Spine Health & Spinal Hygiene

Individuals are realizing the enhancements that chiropractic produces along with lifestyle adjustments. Chiropractic is about total body health. This includes:

• Alleviating pain from injuries and musculoskeletal conditions
• Reversing low energy levels
• Healthy lifestyle adjustment support
• Neck Pain
• Back Pain
• Chronic Pain
• Herniated Disc/s
• Headaches
• Migraines
• Sciatica
• Sports Injuries

Healthy living and regular chiropractic adjustments will elevate the body's health to new levels.

Chiropractic unlocks the body's potential

Getting to the root cause of any symptoms that are presenting and addressing them is essential before the body can be at its optimum. A common root cause of pain, low energy, and various general health complaints is spinal misalignment. Poor spinal alignment leads to poor nerve energy flow and poor blood circulation. When the body and nervous system function incorrectly, there is interference with the body’s ability to process normal functions that leads to various forms of dysfunction. A chiropractor can recognize the smallest of changes in the spine that could be affecting the body's health.

Good Health to Optimal Health

Restoring spinal alignment is the first step in improving body health. If condition/s are present, first the pain will need to be reduced and under management, then the energy can be increased. A chiropractor will recommend lifestyle adjustments to start building a routine to take good health to optimal health. Recommendations include:

Physical Activity/Exercise

Regular physical activity/exercise for weight management, building muscle and maintaining balance. Specific exercises could be recommended for spinal alignment and core strength reinforcement.

Health Coaching/Diet

The nutrients consumed can have positive and negative effects on the body's ability to function and heal. A health coach and nutritionist can recommend a nutrition plan that will elevate the body's health to new levels, increasing energy and helping with weight loss if it is necessary.

Stress management techniques

Stress is a major player when it comes to poor health. Chiropractic can help develop techniques and strategies to manage stress and reduce the strain on the body's systems. This could include sleep hygiene, mindfulness, and more.

Neutral spine training

Healthy posture is highly neglected during daily activities, especially when sitting or lying down. A chiropractor will educate the individual on how to hold the spine and posture optimally to reduce awkward positions and unnecessary strain.

Consult a Chiropractic Provider

When making lifestyle changes, a vital component is learning how to incorporate the new adjustments consistently. This encourages the adjustment into becoming a healthy habit that can maintain optimal body health.

Body Composition

Reducing stress levels

There are various techniques that support relaxation, and help turn off the stress response. Here are a few science-backed options:

• Meditation
• Progressive Muscle Relaxation
• Exercise
• Yoga
• Foods that help reduce stress with B vitamins, zinc, and Omega-three fatty acids like:

1. Free-range eggs
2. Nuts
3. Seeds
4. Shellfish
5. Parsley
6. Garlic

• Stress journaling
• Stress therapy

Stress-related eating is associated with an increased craving for calorie-dense and highly palatable/tasty usually unhealthy foods. When stress rises, food cravings rise triggering fat gain.

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 musculoskeletal system’s injuries or disorders. 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, CTG*
email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com
phone: 915-850-0900
Licensed in Texas & New Mexico

References

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

Walsh, Roger. “Lifestyle and mental health.” The American psychologist vol. 66,7 (2011): 579-92. doi:10.1037/a0021769

Stonerock, Gregory L, and James A Blumenthal. “Role of Counseling to Promote Adherence in Healthy Lifestyle Medicine: Strategies to Improve Exercise Adherence and Enhance Physical Activity.” Progress in cardiovascular diseases vol. 59,5 (2017): 455-462. doi:10.1016/j.pcad.2016.09.003

Doctor of Chiropractic, Dr. Alex Jimenez examines Tiger Woods’ and his latest back surgery.

We have a look at Tiger Woods’ extensive history of injuries during his career. USA TODAY Sports

Tiger Woods Won’t Be Back For Some Time

Woods, that has made just three starts in a couple of years, likely won’t play again this year after he’d his back surgery that is fourth in Texas. The latest procedure alleviated pain in his back and leg, Woods announced on his web site Thursday.
That I’m confident this will relieve my back spasms and pain, and The operation went well,” Woods said in a statement. When fixed, “, I anticipate playing with my kids getting back to a normal life, competing in professional golf and living without the pain I’ve been fighting so long.”

Woods, who also has had four surgeries on his left knee, first had surgery on his back and then had two procedures in the autumn of 2015.

According to his statement, a disc in Woods back seriously narrowed because of causing sciatica, the three surgeries and severe back and leg pain. During the recent operation, the damaged disc was removed and the collapsed disc space was elevated to levels that were regular. The goal is to relieve the pressure on the nerve, the statement said. The procedure was performed by Dr. Richard Guyer of the Centre for Disc Replacement at the Texas Back Institute.
 
A Look At Tiger Woods’ Injury History

Tiger Woods Video

 
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About playing on Champions Tour, Tiger Woods jokes around
Woods, 41, last played in February, where he shot a birdie-free 77 in the very first round before removing. Where he missed the cut his only other start was in the Farmers Insurance Open the week prior.

His only appearance on the golf course in 2016 arrived at the Hero World Challenge in December. While he finished 15th in the 17-man field, he tied for the tournament lead in birdies (24), seemed healthy and upbeat.

Before beginning therapy, he will be resting for several weeks. The recovery interval is usually about half a year. That would mean Woods, a winner of 14 major tournaments and 79 PGA Tour titles, won’t play in any of the four majors for a second straight year. He is now rated No. 788 in the world.

Woods is in good spirits after the surgery, said his agent, Mark Steinberg.

USA TODAY Sports, he believes somewhat that the large weight was lifted off his shoulders,” Steinberg told. “The three previous operations were somewhat temporary repairs. But it got to the point where the pain was more common and this latest surgery was something he had to do.”

Steinberg said Woods decided to take a conservative approach along with his back previously three years with his difficulties. That alternative wasn’t accessible this time.
 
“This just isn’t a temporary repair,” Steinberg said. “ his physicians proposed him that this is the top path to a healthy, energetic lifestyle. He and his children were playing but he was in so much pain.

“Now he ’ll possess a healthy life without pain.”
One, Steinberg said, that can include playing golf.

“Entirely,” Steinberg said. “He desires to get out (on the PGA Tour) again.”

Woods’ last public appearance ahead of the operation was Tuesday in Hollister, Missouri, where he pronounced he’s designing his first public golf course. The course will probably be called Payne’s Valley in honor of Missouri native Payne Stewart. Woods is a partner on the project with CEO Johnny Morris and Bass Pro Shops founder.

Tiger Woods Stories

El Paso, TX. Chiropractor Dr. Alex Jimenez takes a look at the psoas muscle and its relation to back pain.

All too often we find ourselves experiencing aches and pains in our bodies, especially in the low back. If you find yourself commonly searching for remedies for fast back pain relief, it might be time to research the psoas muscle.

Technically named iliopsoas, the psoas major, may very well be among the main muscles within the body. Why? This deep-seated heart muscle helps support your back and much more. In the event the psoas is weak, it might be the cause of neck pain, back pain and many other issues. In fact, the psoas major muscle is especially distinctive, particularly as it pertains to postural function. It’s the only muscle which joins reduced body and the lumbar spine. It’s clear to see taking care of this deep psoas muscle is essential to a powerful, pain free body. Many others believe a healthy psoas is very important for spiritual and mental health, also.

What’s the Psoas Muscle? Why Is It Important?

There are two psoas muscles on each side of the back. The larger one is called the psoas major and the smaller the psoas minor. The psoas major, often known as “the might psoas, ” originates in the back round the bottom of the rib cage and runs down the thigh over the femur. The psoas major works by bending the hip. It runs to the bony pelvis, although the psoas minor also originates in the back across the bottom of the rib cage. It acts to bend the back that is reduced.

The psoas helps us perform including freeing the legs for walking and running all sorts of day-to-day activities. The psoas muscle is also critical in providing good posture. Anyone who takes Pilates knows the psoas intimately — the type of exercise is praised for enhancing psoas muscle health and associated back pain. Olympic weightlifters, runners, triathletes, gymnasts — heavily rely on the support of the psoas, too.
 
Let’s delve into where the muscle is situated. There are two muscles that create what is called the group that is iliopsoas. They may be the psoas major and iliacus. You have likely learned your fitness teacher indicate stretching the hip flexors at the end of your strength class. The psoas major and iliacus are very important to the hip flexor muscles since they help support and secure the lower back. There’s an alternative muscle known as the psoas minor, but it is useful for 4 legged animals than for people.

The word psoas means loin area and is Greek. The psoas muscle group makes an upside down V, linked to the back working its way down to the very top of the femur and beginning at about the bottom point of the rib cage. Specifically, it’s a long spindle-like muscle, found between the pelvic inlet as well as the pelvic floor. It joins the iliacus muscle which can be what forms the iliopsoas. A chiropractor can in fact use pressure in the pelvic inlet region to aid release a tight psoas. This can be commonly done to stretches for athletes in addition, though it should always be achieved by way of a soft tissue professional with expertise in psoas release.

Why Do We Need A Strong Psoas Muscle: Possible Issues

A strong psoas supports regular action, however so much as the simplest task can be made as well as causing larger problems such as power back a challenge by a weak psoas. The psoas is a vital messenger of the central nervous system and the way your body reacts to gravity is significantly diffent than intended, when there is dearth of support from it.

Muscle imbalances can often make the entire body to compensate in a different place and that may cause even and added problems harm. Some people are even identified as having psoas syndrome or iliopsoas tendonitis. These ailments cause pain in the hip area. They’re often described similarly, while these are two different illnesses; nonetheless, psoas syndrome is a condition involving a stretch, tear or rupture of tendon or the iliopsoas muscle. Iliopsoas tendonitis demands an inflamed muscle. The piriformis syndrome is also closely related with this kind of pain and may be referenced when seeking a diagnosis.

Yoga therapist Danielle Prohom Olson calls the psoas muscle “the muscle of the soul.” Olson says on her site: “ The psoas is connected to the diaphragm through fascia or connective tissue which impacts our breath and anxiety reflex. This is because the psoas is linked to the most early inside part of the brain stem, the reptilian brain and spinal cord.” In fact, author of The Psoas Book, psoas specialist Liz Koch, says that lack or mental trauma of psychological support can leak to a chronically contracted psoas. This results in too little core awareness. This makes sense as your historical limbic system is closely related to emotions like fear and worry.
 
Symptoms Of Psoas Difficulties

• Discomfort, pain and aches in the front hip socket
• Restriction in the hip socket
• Iliopsoas bursitis/tendinitis
• Restriction moving the thigh backwards
• Deep pelvic pain
• Deep “bellyache”
• Chronic constipation
• Twisted pelvis

What Causes A Weak Psoas

There are just two common behaviours that generally cause a weak psoas: sitting poor posture and all day. The National Association of Sports Medicine notes sitting causes a psoas that is feeble. And a weak psoas can lead to lower back issues. All that sitting can cause the psoas, iliopsoas and rectus femoris to remain in a shortened position for lengthy amounts of time. What goes on is these muscles get used to this shortened state and that makes them overactive and tight. This shortening or tightening of the muscles can lead to a forward tilt of the pelvis and weakness in the gluteal muscles because these muscles are attached to the pelvis and lumbar spine. United, this may cause lower back pain. Consider a standing desk to lower your sitting time each day.

If not corrected awful posture, whether standing or sitting, can create a lot of suffering. Rounded shoulders or a forward head position might appear to be the easiest on the body, but it is going to weaken the supporting muscles of the body over time, since we’re always working against gravity.

3 Major Benefits of a Strong, Healthy Psoas Muscle

1. May Reduce Low Back Pain

A published in the Journal of American Osteopathic Association identified the psoas as a vital muscle linked to our core muscle development. The psoas had been initially missed as an alternative for back pain that the 48-year-old man was experiencing. (7) He received osteopathic manipulative treatment, defined as hands on care with a trained physician. Utilizing the hands, with extending techniques, gentle pressure and resistance by transferring the muscles and joints, a skilled professional can help diagnose, treat and even prevent illness or injury. The patient enjoyed critical development, confirming that without surgery, back pain can be removed with a the help of a professional, combined with the devotion of the patient to execute special stretches at home.

2. Can Affect Your Sports Activities

I noted previously that the psoas is actually the muscle which allows one to run. Each knee lift causes a contraction of the rope-like each time the leg swings back to its first location and muscle, the psoas will lengthen. Runner’s World reports a runner lengthen and will contract the psoas more than 5,000 times during an hour long run The psoas can be a big aspect in great carriage. The psoas, combined with other core muscles, like the abdominals and obliques, in addition to the ones that help form and support the lower back, supplies firmness offering a strong posture. Therefore it’s wise that if there is a problem with the psoas, it’ll probably change your sports actions, in particular those that need jogging.

3. Provides a More Pain-Free Pregnancy

Creates a lot of developments in the torso, certainly one of which is the shift in your center of gravity. It shifts forwards as the baby grows, causing the pelvis to go toward the front of the body. This could cause the muscles in the low back area the hamstrings and glutes and also to tighten weaken as well as to stretch out. Additionally, the ligaments connected to the uterus can come under a great deal of anxiety, causing pain and lower back. The psoas and surrounding muscles take on much of the anxiety, which may cause discomfort on account of imbalances and tightness. But, by performing stretches and exercises which help to fortify the psoas, you can remove most if not all of the pain.

Psoas Stretches & Exercises

Whether an athlete, not lively in any respect or pregnant, it’s important to release the psoas to make sure that it’s in excellent working order giving you the support you must perform any tasks — picking up those markets or your toddler. Yoga, Pilates and my core routine are excellent choices, by performing a some key stretches right at home however you can make a major difference. Here are some psoas stretches and exercises which you can do a few days a week. If possible, in the event that you sit at a desk throughout the day, I recommend which you perform these exercises daily. It just requires a couple of minutes and can alter how you go throughout your day.

Foam Rolling

While releasing the psoas must be left to your soft-tissue professional, NASM suggests foam rolling tight hip muscles that are other, such as the TFL and hip adductors. As you roll, hold on spots that are tender for 30 to 90 seconds. (16) Check by means of your physician to be sure foam rolling is OK with you. NASM notes it’s not appropriate for certain states, including aneurysms, blood clots, malignancies, anticoagulant treatment, congestive heart failure, open wounds or skin lesions, bursitis, obstructive edema, or certain other health conditions.

Hip Flexor Stretch (Thomas Stretch)

Sit tall at the end of a table. Thighs are midway off the table. Catching one knee, lean back until your lower back and sacrum and pull it to your torso are level on the table. Notice that when the back is rounding and the pelvis is tipping, you’re pulling on the knee too much. To correct, just loosen your hold. Allow the other leg to hang free. Hold for 30 to 60 seconds. Perform a few repeats on each side.

Kneeling Lunge

It is a very common exercise performed in the fitness center through the stretch segment of plenty of group fitness classes. To get it done, kneel down on one knee (you might want to have a pad below if you’re on a hard surfaced floor), with all the front leg forward at a 90-degree angle. Tuck your pelvis and softly lunge forwards. Continue to lean into the stretch ensuring that there is no uncommon pain. A tight psoas may cause you to arch your back; yet, try to keep the back straight. To include a little extending to the core, raise your arms and lean the hips forward another inch or two. Holding the lunge for 30 seconds finishing, 3 repeats on each side.

Leg Lifts

Lie on your back and extend your legs facing you. Put your hands either underneath your bottom in case your back arches too much, or above your mind by focusing on bringing your belly button to the spinal column provided that your lower back is pressed into the ground. Lift your left leg several inches above the earth and support for 3 to 5 seconds. Do 10 to 15 repetitions on each leg. As you get stronger, you can do these using ankle weights.

Ball Bridge

Lie on a stability ball like you would to perform crunching, along with your neck and shoulder resting. Make sure to engage your heart , not let your hips sag, with your feet straight ahead with toes pointing forwards, shoulder-width apart. Slowly and controlled, drop your glutes toward the floor (don’t go too far that the shoulders come away from the ball) and then push up through the heels to engage the glutes and push your hips back up in line by means of your spine.
This exercise can be used to fortify weak gluteal muscles generally associated with a tight psoas.

Psoas Massage and Release

The psoas is surrounded by vital organs is deeply embedded into the central cavity region and may be tough to find. Physical therapist or a chiropractor might be capable of help you best as it pertains to actually release the psoas. It requires complete relaxation of the patient and is a sensitive place. To really get working with a trained professional is recommended, although total body massage that is general can certainly help.
Working on releases and extending other hip muscles nearer to the surface of the body is able to go a long way in reducing total tension and will ultimately help in enhancing psoas wellness.

Precautions

It is always better to require any new exercise slow. Ahead of performing the exercises consult with your sports medicine doctor, physical therapist or chiropractor. When it comes to a psoas release, there are negative effects that are potentially dangerous in case you don’t work with someone trained and certified in this region, so you need to talk a professional.

Closing Thoughts on the Powerful Psoas Muscle

The psoas muscle is a deep-seated abdominal muscle in close proximately. Your psoas major is the muscle that joins your lower back to your lower body. The psoas muscle is many times tight and overactive, as well as other hip muscles, due and due to things like sitting that is persistent possibly as a result of chronic stress. A soft tissue professional just like a physical therapist or chiropractor should does releasing your psoas muscle. Everything you could do to boost your psoas function in the home is focus on strengthening weak gluteal muscles, extend them and perform foam rolling of other tight hip muscles such as TFL and the adductors.

While surgery is frequently prescribed for back pain, researchers are finding that focusing on enhancing psoas health can radically enhance lower back pain.

Kettlebells Strengthen the Spine

Strengthening the spinal muscles is essential for health and fitness. Functional kettlebell training is resistance training that strengthens the spine. Kettlebell training is an extremely effective type of exercise to increase functional strength, ballistic power, endurance, and flexibility in the entire body, especially the spinal and core muscles.

(Exercise shown is Anchor Squats.)

WHAT EXACTLY ARE KETTLEBELLS?

Kettlebells are round cast iron weights with a single handle. Picture a cannonball with a u-shaped handle. Kettlebells are manufactured in a wide range of weights, for all strength levels.

MUSCLES USED IN KETTLEBELL TRAINING

Kettlebell training incorporates large functional movements. Multiple muscle groups work in synergy to complete the exercises. The spinal muscles function as either the primary mover or assist the primary mover in every kettlebell exercise. The spinal muscles also stabilize the body during functional kettlebell training, thus developing the smaller supporting structures.

(Exercise shown is Push Press.)

HIGH REPS OF HIGH IMPORTANCE IN KETTLEBELL TRAINING

Kettlebell training employs high repetitions, momentum, and centrifugal force. Momentum works the spinal muscles as the weight is raised and lowered. High repetitions combined with momentum and full body movement build strength and endurance in the entire musculoskeletal and cardio-vascular systems. Kettlebell training delivers aerobic and anaerobic benefits.

(Exercise shown is High Pulls.)

ALWAYS LEARN FROM A QUALIFIED KETTLEBELL INSTRUCTOR

Perfect technique is mandatory during exercise. Correct exercise technique maximizes benefit and lowers injury risk. Poor exercise form increases the possibility of injury and diminishes results. Kettlebell exercises are learned motions, so you should learn proper training technique from a qualified kettlebell trainer. The trainer should demonstrate, instruct, and supervise your training and develop your routine.

(Exercise shown is Turkish Get-up.)

SO MANY POSSIBILITIES

The kettlebell’s shape allows for a wide variety of exercises. This resourceful exercise tool is used for basic exercises like squats (shown in slide 1), cleans, swings, high pulls (shown in slide 4), snatches and push presses (shown in slide 3). The versatility of the kettlebell is demonstrated with exercises such as renegade rows (a combination of push-ups and rows—shown in slide 6), suitcase swings, woodchoppers (a combination of lunges and oblique twists), windmills, and Turkish get-ups (shown in slide 5)


(Exercise shown is Renegade Rows.)

KETTLEBELL’S BENEFITS FOR THE SPINE

Functional kettlebell training is a rare type of exercises that increases aerobic and anaerobic health simultaneously. The benefits to the spine include increased strength, power, endurance, flexibility, function and mobility.

(Exercise shown is Suitcase Swings.)

The McKenzie system is a way of evaluating and treating spinal disorders. It’s practiced commonly throughout the entire world. Physical therapists contain the bulk of McKenzie practitioners but physicians and chiropractors practice the process additionally.

Numerous exercise regimens have been recommended for treating spinal pain. Although the dependability of McKenzie’s classification and evaluation system was challenged in the literature, this method of spinal rehabilitation has provided considerable relief of pain for patients that were innumerable. Like all spinal exercise plans, the precise prescription of exercise should be customized to the individual ‘s physical examination findings.

TRAINING

Training includes a sequence of four courses over a specific amount of time culminating in a certification assessment. For many who pursue additional training, a diploma program (consisting of a 3 month residency) is offered. The McKenzie Institute is a not-for-profit organization that oversees the education and training of clinicians that are interested.

Spinal TechniqueIn the McKenzie system, clinicians perform a thorough history and evaluation. This consists of finding the patient’s response to duplicated, end-range spinal movements. The patient is then given a “mechanical analysis.” Most patients are diagnosed with derangement, dysfunction or postural syndromes. Patients are treated by a composite of postural alterations, specific exercises, and in a few instances, spinal mobilization or manipulation.

COMMON ANALYSIS

The most common diagnosis is the derangement syndrome. It is believed to result from an alteration in the structure and mechanics of the intervertebral disc. In the derangement syndrome, positions and exercises that “centralize” the pain (move it closer to the back) are highlighted. Those movements and positions that peripheralize the pain (move it away from the back) are averted.

PATIENTS TAKE AN ACTIVE ROLE IN RECOVERY

The patient must take an active part in their own healing. The process was created to accomplish favorable results in as few treatments as possible. It is hoped that continuance of appropriate positions of maintenance as well as exercises will prevent recurrence. Patients will probably have the capacity to treat themselves, without intervention, if pain does recur.

The process was examined extensively and is supported by research. For more information, get in touch with a certified professional. Patients are counseled to seek treatment from a certified or a diplomaed clinician although McKenzie techniques are used by many professionals. Credentialed practicioners will have the initials Cert. MDT, or Dip.

IS YOUR JOB KILLING YOUR BACK?

Whether it’s just a gig to pay the bills or your dream career, work life, including taking care of family, can play a big role in your overall health. And, sometimes, not in a good way.

In summer 2016, the North American Spine Society (NASS) asked its members to rank the professions they consider most “back-breaking.” Click through to see what spine specialists say are the top-10 biggest offenders, and get tips for how you can keep working and save your spine.

#10 MOTHERHOOD AND BABY CARE

From pregnancy and breastfeeding to lifting a child all day and hauling a heavy diaper bag, motherhood can take a toll on the health of your spine.

Spine-saving tips: Rethink your diaper bag. Consider a backpack-style diaper bag as opposed to the more traditional over-the-shoulder version to better distribute weight. Also, investing in an ergonomic baby carrier will ease the load when carrying your child.

#9TH FACTORY WORK

Factory workers often perform tasks that require them to do the same movements for prolonged periods, causing muscle fatigue and weakness. Disorders related to performing the same function over and over again is called repetitive motion disorders.

Spine-saving tips: Occasionally take a break to evaluate your posture. Straighten your spine and relax your shoulders. If you can vary your tasks, do so. It will allow you the ability to use different muscles instead of fatiguing the same ones over the course of a work day.

#8 AUTO MECHANIC

Working on cars requires a lot of bending, twisting, and arching of the back. These movements put the spine in awkward positions, which can cause pain and injury.

Spine-saving tip: Whether under the car’s hood or the car itself, get as close to the part or area you’re working on to prevent injuring your back muscles.

#7 WAREHOUSE WORK

Warehouse workers have physically demanding jobs, often spending a great portion of their day lifting, pushing and pulling heavy loads that risk injuring their spines.

Spine-saving tips: Think before you act. Before lifting a load, test the weight by lifting one corner. If the object is too heavy, ask for a coworker’s help or use a cart or forklift. Also, wear gloves to improve your grip and protect your hands.

#6 DENTISTS

Dentists perform procedures that keep them in the same position for long periods, while also twisting and bending their necks and upper backs. That’s why many in the profession experience upper back pain and neck pain.

Spine-saving tips: Magnification and good lighting will bring your field of vision closer and allow your neck to rest in a natural position, as opposed to being held forward and flexed down. If chair arms are available at your office, use them to support your upper arm or forearm when doing precision procedures with your hands.

#5 MANUAL LABORERS

Manual labor. Just the name of this career elicits thoughts of back strain, sprain, and overall pain. Manual laborers regularly lift heavy loads, use hand and power tools, perform repetitive tasks, and bend and twist—all of which spell disaster for the back and neck.

Spine-saving tips: Your job equipment goes beyond the heavy machinery you use at work. Wear a good pair of supportive shoes, and talk to your doctor about whether a back brace will help prevent potential back problems on the job.

#4 OFFICE WORKERS

Sure, office workers generally don’t spend their days lifting large objects or operating heavy machinery, but the opposite end of the spectrum may be just as detrimental to your spine. Sitting and staring at a computer screen all day may wreak havoc on your posture and can leave you grimacing in pain at the end of each work day.

Spine-saving tips: Get up out of your chair every hour to walk around and stretch. Or, perhaps invest in a sit-stand desk to encourage you to vary your posture and position throughout the day.

#3 NURSES

Nurses are on their feet during most of their shifts, and stress levels can be high in this profession. Transferring patients, moving heavy medical equipment, and bending to assist with procedures can all contribute to the development of back and/or neck injury.

Spine-saving tips: During breaks, take a few minutes to do some gentle spine stretches like shoulder rolls, neck bends, and hamstring stretches. If your day is particularly hectic, even a few minutes of quiet meditation may help stave off the negative effects of stress.

#2 IS CONSTRUCTION WORK

Construction work can put some serious wear and tear on the body. The job involves heavy lifting, whole body vibration, lifting and twisting at the same time, and bending for prolonged periods—all of which can cause muscle sprain and strain.

Spine-saving tips: Asking for help could save your spine if you work in the construction field. If materials are heavier than 50 pounds, get help from another worker and/or use a cart. Also, use carrying tools with handles to secure a grip on odd-shaped loads.

#1 DRIVERS

Spine specialists consider the driving profession to be the most harmful career for your back and neck. And, they’re not just concerned about long-haul truck drivers.

“With the rise of ridehailing services like Uber and Lyft, tens of thousands of ‘amateur’ drivers each month are suddenly becoming professionals, sitting in their cars for extra hours, toting luggage, and feeling the pain,” said orthopaedic surgeon Chad Patton, MD, chair of the NASS Public Affairs Committee.

Spine-saving tips: Before you hit the gas, create a supportive driving environment. Adjust your seat to a 100-degree angle to prevent slouching, and sit close enough to the steering wheel so your elbows and knees are slightly bent. Add a pillow or rolled up towel at the small of your back for some added support.

WANT MORE BACK- AND NECK-SAVING TIPS?

SpineUniverse has a wealth of information on workplace spine safety. Even if you don’t work in the professions listed in this slideshow, it’s still smart to understand the best ergonomic practices for back and neck health.

Perhaps you bent the wrong way while lifting something heavy. Or you’re dealing with a degenerative condition like arthritis. Whatever the cause, once you have low back pain, it can be hard to shake. About one in four Americans say they’ve had a recent bout of low back pain. And almost everyone can expect to experience back pain at some point in their lives.

Sometimes, it’s clearly serious: You were injured, or you feel numbness, weakness, or tingling in the legs. Call the doctor, of course. But for routine and mild low back pain, here are a few simple tips to try at home.

CHILL IT 

Ice is best in the first 24 to 48 hours after an injury because it reduces inflammation, says E. Anne Reicherter, PhD, PT, DPT, associate professor of Physical Therapy at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. “Even though the warmth feels good because it helps cover up the pain and it does help relax the muscles, the heat actually inflames the inflammatory processes,” she says. After 48 hours, you can switch to heat if you prefer. Whether you use heat or ice — take it off after about 20 minutes to give your skin a rest. If pain persists, talk with a doctor.

KEEP MOVING

“Our spines are like the rest of our body — they’re meant to move,” says Reicherter. Keep doing your daily activities. Make the beds, go to work, walk the dog. Once you’re feeling better, regular aerobic exercises like swimming, bicycling, and walking can keep you — and your back — more mobile. Just don’t overdo it. There’s no need to run a marathon when your back is sore.

STAY STRONG

Once your low back pain has receded, you can help avert future episodes of back pain by working the muscles that support your lower back, including the back extensor muscles. “They help you maintain the proper posture and alignment of your spine,” Reicherter says. Having strong hip, pelvic, and abdominal muscles also gives you more back support. Avoid abdominal crunches, because they can actually put more strain on your back.

STRETCH

Don’t sit slumped in your desk chair all day. Get up every 20 minutes or so and stretch the other way. “Because most of us spend a lot of time bending forward in our jobs, it’s important to stand up and stretch backward throughout the day,” Reicherter says. Don’t forget to also stretch your legs. Some people find relief from their back pain by doing a regular stretching routine, like yoga.

THINK ERGONOMICALLY

Design your workspace so you don’t have to hunch forward to see your computer monitor or reach way out for your mouse. Use a desk chair that supports your lower back and allows you to keep your feet planted firmly on the floor.

WATCH YOUR POSTURE

Slumping makes it harder for your back to support your weight. Be especially careful of your posture when lifting heavy objects. Never bend over from the waist. Instead, bend and straighten from the knees.

WEAR LOW HEELS

Exchange your four-inch pumps for flats or low heels (less than 1 inch). High heels may create a more unstable posture, and increase pressure on your lower spine.

KICK THE HABIT

Smoking can increase your risk for osteoporosis of the spine and other bone problems. Osteoporosis can in turn lead to compression fractures of the spine. Recent research found that smokers are more likely to have low back pain compared with nonsmokers.

WATCH YOUR WEIGHT

Use diet and exercise to keep your weight within a healthy range for your height. Being overweight puts excess stress on your spine.

TRY OVER-THE-COUNTER PAIN RELIEVERS

Anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Nuprin), and naproxen sodium (Aleve, Anaprox, Naprosyn) can help reduce back pain. Acetaminophen (Actamin, Panadol, Tylenol) is another over-the-counter option for pain management. Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist about any interactions over-the-counter pain relievers may have with other medications you are taking. People with a history of certain medical conditions (such as ulcers, kidney disease, and liver disease) should avoid some medicines.

Call your doctor if:

Your low back pain is severe, doesn’t go away after a few days, or it hurts even when you’re at rest or lying down.
You have weakness or numbness in your legs, or you have trouble standing or walking.
You lose control over your bowels or bladder.
These could be signs that you have a nerve problem or another underlying medical condition that needs to be treated.


ARE FUNCTIONAL ORTHOTICS PART OF YOUR WELLNESS PROTOCOL?

Most Chiropractors advertise pain relief without drugs and care for injuries. Recently, some doctors and practices have begun labeling and promoting themselves as Wellness Centers. A wellness practice is focused on both maintaining a pre-existing level of musculoskeletal balance and postural health and preventing conditions that might alter this state of health. The challenge is, how can healthy patients be protected from problems that might arise in the future? The answer is simple: custom-made orthotics. Custom orthotics may be traditionally seen as a preventative measure, but so are most treatments of old. They are the perfect, foundational support your patients will never want to go without.

Wellness is a great concept—one of those “win-win” situations for doctor and patient. Orthotics are the perfect way to implement this concept and help establish a “preventative” approach, in addition to the traditional reactive ones, if need be. Let’s take at a look at the foundation of the body, and see just how useful they can be.

LOOK TO THE FEET

The feet are the foundation of the body. By age 40, nearly everyone has a foot condition of some sort, many of which eventually contributing to health concerns farther up the Kinetic Chain (Figure 1). Therefore, it’s in the best interest of healthy patients to be offered a wellness program which stresses preventative care for normal, healthy feet, in order to prevent foot problems from occurring later in life.

While 99% of all feet are normal at birth, 8% develop troubles by the first year of age, 41% at age 5, and 80% by age 20. By age 40, nearly everyone has a foot condition of some sort.

HOW CAN ORTHOTICS HELP?

Patients who participate in Chiropractic wellness programs can benefit from custom-made orthotics nearly as much as patients who seek Chiropractic care for musculoskeletal injuries and conditions. Foot Levelers’ custom orthotics have been shown to effectively support the pedal foundation for both categories of patients, and can prevent problems well into the future with static and dynamic support.

Static support.Static support. A 1999 study using radiographic measurements found that custom-made, flexible orthotics can significantly improve the alignment of the arches when standing.2 In the wellness-practice concept of orthotic use, custom-made, flexible orthotics can be used to maintain a properly functioning arch alignment.

Dynamic support. During gait, the foot undergoes substantial changes and must permit a smooth transfer of the body’s center of mass over the leg in order to conserve energy and keep the work expenditure to a minimum.3 This requires a flexible, yet supportive orthotic that accommodates varying weights and forces and allows proper movement and function of the foot, while supporting all three arches—in order to prevent eventual arch collapse.

Postural benefits. Since the entire body structure is balanced on one foot at a time when walking and running, improving foot alignment can help maintain knee, hip, pelvic and even spinal postural alignment,4 and prevent joint degeneration (of the hip, knee, or spinal joints). A pelvic or spinal tilt or recurrent subluxations will often respond rapidly to orthotic support of the arches in the feet. 

ORTHOTICS FOR EVERYONE

Custom-made, flexible orthotics have long been recognized as a valid adjunct to Chiropractic care for many musculoskeletal conditions. In the wellness model of Chiropractic care, Foot Levelers’ custom-made, flexible orthotics (Fig. 2) can be utilized as a preventative modality for the preservation of optimal arch support and the postponement or prevention of joint imbalances in later years. Therefore, orthotics are appropriate for virtually all Chiropractic patients.

(HealthDay News) — Chronic lower back pain affects millions of Americans. Many try steroid injections to ease their discomfort, but researchers now say this remedy provides only short-term relief.

In their study, investigators from France focused on 135 patients with back pain seemingly caused by inflammation between the discs and bones (vertebrae) in the lower spine.
 
The researchers found that a single steroid injection eased pain for one month. After that, however, effectiveness waned. Virtually no difference was seen one year after treatment between patients who did or didn’t get the injection.

“Our results do not support the wide use of an injection of glucocorticoid in alleviating symptoms in the long term in this condition,” said lead researcher Dr. Christelle Nguyen.
The findings are consistent with earlier studies, said Nguyen, an assistant professor of physical medicine and rehabilitation at Paris Descartes University.

Nguyen said she and her colleagues had hoped that targeting local disc inflammation with an anti-inflammatory steroid would help alleviate long-term pain.

To test their theory, they selected patients with chronic lower back pain and signs of disc inflammation on an MRI. On average, participants had suffered from back pain for six years. Half were assigned to a single steroid shot; the other half got no injection.

Patients rated their pain severity before the injection and again one, three, six and 12 months after the treatment.

One month after treatment, 55 percent of those who got the steroid injection experienced less lower back pain, compared with 33 percent of those who weren’t treated.

“However, the groups did not differ for the assessed outcomes 12 months after the injection,” Nguyen said.

For example, patients who did or didn’t received a steroid injection ended up in similar circumstances, with the same incidence of disc inflammation, lower quality of life, more anxiety and depression and continued use of non-narcotic pain pills, she said.

Overall, most patients found the steroid injections tolerable, and would agree to have a second one if necessary, Nguyen said. “We had no specific safety concerns and found no cases of infection, destruction or calcification of the disc 12 months after the injection,” she added.

The results were published March 20 in the Annals of Internal Medicine.

Dr. Byron Schneider, of Vanderbilt University School of Medicine in Nashville, noted there are many different causes of back pain.
In this study, the patients suffered from chronic back pain, he pointed out. “Patients with chronic lower back [pain] probably have more than one cause of their pain, which may be why the good results they found at one month weren’t there a year later,” said Schneider, an assistant professor of physical medicine and rehabilitation.

The study results don’t mean steroid injections should be avoided altogether, he noted.

Patients with a sudden episode of back pain — so-called acute pain — probably don’t need a steroid injection, he said.
 
Chiropractic Care Boosts Surgery Avoidance

“But if they’re not getting better after a month or two the way we would expect them to, at that point it would be reasonable to discuss the pluses and minuses of a steroid injection,” said Schneider, co-author of an accompanying journal editorial.
Chronic (long-term) back pain is a different situation, he said. Treating chronic back pain means treating the pain itself, but also using cognitive behavior therapy and “pain psychology” to help patients cope with pain, he said.

“For chronic pain, physicians need to address the musculoskeletal reasons that cause the hurt, but also other reasons that patients may be experiencing pain,” Schneider said.

According to the editorial, psychological distress, fear of pain and even low educational levels can affect pain levels.

More information
For more on lower back pain, visit the U.S. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.

Doctor of Chiropractic, Dr. Alexander Jimenez looks at the cervical spine and low back pain.

Low back pain and leg pain are the most common cause of disability worldwide. As such new research based treatment approaches are needed. This new randomized trial by BCP Non-profit and Cairo University tested the ability of the cervical Denneroll orthotic to improve cervical spine curvature and its consequent effect on low back and leg pain.

Great short term results were found where patients receiving the cervical spine Denneroll improved with low back pain, leg pain, neurological outcomes and disability compared to a PT only interventional group.

El Paso, TX. Chiropractor Dr. Alex Jimenez takes a look at driving and how it effects the spine.

Daily, nearly 90% of journeys and 92% of miles traveled are made in autos or ground transportation (buses, trucks). On average, guys drive 44 miles as well as girls drive 34 miles each day. For many Americans, driving a motorized road vehicle is their job: truck drivers, bus drivers, ambulance and fire trucks, police, taxis etc.

Modern car and truck layouts have come a long way in their own design over the past 20 years, with better fuel efficiency, better features, better styling and better relaxation. But is there any signs that the look of contemporary bus, car or truck seats and driving might play a part in causing a few of the back injuries that plague Americans each year?
 
Exactly Why Is Driving Different To Ordinary Sitting?

In case your own car is not moving, then sitting in a driving seat probably isn’t substantially different to sitting in a chair that is cushioned, but as soon as the vehicle begins moving things change. Additionally, when driving the feet are actively being used, the right foot on the gas (accelerator) pedal, the left on the brake, and in a stick-shift also on the clutch. When the feet are active they can’t be utilized to support and stabilize the reduced body when they’re put on the floor during regular sitting in a chair, as usually occurs. There is evidence the blend of those variables, coupled with the look of the car seat itself, can increase the possibility of back problems for many people.

Is Driving Linked With Back Problems?

Lab studies have examined the effects of whole-body vibration when a person is sitting in a car seat. The lumbar spine has a natural resonant frequency of 4-5 Hz , and results show that this natural frequency can be excited by lab simulated vehicle driving, and this may result in high spinal loadings in the lower back, and also this in turn could result in greater postural distress and an increased hazard of low back pain and injury.

Quite a few research studies have investigated potential associations between back and driving problems, and usually these studies have found significant consequences.

Drivers in the USA and in Sweden found that in each country 50% of those questioned reported low back pain. 

Investigation of the potential reasons for this revealed that long term vibration exposure from driving was among the greatest risk factors for neck, back and low back problems.
Gender generally seems to play an important part in the possibility of developing driving-related back problems. A survey of over 7000 Parisians found that even though severity and the prevalence of low back pain was higher in women, driving was just connected with back problems in guys. The need for driving as a risk factor improved with driving time, and was especially important for guys who drove 4 hours or more each day.

A survey of over 1400 urban transportation system motorists showed that issues using the capacity to accurately adjust the seat that was driving have significant effects on the prevalence of low back problems.

Nevertheless, it appears that driving need not consistently raise the chance of back problems.

Is There An Ideal Car Seat Layout?

Based on a comprehensive evaluation of advice from peer-reviewed scientific journals and texts, automotive engineering reports, and also the National Library of Medicine a string of requirements for the best car seat layout have been developed. Ideally, the optimal car seat should have:

1. Adjustable seat back incline (100 degrees from horizontal is ideal)
2. Changeable seat bottom depth (from seat back to front edge)
3. Adjustable seat height
4. Flexible seat bottom incline
5. Seat bottom cushion with solid (dense) foam
6. Adjustable lumbar support (horizontally and vertically adjustable)
7. Depth pulsating lumbar support to lessen static load
8.  Flexible bilateral arm rests
9. Flexible seat back incline (100-degrees from horizontal is optimal
10. Flexible head restraint with pad that is lordosis
11. Frequencies between 1- 20 Hz to dampen
12. Linear front-back seat traveling to allow otherwise sized drivers to reach the pedals
13. Seat back damped to reduce bouncing of the torso in rear end impacts

Driving Safety

What To Check For In A Great Car Seat Layout When You Buy The Next Car

It is likely that most automobiles available on the market today won’t have the features listed above that are desirable in the optimal car seat all, but some will have more than others pick wisely. Pay close focus on the subsequent 5 guidelines which should help you to protect your back when you drive.

1) Car Seat Comfort

You’ve fixed this to suit your body and when you sit in the car seat does it feel comfortable. Otherwise, you will be most likely caused by then the car seat rear discomfort issues should you drive for any length of time. Rebound up and down in the seat to find out the way that it adapts vibration. Take the automobile on a test drive.

2) Car Seat Adjustments

Can you correct each of the features of the car seat you want to adjust? At a minimum you need to have the ability to adapt:

• Seat space to accommodate different leg lengths
• Seat height to accommodate different leg lengths
• Backrest angle to sit down in either an upright or more reclined posture

You Should Look For Other Adjustments That Are Useful:

• Seat tilt to angle the front of the seat down or up so that this does not press against the back of your knees
• Look for a car seat that supplies you with great low back support that can be corrected for depth (frequently the seat has an inflatable cushion) and is height adjustable
• Headrest for neck support
• Arms rests which are broad, cushioned and comfortable, and preferably height flexible

3) Shift Your Position

Remember to go your position from time to time. Wait until driving conditions are right to enable you to wriggle in the seat to relieve postural fatigue.

4) Take Breaks

Driving is exhausting work and to prevent driver fatigue and minimize postural discomfort it is good move around and take to pretty frequent rest breaks that enable you to stand up.

You can select a number of car seat accessories that will enhance seat comfort for you personally, from fleece covers to soften the seat to bead backrests to provide for some type of back massage while you drive. Select anything you find adds to your driving comfort.

5) Seat Accessories

You’re able to pick a number of car seat accessories which will improve seat comfort for you personally, from fleece covers to soften the seat to bead backrests to provide for some sort of back massage while you drive. Choose anything you locate adds to your driving comfort.