Spine Health & Spinal Hygiene

Facet hypertrophy is an incurable, chronic disease that affects the facet joints in the spine. Can recognizing symptoms help in diagnosis and treatment?

Facet Hypertrophy

Facet hypertrophy causes the facet joints in the spine to enlarge. They are found where the vertebrae come into contact on the back of the vertebrae that form the backbone. These joints stabilize the spine when twisting and bending. Hypertrophy results when damage wears down the cartilage that cushions the bones that meet in the joint. This can include:

• Aging
• Wear and tear
• Arthritis
• Other joint diseases can damage facet joints.

Swelling, new bone growth, and bone spurs can occur as the joint tries to repair the damaged cartilage. The swelling and new bone growth can narrow the spinal canal and compress surrounding nerves, causing pain and other sensation symptoms. This ailment does not have a cure and worsens over time. The objective of treatment is to manage the pain symptoms and slow down the disease's progress.

Types

Facet hypertrophy can be described as unilateral or bilateral.

• Unilateral - the pain is felt on one side.
• Bilateral - the pain is felt on both sides.

On the following areas: (Romain Perolat et al., 2018)

• Buttocks
• Sides of the groin
• Thighs

Symptoms

Symptoms can have a wide range of intensity, from a dull ache to chronic, disabling pain. The location of symptoms depends on the affected joint and the nerves involved. Pain manifests when the enlarged joints and new bone growth compresses the nearby nerves. The result leads to nerve damage and the following symptoms: (Weill Cornell Medicine Brain & Spine Center. 2023) (Cedars Sinai. 2022)

• Stiffness, especially when standing up or getting out of a chair.
• Inability to stand straight when walking.
• Inability to look up to the left or right without turning the whole body.
• Reduced range of motion and mobility.
• Numbness or a tingling sensation of pins and needles.
• Muscle spasms
• Muscle weakness
• Burning pain

The following symptoms are specific to the location of the affected joint (Weill Cornell Medicine Brain & Spine Center. 2023) (Cedars Sinai. 2022)

• Radiating pain from the affected joint into the buttocks, hips, and upper thigh when the affected joint/s are in the lower back.
• Radiating pain from the affected joint into the shoulder, neck, and back of the head when the affected joint/s are in the upper back.
• Headaches when the affected joint is in the neck.

Causes

A common cause is the age-related degeneration of the joints, called spondylosis. Research indicates that more than 80% of individuals who are 40 or older have radiologic evidence of spondylosis, even though they may not have symptoms. (The University of Toledo Medical Center. N.D.) The following conditions can also increase the risk of facet hypertrophy (Weill Cornell Medicine Brain & Spine Center. 2023)

• Unhealthy posture
• Being overweight or obese
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Injury or trauma to the spine
• Inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis
• Osteoarthritis
• Genetic predisposition to the condition

Diagnosis

Diagnosis can be challenging when neck or back pain is the main complaint, as symptoms can mimic conditions such as sciatica from a herniated disc or hip arthritis. (Weill Cornell Medicine Brain & Spine Center. 2023)

• A healthcare provider will conduct a complete physical examination, medical history, and discussion of symptoms.
• As part of the examination, individuals may be asked to move into positions that cause pain and show where the pain is located. (Weill Cornell Medicine Brain & Spine Center. 2023)
• Imaging tests can show visible damage and inflammation and/or help rule out other injuries or conditions that may be causing the symptoms. (Romain Perolat et al., 2018) (Weill Cornell Medicine Brain & Spine Center. 2023)

1. CT scans with or without myelogram - the use of contrast dye in the space around the spinal cord.
2. MRI
3. X-rays with or without a myelogram

A diagnosis is confirmed by injecting a diagnostic block that involves administering an anesthetic injection, sometimes with an anti-inflammatory like cortisone, into the joint or nerves near the affected joint. Two injections are given at different times to confirm the effect. (Romain Perolat et al., 2018)

• If immediate relief improves after each injection, the facet joint is confirmed as the source of the pain symptoms.
• If the block does not decrease the pain, the facet joint is probably not the source of the pain symptoms. (Brigham and Women's Hospital. 2023)

Treatment

There is no cure for facet hypertrophy.
The goal of treatment is to make the pain more manageable.
Conservative treatment is usually successful in making a difference.

Conservative Treatment

First-line treatment involves utilizing conservative therapies (Romain Perolat et al., 2018)

• Massage therapy
• Physical therapy to strengthen the core muscles and spine.
• Targeted exercises to help maintain flexibility.
• Chiropractic adjustments to realign the spine.
• Healthy posture retraining.
• Non-surgical mechanical decompression.
• Bracing to stabilize the spine
• Acupuncture
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory - aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen.
• Muscle relaxers - cyclobenzaprine or metaxalone.
• Steroid injection into the facet joints.
• Injection of platelet-rich plasma/PRP into the joints.

Medial Branch or Facet Block

• A medial branch block injects local anesthetic near the medial nerves that connect to an inflamed joint.
• Medial nerves are small nerves outside the joint space near the nerve that transmit signals and other impulses to the brain.
• A facet block injects the medication outside the joint space near the nerve that supplies the joint called the medial branch.

Neurolysis

Neurolysis, also known as rhizotomy or neurotomy, is a procedure that destroys affected nerve fibers to relieve pain, reduce disability, and reduce the need for analgesics. This treatment can relieve pain for six to 12 months until the nerve regenerates, where further treatments may be necessary. (Matthew Smuck et al., 2012) Neurolysis can be performed using one of the following techniques (Romain Perolat et al., 2018)

• Radiofrequency ablation RFA - the application of heat through radiofrequency.
• Cryoneurolysis - the application of cold temperatures to the targeted nerve.
• Chemical neurolysis - applying chemical agents, like a combination of phenol and alcohol.
• Severing the nerves with surgical instrumentation.

Surgery

When one or more facet joints are severely damaged, they can become nonfunctional and painful. Surgery may be recommended when symptoms are not relieved by other therapies. (Ali Fahir Ozer, et al., 2015)

Prognosis

Facet hypertrophy is a chronic condition that progresses with age and does not affect life expectancy. (Weill Cornell Medicine Brain & Spine Center. 2023) The disorder is incurable, but symptoms can be managed with conservative therapies 

• A healthcare provider can help develop a treatment plan based on the extent and location of the joint affected.
• Early diagnosis and treatment can help individuals achieve the best results.

Maintaining an active lifestyle and healthy weight can help prevent further joint stress. Individuals may be recommended to do regular stretching and strengthening exercises to lower inflammation, reduce stress, and improve overall health.

Facet Syndrome 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, 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

Perolat, R., Kastler, A., Nicot, B., Pellat, J. M., Tahon, F., Attye, A., Heck, O., Boubagra, K., Grand, S., & Krainik, A. (2018). Facet joint syndrome: from diagnosis to interventional management. Insights into imaging, 9(5), 773–789. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13244-018-0638-x

Weill Cornell Medicine Brain & Spine Center. (2023). Symptoms of facet syndrome.

Cedars Sinai. (2022). Facet joint syndrome.

The University of Toledo Medical Center. (N.D.). Spondylosis.

Weill Cornell Medicine Brain & Spine Center. (2023). Facet syndrome.

Weill Cornell Medicine Brain & Spine Center. (2023). Diagnosing and treating facet syndrome.

Brigham and Women's Hospital. (2023). Facet and medial branch blocks.

Smuck, M., Crisostomo, R. A., Trivedi, K., & Agrawal, D. (2012). Success of initial and repeated medial branch neurotomy for zygapophysial joint pain: a systematic review. PM & R : the journal of injury, function, and rehabilitation, 4(9), 686–692. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pmrj.2012.06.007

Ozer, A. F., Suzer, T., Sasani, M., Oktenoglu, T., Cezayirli, P., Marandi, H. J., & Erbulut, D. U. (2015). Simple facet joint repair with dynamic pedicular system: Technical note and case series. Journal of craniovertebral junction & spine, 6(2), 65–68. https://doi.org/10.4103/0974-8237.156049

Syringomyelia is a disorder in which a fluid-filled cyst/syrinx forms within the spinal cord. It is progressive, meaning that the cyst grows with time causing compression and damage to the spinal cord. The cyst usually begins in the neck/cervical spine but can develop in any area along the spinal cord. There are several possible causes; however, most are associated with a condition known as Chiari malformation. This is where the skull and neck come together, and either the skull is too small or shaped in a way that causes brain tissue to come out and settle in the spinal canal.

Syringomyelia Causes

Syringomyelia can be caused by or from complications of:

• Congenital disabilities like Chiari malformation
• Chiari type I malformation develops during the fetal developmental stage and causes the lower part of the brain or cerebellum to stick out from its standard location.
• Hemorrhage/bleeding
• Inflammation of the spinal cord from virus or bacterial infection like meningitis
• Spinal cord injury
• Spinal cord tumor

Symptoms

A damaged spinal cord disrupts communication between the brain and the body. Symptoms differ for every individual, but common syringomyelia symptoms include:

• Pain, stiffness, or weakness in the neck, arms, back, and/or legs
• Progressive numbness
• Headache/s
• Sensitivity to heat and cold
• Muscle atrophy, contractions, spasticity/tightness 
• Skin rash

Symptoms usually develop slowly, but exercise, coughing, or some form of strain can cause sudden onset.

Diagnosis

Physical and neurological exams are performed to determine loss of feeling or inability to move around normally, like walking. Diagnostic tests of the spine will include a CT scan with contrast dye and/or an MRI. Early detection can help before it progresses, causing further damage, and delaying treatment can cause irreversible spinal cord injury. It is recommended at the first sign of symptoms to contact a doctor.

Treatment

Some individuals who have syringomyelia may have no symptoms. These individuals can go about their everyday lives but are recommended to be cautious with neck and back strain. For individuals experiencing symptoms, the primary treatment objectives are to:

• Stop or control damage to the spinal cord
• Preserve function
• Prevent disability
• Treatment options include:
• Draining the cyst
• Surgical removal of the cyst
• Chiropractic and physical therapy could be included in the treatment plan to help the individual rebuild lost muscle strength and regain flexibility.

All too often, individuals with this disorder experience treatment delay/s because symptoms can be nonspecific or vague. Education is the key, and individuals can be diagnosed sooner by paying attention to the body's warning signs.

Body Composition

Does too much protein hurt the kidneys?

While protein restriction can be appropriate for treating existing kidney disease, research shows that high protein intake in healthy individuals does not disrupt or cause damage to the kidneys or kidney function. The amino acids in protein are more likely to be excreted through urine when not being used. However, there are certain risks associated with consuming too much protein, and it is recommended to keep track of protein intake. Eating more protein:

• Makes the body feel full longer
• Can help curb overeating
• Is essential for recovery and growth

When achieving daily caloric goals, maintaining a balance of nutrients like carbohydrates and healthy fats is essential for overall health.

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*

References

Batzdorf, Ulrich. "Primary spinal syringomyelia. Invited submission from the joint section meeting on disorders of the spine and peripheral nerves, March 2005." Journal of neurosurgery. Spine vol. 3,6 (2005): 429-35. doi:10.3171/spi.2005.3.6.0429

Di Lorenzo, N, and F Cacciola. "Adult syringomyelia. Classification, pathogenesis and therapeutic approaches." Journal of neurosurgical sciences vol. 49,3 (2005): 65-72.

Fernández, Alfredo Avellaneda et al. "Malformations of the craniocervical junction (Chiari type I and syringomyelia: classification, diagnosis, and treatment)." BMC musculoskeletal disorders vol. 10 Suppl 1, Suppl 1 S1. 17 Dec. 2009, doi:10.1186/1471-2474-10-S1-S1

Naftel, Robert P et al. "Worsening or development of syringomyelia following Chiari I decompression: case report." Journal of neurosurgery. Pediatrics vol. 12,4 (2013): 351-6. doi:10.3171/2013.7.PEDS12522

Roy, Anil K et al. "Idiopathic syringomyelia: retrospective case series, comprehensive review, and update on management." Neurosurgical focus vol. 31,6 (2011): E15. doi:10.3171/2011.9.FOCUS11198

You try to do all the right things when it comes to taking care of your spine. You lift the right way, exercise, practice good posture, stretch, drink plenty of water, and take frequent breaks to walk around if you are seated for an extended period of time. Those are all excellent habits to keep, but there is something else that you should be doing – and it is one of the most overlooked and undervalued health practices. Rest!

Running On Empty: The Silent Epidemic

Stress can do severe damage to your emotional and mental health, but it can also hurt your body as well. Many people carry stress in their lower backs which means that when stress goes up it can result in lower back pain. It can also make you more sensitive to pain.

It is estimated that 66 percent of all doctor visits have a stress related component. What’s more, 50 percent of people who suffer from stress rate it as moderate to high. We live in a culture that makes it commonplace to run on empty. The problem with that is sooner or later you are going to crash and your body will bear the brunt.

Rest is important for helping you alleviate and manage stress, but recent studies show that 1 in 3 adults don’t get enough sleep. There is another reason to get your seven to nine hours in, though, that is directly related to spinal health. 

What Rest Can Do For Your Spinal Health

When you rest you give your body time to replenish depleted stores of energy. Adequate sleep improves your immune function, memory, metabolism, learning, and healing. You will be more alert, happier, and have more energy. It is also very beneficial is you are trying to lose weight.

Excess weight can put pressure on your spine and cause it to curve, causing back pain. This is especially true if you carry your weight in your abdomen. That extra weight in the front pulls your spine into a sway back curve making it painful to stand for long periods of time.

When you lay down and rest you allow your entire spine, associated muscles, and other parts of your body to rejuvenate and relax. You probably don’t realize it, but your muscles in your back and abdomen work all day to keep your body properly supported. Even when sitting there are muscles engaged. Laying down allows all of those muscles to finally relax.

Rest also allows your spinal discs to rehydrate. The spine is made up of fluid filled discs that sit between the vertebrae, acting as a cushion. As you go about your day, thanks to gravity, your discs become compressed. This compression causes the disc to lose fluid (which is about 88 percent water). This can cause pain if the discs are not properly rehydrated – and that is a two-step process of drinking adequate water and getting enough rest.

Drinking water will put the fluids into your body, but as long as you are upright, the compression will continue. Laying down to go to sleep takes that pressure off of your spine so there is no compression and the body can naturally rehydrate the discs. A few hours here and there is not really effective because it does not give the body enough time to do its job. This means that you need to get the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep each night.

Along with all the other great, healthy reasons to get a good night’s sleep, you not have one more to add to the list. A healthy spine will keep you standing tall and help keep you mobile, It is important to do all you can to take care of it.

Injury Medical Clinic: Neck Pain Treatment

Subluxation is when a joint shifts out of alignment, which can happen to any joint in the body. Spinal subluxation indicates a misalignment of one or more portions of the spinal vertebrae. It is common in the spine from all the reaching, bending, twisting, and flexing the body goes through. Spinal subluxations, if left untreated, can cause disc degeneration, permanent nerve damage, neurological conditions, and chronic pain symptoms. A subluxation chiropractor will realign and decompress the spine combined with massage therapy to relax the muscles and restore mobility and function.

Subluxation Chiropractor

Some subluxations don't cause any problems or pain, but that doesn't mean they aren't affecting the back and body. A spinal subluxation can cause long-term problems by:

• Advancing the disc degeneration process.
• Gradually pushing, pulling, and/or compressing nerves.
• Causing the body to compensate through unhealthy postures.
• Delaying nervous system responses and signal transmissions.

Symptoms

While some spinal subluxations may not be symptomatic, the majority of them are and include:

• Muscle tightness, weakness, or spasms around the back.
• Back aching and pain.
• Neck aching and discomfort.
• Headaches.
• Limited mobility.
• Digestive issues.
• Tingling or pain in the arms or legs.

Causes

Common causes include:

• Unhealthy postures.
• Sleeping in awkward positions.
• Sitting or standing for long periods.
• Lifting objects improperly.
• Wearing a heavy bag on one shoulder for an extended
• Heightened stress levels can cause the back muscles to tighten, which can cause subluxations.
• Automobile accidents, falls, or other traumas.
• Playing contact sports.
• Edema
• Hyperemia - lack of blood circulation.
• Atrophy
• Fibrosis

Effects

Research shows that spinal subluxations can affect many facets of the body. Long-term effects may include:

• Sleep problems
• Low energy
• Brain fog
• Mood swings
• Anxiety and depression
• Digestive issues
• Respiratory problems
• Bone spurs
• Spinal arthritis

Chiropractic Care

When the spine is out of alignment, it can cause issues throughout the body. Changes in one area affect the rest of the body. A subluxation chiropractor looks at the spine's neurological and mechanical components and aims to reset everything back into its proper position. Similar to the way a massage helps the mind and body relax and de-stress, a spinal adjustment helps by:

• Increasing circulation
• Relieving discomfort and pain
• Releasing tension
• Improving mood
• Reducing stress levels
• Improving sleep function
• Increasing energy levels

When the spine is properly aligned, the body can operate at its full potential.

Adrenal Dysfunction

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 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

Brian S. Budgell, Reflex effects of subluxation: the autonomic nervous system, Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, Volume 23, Issue 2,
2000, Pages 104-106, ISSN 0161-4754, https://doi.org/10.1016/S0161-4754(00)90076-9. (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0161475400900769)

Green, J D et al. "Anterior subluxation of the cervical spine: hyperflexion sprain." AJNR. American journal of neuroradiology vol. 2,3 (1981): 243-50.

Meyer, S. “Thoracic spine trauma.” Seminars in roentgenology vol. 27,4 (1992): 254-61. doi:10.1016/0037-198x(92)90004-l

Neva MH, Häkkinen A, Mäkinen H, et al. High prevalence of asymptomatic cervical spine subluxation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis waiting for orthopedic surgeryAnnals of the Rheumatic Diseases 2006;65:884-888.

Nourollahi, Maryam, et al. "Awkward trunk postures and their relationship with low back pain in hospital nurses." Work (Reading, Mass.) vol. 59,3 (2018): 317-323. doi:10.3233/WOR-182683

Vernon, Howard. "Historical overview and update on subluxation theories()." Journal of chiropractic humanities vol. 17,1 (2010): 22-32. doi:10.1016/j.echu.2010.07.001

Herniated discs, although common, can be challenging to treat depending on the size. Over 3mm is considered a large herniated disc. However, it can progressively get more extensive, and this can cause severe side effects. The size can make the disc slip out of place and start compressing on surrounding nerves, leading to muscle weakness and nerve damage.

X-Ray and MRI

X-rays can’t detect herniated discs, and this is because they highlight calcium in the bones. Because the vertebral discs and the nearby nerves lack calcium, they don’t show up. They do help doctors see other problems that could be causing symptoms like a tumor. A herniated disc will show on an MRI and identify the size and position. Then a medical professional can get a closer look into the bone and surrounding nerves.

Degenerative Disc Disease

A herniated disc is not the same as degenerative disc disease. Degenerative disc disease is when the cartilage and tissues around the disc wear out and down, causing the discs to slowly slide out of their normal position. A herniated disc is the disc getting pulled/yanked out of place.

Tests

Specific tests will help a medical professional like a chiropractor understand the severity of a herniated disc. These include a nerve conduction study and electromyography.

Nerve Conduction Study

A nerve conduction study records electrical impulses in the nerves. Electrode patches are placed on various areas with varying electrical intensities to see different readings. Through the study, medical professionals are better able to understand the health of the nerves.

Electromyography

Electromyography is similar to nerve conduction but uses needles. Electrode patches are placed around the body; then, tiny needles are inserted into a surrounding muscle. The patches then record the reaction of the nerves.

Physical Therapy and Chiropractic Treatment

A herniated disc will usually heal without surgery in around six weeks. However, a herniated disc growing in size can take longer because of a treatment plan that has to be updated accordingly as the treatment progresses.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is very useful in working out herniated disc symptoms.

The therapy will slowly help the body recover by using equipment and stretching techniques to strengthen and restore flexibility. One technique is water therapy. Water helps relax the body, and the buoyancy prevents pressure build-up on the spine. This allows the body to stay flexible while avoiding strain and pressure on the herniated disc.

Chiropractic

Chiropractors specialize in herniated discs. Chiropractic works on repairing the whole musculoskeletal system. Once imaging tests have been examined and a personalized treatment plan developed, they perform the necessary adjustments. These include:

Flexion-distraction

This technique uses a segmented table that raises and lowers to release pressure on the spine. The movement also keeps the disc from touching the surrounding nerves, significantly reducing pain.

Pelvic block

The pelvic blocking adjustment utilizes cushions placed under the pelvis. As the chiropractor adjusts the spine, the cushions help to pull the disc back into place gradually.

Therapeutic Massage

Many chiropractors utilize massage therapy as it is highly beneficial for relieving pain and expedites recovery time. One recommended massage for herniated discs is deep tissue massage. The benefits include:

• Relieving pressure around the nerves.
• Reduces muscle spasms.
• Improves the spine’s range of motion.
• Releases the body's natural painkillers.

Recommendations

Individuals are recommended not to overextend the spine. Avoid engaging in physical activities that require a lot of bending, twisting, reaching, etc. However, resting for too long can worsen the condition as the body needs movement to recover correctly. Too much rest can lead to the muscles contracting, leading to painful spasms. Safe activities include:

• Light walking
• Basic yoga stretches
• Water therapy

Supplements

Herniated discs often result from an injury, but they could also be caused by weakened joints and muscles. If the body does not get enough calcium, magnesium, or vitamin C, the discs can slip out of place more easily. Taking supplements will help strengthen the area by assisting in the production of collagen. Collagen attaches itself around the discs, ensuring they stay in place and are protected. Foods rich in calcium, magnesium, and vitamin c will also help. Foods include:

• Red peppers
• Pumpkin seeds
• Lemons
• Almonds
• Milk
• Healthy yogurt
• Peas
• Brussel sprouts

Hydration

Hydrating the body with plenty of water can reduce pain. Water increases the fluid around a herniated disc. The fluid works as a cushion between the herniated disc and the surrounding nerves, helping to not press on them. Drinking water will also help with movement and sleep.

Body Composition

What Happens To The Body When Eating Fruit

At the basic macronutrient level, fruit is made up of simple sugar called fructose. The natural sugar the body gets from a piece of fruit is not the same as industrial fructose added to processed products like high fructose corn syrup. Processed foods are filled with empty calories and little to no nutrition. When the body takes in fruit, the liver processes fructose before getting absorbed through the small intestine.

Research shows that adding more fiber-rich foods like fruit increases gut ecology to an anti-obese condition. This happens by increasing the lean-type bacteria and reducing obese-type bacteria. Fruit can help boost healthy bacteria that can help prevent weight gain.

Essential nutrients from fruit include Folate, Vitamin C, and Vitamin B1. The USDA recommends 2 cups of fruit a day, depending on age. Making half of each meal fruit and vegetables can be an effective strategy for weight maintenance. Fruit provides the body with a carbohydrate energy source, and fruit sources can also help meet dietary balance needs and promote long-term weight maintenance.

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*

References

Deniz Bayraktar, Arzu Guclu-Gunduz, Johan Lambeck, Gokhan Yazici, Sukru Aykol & Harun Demirci (2016) A comparison of water-based and land-based core stability exercises in patients with lumbar disc herniation: a pilot study, Disability, and Rehabilitation, 38:12, 1163-1171, DOI: 10.3109/09638288.2015.1075608

Gupta, Anmol et al. “Does Size Matter? An Analysis of the Effect of Lumbar Disc Herniation Size on the Success of Nonoperative Treatment.” Global spine journal vol. 10,7 (2020): 881-887. doi:10.1177/2192568219880822

Polkinghorn BS, Colloca CJ. Treatment of symptomatic lumbar disc herniation using activator methods chiropractic technique. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics. 1998 Mar-Apr;21(3):187-196. PMID: 9567239.

Sharma, Satya P et al. “Paradoxical Effects of Fruit on Obesity.” Nutrients vol. 8,10 633. 14 Oct. 2016, doi:10.3390/nu8100633