them, are ultimately affected. Autonomic nerve damage can influence physiological functions like blood pressure or create gastrointestinal problems and issues. Damage or dysfunction in the sensory nerves may impact sensations and sense of equilibrium or balance, while harm to motor nerves may affect movement and reflexes. When both sensory and motor nerves are involved, the condition is known as sensorimotor polyneuropathy.

Complications

Peripheral neuropathy may result in several complications, as a result of disease or its symptoms. Numbness from the ailment can allow you to be less vulnerable to temperatures and pain, making you more likely to suffer from burns and serious wounds. The lack of sensations in the feet, for instance, can make you more prone to developing infections from minor traumatic accidents, particularly for diabetics, who heal more slowly than other people, including foot ulcers and gangrene.

Furthermore, muscle atrophy may cause you to develop particular physical disfigurements, such as pes cavus, a condition marked by an abnormally high foot arch, and claw-like deformities in the feet and palms.

Neuropathy Treatment

The first step in neuropathy treatment should be finding the root cause that's causing the neuropathy.

Treatment of diseases such as:

• Diabetes
• Guillain-Barre syndrome
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Sarcoidosis
• Other underlying diseases

Prevents continued nerve damage and in some cases heals the damaged nerves.

If you are unaware of any underlying disease that is causing the peripheral neuropathy, make sure to let your doctor know of abnormal symptoms you may be experiencing. 

Medication

Peripheral neuropathy can be treated with various medications.

The first type used to treat mild symptoms are:

• Over-the-counter pain medications

In more severe cases:

• Opiates
• Narcotic medications
• Anti-seizure medications

A doctor may prescribe a lidocaine patch or anti-depressants, as well to relieve symptoms.

Patients should thoroughly discuss medication for neuropathy treatment with a doctor before proceeding.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy can benefit symptoms in neuropathy treatment.

A therapist will teach the patient exercises and stretches to help improve symptoms and increase muscle strength/control.

A therapist may also recommend braces or splints to improve mobility.

Patient's should attend all physical therapy sessions to gain the maximum benefits. 

Acids

Supplements like:

• Essential acids called ALA (alpha-Lipoic acid)
• GLA (gamma-linolenic acid) and omega-3 fatty acids

These can have a beneficial effect on diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

L-Carnitine

L-carnitine is a substance that the body makes and stores in the:

• Liver
• Brain

There have been reports that certain diabetics with neuropathy symptoms could regain regular sensation in the limbs when they increased their consumption of carnitine called acetyl-L-carnitine.

• Red meat
• Peanut butter
• Dairy products

Are good dietary sources of this nutrient.

Supplements are also available at health food stores and pharmacies and health/wellness clinics. 

Vitamins/Minerals

Vitamin deficiencies can result in peripheral neuropathy in some people.

Therefore there needs to be a replenishing of vitamins:

• B
• B12
• E

Can help to decrease symptoms.

Recommended dosages are 300mg daily of vitamin E.

Doses of the different B vitamins differ, but one option for patients is to take a daily B-complex supplement.

Herbal Supplements

Herbal remedies are an alternative to explore.

St. John's Wort, is a herbal supplement that can be taken orally and can reduce the pain.

Topical creams that have capsaicin, which is an anti-inflammatory found in chili peppers, can reduce the burning sensation.

Traditional Chinese Medicine TCM

Acupuncture can be an effective way to manage peripheral neuropathy.

Acupuncture uses pressure points throughout the body to realign the body's energy, called the qi or chi.

Also, movement therapy is a way to manage the condition.

Tai chi and yoga can also help:

• Align the body
• Mind
• Encourage relaxation
• Distract from the pain

Even if the neuropathy treatment is only temporary, it can still help.

We are blessed to present to you El Paso’s Premier Wellness & Injury Care Clinic.

Our services are specialized and focused on injuries and the complete recovery process. Our areas of practice include Wellness & Nutrition, Chronic Pain, Personal Injury, Auto Accident Care, Work Injuries, Back Injury, Low Back Pain, Neck Pain, Migraine Treatment, Sports Injuries, Severe Sciatica, Scoliosis, Complex Herniated Discs, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Pain, Stress Management, and Complex Injuries.

As El Paso’s Chiropractic Rehabilitation Clinic & Integrated Medicine Center, we passionately are focused on treating patients after frustrating injuries and chronic pain syndromes. We focus on improving your ability through flexibility, mobility and agility programs tailored for all age groups and disabilities.

We want you to live a life filled with more energy, positive attitude, better sleep, less pain, proper body weight and educated on how to maintain this way of life.

Let Us Help You Get Back To Your Normal Life!

Health Grades: http://www.healthgrades.com/review/3SDJ4

Facebook Clinical Page: https://www.facebook.com/dralexjimene...

Facebook Sports Page: https://www.facebook.com/pushasrx/

Facebook Injuries Page: https://www.facebook.com/elpasochirop...

Facebook Neuropathy Page: https://www.facebook.com/ElPasoNeurop...

Yelp: El Paso Rehabilitation Center: http://goo.gl/pwY2n2

Yelp: El Paso Clinical Center: Treatment: https://goo.gl/r2QPuZ

Clinical Testimonies: https://www.dralexjimenez.com/categor...

Information: Dr. Alex Jimenez – Chiropractor

Clinical Site: https://www.dralexjimenez.com

Injury Site: https://personalinjurydoctorgroup.com

Sports Injury Site: https://chiropracticscientist.com

Back Injury Site: https://www.elpasobackclinic.com

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/dralexjimenez/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/dralexjimenez

Twitter: https://twitter.com/crossfitdoctor

Recommend: PUSH-as-Rx ®™

Rehabilitation Center: https://www.pushasrx.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PUSHftinessa...

PUSH-as-Rx: http://www.push4fitness.com/team/

For individuals living with cyclical or chronic endometriosis symptoms, can incorporating support therapies help in disease management?

Support Therapies

Endometriosis is a disorder in which tissue similar to the uterine lining begins to grow outside the uterus where it does not belong. Endometriosis support therapies involve a comprehensive approach to treatment. It involves non-invasive treatments to help manage symptoms that can include:

• Pelvic floor physical therapy
• Massage
• Medication
• Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation
• Acupuncture
• Chiropractic

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy - PFPT

• Endometriosis can cause or contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction, causing pain, urinary disorders, bowel problems, and painful sexual intercourse.
• Pelvic floor physical therapy improves the strength and function of the pelvic floor muscles.
• Example support therapies can include kegel exercises and biofeedback. (Christine Mansfield et al., 2022)

Therapeutic Massage

A physical therapist uses various pressures, stretching, and/or trigger point release. This helps: (Sylvia Mechsner, 2022)

• Release muscle tension
• Lower cortisol - stress hormone
• Improve circulation
• Release endorphins - the body's natural painkillers

Medications

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs and hormonal contraceptives - birth control are the first line of treatment. Advil and Motrin are over-the-counter NSAIDs. If those don't manage pain effectively, a healthcare provider may recommend prescription NSAIDs. (Sylvia Mechsner, 2022) Hormonal suppression agents or estrogen modulators are a second line of treatment for endometriosis and can include: (Christian M. Becker et al., 2022)

• Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRH)
• Antigonadotropic meds
• Aromatase inhibitors
• Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs)

Other medications include:(Sylvia Mechsner, 2022)

• Valium - diazepam suppositories - Muscle-relaxing medications.
• Gabapentinoids - Medications that treat nerve pain.
• Antidepressants - these can increase the pain-reducing effect of other medications.

An endometriosis specialist. (Endometriosis Foundation of America. 2015) may suggest seeing a pain management specialist who provides nerve blocks or Botox injections. (Augusto Pereira et al., 2022)

Birth Control

Hormonal contraceptives suppress or regulate periods. They are effective for management, but not everyone can take them because of medical history, side effects, or fertility disorders and conditions. (Mert Ilhan et al., 2019) A healthcare provider can recommend alternative support therapies.

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation

• A transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation utilizes a battery-operated device that delivers low-voltage electrical stimulation to nerve fibers through electrodes placed on the skin.
• Sessions are usually 15 to 30 minutes and work by disrupting pain signals. (Sylvia Mechsner, 2022)

Acupuncture

• Acupuncture is a therapy in which a practitioner inserts thin needles into specific acupoints on the body to promote the flow of energy and alleviate pain. (Nora Giese et al., 2023)

Chiropractic

• Chiropractic care focuses on spinal adjustments and alignment to enhance nervous system function, help alleviate pelvic discomfort and nerve pain - sciatica - and improve overall well-being. (Robert J. Trager et al., 2021)
• Non-surgical decompression could be recommended to gently stretch the spine, relieve pressure, and flood the spine with added nutrients.

Movement Medicine: Chiropractic Care

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 studies or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies that are 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

Mansfield, C., Lenobel, D., McCracken, K., Hewitt, G., & Appiah, L. C. (2022). Impact of Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy on Function in Adolescents and Young Adults with Biopsy-Confirmed Endometriosis at a Tertiary Children's Hospital: A Case Series. Journal of pediatric and adolescent gynecology, 35(6), 722–727. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpag.2022.07.004

Mechsner S. (2022). Endometriosis, an Ongoing Pain-Step-by-Step Treatment. Journal of clinical medicine, 11(2), 467. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11020467

Ilhan, M., Gürağaç Dereli, F. T., & Akkol, E. K. (2019). Novel Drug Targets with Traditional Herbal Medicines for Overcoming Endometriosis. Current drug delivery, 16(5), 386–399. https://doi.org/10.2174/1567201816666181227112421

Becker, C. M., Bokor, A., Heikinheimo, O., Horne, A., Jansen, F., Kiesel, L., King, K., Kvaskoff, M., Nap, A., Petersen, K., Saridogan, E., Tomassetti, C., van Hanegem, N., Vulliemoz, N., Vermeulen, N., & ESHRE Endometriosis Guideline Group (2022). ESHRE guideline: endometriosis. Human reproduction open, 2022(2), hoac009. https://doi.org/10.1093/hropen/hoac009

Endometriosis Foundation of America. (2015). Seeking a doctor: finding the right endometriosis specialist. https://www.endofound.org/preparing-to-see-a-doctor

Pereira, A., Herrero-Trujillano, M., Vaquero, G., Fuentes, L., Gonzalez, S., Mendiola, A., & Perez-Medina, T. (2022). Clinical Management of Chronic Pelvic Pain in Endometriosis Unresponsive to Conventional Therapy. Journal of personalized medicine, 12(1), 101. https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm12010101

Giese, N., Kwon, K. K., & Armour, M. (2023). Acupuncture for endometriosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Integrative medicine research, 12(4), 101003. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.imr.2023.101003

Trager, R.J., Prosak, S.E., Leonard, K.A. et al. (2021). Diagnosis and management of sciatic endometriosis at the greater sciatic foramen: a case report. SN Comprehensive Clinical Medicine, 3. https://doi.org/doi:10.1007/s42399-021-00941-0

For individuals dealing with chronic pain conditions can having a better understanding of pain management specialists help in developing effective multidisciplinary treatment plans?

Pain Management Specialists

Pain management is a growing medical specialty that takes a multi-disciplinary approach to treating all types of pain. It is a branch of medicine that applies scientifically proven techniques and methods to relieve, reduce, and manage pain symptoms and sensations. Pain management specialists evaluate, rehabilitate, and treat a spectrum of conditions, including neuropathic pain, sciatica, postoperative pain, chronic pain conditions, and more. Many primary healthcare providers refer their patients to pain management specialists if pain symptoms are ongoing or significant in their manifestation.

Specialists

Healthcare providers specializing in pain management recognize the complex nature of pain and approach the problem from all directions. Treatment at a pain clinic is patient-centric but depends on the clinic's available resources. Currently, there are no set standards for the types of disciplines needed, another reason treatment options vary from clinic to clinic. Experts say that a facility should offer patients:

• A coordinating practitioner specializing in pain management and consulting specialists on the patient's behalf.
• A physical rehabilitation specialist.
• A psychiatrist to help the individual deal with any accompanying depression or anxiety, especially when dealing with chronic pain. (American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine. 2023)

Other Medical Specialties

Other specialties represented in pain management are anesthesiology, neurosurgery, and internal medicine. A coordinating healthcare provider may refer an individual for services from:

• Occupational medicine specialists
• Social workers
• Alternative medicine practitioners
• Complementary medicine practitioners (American Academy of Pain Medicine. 2023)

A healthcare provider should have completed additional training and credentialing in pain medicine and be an MD with board certification in at least one of the following (American Board of Medical Specialties. 2023)

• Anesthesiology
• Physical rehabilitation
• Psychiatry
• Neurology

A pain management physician should also have their practice limited to the specialty they hold the certification.

Management Goals

The field of pain management treats all types of pain as a disease. Chronic, such as headaches; acute, from surgery, and more. This allows for applying science and the latest medical advances to pain relief. There are now many modalities, including:

• Medication
• Interventional pain management techniques - nerve blocks, spinal cord stimulators, and similar treatments.
• Physical therapy
• Alternative medicine

1. The objective is to minimize and make symptoms manageable.
2. Improve function.
3. Increase the quality of life. (Srinivas Nalamachu. 2013)

A pain management clinic will go through the following:

• Evaluation.
• Diagnostic tests, if necessary.
• Physical therapy - increases the range of motion, strengthens the body, and prepares individuals to return to work and daily activities.
• Interventional treatment - injections or spinal cord stimulation.
• Referral to a surgeon if indicated by the tests and evaluation.
• Psychiatry to deal with depression, anxiety, and/or other issues that accompany chronic pain symptoms.
• Alternative medicine to support and enhance the other treatments.

Individuals who do well with a pain management program

Individuals who have:

• Back pain
• Neck pain
• Had multiple back surgeries
• Failed surgeries
• Neuropathy
• Individuals determined that surgery does not benefit their condition.

A better understanding of pain syndromes by communities and insurance companies and increased pain studies will help increase insurance coverage for treatments and technology to improve interventional outcomes.

Chiropractic Care for Leg Instability

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 studies 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 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

American Society of Regional Anesthesia and Pain Medicine. (2023). The specialty of chronic pain management.

American Academy of Pain Medicine (2023). About the American Academy of Pain Medicine.

American Board of Medical Specialties. (2023). The Most Trusted Medical Specialty Certification Organization.

Nalamachu S. (2013). An overview of pain management: the clinical efficacy and value of treatment. The American journal of managed care, 19(14 Suppl), s261–s266.

American Society of Interventional Pain Physicians. (2023). Pain Physician.

For individuals about to engage in physical activity or exercise, how does warming up the body help prepare for the work ahead?

Central Nervous System Activation

A proper warm-up before physical activity or working out prepares the mind and body to reduce risks of injury, mentally and physically transition to physical activity work, and enhance performance. A well-designed warm-up also primes the central nervous system/CNS for activity. The central nervous system transmits messages to the muscles to prepare them for action. Central nervous system activation increases motor neuron recruitment and engages the sympathetic nervous system so the body can better handle the physical stressors. The process may seem complex, but priming the nervous system is as simple as warming up with light aerobic activity before getting into more explosive movements.

CNS

The CNS consists of the brain and spinal cord. This central communication system uses another part of the nervous system known as the peripheral nervous system or PNS to transmit and receive messages throughout the body. The PNS is connected to the entire body and the brain and spinal cord (CNS).

• Nerves run throughout the body, receiving signals from the CNS to the muscles, fibers, and organs, transmitting various information back to the brain. (Berkeley University. N.D.)
• There are two types of systems within the peripheral nervous system - somatic and autonomic.

1. Somatic nervous system actions are those controlled by the person through voluntary actions like choosing to pick something up.
2. The autonomic system is involuntary and generates actions like breathing or heartbeat. (Cleveland Clinic. 2020)

Properly preparing the body for an intense strength training session or other physical activity needs the correct messages to be sent through the autonomic nervous system.

Parasympathetic and Sympathetic States

The autonomic nervous system consists of two subcategories, which are parasympathetic and sympathetic.

• The sympathetic nervous system helps the body get ready to face stress which includes physical stress. (R. Bankenahally, H. Krovvidi. 2016)
• The fight, flight, or freeze response describes the sympathetic nervous system's aspect.
• The parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for relaxation and de-stressing.

Individuals are recommended to perform a few calming movements and actions after a workout to return the body to a parasympathetic state. This can be:

• Stretching
• Lying with the legs elevated
• Relaxing yoga poses
• Box breathing
• Taking a warm shower or bath
• Foam rolling
• Massage

Returning the mind and body to a calm state helps with recovery and reduces stress hormone production. (National Academy of Sports Medicine. 2022)

Why Activate the CNS

Activating the CNS can increase performance and prevent injuries. The process wakes up and alerts the body for the activity. Individuals are recommended before beginning a training session, to communicate to the body about the physical stress it is about to endure and to prepare for the work ahead. This is a concept known as post-activation potentiation/PAP. (Anthony J Blazevich, Nicolas Babault. 2019) PAP helps increase force and power production, which enhances physical performance.

• Whenever an individual trains, the brain adapts and learns what the body is doing and the purpose of the training.
• Muscle memory describes this interaction.
• Individuals who have started up a new strength training routine or after an extended break report feeling awkward for the first few sessions, or even weeks, depending on their experience. (David C Hughes, Stian Ellefsen, Keith Baar, 2018)
• However, after a few sessions, the body is more adept at performing the movements and ready to increase resistance, repetitions, or both.
• This has to do with the neural drive and muscle memory than it has to do with true potential physical abilities. (Simon Walker. 2021)
• Training the CNS to be alert and pay attention can increase the development of a healthy mind-muscle connection combined with muscle memory. (David C Hughes, Stian Ellefsen, Keith Baar, 2018)

General Warm-Up

The first step is a general warm-up that should use large muscle groups and be of low intensity so as not to exhaust the body before beginning the actual training. General warm-up benefits central nervous system activation and the entire body include: (Pedro P. Neves, et al., 2021) (D C. Andrade, et al., 2015)

• Increases blood circulation.
• Assists the release of oxygen from hemoglobin and myoglobin.
• Warms the muscles, so they contract more effectively.
• Increases nerve impulse speed.
• Increases nutrient delivery.
• Lowers joints' resistance through increased synovial fluid/joint lubrication.
• Increases joint range of motion.
• Improves joint resiliency.
• Removes metabolic waste quicker.
• Reduces risk of injury.

A general warm-up can be simple as any aerobic activity will work. This can include:

• Performing bodyweight movements - light jumping jacks or jogging in place.
• Treadmill
• Rowing machine
• Stair climber
• Elliptical trainer

It is recommended to use the rating perceived exertion scale/RPE to determine the general warm-up effort. An exertion rating of between 5 to 6 is equivalent to moderate walking or a slow jog. Individuals should be able to speak clearly without taking a pause.

Try this strategy before the next workout to see increased performance and reduced injury risks.

Ankle Sprains 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

The nervous system. Berkeley University.

Cleveland Clinic. Nervous system: What it is, types, symptoms.

Bankenahally R, Krovvidi H. (2016) Autonomic nervous system: anatomy, physiology, and relevance in anesthesia and critical care medicine. BJA Education. 16(11):381-387. doi:10.1093/bjaed/mkw011

National Academy of Sports Medicine. Sympathetic vs. parasympathetic overtraining.

Blazevich, A. J., & Babault, N. (2019). Post-activation Potentiation Versus Post-activation Performance Enhancement in Humans: Historical Perspective, Underlying Mechanisms, and Current Issues. Frontiers in physiology, 10, 1359. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphys.2019.01359

Hughes, D. C., Ellefsen, S., & Baar, K. (2018). Adaptations to Endurance and Strength Training. Cold Spring Harbor perspectives in medicine, 8(6), a029769. https://doi.org/10.1101/cshperspect.a029769

Walker S. (2021). Evidence of resistance training-induced neural adaptation in older adults. Experimental gerontology, 151, 111408. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.exger.2021.111408

P. Neves, P., R. Alves, A., A. Marinho, D., & P. Neiva, H. (2021). Warming-Up for Resistance Training and Muscular Performance: A Narrative Review. IntechOpen. doi: 10.5772/intechopen.96075

Andrade, D. C., Henriquez-Olguín, C., Beltrán, A. R., Ramírez, M. A., Labarca, C., Cornejo, M., Álvarez, C., & Ramírez-Campillo, R. (2015). Effects of general, specific, and combined warm-up on explosive muscular performance. Biology of sport, 32(2), 123–128. https://doi.org/10.5604/20831862.1140426

The nervous system is a network of roads that feed into highways that connect to an interstate system. The roads are the nerves that innervate the muscles and the extremities; the interstate is the spinal cord. When the system works optimally, the nerves consistently transmit signals/messages to and from the brain without any problems. The signals travel back and forth, and the traffic flows smoothly. When the activities of these nerves and cells get disrupted, the central nervous system fails to perform basic functions that can cause musculoskeletal issues, conditions, and CNS diseases. Keeping the nervous system strong can be done by adopting ways to maintain health and function.

The Nervous System

The system regulates and coordinates body activities and is made up of two major divisions, these include the following:

• Central nervous system - consists of the brain and spinal cord.
• Peripheral nervous system - consists of all other neural elements, including the peripheral and autonomic nerves.

The principal organs of the nervous system include:

• Brain
• Spinal cord
• Eyes
• Ears
• Sensory taste organs
• Sensory smell organs
• Sensory receptors are located in the muscles, joints, skin, and other areas throughout the body.

A complex network of nerves, the nervous system reacts to internal and external stimuli through several physical actions to maintain vital bodily functions. These include:

• Heartbeat
• Breathing
• Digestion
• Body temperature
• Pain responses
• Emotions
• Support body posture.
• Strengthening the body to deal with day-to-day pressure and maintain quality of life.

Disorders

Various disorders can affect the system and can be damaged by the following:

• Blood circulation disruption
• Trauma
• Infections
• Structural Disorders like carpal tunnel syndrome and peripheral neuropathy.
• Functional Disorders could be headaches, neuralgia, and dizziness.
• Vascular Disorders
• Tumors
• Degeneration
• Autoimmune disorders

Symptoms

The most common signs and symptoms may be experienced differently and can include:

• Back pain radiates to the feet, toes, or other body areas.
• Muscle rigidity/tension.
• Weakness or loss of muscle strength.
• Muscle atrophy.
• Tingling.
• Loss of feeling.
• Persistent headaches.
• Sudden onset headaches.
• Headaches that change symptoms.
• Memory loss.
• Lack of coordination.
• Impaired mental ability.
• Double vision or loss of sight.
• Tremors and seizures.
• Slurred speech.

The symptoms of a nervous system disorder may present like other medical conditions or problems. Always see a professional healthcare provider for proper diagnosis.

Keeping the Nervous System Strong

Nutrition To Transmit Signals

Nerves need minerals, proteins, and vitamins to send electrical impulses. Foods that contain these nutrients include:

• Calcium — regulates the generated and transmitted electrical impulses. Milk, leafy greens and eggs are rich sources of calcium.
• Potassium - bananas, oranges, pomegranates, and prunes, are good sources of potassium.
• Dark chocolate contains tryptophan, an amino acid that produces and maintains neurotransmitters.
• Vitamin B — Vitamins B1, B2, and B6 assist the nerves in sending impulses from the brain to the body.

B Vitamins Provide Nerve Protection

A myelin sheath covers the nerves for protection and provides insulation for transmitting. Worn-out or damaged myelin sheaths have been associated with illnesses like Alzheimer's. Vitamin B12 helps repair damaged nerves and regenerate fibers. It is found in beef, poultry, eggs, and seafood.

Folate or vitamin B9 promotes Schwann cell proliferation, migration, and production of nerve growth factor. This vitamin is found in spinach, pomegranates, and beets.

Stretching and Breathing

Stress produces the hormone cortisol. Constant production of cortisol affects the nervous system, which can affect reflexes, concentration, and memory. Stretching the body and learning breathing exercises and relaxation techniques activates the part of the nervous system responsible for breathing and heart rate, decreasing cortisol levels.

Chiropractic Care and Functional Medicine

The spinal cord has multiple functions in restoring, rejuvenating, and keeping the nervous system strong. Chiropractic care has a highly responsive therapeutic effect on the nervous system because of its focus on the spine. Spinal decompression, traction, soft tissue manipulation, and other treatments help regulate and restore the function of the nervous system. Chiropractic benefits:

• Reduces or eliminates pain.
• Regulates respiration.
• Lowers heart rate.
• Improves the quality of sleep.
• Increases energy.
• Improves digestive function.
• Improves cognition and clarity.
• Improves balance and coordination.
• Increases flexibility and mobility.
• Reduces or eliminates headaches and migraines.

Hyperhomocysteinemia

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

Archibald, Lennox K., and Ronald G. Quisling. "Central Nervous System Infections." Textbook of Neurointensive Care 427–517. 7 May. 2013, doi:10.1007/978-1-4471-5226-2_22

Bhagavati, Satyakam. "Autoimmune Disorders of the Nervous System: Pathophysiology, Clinical Features, and Therapy." Frontiers in neurology vol. 12 664664. 14 Apr. 2021, doi:10.3389/fneur.2021.664664

Gyer, Giles, et al. "Spinal manipulation therapy: Is it all about the brain? A current review of the neurophysiological effects of manipulation." Journal of integrative medicine vol. 17,5 (2019): 328-337. doi:10.1016/j.joim.2019.05.004

Jessen, Kristján R et al. "Schwann Cells: Development and Role in Nerve Repair." Cold Spring Harbor perspectives in biology vol. 7,7 a020487. 8 May. 2015, doi:10.1101/cshperspect.a020487

Powers, Scott K et al. "Disease-Induced Skeletal Muscle Atrophy and Fatigue." Medicine and science in sports and exercise vol. 48,11 (2016): 2307-2319. doi:10.1249/MSS.0000000000000975

Nerve damage is also known as peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral nerves transmit information to and from the brain through the spinal cord to the rest of the body. Nerve damage symptoms are common in the neck, arms, hands, low back, legs, and feet. Communication becomes weakened, interrupted, or no longer transmits sensation signals. Nerve damage can be a complication from conditions like diabetes or present after an injury. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic recognize the symptoms and can treat the injuries rehabilitating the nerves back to functional health.

Nerve Damage Symptoms

Nerve damage symptoms can happen to a single nerve or a group of nerves that can affect the rest of the body. Damage depends on the severity of the condition or injury.

• Partially damaged nerves can heal on their own with minimal treatment to ensure they heal correctly. 
• Nerves are made up of fibers called axons.
• The fibers are covered with tissues that are a type of insulation.
• Sometimes only the fibers get damaged.
• Sometimes a nerve gets stuck or jammed inside a tight space, causing irritation and, over time, scarring.

• Severe nerve damage can involve the fibers and tissues and often require surgery.

Symptoms can range from mild to severe and depend on which nerve fibers are damaged. These could be the following:

Motor nerves

• These nerves regulate all the muscles under conscious control.
• These control motor functions like walking, talking, and grabbing and holding objects.
• Damage to these nerves usually causes muscle weakness, cramps, and uncontrollable muscle twitching or spasms.

Sensory nerves

• These nerves relay sensory information, including touch, taste, smell, vision, temperature, and pain.
• Symptoms can include numbness or tingling.
• There can also be difficulties:
• Sensing pain
• Sensing temperature changes.
• Walking
• Maintaining balance with your eyes closed.
• Working with the hands.

Autonomic nerves

• This group of nerves regulates unconscious actions, including breathing, heart and thyroid function, and digestion.
• Symptoms include excessive sweating, blood pressure variations, inability to tolerate heat, and gastrointestinal issues.
• Various symptoms can be experienced as many peripheral nerve injuries affect more than one type of nerve.

Signs

Improperly functioning nerves can cause uncomfortable or painful sensations because the nerves cannot carry the correct signals from the brain to the spinal cord. The signs of nerve damage include the following:

• Feeling like you're wearing an overly tight glove or sock constricting circulation and movement.
• Numbness or tingling.
• Pins and needles or what feels like mild electrical sensations.
• Specific body/limb positions can cause or decrease numbness, tingling, or pins and needles.
• Muscle weakness.
• Dropping objects regularly.
• Sharp pains in the hands, arms, low back, legs, or feet.

Restoring Function

Chiropractic treatments can help restore function and include:

Therapeutic Massage

• Therapeutic massage will promote circulation to relieve numbness and tightness and help restore function and feeling.

Chiropractic

• Chiropractic adjustments will realign the body and keep affected muscles and joints active.

Electrical Stimulation

• Stimulators can activate injured nerves and muscles while the nerve regenerates and recovers.

Braces or Splints

• These devices could be used to maintain the position of the affected limb, fingers, hand, or foot to improve muscle function and promote healing.

Exercise

• Specifically, prescribed exercises will improve muscle strength, help to maintain range of motion, and reduce muscle cramps.

Diet

• A nutritionist will develop a personalized anti-inflammatory diet to expedite healing. 

Peripheral Therapy

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

Chen, Zhengrong. "Progress of peripheral nerve repair." Chinese Journal of traumatology = Zhonghua Chuang Shang za Zhi vol. 5,6 (2002): 323-5.

Gordon, Tessa. "Electrical Stimulation to Enhance Axon Regeneration After Peripheral Nerve Injuries in Animal Models and Humans." Neurotherapeutics: the journal of the American Society for Experimental NeuroTherapeutics vol. 13,2 (2016): 295-310. doi:10.1007/s13311-015-0415-1

https://www.ninds.nih.gov/peripheral-neuropathy-fact-sheet

WEBB, E M. "Peripheral nerve injuries; early surgical treatment." California medicine vol. 80,3 (1954): 151-3.

Welch, J A. "Peripheral nerve injury." Seminars in veterinary medicine and surgery (small animal) vol. 11,4 (1996): 273-84. doi:10.1016/s1096-2867(96)80020-x

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder affecting millions and mostly women. It is physically and emotionally distressing. Those with the condition experience widespread chronic muscle pain. Research has shown that individuals with fibromyalgia could have a lower threshold for pain. This can come from injury, emotional distress, or abnormal levels of substances/chemicals in the brain and spine linked to pain sensitivity. One of the most common treatments is chiropractic medicine.

Common symptoms/conditions individuals report:

• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Irritable bladder
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Migraines
• Sleep disorders
• Restless legs syndrome
• TMJ or Temporomandibular joint disorder
• Raynaud's Syndrome - a rare blood vessel disorder causing the toes and hands to feel cold or numb.

Doctors are still trying to figure out the relationship between these conditions and fibromyalgia.

Causes

Doctors have yet to determine the exact cause, however, research is ongoing and beginning to shed light on the condition. Some possible causes include:

• Abnormalities in the endocrine system
• Abnormalities in the autonomic nervous system
• Genetics
• Muscle tissue abnormalities
• Abnormal blood flow

As research has discovered many conditions/disorders do not have one cause but rather, several factors that impact the probability of developing the condition.

Questions

It has become one of the most common chronic pain conditions. 1 in 50 Americans are dealing with fibromyalgia. The condition can be difficult to diagnose, and, because of its chronic nature, it can linger for months and even years. Typically it causes pain throughout the body and creates areas that become tender to the slightest touch. There are both traditional and alternative treatments available.

Traditional approaches to managing the pain:

• Anti-inflammatory's
• Over-the-counter pain relievers
• Sleep medications
• Muscle relaxants

Fibromyalgia medications include:

• Lyrica - pregabalin, which is a nerve pain medication
• Cymbalta - duloxetine hydrochloride, which is an antidepressant that can also help manage pain
• Savella - milnacipran HCI, which is an antidepressant and nerve pain medicine

The type of treatment depends on the symptoms. For example, a doctor could prescribe an antidepressant to reduce pain and depression. If stress, anxiety, and trouble sleeping are presenting, a therapeutic exercise program could be the answer. Individuals prefer natural remedies/therapies instead of more medications like vitamin therapy, acupuncture, and meditation.

Other treatment options include alternative treatments like:

• Physical therapy
• Massage
• Biofeedback therapy to manage stress

A doctor will usually recommend you see a physical therapist, chiropractor, and possibly psychologist to work on the mental and emotional toll.

Chiropractic medicine benefits

Pain is reduced

The most common issue is constant and consistent pain, which can affect the entire body for weeks and even months. Individuals realize that chiropractic helps restore overall health and aids the body to heal itself. Adjustments to the spine bring alignment and balance back to the body. Also incorporated is soft tissue work that can relieve and reduce painful pressure/trigger points and decrease pain in tender spots.

Range of motion is increased

Chiropractic medicine also adjusts the body's joints and helps loosen them up. This increases the range of motion and allows the individual to move more freely and easily. Depending on how long the individual has been dealing with the condition, it can take a few treatments to achieve optimal results, so it does take a commitment from the individual patient. However, in the long run, it is well worth the time.

Sleep is improved

The pain associated with fibromyalgia often affects an individual's ability to sleep well. Being unable to sleep normally will leave you exhausted, foggy, unable to accomplish things and irritable to downright angry. A chiropractor's ability to loosen the body's joints, massage tender points, and kickstart the body's self-healing mechanisms means individuals with this condition can enjoy deep sleep, and stay asleep.

Complements other therapies

Medicines/treatments/therapies can counteract with each other, or get mixed up and cause side effects. Chiropractic medicine can be utilized in combination with medications/treatments, either traditional or natural. Individuals diagnosed with this condition should speak to their chiropractor about the different treatments available. Customized treatment programs are created case-by-case and are tailored to the specific needs of that individual. Remember there is not a one-stop solution.

Empowers the individual

Individuals that have to deal with painful, chronic conditions can exhaust themselves with the varying treatment options and can feel as if they have no control over the situation. This causes stress, anxiety, and depression, which works against achieving overall wellness. With chiropractic, individuals are more in charge of their treatment plan, which leads to an optimistic outlook in their recovery. 

Chiropractic medicine treats not only the symptoms of fibromyalgia but attempts to get to the root cause to alleviate the condition or to activate the body's self-healing response. Patients that commit will see the benefits along with reduced pain, better mobility, and sound sleep.

The best benefit is being able to take control of the circumstances and playing a vital role in the managing of an individual's well-being. Understand that there are options available for fibromyalgia pain management. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, don’t go it alone. Dr. Alex Jimenez is passionate about helping those who are injured or struggling with a condition get relief. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Peripheral Neuropathy Recovery Success