What are the healing times of common sports injuries for athletes and individuals who engage in recreational sports activities?

Healing Times for Sports Injuries

Healing time from sports injuries depends on various factors, such as the location and extent of the injury and the health of the skin, joints, tendons, muscles, and bones. It is also important to take the time to recuperate or not rush back into physical sports activities before the bones or tissues have fully healed. To prevent re-injury, ensure the doctor clears health before returning to sports or strenuous physical activity.

According to CDC research, an average of 8.6 million sports and recreation-related injuries occur annually. (Sheu, Y., Chen, L. H., and Hedegaard, H. 2016) However, most sports injuries are superficial or caused by low-grade strains or sprains; at least 20% of injuries result from bone fractures or more serious injuries. Bone fractures take longer than sprains or strains, and complete tendon or muscle ruptures can take months before one can fully return to activities. Individuals in decent physical shape with no underlying illness or impairment, here is what they can expect when recovering from the following sports injuries:

Bone Fractures

In sports, the highest rate of bone fractures occurs with football and contact sports. Most are centered around the lower extremities but can involve the neck and shoulder blades, arms, and ribs.

Simple Fractures

• Depends on the individual's age, health, type, and location.
• Generally, takes at least six weeks to heal.

Compound Fractures

• In this case, a bone is broken in several places.
• It may require surgery to stabilize the bone.
• Healing time can take up to eight months.

Fractured Clavicle/Collarbone

• It may require the immobilization of the shoulder and upper arm.
• It can take five to ten weeks to heal fully.
• Fractured fingers or toes can heal in three to five weeks.

Fractured Ribs

• Part of the treatment plan includes breathing exercises.
• Painkillers may be needed short term.
• Usually, it takes around six weeks to heal.

Neck Fractures

• It may involve any one of the seven neck vertebrae.
• A neck brace or a halo device that is screwed into the skull for stability may be used.
• It can take up to six weeks to heal.

Sprains and Strains

According to the CDC report, sprains and strains account for 41.4% of all sports injuries. (Sheu, Y., Chen, L. H., and Hedegaard, H. 2016)

• A sprain is the stretching or tearing of ligaments or the tough bands of fibrous tissue that connect two bones at a joint.
• A strain is the overstretching or tearing of muscles or tendons.

Sprained Ankles

• It can heal in five days if there are no complications.
• Severe sprains involving torn or ruptured tendons can take three to six weeks to heal.

Calf Strains

• Classified as grade 1 - a mild strain can heal in two weeks.
• A grade 3 - severe strain may require three months or more to heal completely.
• The use of calf suppression sleeves can expedite the recovery of strains and sprains in the lower leg.

Acute Neck Strain

• A tackle, impact, fall, quick shifting, or whipping motion can cause a whiplash injury.
• Healing time can take a couple of weeks to six weeks.

Other Injuries

ACL Tears

• Involving the anterior cruciate ligament.
• Usually, it requires months of recuperation and rehabilitation, depending on several factors, including the type of sports activity.
• Full recovery from surgery takes six to 12 months.
• Without surgery, there is no specific timeline for rehabilitation.

Achilles Tendon Ruptures

• It is a serious injury.
• These occur when the tendon is either partially or completely torn.
• Individuals will more than likely require surgery.
• Recovery time is four to six months.

Cuts and Lacerations

• Depends on the depth and location of the injury.
• It can take anywhere from a week to a month to heal.
• If there are no accompanying injuries, stitches can be removed within two to three weeks.
• If a deep cut requires stitches, more time is necessary.

Mild Contusions/Bruises

• Are caused by a trauma to the skin, causing blood vessels to break.
• In most cases, a contusion will take five to seven days to heal.

Shoulder Separations

• When treated properly, it usually takes around two weeks of rest and recovery before the patient returns to activity.

Multidisciplinary Treatment

After the initial inflammation and swelling have subsided, a doctor will recommend a treatment plan that usually involves physical therapy, self-performed physical rehabilitation, or supervision by a physical therapist or team. Fortunately, athletes and individuals who regularly exercise tend to have a faster healing time because they are in top physical shape, and their cardiovascular system provides a stronger blood supply that speeds up the healing process. At El Paso’s Chiropractic Rehabilitation Clinic & Integrated Medicine Center, we passionately focus on treating patients' injuries and chronic pain syndromes. We focus on improving ability through flexibility, mobility, and agility programs tailored to the individual. We use in-person and virtual health coaching and comprehensive care plans to ensure every patient’s personalized care and wellness outcomes.

Our providers use an integrated approach to create personalized care plans that include Functional Medicine, Acupuncture, Electro-Acupuncture, and Sports Medicine principles. Our goal is to relieve pain naturally by restoring health and function to the body.

If the chiropractor feels the individual needs other treatment, they will be referred to a clinic or physician best suited for them. Dr. Jimenez has teamed up with the top surgeons, clinical specialists, medical researchers, and premier rehabilitation providers to provide the top clinical treatments for our community. Providing highly noninvasive protocols is our priority, and our personalized patient-based clinical insight is what we provide.

Lumbar Spine Injuries in Sports: Chiropractic Healing

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

Sheu, Y., Chen, L. H., & Hedegaard, H. (2016). Sports- and Recreation-related Injury Episodes in the United States, 2011-2014. National Health Statistics Reports, (99), 1–12.

For athletes and sports enthusiasts, a torn triceps can be a serious injury. Can knowing their symptoms, causes, risk factors, and potential complications help healthcare providers develop an effective treatment plan?

Torn Triceps Injury

The triceps is the muscle on the back of the upper arm that allows the elbow to straighten. Fortunately, triceps tears are uncommon, but they can be serious. The injury affects men more often than women and usually occurs from trauma, sports, and/or exercise activities. Depending on the extent and severity of the injury, a torn triceps injury can require splinting, physical therapy, and possibly surgery to regain movement and strength. Recovery after a triceps tear typically lasts around six months. (The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. 2021)

Anatomy

The triceps brachii muscle, or triceps, runs along the back of the upper arm. It is named tri- because it has three heads - the long, medial, and lateral head. (Sendic G. 2023) The triceps originates at the shoulder and attaches to the shoulder blade/scapula and upper arm bone/humerus. At the bottom, it attaches to the point of the elbow. This is the bone on the pinky side of the forearm, known as the ulna. The triceps cause movement at the shoulder and the elbow joint. At the shoulder, it performs extension or backward movement of the arm and adduction or moving the arm toward the body. The main function of this muscle is at the elbow, where it performs extension or straightening of the elbow. The triceps work the opposite of the biceps muscle on the front of the upper arm, which conducts flexion or bending of the elbow.

Triceps Tear

Tears can occur anywhere along the length of a muscle or tendon, which is the structure that attaches the muscle to the bones. Triceps tears commonly occur in the tendon connecting the triceps to the back of the elbow. Muscle and tendon tears are graded from 1 to 3 based on severity. (Alberto Grassi et al., 2016)

Grade 1 Mild

• These small tears cause pain that worsens with movement.
• There is some swelling, bruising, and minimal loss of function.

Grade 2 Moderate

• These tears are larger and have moderate swelling and bruising.
• The fibers are partially torn and stretched.
• Up to 50% loss of function.

Grade 3 Severe

• This is the worst type of tear, where the muscle or tendon is completely torn.
• These injuries cause severe pain and disability.

Symptoms

Triceps tears cause immediate pain in the back of the elbow and upper arm that worsens when trying to move the elbow. Individuals might also feel and/or hear a popping or tearing sensation. There will be swelling, and the skin will likely be red and/or bruised. With a partial tear, the arm will feel weak. If there is a complete tear, there will be significant weakness when straightening the elbow. Individuals may also notice a lump on the back of their arm where the muscles have contracted and knotted together.

Causes

Triceps tears usually occur during trauma, when the muscle is contracted and an external force pushes the elbow into a bent position. (Kyle Casadei et al., 2020) One of the most common causes is by falling on an outstretched arm. Triceps tears also occur during sports activities like:

• Throwing a baseball
• Blocking in a football game
• Gymnastics
• Boxing
• When a player falls and lands on their arm.
• Tears can also happen when using heavy weights during triceps-targeted exercises, such as the bench press.
• Tears can also occur from direct trauma to the muscle, like a motor vehicle accident, but are less common.

Long-Term

Triceps tears can develop over time as a result of tendonitis. This condition usually occurs from repetitive use of the triceps muscle during activities like manual labor or exercise. Triceps tendonitis is sometimes referred to as weightlifter's elbow. (Orthopedic & Spine Center. N.D.) The strain on tendons causes tiny tears that the body typically heals. However, if more strain is placed on the tendon than it can keep up with, the small tears can begin to grow.

Risk Factors

Risk factors can increase the risk of a triceps tear. Underlying medical conditions can weaken tendons, increasing the risk of injury, and can include: (Tony Mangano et al., 2015)

• Diabetes
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Hyperparathyroidism
• Lupus
• Xanthoma - fatty deposits of cholesterol under the skin.
• Hemangioendothelioma - cancerous or noncancerous tumors caused by abnormal growth of blood vessel cells.
• Chronic kidney failure
• Chronic tendonitis or bursitis in the elbow.
• Individuals who have had cortisone shots in the tendon.
• Individuals using anabolic steroids.

Triceps tears tend to occur more commonly in males between 30 and 50. (Ortho Bullets. 2022) This comes from participating in activities like football, weightlifting, bodybuilding, and manual labor, which also increases the risk of injury.

Treatment

Treatment depends on which part of the triceps is affected and the extent of the damage. It may only need resting for a few weeks, physical therapy, or require surgery.

Nonsurgical

Partial tears in the triceps that involve less than 50% of the tendon can often be treated without surgery. (Mehmet Demirhan, Ali Ersen 2016) Initial treatment includes:

• Splinting the elbow with a slight bend for four to six weeks allows the injured tissue to heal. (Ortho Bullets. 2022)
• During this time, ice can be applied to the area for 15 to 20 minutes several times daily to help decrease pain and swelling.
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs - Aleve, Advil, and Bayer can help reduce inflammation.
• Other over-the-counter medications like Tylenol can help decrease the pain.
• Once the splint is removed, physical therapy will help restore movement and strength in the elbow.
• Full movement is expected to return within 12 weeks, but full strength will not return until six to nine months after the injury. (Mehmet Demirhan, Ali Ersen 2016)

Surgery

Triceps tendon tears that involve more than 50% of the tendon require surgery. In some cases, however, surgery may still be recommended for tears smaller than 50% if the individual has a physically demanding job or plans to resume playing sports at a high level. Tears in the muscle belly or area where the muscle and tendon join are typically sewn back together. If the tendon is no longer attached to the bone, it is screwed back on. Recovery and physical therapy after surgery depend on the specific surgeon's protocols. In general, individuals will spend a couple of weeks in a brace. Around four weeks after surgery, individuals will be able to start moving the elbow again. However, they won't be able to start doing heavy lifting for four to six months. (Ortho Bullets. 2022) (Mehmet Demirhan, Ali Ersen 2016)

Complications

Complications can occur after triceps repair, whether there was surgery or not. For example, individuals may have problems regaining full elbow extension or straightening. They are also at a higher risk of re-rupture if they try to use the arm before it's fully healed. (Mehmet Demirhan, Ali Ersen 2016)

Chiropractic Care for Healing After Trauma

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

The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. (2021). Distal triceps repair: clinical care guideline. (Medicine, Issue. https://medicine.osu.edu/-/media/files/medicine/departments/sports-medicine/medical-professionals/shoulder-and-elbow/distaltricepsrepair.pdf?

Sendic G. Kenhub. (2023). Triceps brachii muscle Kenhub. https://www.kenhub.com/en/library/anatomy/triceps-brachii-muscle

Grassi, A., Quaglia, A., Canata, G. L., & Zaffagnini, S. (2016). An update on the grading of muscle injuries: a narrative review from clinical to comprehensive systems. Joints, 4(1), 39–46. https://doi.org/10.11138/jts/2016.4.1.039

Casadei, K., Kiel, J., & Freidl, M. (2020). Triceps Tendon Injuries. Current sports medicine reports, 19(9), 367–372. https://doi.org/10.1249/JSR.0000000000000749

Orthopedic & Spine Center. (N.D.). Triceps tendonitis or weightlifter's elbow. Resource Center. https://www.osc-ortho.com/resources/elbow-pain/triceps-tendonitis-or-weightlifters-elbow/

Mangano, T., Cerruti, P., Repetto, I., Trentini, R., Giovale, M., & Franchin, F. (2015). Chronic Tendonopathy as a Unique Cause of Non Traumatic Triceps Tendon Rupture in a (Risk Factors Free) Bodybuilder: A Case Report. Journal of orthopaedic case reports, 5(1), 58–61. https://doi.org/10.13107/jocr.2250-0685.257

Ortho Bullets. (2022). Triceps rupture https://www.orthobullets.com/shoulder-and-elbow/3071/triceps-rupture

Demirhan, M., & Ersen, A. (2017). Distal triceps ruptures. EFORT open reviews, 1(6), 255–259. https://doi.org/10.1302/2058-5241.1.000038

Knee injuries can present in physically active individuals that lift weights. Can understanding the types of weightlifting knee injuries help in prevention?

Weightlifting Knee Injuries

Weight training is very safe for the knees as regular weight training can improve knee strength and prevent injury as long as the correct form is followed. For Individuals with knee injuries from other activities, incorrect weight-training exercises could worsen the injury. (Ulrika Aasa et al., 2017) As well as, sudden twisting movements, poor alignment, and pre-existing injuries can increase the risk of worsening or creating further injuries. (Hagen Hartmann et al, 2013) The body and the knees are designed to support vertical forces on the joints.

Common Injuries

Weightlifting knee injuries occur as the knee joints endure a wide range of stresses and strains. In weight training, the ligaments that attach to the complex bone system of the knee joint can be damaged by incorrect movements, overloading the weight, and increasing the weight too soon. These injuries can result in pain, swelling, and immobility that can range from minor to severe, from a sprain or a slight tear to a complete tear in serious cases.

Anterior Cruciate Ligament - ACL - Injury

This ligament attaches the thigh's femur bone to the lower leg's shin bone/tibia and controls excessive rotation or extension of the knee joint. (American Academy of Family Physicians. 2024)

• Anterior means front.
• ACL injuries are seen mostly in athletes but can happen to anybody.
• Severe damage to the ACL usually means surgical reconstruction and up to 12 months of rehabilitation.
• When weightlifting, try to avoid twisting knee movements, intentionally or accidentally, under excessive load.

Posterior Cruciate Ligament - PCL - Injury

• The PCL connects the femur and tibia at different points to the ACL.
• It controls any backward motion of the tibia at the joint.
• Injuries occur most with high-impact forces as a result of accidents and sometimes in activities where forceful trauma to the knee occurs.

Medial Collateral Ligament - MCL - Injury

• This ligament maintains the knee from bending too far to the inside/medially.
• Injuries mostly occur from impact to the outside of the knee or from accidental bodyweight force on the leg that bends at an unusual angle.

Lateral Collateral Ligament - LCL - Injury

• This ligament connects the smaller bone of the lower leg/fibula to the femur.
• It is opposite to the MCL.
• It maintains excessive outward movement.
• LCL injuries occur when a force pushes the knee out.

Cartilage Injury

• Cartilage prevents bones from rubbing together and cushions impact forces.
• Knee menisci are cartilage that cushions the knee joints inside and outside.
• Other types of cartilage protect the thigh and shin bones.
• When cartilage gets torn or damaged, surgery may be required.

Tendonitis

• Aggravated and overused knee tendons can lead to weightlifting knee injuries.
• A related injury known as iliotibial band syndrome/ITB causes pain to the outside of the knee, usually in runners, but it can occur from overuse.
• Rest, stretching, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medication are a common treatment plan.
• Individuals should consult a physical therapist for pain lasting longer than two weeks. (Simeon Mellinger, Grace Anne Neurohr 2019)

Osteoarthritis

• As the body ages, normal wear and tear can cause the development of osteoarthritis of the knee joints. (Jeffrey B. Driban et al., 2017)
• The condition causes the cartilage to deteriorate and bones to rub together, resulting in pain and stiffness.

Prevention

• Individuals can minimize their risk of weightlifting knee injuries and pain by following their doctor's and personal trainers' recommendations.
• Individuals with an existing knee injury should follow their doctor's or physical therapist's recommendations.
• A knee sleeve can keep the muscles and joints secure, providing protection and support.
• Stretching the leg and knee muscles can maintain joint flexibility.
• Avoid sudden lateral movements.
• Possible recommendations can include:

Avoiding Certain Exercises

• Isolation exercises like leg curls, standing, or on a bench, as well as using the leg extension machine, can stress the knee.

Deep Squat Training

Research shows that the deep squat can protect against lower leg injury if the knee is healthy. However, this is when done with proper technique, under expert supervision, and with a gradual progressive load. (Hagen Hartmann et al, 2013)

Individuals should talk to their doctor before beginning a new exercise routine. A personal trainer can provide training in learning the proper technique and weightlifting form.

How I Tore my ACL Part 2

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

Aasa, U., Svartholm, I., Andersson, F., & Berglund, L. (2017). Injuries among weightlifters and powerlifters: a systematic review. British journal of sports medicine, 51(4), 211–219. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2016-096037

Hartmann, H., Wirth, K., & Klusemann, M. (2013). Analysis of the load on the knee joint and vertebral column with changes in squatting depth and weight load. Sports medicine (Auckland, N.Z.), 43(10), 993–1008. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-013-0073-6

American Academy of Family Physicians. ACL injury. (2024). ACL injury (Diseases and Conditions, Issue. https://familydoctor.org/condition/acl-injuries/

Mellinger, S., & Neurohr, G. A. (2019). Evidence based treatment options for common knee injuries in runners. Annals of translational medicine, 7(Suppl 7), S249. https://doi.org/10.21037/atm.2019.04.08

Driban, J. B., Hootman, J. M., Sitler, M. R., Harris, K. P., & Cattano, N. M. (2017). Is Participation in Certain Sports Associated With Knee Osteoarthritis? A Systematic Review. Journal of athletic training, 52(6), 497–506. https://doi.org/10.4085/1062-6050-50.2.08

For individuals into sports, fitness enthusiasts, and those that engage in physical activities, musculoskeletal injuries are common. Can using ice tape help during the initial or acute phase of injury decrease inflammation and swelling to expedite recovery and return to activities sooner?

Ice Tape

After a musculoskeletal injury, individuals are recommended to follow the R.I.C.E. method to help reduce swelling and inflammation.  R.I.C.E. is the acronym for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. (Michigan Medicine. University of Michigan. 2023) The cold helps to decrease pain, lower tissue temperature, and decrease swelling around the site of the injury. By controlling the inflammation with ice and compression early after injury, individuals can maintain the appropriate range of motion and mobility around the injured body part. (Jon E. Block. 2010) There are different ways to apply ice to an injury.

• Store-bought ice bags and cold packs.
• Soaking the injured body part in a cold whirlpool or tub.
• Making reusable ice packs.
• A compression bandage can be used together with the ice.

Ice Tape is a compression bandage that provides cold therapy all at once. After an injury, applying it can help decrease the pain and swelling during the acute inflammatory phase of healing. (Matthew J. Kraeutler et al., 2015)

How The Tape Works

The tape is a flexible bandage that is infused with therapeutic cooling gel. When applied to an injured body part and exposed to air, the gel activates, generating a cold sensation around the area. The therapeutic medicinal effect can last five to six hours. Combined with a flexible bandage, it provides ice therapy and compression. The ice tape can be used straight out of the package but can also be stored in the refrigerator to increase the cold effect. Depending on the maker's instructions, the tape should not be stored in the freezer as this can make it too hard to wrap around the injured area.

Advantages

The benefits include the following:

Easy to Use

• The product is easy to use.
• Take out the tape, and start wrapping it around the injured body part.

Fasteners Not Required

• The wrap sticks to itself, so the tape stays in place without using clips or fasteners.

Easy to Cut

• The standard roll is 48 inches long by 2 inches wide.
• Most injuries require enough to wrap around the injured area.
• Scissors cut the exact amount needed, and store the rest in the resealable bag.

Reusable

• After 15 to 20 minutes of application, the product can be easily removed, rolled up, stored in the bag, and used again.
• The tape can be used multiple times.
• The tape begins to lose its cooling quality after several uses.

Portable

• The tape does not need to be placed in a cooler when traveling.
• It is easily portable and perfect for a quick ice and compression application immediately after an injury.
• It can decrease pain and inflammation and kept at the workplace.

Disadvantages

A few disadvantages include the following:

Chemical Odor

• The gel on the flexible wrap can have a medicine odor.
• It is not quite as powerful smelling as pain creams, but the chemical odor could bother some individuals.

Might Not Be Cold Enough

• The tape works for immediate pain relief and inflammation, but it may not get cold enough for the user when applied right from the package at room temperature.
• However, it can be placed in a refrigerator to increase the coldness and may provide a more therapeutic cooling effect, especially for those dealing with tendinitis or bursitis.

Stickiness Could Be Distracting

• The tape could be a bit sticky for some.
• This sticky factor can be a minor annoyance.
• However, it just feels sticky when being applied.
• A couple of flecks of the gel may get left behind when removed.
• The ice tape can also stick to clothing.

For individuals looking for a quick, on-the-go cooling therapy for injured or aching body parts, ice tape may be an option. It could be good to have on hand to provide cooling compression if a minor injury occurs while participating in athletics or physical activities and relief for overuse or repetitive strain injuries.

Treating Ankle Sprains

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 discuss the subject matter above further, 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

Michigan Medicine. University of Michigan. Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE).

Block J. E. (2010). Cold and compression in the management of musculoskeletal injuries and orthopedic operative procedures: a narrative review. Open access journal of sports medicine, 1, 105–113. https://doi.org/10.2147/oajsm.s11102

Kraeutler, M. J., Reynolds, K. A., Long, C., & McCarty, E. C. (2015). Compressive cryotherapy versus ice-a prospective, randomized study on postoperative pain in patients undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair or subacromial decompression. Journal of shoulder and elbow surgery, 24(6), 854–859. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jse.2015.02.004

Athletes and physically active individuals who participate in activities, exercises, and sports that involve kicking, pivoting, and/or shifting directions can develop pelvis overuse injury of the pubic symphysis/joint at the front of the pelvis known as osteitis pubis. Can recognizing the symptoms and causes help in treatment and prevention?

Osteitis Pubis Injury

Osteitis pubis is the inflammation of the joint that connects the pelvic bones, called the pelvic symphysis, and the structures around it. The pubic symphysis is a joint in front of and below the bladder. It holds the two sides of the pelvis together in the front. The pubis symphysis has very little motion, but when abnormal or continued stress is placed on the joint, groin and pelvic pain can present. An osteitis pubis injury is a common overuse injury in physically active individuals and athletes but can also occur as the result of physical trauma, pregnancy, and/or childbirth.

Symptoms

The most common symptom is pain over the front of the pelvis. The pain is most often felt in the center, but one side may be more painful than the other. The pain typically radiates/spreads outward. Other signs and symptoms include: (Patrick Gomella, Patrick Mufarrij. 2017)

• Lower abdominal pain in the center of the pelvis
• Limping
• Hip and/or leg weakness
• Difficulty climbing stairs
• Pain when walking, running, and/or shifting directions
• Clicking or popping sounds with movement or when shifting directions
• Pain when lying down on the side
• Pain when sneezing or coughing

Osteitis pubis can be confused with other injuries, including a groin strain/groin pull, a direct inguinal hernia, ilioinguinal neuralgia, or a pelvic stress fracture.

Causes

An osteitis pubis injury usually occurs when the symphysis joint is exposed to excessive, continued, directional stress and overuse of the hip and leg muscles. Causes include: (Patrick Gomella, Patrick Mufarrij. 2017)

• Sports activities
• Exercising
• Pregnancy and childbirth
• Pelvic injury like a severe fall

Diagnosis

The injury is diagnosed based on a physical examination and imaging tests. Other tests may be used to rule out other possible causes.

• The physical exam will involve manipulation of the hip to place tension on the rectus abdominis trunk muscle and adductor thigh muscle groups.
• Pain during the manipulation is a common sign of the condition.
• Individuals may be asked to walk to look for irregularities in gait patterns or to see if symptoms occur with certain movements.

1. X-rays will typically reveal joint irregularities as well as sclerosis/thickening of the pubic symphysis.
2. Magnetic resonance imaging - MRI may reveal joint and surrounding bone inflammation.
3. Some cases will show no signs of injury on an X-ray or MRI.

Treatment

Effective treatment can take several months or longer. Because inflammation is the underlying cause of symptoms, the treatment will often involve: (Tricia Beatty. 2012)

Rest

• Allows the acute inflammation to subside.
• During recovery, sleeping flat on the back may be recommended to reduce pain.

Ice and Heat Applications

• Ice packs help reduce inflammation.
• The heat helps ease pain after the initial swelling has gone down.

Physical Therapy

• Physical therapy can be extremely helpful in treating the condition to help regain strength and flexibility. (Alessio Giai Via, et al., 2019)

Anti-inflammatory Medication

• Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications - NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen can reduce pain and inflammation.

Assistive Walking Devices

• If the symptoms are severe, crutches or a cane may be recommended to reduce stress on the pelvis.

Cortisone

• There have been attempts to treat the condition with cortisone injections, but the evidence supporting its use is limited and needs further research. (Alessio Giai Via, et al., 2019)

Prognosis

Once diagnosed, the prognosis for full recovery is optimal but can take time. It can take some individuals six months or more to return to pre-injury level of function, but most return by around three months. If conservative treatment fails to provide relief after six months, surgery could be recommended. (Michael Dirkx, Christopher Vitale. 2023)

Sports Injuries Rehabilitation

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

Gomella, P., & Mufarrij, P. (2017). Osteitis pubis: A rare cause of suprapubic pain. Reviews in urology, 19(3), 156–163. https://doi.org/10.3909/riu0767

Beatty T. (2012). Osteitis pubis in athletes. Current sports medicine reports, 11(2), 96–98. https://doi.org/10.1249/JSR.0b013e318249c32b

Via, A. G., Frizziero, A., Finotti, P., Oliva, F., Randelli, F., & Maffulli, N. (2018). Management of osteitis pubis in athletes: rehabilitation and return to training - a review of the most recent literature. Open access journal of sports medicine, 10, 1–10. https://doi.org/10.2147/OAJSM.S155077

Dirkx M, Vitale C. Osteitis Pubis. [Updated 2022 Dec 11]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK556168/

As the body grows older the ability to live life to the fullest can be difficult. Can using natural biologics help enhance the body’s natural ability to heal?

Natural Biologics

Though sometimes a necessary treatment option, surgical procedures can be the first line of treatment introduced to patients. Natural biologics is a less invasive alternative that can eliminate hospitalizations and expedite recovery. (Riham Mohamed Aly, 2020)

What Are They?

The body is born with components to initiate healing and recovery. These components include:

• Cells
• Cytokines
• Proteins
• Collagens
• Elastin
• Hyaluronic acid

At the time of birth, these components are in abundance but decrease as the body ages. This is why children recover from injuries quicker than adults.  Recovery for adults can be slower from a decrease in these natural healing components. The objective of natural biologics treatments is to increase the healing components by reintroducing the body’s own components - autologous - or by bringing in new components - allogeneic - from a donor. (National Institutes of Health 2016) Choosing between the two options depends on an individual's age and health, as those who are older or in poor physical health may experience complications from inferior component amounts.

• Healing components derived from donor sources can show more promise, as treatments are usually acquired from discarded birth tissues at delivery.
• Birth tissues are rich in healing components, containing the most abundant collection of natural healing elements.
• It's important to note that there is no harm to the mother or the baby from the obtained tissue products.

Autologous Treatment

Derived from the individual receiving the cell therapy. (Yun Qian, et al., 2017)

Platelet-Rich Plasma - PRP

• Platelet-rich plasma is cultivated by drawing an individual's blood and spinning it in a centrifuge to separate the plasma.
• The resulting liquid is reinjected into the injured area to generate a healing environment.
• This form of natural biologics is effective for individuals with minor injuries that can be repaired easily.
• This process is not as effective for older individuals who already have a reduction in natural healing components.
• Lifestyle factors such as smoking, unhealthy diet, and alcohol/substance abuse can decrease the effectiveness of PRP treatments.

Bone Marrow Aspirate

• This is an invasive, painful process that begins by putting a patient under anesthesia and drilling into the bone to extract the marrow. (American Cancer Society, 2023)
• Like PRP, success depends on the individual's age, health, and lifestyle.
• Invasive procedures like this have a higher probability of infection and require a long-term recovery period.

Adipose-Derived Stem Cells

• Adipose tissue/fat treatments are collected through a procedure that resembles the process of liposuction. 
• The procedure is done under general anesthesia and is an invasive process.
• Once the tissue is collected, the cells are separated and reinjected. (Loubna Mazini, et al. 2020)
• The treatment’s success depends on the individual's health, age, and lifestyle.
• There is more risk of infection when choosing this procedure and a long-term recovery period.

Allogeneic Treatments

Donor-based regenerative cells.

Amniotic Fluid Therapy

Amniotic fluid contains various growth factors, cytokines, and anti-inflammatory proteins that may promote tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and stimulate cellular regeneration. (Petra Klemmt. 2012)

• Collected at the time of birth, this therapy is an ideal treatment for individuals who have sustained injuries that affect day-to-day functionality.
• Physicians and clinicians are utilizing amniotic fluid therapy to treat many conditions, from orthopedic to wound care.
• Amniotic fluid is collected at the time of birth and is abundant with increased healing components compared to autologous sources.
• Amniotic fluid is immune-privileged (limits or suppresses immune response) and the risk of rejection is rare.
• These therapies are usually done in a physician’s office with minimal downtime after treatment.

Wharton’s Jelly

• Wharton’s jelly is derived from the umbilical cord at the time of birth and is primarily composed of a gel substance made up of hyaluronic acid and a network of collagen fibers.
• Its unique properties make it ideal for protecting and supporting the umbilical cord. (Vikram Sabapathy, et al., 2014)
• Believed to contain a population of mesenchymal stem cells that have the capacity to differentiate into various cell types, and other secreted growth factors and cytokines. (F. Gao, et al., 2016)
• It is considered the most valuable source to enhance the healing of various tissues, including bone, cartilage, skin, and nerve tissue.
• It is immune-privileged with little risk of rejection and minimal if any, recovery time after an in-office treatment.

Exosomes

• Exosomes are small, membrane-bound vesicles that play a role in intercellular communication within the body. (Carl Randall Harrell, et al., 2019)
• They contain a variety of bioactive molecules, including proteins, lipids, nucleic acids (like RNA), and signaling molecules.
• They serve as vehicles for transferring the signaling molecules from one cell to another, allowing cells to influence the behavior and function of neighboring or distant cells.
• They can be collected or isolated from various biological fluids and cell cultures through specialized techniques but are most robust when collected at birth.
• The exosomes within the umbilical cord are utilized for tissue repair and regeneration, signaling the cells to promote:
• Proliferation - increase in the number of cells through cell division.
• Differentiation - the transformation of unspecialized cells into specialized cells.
• Tissue healing in damaged or injured areas.
• Exosomes from the umbilical cord are immune-privileged with minimal risk of rejection.
• Treatments are ideal for increasing cell communication and initiating repair when paired with another source of allogeneic therapy like amniotic fluid or Wharton’s Jelly.

Choosing which natural biologics therapy is the best is different for everyone. When selecting a treatment, it is essential for individuals to consult their primary healthcare provider to determine which application will have optimal results.

Is Motion Key To Healing?

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

Aly R. M. (2020). Current state of stem cell-based therapies: an overview. Stem cell investigation, 7, 8. https://doi.org/10.21037/sci-2020-001

National Institutes of Health. (2016). Stem Cell Basics.

Qian, Y., Han, Q., Chen, W., Song, J., Zhao, X., Ouyang, Y., Yuan, W., & Fan, C. (2017). Platelet-Rich Plasma Derived Growth Factors Contribute to Stem Cell Differentiation in Musculoskeletal Regeneration. Frontiers in chemistry, 5, 89. https://doi.org/10.3389/fchem.2017.00089

American Cancer Society. (2023). Types of Stem Cell and Bone Marrow Transplants.

Mazini, L., Rochette, L., Admou, B., Amal, S., & Malka, G. (2020). Hopes and Limits of Adipose-Derived Stem Cells (ADSCs) and Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) in Wound Healing. International journal of molecular sciences, 21(4), 1306. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21041306

Klemmt P. (2012). Application of amniotic fluid stem cells in basic science and tissue regeneration. Organogenesis, 8(3), 76. https://doi.org/10.4161/org.23023

Sabapathy, V., Sundaram, B., V M, S., Mankuzhy, P., & Kumar, S. (2014). Human Wharton's Jelly Mesenchymal Stem Cells plasticity augments scar-free skin wound healing with hair growth. PloS one, 9(4), e93726. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0093726

Gao, F., Chiu, S. M., Motan, D. A., Zhang, Z., Chen, L., Ji, H. L., Tse, H. F., Fu, Q. L., & Lian, Q. (2016). Mesenchymal stem cells and immunomodulation: current status and future prospects. Cell death & disease, 7(1), e2062. https://doi.org/10.1038/cddis.2015.327

Harrell, C. R., Jovicic, N., Djonov, V., Arsenijevic, N., & Volarevic, V. (2019). Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Exosomes and Other Extracellular Vesicles as New Remedies in the Therapy of Inflammatory Diseases. Cells, 8(12), 1605. https://doi.org/10.3390/cells8121605

The Q or quadriceps angle is a measurement of pelvic width that is believed to contribute to the risk of sports injuries in women athletes. Can non-surgical therapies and exercises help rehabilitate injuries?

Quadriceps Q - Angle Injuries

The Q angle is the angle where the femur/upper leg bone meets the tibia/lower leg bone. It is measured by two intersecting lines:

• One from the center of the patella/kneecap to the anterior superior iliac spine of the pelvis.
• The other is from the patella to the tibial tubercle.
• On average the angle is three degrees higher in women than men.
• Average 17 degrees for women and 14 degrees for men. (Ramada R Khasawneh, et al., 2019)
• Sports medicine experts have linked a wider pelvis to a larger Q-angle. (Ramada R Khasawneh, et al., 2019)

Women have biomechanical differences that include a wider pelvis, making it easier to give birth. However, this difference can contribute to knee injuries when playing sports, as an increased Q angle generates more stress on the knee joint, as well as leading to increased foot pronation.

Injuries

Various factors can increase the risk of injury, but a wider Q angle has been linked to the following conditions.

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

• An increased Q angle can cause the quadriceps to pull on the kneecap, shifting it out of place and causing dysfunctional patellar tracking.
• With time, this can cause knee pain (under and around the kneecap), and muscle imbalance.
• Foot orthotics and arch supports could be recommended.
• Some researchers have found a link, while others have not found the same association. (Wolf Petersen, et al., 2014)

Chondromalacia of the Knee

• This is the wearing down of the cartilage on the underside of the kneecap.
• This leads to degeneration of the articular surfaces of the knee. (Enrico Vaienti, et al., 2017)
• The common symptom is pain under and around the kneecap.

ACL Injuries

• Women have higher rates of ACL injuries than men. (Yasuhiro Mitani. 2017)
• An increased Q angle can be a factor that increases stress and causes the knee to lose its stability.
• However, this remains controversial, as some studies have found no association between the Q angle and knee injuries.

Chiropractic Treatment

Strengthening Exercises

• ACL injury prevention programs designed for women have resulted in reduced injuries. (Trent Nessler, et al., 2017)
• The vastus medialis obliquus or VMO is a teardrop-shaped muscle that helps move the knee joint and stabilize the kneecap.
• Strengthening the muscle can increase the stability of the knee joint.
• Strengthening may require a specific focus on muscle contraction timing.
• Closed-chain exercises like wall squats are recommended.
• Glute strengthening will improve stability.

Stretching Exercises

• Stretching tight muscles will help relax the injured area, increase circulation, and restore range of motion and function.
• Muscles commonly found to be tight include the quadriceps, hamstrings, iliotibial band, and gastrocnemius.

Foot Orthotics

• Custom-made, flexible orthotics decrease the Q angle and reduce pronation, relieving the added stress on the knee.
• A custom orthotic ensures that the foot and leg dynamics are accounted for and corrected.
• Motion-control shoes can also help correct overpronation.

Knee Rehabilitation

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

Khasawneh, R. R., Allouh, M. Z., & Abu-El-Rub, E. (2019). Measurement of the quadriceps (Q) angle with respect to various body parameters in young Arab population. PloS one, 14(6), e0218387. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0218387

Petersen, W., Ellermann, A., Gösele-Koppenburg, A., Best, R., Rembitzki, I. V., Brüggemann, G. P., & Liebau, C. (2014). Patellofemoral pain syndrome. Knee surgery, sports traumatology, arthroscopy: Official journal of the ESSKA, 22(10), 2264–2274. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00167-013-2759-6

Vaienti, E., Scita, G., Ceccarelli, F., & Pogliacomi, F. (2017). Understanding the human knee and its relationship to total knee replacement. Acta bio-medica : Atenei Parmensis, 88(2S), 6–16. https://doi.org/10.23750/abm.v88i2-S.6507

Mitani Y. (2017). Gender-related differences in lower limb alignment, range of joint motion, and the incidence of sports injuries in Japanese university athletes. Journal of Physical Therapy Science, 29(1), 12–15. https://doi.org/10.1589/jpts.29.12

Nessler, T., Denney, L., & Sampley, J. (2017). ACL Injury Prevention: What Does Research Tell Us? Current reviews in musculoskeletal medicine, 10(3), 281–288. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12178-017-9416-5

Massage guns can help relieve aching muscles and prevent soreness when used before and after physical activity, work, school, and exercise. They provide massage therapy benefits by targeting muscles with rapid burst pulses. Massage guns can be percussive or vibration-based. Percussive therapy helps increase blood flow to a targeted area, which reduces inflammation and muscle tension, and breaks up knots/trigger points that may have formed in the tissues from added stress or intense physical activity. One of the benefits is that they come with interchangeable massage gun head attachments that target different muscle groups and provide different types of massage. There are many types of interchangeable massage heads, we go over the most common to give a general idea of how they work. If experiencing joint pain, injury, acute muscle pain, or other musculoskeletal disorders, make sure to get clearance from a doctor before using a massage gun.

Massage Gun Head Attachments

The variations of attachments/heads are designed and shaped differently to effectively apply the right amount of pressure to rejuvenate the body's pressure points, soothe tissues, and release tight and sore muscles. The different heads are designed with a distinctive purpose based on the muscle groups targeted. This maximizes effectiveness and ensures maximum comfort and safety.

Ball Head

• The ball attachment is for overall muscle recovery.
• It provides a broad surface area and mimics the hands of a skilled massage therapist, delivering a soothing kneading sensation.
• Made of durable material, the ball massage head can reach deep into the muscles.
• Its round shape makes it more flexible to use anywhere, especially the large muscle groups like the quads and glutes.

U/Fork Shaped Head

• A plastic, dual-pronged head also known as a fork head.
• The attachment provides relief to areas like the shoulders, spine, neck, calves, and Achilles tendon.

Bullet Head

• The plastic head is named as such because of its pointed shape.
• This is recommended for tightness and discomfort in the joints, deep tissues, trigger points, and/or small muscle areas like the feet and wrist.

Flat Head

• The multipurpose flat head is for full-body general massage.
• It helps relieve stiffness and pain for total body muscle relaxation, including muscle groups closer to bone joints.

Shovel-Shaped Head

• The shovel-shaped head is for the abdominal muscles and lower back.
• The attachment provides stimulation to release stiff muscles.

Using The Right Head

Which head to use depends on the individual's specific needs and preferences. Consider the following factors when selecting a massage gun head:

Targeted Areas

• Identify the body areas requiring the most attention.
• If muscle tightness or soreness is occurring in larger muscle groups, like the back or legs, the ball attachment is recommended.
• For more precise areas like trigger points, the bullet head is recommended.
• Heads can be used in conjunction - for example, a large surface area head is used to relax and loosen and relax a general area, then a more precise head is used to focus the massage on the actual tight spot or trigger point.

Massage Intensity

• Massage intensity levels can be varied from a light massage to full force.
• For a softer touch on sensitive muscles, flat head or forkhead attachments are recommended.
• For deep muscle penetration and consistent pressure, the bullet head or shovel head attachments are recommended.

Specific Conditions

• Consider any specific conditions or injuries previous and current.
• For individuals recovering from an injury or with sensitive areas, it's important to choose a massage gun head that provides the necessary relief without causing discomfort or worsening an injury.

Try Out Different Heads and Settings

• Experiment with different massage head attachments and speeds to find the one that works best for the intended purpose.
• Explore each to discover personal preferences.
• Start with the lowest setting and gradually increase, based on comfort level.
• Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical concerns before using a massage gun.

Choosing The Right Massage Head Attachment

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

Bergh, Anna, et al. “A Systematic Review of Complementary and Alternative Veterinary Medicine in Sport and Companion Animals: Soft Tissue Mobilization.” Animals: an open access journal from MDPI vol. 12,11 1440. 2 Jun. 2022, doi:10.3390/ani12111440

Imtiyaz, Shagufta, et al. “To Compare the Effect of Vibration Therapy and Massage in Prevention of Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS).” Journal of Clinical and diagnostic research: JCDR vol. 8,1 (2014): 133-6. doi:10.7860/JCDR/2014/7294.3971

Konrad, Andreas, et al. “The Acute Effects of a Percussive Massage Treatment with a Hypervolt Device on Plantar Flexor Muscles' Range of Motion and Performance.” Journal of sports science & medicine vol. 19,4 690-694. 19 Nov. 2020

Leabeater, Alana et al. “Under the Gun: The effect of percussive massage therapy on physical and perceptual recovery in active adults.” Journal of athletic training, 10.4085/1062-6050-0041.23. 26 May. 2023, doi:10.4085/1062-6050-0041.23

Lupowitz, Lewis. “Vibration Therapy - A Clinical Commentary.” International journal of sports physical therapy vol. 17,6 984-987. 1 Aug. 2022, doi:10.26603/001c.36964

Yin, Yikun, et al. “The effect of vibration training on delayed muscle soreness: A meta-analysis.” Medicine vol. 101,42 (2022): e31259. doi:10.1097/MD.0000000000031259

Sports activities will result in aches, pains, and injuries that need to be examined by a doctor or specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment. Finding the right sports injury specialist can be one of the most difficult parts of dealing with an injury. The following may help when deciding if a sports chiropractic specialist can help.

Sports Injury Specialist

Sports medicine is the study and practice of medical principles related to the science of sports:

• Injury prevention
• Injury diagnosis and treatment
• Nutrition
• Psychology

Sports medicine focuses on the medical and therapeutic aspects of sports physical activity. These individuals can be physicians, surgeons, chiropractors, physical therapists, or providers who regularly work with athletes. Athletes often prefer providers with athletic treatment experience.

Doctor To See First for a Sports Injury

• Individuals that belong to an HMO or PPO may find that their primary care physician is the first doctor to see for injury.
• A family doctor may not be a sports medicine specialist but may have the expertise to deal with the injury.
• Minor musculoskeletal injuries like acute sprains and strains respond well to immediate standard treatments like rest, ice, compression, and elevation.
• Individuals with complicated overuse or training injuries, chronic conditions such as tendonitis, or who require surgery will be referred to a specialist.

Family Doctor Treatment

• Nearly all family practice physicians can diagnose and treat various sports-related injuries.
• They will refer the individual to a doctor with additional training in sports medicine or an orthopedic sports surgeon if necessary.

When to See a Surgeon

• If the injury will likely require surgery and the insurance allows self-referral, individuals may choose to see an orthopedic surgeon first.
• Primary care or sports medicine physicians can treat most sports injuries and fractures.
• A  primary care doctor can recommend an orthopedic surgeon if surgery is required.

Specialists to Consider

After diagnosis, other providers may be involved in caring for sports-related injuries.

Athletic Trainers

• Certified athletic trainers are trained professionals that work exclusively with athletes.
• Many work with high school and college sports teams, but also work in health clubs and medical clinics.
• A certified trainer can help decide which injuries require a specialist and can make the referral.

Physical Therapists

• Physical therapists treat injuries based on a doctor's clinical diagnosis.
• Physical therapy integrates training and rehabilitation principles into recovery.
• Therapists often subspecialize in sports medicine and orthopedic injuries.

Chiropractors

• Chiropractors perform treatments that relieve pressure on various areas of the body.
• Many athletes prefer chiropractic care first because the treatment is done without prescription medications or surgery.
• Chiropractors often work in conjunction with massage therapists to treat various musculoskeletal conditions.

Podiatrists

• A podiatrist is recommended for problems with the foot.
• These clinicians have several years of residency, exclusively studying foot and ankle musculoskeletal problems.
• Podiatrists who focus on sports medicine injuries often work with runners and athletes prone to foot and ankle injuries.
• They also perform biomechanical analysis, assess gait, and make customized foot orthotics.

Holistic Practitioners

Holistic healthcare practitioners use non-invasive, non-pharmaceutical techniques and therapies that include:

• Acupuncture
• Medical herbalism
• Homeopathy
• Other non-traditional methods to treat conditions and illnesses.
• Some may have specific experience in treating sports-related injuries.

Finding the Right Specialist

It is important to find a doctor who can design a treatment plan to heal and rehabilitate the injury properly and get the athlete back to their sport quickly and safely. Medicine is science and art, and injury treatment should be personalized to specific goals of healing and performance. 

When selecting a healthcare provider to treat injuries or provide advice, personal recommendations from trusted sources are recommended to screen providers, as well as asking other athletes, local teams, gyms, athletic clubs, and healthcare organizations can direct individuals in the right direction.

If you can't find a confident recommendation, look for a certified sports medicine physician online or call the clinic. When calling the office, questions to think about include:

• What is your treatment specialty?
• What experience do you have treating athletes?
• What special training do you have in sports injury care?
• What degrees and certifications do you have?

How I Tore My ACL

General Disclaimer *

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

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

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

email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

Licensed in: Texas & New Mexico*

References

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