Telemedicine is now a normal part of sports medicine. Athletes, parents, and coaches are using virtual visits to get fast answers, avoid long drives, and stay on track with rehab. When an integrative chiropractor and a nurse practitioner (NP) work together via telemedicine, athletes receive both medical and musculoskeletal care in a unified plan.

This article explains, in clear language, how this dual team can help with sports injuries using remote exams, guided movement tests, home-based rehab, and continuous support. It also highlights the clinical approach used by Dr. Alexander Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, whose practice combines chiropractic care, functional medicine, and integrative injury recovery. El Paso, TX Doctor Of Chiropractic

Why Telemedicine Fits Today’s Athletes

Telemedicine means seeing a health professional by secure video or phone instead of going to the clinic. Johns Hopkins Medicine notes that telehealth can save travel time, reduce exposure to illness, and make it easier to fit visits into a busy schedule (Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2025). Hopkins Medicine

For athletes, that matters. Practices, games, school, work, and travel make it hard to get in-person care. Telemedicine can help by providing:

• Fast access after an injury at a game or practice

• Follow-up care between in-person visits

• Specialist input for teams in rural or small-town settings

• Safer care by avoiding crowded waiting rooms during cold/flu season

In sports, telemedicine has become a “game-changer,” offering instant access to injury assessment, personalized rehab programs, nutrition advice, and mental health support (InjureFree Team, 2025; Nully Medical, 2025). InjureFree+1

What Makes an “Integrative” Team Different?

An integrative model brings multiple skills together instead of working in silos. In this case:

• A Nurse Practitioner (NP) covers the medical side.

• An integrative chiropractor focuses on the spine, joints, and movement.

Together, they can address both medical issues (such as medication, imaging, and ruling out serious problems) and biomechanical matters (such as alignment, soft-tissue strain, and movement faults) through the same telemedicine platform.

In clinics like Dr. Jimenez’s in El Paso, the care model is built around: El Paso, TX Doctor Of Chiropractic

• Thorough history-taking and full-body assessment

• Focus on spinal and joint function, posture, and movement.

• Integrated functional medicine, including nutrition and lifestyle

• Recovery plans that mix hands-on care, exercise, and at-home strategies

Telemedicine adds a flexible, remote layer on top of this structure, allowing care to continue between office visits.

Roles in a Telemedicine Sports Injury Visit

What the Nurse Practitioner Does

The NP focuses on medical safety and overall case management. Through telemedicine, the NP can:

• Take a detailed medical and injury history.

• Ask about the mechanism of injury, symptoms, and red flags (e.g., severe headache, neck pain, numbness)

• Perform a virtual neurological and general physical screen (within telehealth limits)

• Order diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound, when indicated.

• Prescribe medications (for example, short-term pain control, muscle relaxants, or anti-inflammatories when appropriate and safe)

• Coordinate referrals to orthopedics, neurology, physical therapy, or mental health.

• Monitor concussion symptoms, mood, sleep, and overall recovery progress

Telehealth research shows that virtual evaluations can be effective and comparable to in-person visits for many musculoskeletal and chronic conditions when structured properly (Brown et al., 2022; Bowhay et al., 2023). PubMed+1

What the Integrative Chiropractor Does

The chiropractor focuses on the spine, joints, and movement system, even when the contact is virtual. During telemedicine visits, a chiropractor can:

• Watch how the athlete moves on camera (walks, squats, jumps, rotates)

• Guide self-palpation (having the athlete or parent press along joints or muscles to find painful areas)

• Lead basic orthopedic tests adapted for home use.

• Analyze posture, body mechanics, and how the athlete performs sport-specific motions.

• Teach guided corrective exercises, stretches, and stabilization drills.

• Explain when in-person spinal or joint adjustments are recommended for later.

Telehealth sports physio and tele-PT models already rely heavily on guided exercise, movement observation, and coaching, and have been shown to provide outcomes similar to in-person care for function and quality of life (SportsMD Editors, 2025; Cottrell et al., 2017). SportsMD+1

In practices like Dr. Jimenez’s, this approach blends easily with in-clinic chiropractic visits. Virtual sessions are used to check technique, adjust exercise load, and refine recovery plans between hands-on treatments. El Paso, TX Doctor Of Chiropractic

How a Telemedicine Sports Injury Visit Actually Works

Think of a telemedicine visit as a structured, step-by-step process:

1. Pre-visit intake

   • Online forms, symptom questionnaires, and injury details

   • Uploads of prior imaging reports or athletic trainer notes

2. Virtual check-in and tech setup

   • The athlete logs in on a phone, tablet, or laptop.

   • The camera is positioned so the clinician can see full-body movements (SportsMD Editors, 2025; HHS, 2024). SportsMD+1

3. History and red-flag screen

   • NP asks about:

     • When and how the injury occurred

     • Pain location, severity, and quality

     • Red-flag symptoms (e.g., chest pain, shortness of breath, neck instability, severe headache, or neurologic deficits)

4. Guided physical and movement exam

   • Integrative chiropractor leads the athlete through:

     • Range-of-motion tests (neck, shoulder, back, hip, knee, ankle)

     • Functional moves like squats, lunges, toe-walks, or sport-specific drills

     • Gentle self-palpation or partner-assisted checks (for example, pressing along a tender hamstring or ankle ligaments)

   • The NP may also perform basic neurologic screening (vision, balance, coordination) as seen in teleconcussion and sideline telehealth protocols (Subramanyam et al., 2021; SportsMD Editors, 2023). PubMed+1

5. Combined impression and plan

   • NP and chiropractor share their findings and rule out urgent red flags that need ER or in-person evaluation.

   • They agree on a working diagnosis (for example, Grade I ankle sprain, patellofemoral pain, mild low-back strain).

   • They outline a joint care plan that includes rest, activity modifications, home exercises, medication (if indicated), nutrition, and follow-up visits.

6. Education and next steps

   • The team explains what to expect over the next days and weeks.

   • Follow-up virtual visits are scheduled, and any in-person visits (for hands-on treatment or imaging) are arranged.

Telemedicine During the Game: Sideline and Concussion Care

One of the most powerful uses of telemedicine in sports is real-time decision-making during or right after a game.

Sideline Telehealth

Telehealth can allow a sports medicine professional to evaluate an injured athlete even when they cannot be physically present. A review in the HSS Journal highlights that telehealth tools and video evaluation can support sideline management and injury assessment, especially during shortages of on-site sports medicine physicians (Subramanyam et al., 2021). PubMed

For example, an athletic trainer on the field can:

• Use a phone or tablet to show the athlete to the NP and chiropractor on video.

• Describe the mechanism of injury and initial findings.

• Follow real-time instructions for simple neurologic, balance, or cervical motion tests.

This can help answer critical questions quickly, such as:

• “Should this player be removed from the game?”

• “Do we need to call 911 or go straight to the ER?”

• “Is this more likely a mild strain that can be reassessed later?”

Teleconcussion Models

Telehealth concussion care (“teleconcussion”) has grown rapidly. Articles from SportsMD show that teleconcussion can improve access to specialists, support faster concussion identification, and improve follow-up rates, especially in areas with limited athletic training coverage (SportsMD Editors, 2023). SportsMD

Key points for teleconcussion include:

• Early removal from play when a concussion is suspected

• Virtual neurologic assessment and symptom review

• Guidance on when to seek emergency imaging

• Ongoing virtual follow-up to manage return-to-learn and return-to-play

In an integrative team:

• The NP leads medical decision-making, concussion protocols, and imaging orders.

• The chiropractor can later address cervical spine stiffness, postural imbalances, and vestibular or musculoskeletal issues that often follow a head impact, using both in-person and telehealth sessions.

Building a Collaborative Telemedicine Treatment Plan

Once the injury is stable and urgent issues are ruled out, the real work begins: rehab.

NP’s Role in the Plan

The NP typically:

• Reviews imaging results (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound) and explains them in simple terms.

• Adjusts or prescribes medications when appropriate, such as:

  • Short-term NSAIDs or other non-opioid pain medications

  • Migraine medicines for chronic post-traumatic headaches

• Screens for and manages comorbid conditions (e.g., asthma, diabetes, sleep issues) that may affect recovery

• Coordinates referrals to:

  • Neurology or orthopedics for complex cases

  • Physical therapy for structured rehab

  • Mental health providers when stress, anxiety, or depression affect recovery

Research in telemedicine and sports health shows that telehealth systems can also support nutrition and mental health needs as part of a broader performance and recovery model (Vasco et al., 2023; InjureFree Team, 2025). MDPI+1

Chiropractor’s Role in the Plan

The integrative chiropractor focuses heavily on movement rehab and spinal/joint health, even when remote:

• Guided movement corrections

  • Teaching safer landing mechanics after ankle sprains

  • Coaching proper squat or lunge technique to protect knees and hips

  • Correcting spinal alignment and posture patterns that overload certain joints

• Progressive exercise programming

  • Core stability and hip activation drills for back pain

  • Scapular stability and rotator cuff strengthening for shoulder injuries.

  • Foot and ankle strengthening and balance work after sprains

• At-home tools and ergonomics

  • Advice on using bands, light weights, or household items for rehab

  • Guidance on setting up home workstations or gaming setups to reduce neck and back strain

Telehealth physio and PT programs show that exercise-based rehab delivered over video can improve function and quality of life, often with high patient satisfaction (SportsMD Editors, 2025; Xiang et al., 2024). SportsMD+1

In Dr. Jimenez’s integrative model, many athletes combine in-office chiropractic adjustments and manual therapy with telemedicine check-ins for exercise progression, lifestyle counseling, and functional medicine support. El Paso, TX Doctor Of Chiropractic

Telemedicine and At-Home Recovery: What Athletes Actually Do

Telehealth is not just about talking—it is about doing. A typical home-based recovery program guided by an NP and chiropractor might include:

1. Daily or near-daily exercises

• Mobility drills for the injured joint and related areas

• Strength exercises with bands or body weight

• Balance and coordination drills for return-to-sport

2. Lifestyle changes

• Sleep schedule support: bedtime, screens, and recovery routines

• Load management: how much to walk, practice, or train

• Advice on cross-training that avoids stressing the injured area

3. Nutrition and hydration

Drawing from telemedicine and sports nutrition research, and integrative practices like Dr. Jimenez’s, virtual care can include: MDPI+1

• Adequate protein and calorie intake for tissue repair

• Anti-inflammatory foods (fruits, vegetables, omega-3-rich foods)

• Hydration strategies during rehab and return-to-play

• Supplement discussions when appropriate (always under medical guidance)

4. Mental health and mindset

InjureFree and other sports telemedicine platforms highlight the use of telehealth to improve access to mental health care for athletes (InjureFree Team, 2025). InjureFree

Virtual visits can connect athletes with:

• Sports psychologists or counselors

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) supports chronic pain or concussion

• Stress-management skills for fear of re-injury or performance anxiety

Key Benefits of Telemedicine for Sports Injuries

From the combined research and clinical experience, several major benefits stand out.

1. Faster access and early decisions

• Quick virtual triage after an injury helps decide:

  • “Home care and monitoring”

  • “Office visit within a few days”

  • “Immediate ER or urgent care”

This is especially crucial for suspected concussions, spinal injuries, or fractures, where delay increases risk (Subramanyam et al., 2021; SportsMD Editors, 2023). PubMed+1

2. Better access in rural and away-game settings

• Many schools and community teams lack full-time athletic trainers or on-site physicians. Telemedicine can connect them to specialists that would otherwise be unavailable (Winkelmann et al., 2020; NFHS, 2024). PMC+1

3. Personalized rehab without constant travel

• Home-based exercise programs and virtual check-ins reduce time away from school, work, and family, while still maintaining a high level of care (SportsMD Editors, 2025; Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2025). SportsMD+1

4. Long-term performance and injury prevention

Telemedicine is not only about recovery; it can also support:

• Periodic movement screens

• Off-season strength and mobility planning

• Nutrition and sleep coaching

• Monitoring of chronic issues (like low back pain, patellar tendonitis, or migraine)

Reviews of telemedicine in sports and chronic disease show that telehealth exercise and nutrition programs can improve both exercise capacity and quality of life (Brown et al., 2022; Vasco et al., 2023). PubMed+1

Limits of Telemedicine and When In-Person Care Is Needed

Telemedicine is powerful, but it is not a replacement for hands-on, in-person care in all cases.

Telemedicine is not enough when:

• There is severe pain, deformity, or suspected fracture.

• There are signs of serious neurologic problems (numbness, weakness, loss of control of bladder/bowel, unstable gait)

• There is concern for spinal cord injury, major ligament rupture, or severe joint dislocation.

• Concussion symptoms are rapidly worsening (repeated vomiting, loss of consciousness, major confusion, or seizures)

In these cases, the NP and chiropractor should direct the athlete to emergency care or urgent imaging. Telemedicine can still help by coordinating information, reviewing results later, and continuing rehab once the emergency phase has passed (Subramanyam et al., 2021; SportsMD Editors, 2023). PubMed+1

How Dr. Jimenez’s Integrative Model Illustrates This Approach

Dr. Alexander Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, runs an integrative clinic in El Paso that focuses on spinal health, sports injuries, personal injury cases, and functional medicine–based wellness. El Paso, TX Doctor Of Chiropractic. His clinical observations support the idea that athletes do best when:

• Medical and musculoskeletal issues are managed together.

• Imaging and lab data are combined with movement analysis, posture, and biomechanics.

• Telemedicine and in-person care work as a continuous loop, not separate silos.

• Athletes receive coaching on nutrition, sleep, stress, and strength training, not just symptom relief.

In this type of integrated telemedicine setup, an NP and chiropractor share:

• A unified treatment plan in the record

• Ongoing case reviews (especially for complex or recurrent injuries)

• Communication with coaches, trainers, and physical therapists when appropriate and with consent

This model aligns with current telemedicine research, which emphasizes connected care teams, remote exercise programs, and patient-centered design for sports and active populations (Winkelmann et al., 2020; Vasco et al., 2023). PMC+1

Practical Tips for Athletes Using Telemedicine for Sports Injuries

If you are an athlete or parent thinking about telemedicine for a sports injury, here are simple steps to get more from each visit:

• Before the visit

  • Write down how and when the injury happened.

  • Note what makes pain better or worse.

  • Gather past imaging reports or trainer notes.

  • Check your camera, microphone, and internet connection.

• During the visit

  • Wear clothing that makes the injured area easy to see and move.

  • Clear a small space for walking, squatting, or performing simple drills.

  • Be honest about pain, fears, and goals (performance, timelines, season, etc.).

• After the visit

  • Follow the home program as written.

  • Track your symptoms and what activities trigger pain.

  • Ask questions during follow-ups if something is unclear or too hard.

Working with an integrative chiropractor and NP through telemedicine can help you:

• Get faster assessments

• Avoid unnecessary ER visits or long drives.

• Receive unified, whole-person care that covers your medical, musculoskeletal, mental, and lifestyle needs

• Return to sport with a stronger body and clearer plan.

Using Telehealth to Improve Access to Trauma Care Among Injured Rural Patients in the US

References

• Brown, R. C., et al. (2022). Effectiveness of exercise via telehealth for chronic disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis of exercise interventions delivered via videoconferencing. British Journal of Sports Medicine. PubMed

• Cottrell, M. A., Galea, O. A., O’Leary, S. P., Hill, A. J., & Russell, T. G. (2017). Real-time telerehabilitation for the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions is effective and comparable to standard practice: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clinical Rehabilitation. (Cited in SportsMD telehealth PT article.) PubMed+1

• InjureFree Team. (2025, January 26). Technology Fridays “Breaking Boundaries – The Power of Telemedicine in Sports Expertise at Your Fingertips!”. InjureFree. InjureFree

• Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2025). Benefits of telemedicine. Hopkins Medicine

• Nully Medical (Savoie, L.). (2025, January 3). The power of telemedicine in athlete health care. Nully Medical LLC. Nully Medical LLC

• SportsMD Editors. (2023, April 7). Concussion urgent care specialist near you – Consider teleconcussion. SportsMD. SportsMD

• SportsMD Editors. (2025, January 2). The benefits of telehealth physical therapy. SportsMD. SportsMD

• Subramanyam, V., Day, M. A., & Kinderknecht, J. J. (2021). The role of telehealth in sideline management of sports-related injuries. HSS Journal, 17(1), 46–50. PubMed

• Vasco, P., et al. (2023). Role of technology innovation in telemedicine: Focus on nutrition and sports. Applied Sciences, 13(8), 4837. MDPI

• Winkelmann, Z. K., et al. (2020). Telemedicine experiences of athletic trainers and orthopaedic physicians for musculoskeletal-based patient encounters: A cross-sectional study. Journal of Athletic Training. PMC

• Xiang, X. N., et al. (2024). Telehealth-supported exercise or physical activity programs for individuals with knee osteoarthritis. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders. PMC

• Jimenez, A. (n.d.). El Paso, TX Chiropractor Dr. Alex Jimenez DC | Personal Injury Specialist. Retrieved 2025. El Paso, TX Doctor Of Chiropractic

Find relief from heel pain with effective chiropractic care focusing on the Achilles tendon for optimal recovery.

Introduction

Heel pain is a common complaint that affects millions of people worldwide, often disrupting daily activities like walking, running, or even standing. One of the primary culprits behind this discomfort is issues related to the Achilles tendon, the strong band of tissue connecting your calf muscles to your heel bone. If you’ve ever felt a sharp or aching pain at the back of your heel, especially after exercise or first thing in the morning, you might be dealing with Achilles-related heel pain. This blog post dives deep into the anatomy, causes, and treatments for this condition, with a special focus on how chiropractic care can provide relief without surgery. We’ll explore why the Achilles tendon is so vital, how problems develop, and practical steps you can take to feel better.

Whether you’re an athlete pushing your limits or someone dealing with everyday aches, understanding Achilles tendon heel pain can empower you to seek the right help. We’ll also highlight nonsurgical options like chiropractic adjustments and acupuncture, along with stretches and exercises backed by science. Plus, we’ll share insights from Dr. Alexander Jimenez, a leading expert in chiropractic and functional medicine, to show how personalized care can make a difference.

What Does the Achilles Tendon Do in the Lower Body and Extremities?

The Achilles tendon plays a crucial role in how your lower body moves and functions. It’s the largest and strongest tendon in the human body, acting like a thick rope that helps you push off the ground when you walk, run, or jump. Without it, simple tasks like climbing stairs or playing sports would be nearly impossible.

In the lower extremities, the Achilles tendon connects the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles (your calf muscles) to the calcaneus (heel bone). When these muscles contract, the tendon pulls on the heel, lifting it and propelling your body forward. This action is essential for activities involving propulsion, such as sprinting or jumping. It also helps absorb shock during landing, protecting your joints from excessive force.

Beyond movement, the Achilles tendon contributes to balance and stability. It works with other structures in the foot and ankle to maintain posture and prevent falls. In everyday life, it supports weight-bearing tasks, making it vital for mobility in the legs, feet, and overall lower body. If the tendon is injured or inflamed, it can lead to heel pain that radiates up the leg, affecting your gait and potentially causing compensatory issues in the knees, hips, or back.

References

• Chu, E. C.-P. (2022). Neuromuscular scoliosis in the presence of spina bifida occulta and a transitional lumbosacral vertebra: A case report. Radiology Case Reports, 17(9), 3260-3265. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.radcr.2022.06.033

Anatomy of the Achilles Tendon

To understand heel pain, it’s helpful to know the Achilles tendon’s structure. This tendon is about 6 inches long and forms from the merging of fibers from the two main calf muscles: the gastrocnemius (which crosses the knee joint) and the soleus (which doesn’t). These fibers twist together like a rope, creating a tough, fibrous cord that inserts into the back of the heel bone.

The tendon is surrounded by a sheath called the paratenon, which provides lubrication and protection. Blood supply to the Achilles is limited, especially in the middle section (about 2-6 cm above the heel), making it prone to injury and slow healing. This area, known as the “watershed zone,” has fewer blood vessels, which can contribute to degeneration over time.

Anatomically, the Achilles tendon is part of the posterior compartment of the leg. It works in tandem with the plantar fascia (a band under the foot) and other ligaments to support the ankle joint. When healthy, it can withstand forces up to 10 times your body weight during activities like running. However, overuse or sudden stress can lead to micro-tears, inflammation, or even rupture, manifesting as heel pain.

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*

Sports injuries affect athletes of every age, from weekend joggers to professional competitors. Whether the injury is minor, such as a muscle strain, or more serious, such as a ligament tear, the impact can sideline performance, interrupt training, and even change long-term health. Preventing injuries before they happen is always better than treating them afterward. Prevention allows athletes to stay active, train consistently, and avoid unnecessary pain and setbacks (Mount Sinai, n.d.).

Research indicates that injury prevention relies on several key elements: proper warm-ups, balanced conditioning, safe technique, adequate recovery, and ongoing monitoring of physical health (Nationwide Children’s, n.d.; Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, n.d.). Chiropractors and integrative healthcare providers emphasize these aspects by helping athletes fine-tune body mechanics, strengthen weak points, and address risk factors early (Premier Injury Clinics of DFW, n.d.).

Dr. Alexander Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, a chiropractor and nurse practitioner in El Paso, has witnessed firsthand the benefits of a dual-scope approach for athletes and active individuals. His clinic combines chiropractic adjustments, diagnostic imaging, physical therapy, nutritional guidance, and integrative care methods such as massage, acupuncture, and kinesio taping. This multifaceted strategy not only reduces injuries but also enhances performance and recovery (Jimenez, 2025).

Why Sports Injuries Happen

Modifiable Risk Factors

Most sports injuries are preventable because they are linked to modifiable risk factors—things an athlete can change. These include poor flexibility, weak muscle balance, poor technique, and skipping warm-ups (Emery & Meeuwisse, 2008). By identifying and correcting these issues, the chance of injury drops dramatically.

Overuse Injuries

A large percentage of sports injuries are caused by overuse—doing too much, too fast, without enough rest. This type of injury is common among youth athletes who participate in the same sport year-round without taking recovery breaks (CHOP, n.d.; UTMB, 2017). Tendonitis, shin splints, and stress fractures are typical overuse conditions.

Sudden Trauma

Contact sports and high-impact activities bring the risk of sudden trauma, such as sprains, concussions, and fractures. Although not every traumatic injury can be prevented, using protective gear and maintaining good physical conditioning can minimize severity (Hopkins Medicine, n.d.).

Core Principles of Injury Prevention

1. Warm-Up and Cool-Down Routines

Warming up gradually raises body temperature, increases blood flow to muscles, and primes joints for movement. Cooling down reduces stiffness, supports circulation, and lowers the risk of soreness (First Physio Plus, n.d.; Garden State Pain, n.d.). Skipping these steps leaves the body unprepared, making it more likely to sustain injuries.

2. Balanced Strength and Conditioning

Strength training that targets all major muscle groups provides joint stability and resilience. Core strengthening, for example, helps prevent back injuries, while hip and leg strength reduces the chance of knee injuries (Walker Physical Therapy, n.d.; PWR Physio, n.d.). Conditioning should strike a balance between endurance, flexibility, and mobility for optimal results.

3. Proper Technique

Safe movement mechanics protect the body from unnecessary strain. Coaches, trainers, and chiropractors often review techniques to correct faulty patterns. Small errors—like improper landing after a jump—can place stress on knees and ankles, eventually leading to injuries (GPOA, n.d.).

4. Rest and Recovery

Recovery is one of the most important and often overlooked steps. Muscles and connective tissues need rest to repair and grow stronger. Training without rest leads to fatigue, which increases the risk of injury (Bayfront Health, n.d.; Fick PT & Performance, n.d.).

5. Hydration and Nutrition

Dehydration reduces performance and increases the risk of heat-related illnesses, cramps, and muscle strains. Proper nutrition supports tissue repair, bone strength, and overall energy levels. A balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals supports safe performance (LI Spine Med, 2024).

Chiropractic Care in Sports Injury Prevention

Joint Function and Alignment

Chiropractic adjustments restore joint mobility, improve range of motion, and correct misalignments that can disrupt performance. Athletes with better alignment move more efficiently and reduce unnecessary strain on muscles and ligaments (Advanced Spine & Posture, n.d.).

Posture and Movement Patterns

Many injuries occur due to faulty posture or repetitive stress on specific joints. Chiropractors analyze gait, balance, and spinal alignment to identify areas of weakness and dysfunction. Correcting these patterns reduces the risk of injury (Dallas Accident & Injury Rehab, n.d.; Evolved Health Chiropractic, n.d.).

Enhancing Nerve Function

The nervous system functions play a vital role in coordination and reaction time. Chiropractic care supports spinal health, which in turn protects nerve communication and sharpens reflexes, enabling athletes to respond more effectively in competitive situations (Fremont Chiropractic, n.d.; Young Chiropractic, n.d.).

Relieving Muscle Tension

Chiropractic techniques, including adjustments, soft-tissue therapy, and instrument-assisted treatments, reduce muscle tension and improve circulation. This not only relieves pain but also prepares muscles to perform at their best (Garmon Chiropractic, n.d.).

Integrative Care and Injury Prevention

Nutrition and Hydration

Functional nutrition ensures athletes have the right building blocks for recovery. At Dr. Jimenez’s clinic, nutritional guidance often includes anti-inflammatory foods, hydration strategies, and supplements that support joint and muscle repair (Active Living Chiropractic, n.d.).

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy complements chiropractic care by building strength, flexibility, and balance. PTs design individualized exercise programs that reduce weaknesses, retrain movement patterns, and help prevent re-injury (Current Physical Therapy, 2025).

Massage Therapy

Massage improves circulation, reduces muscle stiffness, and helps muscles recover more quickly. It can also relieve scar tissue and improve flexibility, making the body more resilient against injury (Primary Health & Wellness, n.d.).

Acupuncture

Acupuncture stimulates healing by increasing blood flow, reducing inflammation, and balancing the flow of energy through the body's pathways. Studies suggest it also reduces pain perception, helping athletes recover more efficiently (ASA, n.d.).

Kinesio Taping

Taping techniques support joints, reduce strain on injured tissues, and improve proprioception. Athletes often use kinesio tape during rehabilitation or as a preventive tool in high-stress sports (Premier Injury Clinics of DFW, n.d.).

Clinical Insights: Dr. Alexander Jimenez in El Paso

Dr. Alexander Jimenez blends chiropractic and nurse practitioner skills to deliver dual-scope care. His clinic focuses on neuromusculoskeletal imaging and diagnostic assessments to pinpoint the root cause of injuries. By combining chiropractic adjustments with physical therapy, nutrition, and integrative treatments, his patients benefit from comprehensive injury prevention and recovery strategies (Jimenez, 2025).

His clinic also handles injuries from sports, workplace accidents, and motor vehicle accidents (MVAs). Beyond medical care, Dr. Jimenez’s team documents injuries carefully to support patients through insurance and legal cases. This dual approach ensures both health and protection in personal injury claims.

Recovery and Long-Term Prevention

Recovery is not just about healing the current injury—it is about preventing the next one. Athletes who use chiropractic and integrative strategies consistently develop better body awareness, stronger support muscles, and healthier recovery patterns (Hyperice, n.d.; Tigard Chiropractic, n.d.). Long-term prevention focuses on:

• Ongoing chiropractic adjustments to maintain mobility and balance.

• Regular strength training tailored to the sport.

• Nutritional monitoring to prevent deficiencies.

• Cross-training to avoid overuse injuries.

• Rest cycles that allow tissues to fully recover.

Dr. Jimenez emphasizes that combining these elements results in not just fewer injuries, but stronger, more resilient athletes who can enjoy sports safely for years.

Conclusion

Preventing sports injuries requires more than one strategy. Warm-ups, conditioning, proper technique, rest, and nutrition form the foundation. Chiropractic care builds on this by enhancing alignment, posture, nerve function, and muscle health. Integrative care, which encompasses physical therapy, massage, acupuncture, and taping, offers an additional layer of protection and support for recovery.

Dr. Alexander Jimenez’s clinic in El Paso provides a real-world example of this multifaceted model in action. By combining chiropractic, functional medicine, and advanced imaging with supportive therapies, athletes are equipped with the tools to prevent injuries, recover more quickly, and maintain long-term health.

Lower Back Pain Relief After Gym Injury

References

• Advanced Spine & Posture. (n.d.). Key strategies for injury prevention. Link

• Bayfront Health. (n.d.). Guide to sports injury prevention. Link

• CHOP. (n.d.). Tips to prevent sports injuries in youth athletes. Link

• Dallas Accident & Injury Rehab. (n.d.). Integrating chiropractic expertise and holistic sports medicine. Link

• Emery, C. A., & Meeuwisse, W. H. (2008). Injury prevention in young athletes. Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine, 18(2), 102–108. Link

• First Physio Plus. (n.d.). Preventing sports injuries. Link

• Garden State Pain. (n.d.). Preventing sports injuries in teens. Link

• Garmon Chiropractic. (n.d.). Chiropractic care for sports injuries. Link

• GPOA. (n.d.). The right gear matters. Link

• Hopkins Medicine. (n.d.). Sports safety. Link

• Jimenez, A. (2025). Clinical insights. Retrieved from DrAlexJimenez.com and LinkedIn

• LI Spine Med. (2024). 10 tips for preventing sports injuries. Link

• Mount Sinai. (n.d.). Sports injury prevention. Link

• Nationwide Children’s. (n.d.). Preventing sports injuries. Link

• Nicklaus Children’s Hospital. (n.d.). Sports injury prevention. Link

• Premier Injury Clinics of DFW. (n.d.). Guide to preventing sports injuries. Link

• PWR Physio. (n.d.). Understanding sports injuries: prevention and recovery. Link

• Walker Physical Therapy. (n.d.). Preventing sports injuries. Link

• Young Chiropractic. (n.d.). The role of chiropractic in sports performance and injury prevention. Link

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, and physical medicine, as well as wellness, sensitive health issues, and 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 the jurisdiction in which they are licensed to practice. We utilize functional health and wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders affecting the musculoskeletal system. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters and issues that relate to and directly or indirectly support our clinical scope of practice. Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and identified relevant research studies that support our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies upon request to regulatory boards and the public.

We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how they may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol. To discuss the subject matter above further, please contact Dr. Alex Jimenez or us at 915-50-0900.

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

Email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

Licensed in: Texas & New Mexico*

Fatigue is one of the most common complaints in modern healthcare. People often describe feeling drained, sluggish, or lacking motivation even after sleeping through the night. While caffeine, sugar, and short naps may provide temporary relief, these strategies do not address the underlying causes of low energy. Long-term vitality requires addressing the root causes of fatigue, including nervous system dysfunction, chronic stress, poor sleep, inflammation, and nutritional imbalances.

Chiropractic and integrative care work together to reenergize the body by restoring balance and harmony. Spinal adjustments, targeted exercises, massage, acupuncture, nutrition, and supplementation aim to reduce nervous system interference, improve circulation, decrease inflammation, and support the body's natural healing process. This holistic approach does not mask fatigue—it transforms how the body generates and sustains energy.

Research and clinical observations, such as those of Dr. Alexander Jimenez in El Paso, demonstrate that addressing both structural and functional health leads to renewed vitality in patients recovering from work injuries, sports accidents, and personal injury cases【gotcore.net†source】.

Nervous System Dysfunction and Energy Loss

The nervous system plays a central role in how the body creates and conserves energy. Spinal misalignments, known as subluxations, can disrupt the communication between the brain and body. This disruption may cause the body to waste energy compensating for poor nerve signals, leading to fatigue and decreased focus.【abundantlifechiropractor.com†source】.

Chiropractic adjustments remove these barriers, restoring proper alignment and nervous system function. Patients often report increased energy levels, better concentration, and improved physical performance after care. Studies suggest that when the nervous system functions without interference, the body directs its energy toward healing and daily activities instead of fighting unnecessary stressors【awcchiropractic.com†source】.

Dr. Jimenez emphasizes that patients recovering from motor vehicle accidents often experience fatigue due to hidden nerve dysfunction. Using dual-scope diagnostic imaging and advanced assessments, he identifies spinal misalignments and designs corrective care plans to restore nervous system efficiency.

Reference: Abundant Life Chiropractor – How Chiropractic Spinal Alignment Boosts Your Energy

The Role of Stress and Sleep in Fatigue

Chronic stress depletes energy reserves by raising cortisol levels and disrupting sleep patterns. Over time, this “always on” state can strain the body, leading to fatigue, brain fog, and impaired recovery. Chiropractic care helps regulate stress by improving nervous system function and reducing physical tension in muscles and joints【hellonote.com†source】.

Studies also link chiropractic adjustments to improved sleep quality. By relieving pain, reducing nervous system stress, and balancing hormones such as serotonin and endorphins, chiropractic care supports deep, restful sleep [chiropractorinstoke.co.uk†source].

Dr. Jimenez has observed that patients injured at work or in sports often sleep poorly due to pain and inflammation. By combining chiropractic adjustments with massage therapy, acupuncture, and integrative medicine strategies, he helps restore sleep cycles and assist patients in regaining their natural energy.

Reference: HelloNote – Chiropractic for Stress and Sleep

Inflammation and Chronic Fatigue

Inflammation is both a cause and result of fatigue. When the immune system remains in a constant state of alert, the body spends excessive energy fighting perceived threats. Chiropractic adjustments reduce musculoskeletal inflammation by improving spinal alignment, circulation, and lymphatic drainage【oaklandspinenj.com†source】.

Integrative approaches—such as anti-inflammatory diets, targeted supplements, and functional medicine assessments—further reduce systemic inflammation. B-vitamins, magnesium, coenzyme Q10, and adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha and rhodiola help regulate mitochondrial energy production.【rupahealth.com†source】.

Dr. Jimenez often prescribes nutritional protocols for his patients, combining chiropractic therapy with functional medicine supplements to reduce inflammation and restore energy. This dual-scope strategy ensures that patients not only recover from injury but also improve long-term vitality.

Reference: Oakland Spine – How Chiropractic Care Helps Improve Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Circulation and Oxygen Flow

Better circulation means more oxygen and nutrients reach muscles, tissues, and the brain. When the spine is properly aligned, blood flow improves, helping cells generate energy more efficiently.【thelachiropractor.com†source】.

Dr. Jimenez frequently observes improvements in circulation in patients after spinal manipulation and targeted exercise therapies. Athletes recovering from sports injuries or car accidents often regain endurance and strength as circulation improves, reducing feelings of exhaustion.

Low-impact activities like swimming, walking, and stretching, combined with chiropractic care, enhance circulation further while reducing inflammation.【marksonchiropractic.com†source】.

Reference: LA Chiropractor – How Chiropractic Care Can Boost Your Energy Levels

Functional Medicine and Integrative Protocols for Fatigue

Functional medicine takes an integrative approach by addressing hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, and environmental stressors that contribute to fatigue.【functionalhealthkc.com†source】. Tests for thyroid function, adrenal hormones, and micronutrient levels often reveal hidden causes of low energy.

Integrative care may include supplementation with vitamins B12, D, and magnesium, along with adaptogenic herbs such as rhodiola and ashwagandha【tampahealthcenter.com†source】. These natural remedies support adrenal function, regulate stress hormones, and enhance recovery.

Dr. Jimenez integrates functional lab testing with chiropractic care, ensuring that patients with complex fatigue syndromes receive both physical adjustments and biochemical support. This dual focus addresses root causes on multiple levels.

Reference: Rupa Health – Functional Medicine Protocol for Fatigue

Rehabilitation After Injury: Restoring Energy and Strength

Work injuries, sports trauma, personal accidents, and motor vehicle collisions often drain energy reserves. Pain, inflammation, and restricted movement force the body to use extra energy to compensate. Chiropractic care restores proper alignment, while massage, acupuncture, and rehabilitative exercise reduce strain and promote healing【restorechiro.life†source】.

Dr. Jimenez’s El Paso clinics specialize in treating neuromusculoskeletal injuries with an integrative model. Patients benefit from spinal adjustments, soft-tissue therapy, targeted exercise programs, and functional medicine protocols that improve energy and recovery outcomes. His use of advanced imaging ensures accurate diagnosis, while his experience in legal documentation supports patients pursuing personal injury claims.

Reference: Restore Chiropractic – How Chiropractic Care Helps Boost Your Energy

Dr. Alexander Jimenez’s Dual-Scope Approach in El Paso

Dr. Jimenez’s unique expertise as both a chiropractor and nurse practitioner allows him to evaluate patients from a dual perspective. He correlates injury mechanisms with clinical findings, using advanced diagnostic imaging to confirm conditions such as whiplash, disc herniation, or nerve compression.

For patients in personal injury cases, Dr. Jimenez provides both medical documentation and therapeutic treatment. His protocols include chiropractic adjustments, functional medicine lab testing, acupuncture, massage therapy, and targeted rehabilitation. By integrating legal documentation with patient care, he ensures that recovery is both clinically sound and legally supported【dralexjimenez.com†source】.

Patients frequently report feeling reenergized not only from pain relief but also from the restoration of proper nervous system function, improved sleep, and reduced stress.

Reference: Dr. Alex Jimenez – Official Website

Exercise, Recovery, and Preventing Long-Term Fatigue

Physical activity is one of the most effective ways to boost energy when combined with chiropractic care. Low-impact exercise, such as swimming, walking, and gentle stretching, improves circulation, reduces inflammation, and enhances mood.【jeffersoncountyhealthcenter.org†source】.

Dr. Jimenez often prescribes customized rehabilitation programs after accidents, ensuring exercises are safe and tailored to the patient’s injury type. This prevents long-term fatigue, helps restore mobility, and strengthens the body to reduce the risk of future injuries.

Reference: Jefferson County Health – Navigating Fatigue in Rheumatic Diseases

Conclusion: Restoring Vitality Through Chiropractic and Integrative Care

Reenergizing the body requires more than stimulants and temporary fixes. Chiropractic and integrative care provide long-term solutions by addressing nervous system dysfunction, reducing stress, enhancing sleep quality, regulating inflammation, and promoting optimal nutrition.

Dr. Alexander Jimenez’s dual-scope approach in El Paso demonstrates how combining chiropractic adjustments, integrative therapies, and functional medicine protocols helps patients recover from injury, regain natural energy, and prevent long-term consequences. By aligning the spine, supporting biochemical balance, and restoring circulation, this holistic approach helps renew vitality and empower individuals to live healthier lives.

Is Motion Key to Healing? | El Paso, Tx

References

• Boosting Your Energy Naturally with Chiropractic Care – Got Core

• Chiropractic for Stress and Sleep – HelloNote

• How Chiropractic Spinal Alignment Boosts Energy – Abundant Life Chiropractor

• How Chiropractic Care Can Boost Energy Levels – LA Chiropractor

• How Chiropractic Care Helps Chronic Fatigue – Oakland Spine

• How Chiropractic Care Helps Boost Your Energy – Restore Chiropractic

• Supplements for Energy Boost – GoodRx

• Functional Medicine Protocol for Fatigue – Rupa Health

• Dr. Alexander Jimenez – Chiropractic and Nurse Practitioner Care

General Disclaimer *

The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional or licensed physician and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make healthcare decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified healthcare professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, and physical medicine, as well as wellness, sensitive health issues, and 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 the jurisdiction in which they are licensed to practice. We utilize functional health and wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders affecting the musculoskeletal system. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters and issues that relate to and directly or indirectly support our clinical scope of practice. Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and identified relevant research studies that support our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies upon request to regulatory boards and the public.

We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how they may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol. To discuss the subject matter above further, please contact Dr. Alex Jimenez or us at 915-50-0900.

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

Email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

Licensed in: Texas & New Mexico*

Introduction: Two Paths, One Outcome—Trauma to the Body

Whether someone is sprinting down a field or rear-ended at a stoplight, the result can be the same—an injured body. Sports injuries and motor vehicle accidents (MVAs) are different in setting but similar in how they affect the musculoskeletal system. Both can cause sudden trauma from impact, twisting, or high-speed deceleration. The injuries—sprains, fractures, concussions, and spinal misalignments—frequently mirror each other.

Because of this overlap, many of the same recovery tools used in sports medicine are also helpful for individuals recovering from car crashes. A multidisciplinary, integrative approach combining chiropractic care, physical therapy, and functional diagnostics leads to stronger outcomes and a reduced risk of chronic pain.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, n.d.

The Most Common Injuries: Sprains, Strains, and Tears

Athletes and accident victims often suffer the same types of soft tissue injuries. Sprains—injured ligaments—and strains—overstretched muscles or tendons—happen quickly during impact or awkward movements. In sports, this may be a result of a sudden stop or tackle. In MVAs, it often comes from the jarring motion of the crash.

Sprains of the ankle, knee, and wrist are widely reported by rehab clinics like TheraSport, [The Smith Clinic], and Dubuque Physical Therapy. The same joints are frequently affected in drivers and passengers after car accidents.

These injuries need more than rest. Functional recovery often includes chiropractic alignment, targeted exercises, soft tissue work, and sometimes bracing to protect the area during healing.

Brain Injuries and Whiplash: The Hidden Dangers

Concussions and whiplash don’t always show up right away—but they can create long-term issues if not diagnosed quickly. Concussions, which involve brain trauma from forceful movement inside the skull, happen in football, soccer, and other contact sports. In MVAs, even without direct head impact, the brain can jolt violently, leading to similar symptoms.

Headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, or mental fog may be signs of a concussion, according to the Skinner Law Firm and Visible Body. Neck sprains are another common issue and often occur in non-collision accidents like falls or sudden jerks, per NIH research.

Recovery often involves more than just time off. Chiropractic adjustments, posture retraining, gentle exercise, and neurological screening are all tools used in comprehensive care settings.

Fractures and Dislocations: Structural Damage

Both athletes and drivers are prone to broken bones and joint dislocations. These may come from falls, tackles, or direct impact with another player—or from seatbelts, airbag deployment, and the crushing forces of a car crash.

The Advanced Orthopedic Center reports that accurate imaging and follow-up care are essential for preventing complications. X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs help pinpoint fractures, while rehab restores function after healing. Physical therapy and chiropractic care support joint alignment, rebuild strength, and help prevent re-injury.

Chronic Pain and Poorly Healed Injuries

Unfortunately, some injuries never fully heal when not managed properly. In both sports and MVAs, patients often return to activity too early, leading to persistent pain or re-injury. Neck pain, back stiffness, nerve symptoms, and headaches can all stem from unresolved trauma.

A 2020 study in the Journal of Orthopaedic Research found that poor recovery planning is directly linked to chronic pain. Whether the injury came from an end-zone collision or a traffic incident, consistent follow-up care is vital.

Chiropractic, Massage, and Acupuncture: Integrated Care That Works

Integrative healthcare blends the best of physical therapy, chiropractic medicine, and alternative healing. Chiropractic care realigns the spine and improves joint function, relieving pressure on nerves and muscles. Massage therapy reduces tension, boosts circulation, and encourages the release of healing hormones. Acupuncture targets the nervous system to reduce inflammation and pain naturally.

Together, these approaches help with:

• Whiplash and spinal injuries

• Joint sprains and muscle strains

• Post-concussion recovery

• Nerve compression symptoms

• Long-term pain prevention

Each injury is unique, and a tailored rehab plan gives patients the best chance of recovery.

Diagnostics and Injury Detection: The Foundation of Proper Care

Accurate diagnosis is the first step to healing. Imaging, such as MRIs and musculoskeletal ultrasound, can detect damage that a basic physical exam might miss. Objective testing—like range-of-motion analysis and neurological assessments—offers insight into injury severity and function.

In cases of car accidents, these diagnostics also serve as legal and insurance documentation. Proper reports support claims and make it easier to demonstrate the need for treatment and recovery time.

Legal and Insurance Coordination After Accidents

Unlike sports injuries, motor vehicle accidents often involve legal claims, insurance reports, and ongoing paperwork. For patients, this adds stress to an already difficult situation. Working with clinicians who understand the documentation process makes a big difference.

Complete records, diagnostic evidence, and regular progress notes help ensure that injured individuals are fully supported—both medically and legally. This coordination allows patients to focus on recovery while their cases are handled efficiently behind the scenes.

A Proactive Approach to Prevention and Performance

One of the best ways to recover from injury is to avoid it in the first place. Athletes and drivers alike benefit from prevention strategies:

• Stretching and strengthening muscles

• Practicing proper technique and posture

• Using protective gear and seatbelts

• Maintaining awareness and focus

Functional medicine often focuses on proactive wellness—ensuring the body is resilient and prepared to handle physical stress. By building a solid foundation of movement, strength, and flexibility, individuals can better recover from injury and even reduce their risk in the first place.

Conclusion: Shared Injuries, Shared Solutions

Whether the injury happens on the field or in a car, the body experiences trauma in similar ways. Ligaments tear, muscles strain, nerves become compressed, and bones break. A proper treatment plan—rooted in integrative care and functional diagnostics—can bring healing and restore quality of life.

The combination of chiropractic care, physical therapy, massage, and acupuncture doesn’t just treat symptoms—it addresses the root causes of injury. Whether recovering from a hard tackle or a highway collision, the body deserves complete care, compassionate support, and a personalized recovery path.

The Natural Way to Heal: Non-Surgical Chiropractic Care for Pain Relief

References

Advanced Orthopaedics. (n.d.). Sports medicine: Treating common high school sports injuries. Advanced Orthopaedics.

Boohoff Law. (n.d.). Common types of injuries in car accidents. Boohoff Law.

Brown Health. (n.d.). Types of sports injuries and how they’re treated. Brown Health.

Dubuque Physical Therapy. (n.d.). Sports injuries. Dubuque Physical Therapy.

Indiana Department of Health. (n.d.). Mechanism of injury. Indiana Department of Health Trauma System.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. (n.d.). Biomechanics research. U.S. Department of Transportation.

National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. (n.d.). Sports injuries. National Institutes of Health.

Skinner Law Firm. (n.d.). Understanding common accident injuries. Skinner Law.

Smith Clinic. (n.d.). [Sports injuries](https://thesmithclinic.com/physical-therapy-clinic-services/sports-injuries/#:~:text=Sprains%20(i.e.%2C%20ankle%20or%20ACL,heading%2C%20falls%2C%20etc.). The Smith Clinic.

Stroud, Flechas & Dalton Law. (n.d.). What are common car accident injuries?. Stroud Law.

TheraSport Physical Therapy. (n.d.). Sports injuries. TheraSport.

Uygur, M., & de Jongh Curry, A. (2020). A systematic review of chronic pain and functional outcomes following traumatic musculoskeletal injury. Journal of Orthopaedic Research, 38(11), 2390–2403.

Visible Body. (n.d.). Common sports injuries 101. Visible Body.

Wright, J., & Marquez, P. (2011). Cycling-related injuries in non-collision incidents. Journal of Emergencies, Trauma, and Shock, 4(4), 443–447.

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, and physical medicine, as well as wellness, sensitive health issues, and 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 the jurisdiction in which they are licensed to practice. We utilize functional health and wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders affecting the musculoskeletal system. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters and issues that relate to and directly or indirectly support our clinical scope of practice. Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and identified relevant research studies that support our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies upon request to regulatory boards and the public.

We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how they may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol. To discuss the subject matter above further, please contact Dr. Alex Jimenez or us at 915-50-0900.

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

Email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

Licensed in: Texas & New Mexico*

I. Introduction: Motor Vehicle Accidents & Athletic Risk

For athletes, staying in peak physical condition is crucial. However, when a motor vehicle accident (MVA) occurs, it can disrupt an athlete’s performance, mental focus, and overall well-being. Whether the athlete is a weekend runner, a high school star, or a professional competitor, even a minor accident can lead to injuries that interfere with training, mobility, and game-day readiness.

Car accidents don’t just damage vehicles—they jolt the body violently, causing trauma to the musculoskeletal system. This trauma can result in joint misalignments, soft tissue strain, ligament tears, or spinal disc issues that may not appear immediately. Even low-speed collisions can result in whiplash, a common neck injury that can affect athletic coordination, strength, and flexibility. And for athletes whose livelihood or identity depends on physical performance, such an injury can be devastating.

Beyond the physical toll, many athletes struggle with the emotional and psychological effects of an accident. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression can creep in after a crash, making it harder to focus, train, and bounce back confidently. Combined, these effects can lead to long-term declines in athletic performance if left unaddressed.

The good news? A comprehensive recovery approach that includes chiropractic care, nurse practitioners, acupuncture, and integrative medicine can provide a pathway to healing. This team-based strategy addresses both the physical damage and emotional stress of MVAs, restoring the athlete’s body, mind, and confidence. By identifying underlying injuries, supporting the nervous system, reducing inflammation, and tailoring recovery plans, this approach enables athletes to return to their activities stronger, healthier, and more resilient.

🔗 References:
The Emotional Impact of Car Accidents: Coping and Moving Forward (Florida Law Group, 2023)
Psychology of Sports Injuries (Universidad Europea, n.d.)
What Types of Medical Professionals Treat Car Accident Injuries? (Correll Firm, n.d.)
Enhancing Athletic Performance and Recovery with Acupuncture Treatment (ET Sports Medicine, n.d.)

II. Common Athletic Injuries from MVAs

When an athlete experiences a motor vehicle accident, the physical consequences can go far beyond surface bruises or soreness. The sudden forces involved in a crash—such as rapid deceleration, twisting, or impact—can create hidden injuries that compromise an athlete’s biomechanics and performance. These injuries often involve muscles, ligaments, joints, spinal discs, and nerves—all essential components in athletic motion and strength.

Musculoskeletal and Ligamentous Injuries

One of the most common outcomes of a car crash is musculoskeletal damage. For athletes, these injuries can be particularly troubling because they affect movement efficiency, coordination, and power. Torn ligaments, strained tendons, or sprained joints can silently weaken the body and increase the risk of reinjury when returning to training.

Ligamentous injuries are particularly concerning because they can be subtle yet have a lasting impact. These tissues help stabilize joints, and when overstretched or torn, the body may lose its ability to maintain proper alignment and control during athletic activity. This can lead to instability in the knees, shoulders, or spine, critical areas for high-impact and repetitive movements in sports.

Spinal and Disc Injuries

Whiplash, herniated discs, and spinal misalignments are all common after an MVA. For athletes who rely on core stability, posture, and back strength, a spinal injury can lead to reduced flexibility, persistent pain, and decreased range of motion. These effects not only hinder performance but also make it unsafe to engage in sports until fully treated.

Spinal injuries can also contribute to “referred pain,” where discomfort is felt in other areas of the body due to nerve involvement. Athletes may notice weakness or tingling in their limbs, often misattributed to a sports strain rather than post-accident trauma.

Nerve Damage

In MVAs, trauma can compress or damage nerves, especially in the neck and lower back. For athletes, this may manifest as sharp pain, numbness, or muscle weakness, all of which can reduce performance and limit physical training. Nerve irritation from bulging discs or spinal subluxations can take time to develop, meaning symptoms might not appear until weeks after the accident.

Mental and Emotional Impact

Beyond the body, the brain and emotions are often affected too. Studies show that athletes recovering from traumatic injuries like car accidents are more prone to psychological issues such as fear of reinjury, anxiety, and depression. These feelings may lead to hesitation on the field, lack of confidence, and avoidance of certain movements, further impairing recovery and sports readiness.

Injuries that keep athletes off the field can also lead to identity struggles, especially in competitive sports where physical ability is tied to personal or professional worth. Addressing these psychological effects is just as important as treating physical wounds.

🔗 References:

Effects of Sports Injuries on Athletes (Advanced Bone & Joint, 2021)
Physiotherapy for Sports Injuries (Freedom Physical Therapy, n.d.)
Car Accident Recovery with Chiropractic and Sports Therapy.-,Intestinal%20Damage,recovery%20(Jimenez%2C%202025.) (Jimenez, 2025)
Chiropractic and Nurse Practitioner for Injury Recovery (ChiroMed, n.d.)
Chiropractic Car Accident Treatment (Cedar Park Chiropractic, n.d.)

III. Chiropractic Care: Foundation of Physical Recovery

After a motor vehicle accident, athletes often need more than just rest—they need targeted, restorative treatment that addresses the underlying damage caused by the crash. Chiropractic care is one of the most effective, non-invasive treatment options for athletes recovering from car accidents. It focuses on spinal alignment, joint mobility, and overall nervous system health—three pillars of optimal athletic performance and post-injury healing.

Restoring Spinal Alignment and Mobility

One of the most common effects of a car crash is a misaligned spine, especially in the neck and lower back. For athletes, spinal misalignments can interfere with posture, flexibility, and strength. Chiropractors use precise spinal adjustments to realign the vertebrae, improve joint function, and reduce nerve interference. This not only relieves pain but also enhances mobility, which is critical for athletes looking to return to their sport.

Proper spinal alignment supports better movement mechanics and joint balance, both of which are essential for preventing reinjury during training or competition.

Reducing Inflammation and Soft Tissue Damage

Injuries from an MVA often lead to inflammation of the muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Chiropractors are trained in soft tissue therapies, including myofascial release, stretching, and ultrasound therapy, to reduce swelling and support tissue regeneration. These treatments help break down scar tissue and improve blood flow, speeding up the healing process.

By addressing both the skeletal and muscular systems, chiropractic care enables a more comprehensive recovery, allowing the athlete to regain strength and flexibility in a safe and controlled manner.

Preventing Reinjury and Supporting Peak Performance

For athletes, returning to sport too soon without proper rehabilitation increases the risk of reinjury. Chiropractic care emphasizes body awareness, structural correction, and functional movement, all of which are critical for reducing the risk of long-term injury.

Even after healing, many athletes continue chiropractic care to maintain peak performance. Regular adjustments can improve neuromuscular coordination, balance, and reaction time, all of which give athletes a competitive edge.

The Role of Sports-Focused Chiropractors

Some chiropractors, such as Dr. Alexander Jimenez of El Paso, specialize in treating sports-related injuries. These practitioners understand the demands placed on an athlete’s body and tailor their care to address sport-specific movement patterns. Dr. Jimenez combines spinal care, posture correction, mobility work, and clinical imaging to ensure each athlete receives precise and personalized treatment after an accident.

🔗 References:

The Role of Chiropractic Care in Sports Injury Recovery (Texas Medical Institute, n.d.)
Injury Rehabilitation: Chiropractic and Sports Recovery (Miami Chiropractors, n.d.)
The Role of Chiropractic in Sports Performance and Injury Prevention (Dr. Luban, n.d.)
Benefits of Pediatric Chiropractic Care for Young Athletes (Lakeside Sports Chiropractic, n.d.)

IV. Nurse Practitioners: Bridging Recovery & Medical Oversight

While chiropractic care plays a key role in musculoskeletal recovery, nurse practitioners (NPs) bring a vital medical perspective to post-accident rehabilitation. These advanced practice providers act as a bridge between traditional medical evaluation and holistic recovery. In collaboration with chiropractors, nurse practitioners help ensure that no part of an athlete’s recovery is overlooked—whether it’s diagnostic testing, managing pain, or monitoring overall health.

Advanced Assessments and Diagnostic Oversight

After an MVA, many athletes may not immediately recognize the extent of their injuries. Nurse practitioners conduct thorough evaluations, order diagnostic imaging (such as MRIs or X-rays), and assess neurological function to identify subtle yet significant damage. For example, what appears to be simple back soreness could involve a disc herniation or nerve impingement, both of which require tailored treatment and possibly referral to a specialist.

Working alongside chiropractors, NPs interpret imaging results and collaborate on evidence-based treatment plans. This integrated approach ensures a clearer picture of the athlete’s condition and prevents misdiagnosis or overlooked trauma.

Pain Management and Recovery Planning

Pain can be a major barrier to an athlete’s return to sport. Nurse practitioners are licensed to prescribe medications, but they often favor conservative pain management options when working with chiropractic and holistic teams. This may include topical analgesics, anti-inflammatory protocols, nutritional guidance, or referrals for physical therapy.

In cases of severe or persistent pain, NPs may also coordinate care with specialists in orthopedics or pain management. Their goal is to ensure that the athlete’s pain is controlled safely, without dependence on pharmaceuticals or invasive procedures whenever possible.

Monitoring Functional Progress and Return-to-Play Readiness

A critical role of the nurse practitioner is to track an athlete’s progress throughout recovery. They assess muscle strength, balance, range of motion, and psychological readiness to return to sport. These objective markers help determine when an athlete is ready to return to their sport or requires additional time to heal.

NPs also address coexisting conditions that may be exacerbated by a car crash, such as asthma, headaches, gastrointestinal issues, or hormonal imbalances, ensuring comprehensive recovery that extends beyond the musculoskeletal system.

Team-Based Recovery with Dr. Jimenez’s Model

Dr. Alexander Jimenez, a licensed chiropractor and family nurse practitioner in El Paso, offers a unique “dual-scope” model that combines both chiropractic care and advanced medical oversight. His integrative approach streamlines diagnostics, accelerates treatment timelines, and improves injury documentation for legal or insurance purposes.

This combination provides injured athletes with access to spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, laboratory testing, and rehabilitation—all under one roof. It’s an efficient and effective way to recover from the physical and psychological impact of an MVA while preparing the body to return to performance safely.

🔗 References:

Chiropractic and Nurse Practitioner for Injury Recovery (ChiroMed, n.d.)
What Types of Medical Professionals Treat Car Accident Injuries? (Correll Firm, n.d.)
Dr. Alexander Jimenez | LinkedIn
Dr. Alex Jimenez | Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Insights

V. Acupuncture & Mind-Body Restoration

Motor vehicle accidents can leave athletes not only physically injured but also emotionally and energetically drained. As part of an integrative approach to healing, acupuncture has become a trusted therapy for relieving both pain and stress. This ancient practice, rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is now widely used by sports medicine professionals to enhance recovery and athletic performance. For athletes recovering from MVAs, acupuncture can help reestablish mind-body balance, reduce inflammation, and improve overall well-being.

Pain Relief Through Nervous System Regulation

One of the primary benefits of acupuncture is its ability to modulate the nervous system. When a needle is inserted at specific acupuncture points, it triggers the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals, such as endorphins and enkephalins. These effects can reduce the severity of pain from whiplash, spinal injuries, or soft tissue trauma, which are common in athletes who’ve suffered a crash.

Acupuncture also promotes vagal nerve stimulation, which helps reduce sympathetic overdrive (the fight-or-flight response). This can calm nerve irritation and promote parasympathetic healing, allowing the body to focus on recovery rather than remaining in a state of tension or hypervigilance.

Improving Circulation and Reducing Inflammation

Car accidents often cause inflammation in the joints and surrounding soft tissues. Acupuncture has been shown to enhance microcirculation in injured areas, thereby facilitating the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to damaged tissues and promoting accelerated healing. By reducing localized swelling and promoting cellular repair, athletes may experience quicker recovery times and restored flexibility.

Additionally, acupuncture can be used in conjunction with chiropractic care to address spinal and muscular imbalances. For example, while a chiropractor addresses vertebral alignment, acupuncture can target the surrounding muscles and fascia to relieve spasms and support structural corrections.

Mental Health and Stress Recovery

It’s not uncommon for athletes to experience anxiety, insomnia, or mood disturbances after a traumatic car accident. These symptoms may stem from post-traumatic stress, fear of reinjury, or frustration from being sidelined. Acupuncture has been shown to reduce stress hormones, such as cortisol, and increase serotonin levels, which can help regulate mood and improve sleep quality.

This emotional regulation is crucial for athletes who rely on focus, mental clarity, and confidence to perform effectively. With regular acupuncture sessions, many injured athletes report feeling calmer, more centered, and mentally prepared to return to training.

Integrative Performance Enhancement

Even beyond recovery, acupuncture is used by elite athletes to improve performance and prevent injury. By promoting balanced energy flow (known as Qi in TCM), acupuncture enhances neuromuscular function, range of motion, and energy efficiency. These effects make it a powerful tool in both the rehabilitation and performance optimization phases of an athlete’s journey after an MVA.

🔗 References:

The Healing Power of Acupuncture After an Auto Accident (Forest Park Wellness, n.d.)
Acupuncture for Car Accident Injuries (Doctor LeBlanc, n.d.)
Acupuncture in Physiotherapy (Kinect Physio, n.d.)
Acupuncture for Treating Car Accident Injuries (Governor’s Park Chiropractic, n.d.)
Enhancing Athletic Performance and Recovery with Acupuncture Treatment (ET Sports Medicine, n.d.)

VI. The Jimenez Method: Legal + Clinical Integration

Dr. Alexander Jimenez, DC, APRN, FNP-BC, based in El Paso, Texas, stands out for his integrated approach to post-accident care, especially for athletes recovering from motor vehicle accidents. As both a licensed chiropractor and a board-certified family nurse practitioner, Dr. Jimenez combines the best of musculoskeletal and medical sciences. This “dual-scope” method not only streamlines healing but also supports legal documentation critical in personal injury (PI) cases.

Clinical Precision with Dual-Scope Diagnostics

Unlike most providers who treat symptoms in isolation, Dr. Jimenez performs a full-spectrum evaluation of injuries sustained from MVAs. His clinical insights go beyond surface-level complaints. Through advanced imaging techniques (e.g., MRI, X-rays) and detailed musculoskeletal assessments, he determines the root cause of pain—whether it is disc displacement, ligamentous laxity, spinal misalignment, or nerve compression.

Athletes benefit from this type of precise, image-guided care because it reduces the guesswork in their recovery process. The sooner accurate diagnoses are made, the sooner targeted treatments can begin, accelerating healing while minimizing long-term dysfunction.

Legal Documentation and Personal Injury Support

One of the challenges many injured athletes face is navigating the legal aspects of accident recovery. Insurance companies and attorneys often require detailed medical documentation to support claims, settlements, and disability evaluations. Dr. Jimenez is uniquely equipped to provide this documentation from both a medical and chiropractic lens, which strengthens the validity of personal injury claims.

This is especially important for athletes whose careers, scholarships, or endorsements may be jeopardized by accident-related injuries. Dr. Jimenez ensures that all findings, treatments, and progress reports are properly recorded for use in legal proceedings. He works closely with legal teams to communicate the full scope of an athlete’s injuries—an advantage not often available in traditional care settings.

A Comprehensive, Athlete-Centered Approach

Whether treating a high school football player or a professional runner, Dr. Jimenez prioritizes whole-body recovery. His clinical setting combines chiropractic adjustments, physical rehabilitation, acupuncture referrals, nutritional support, and health coaching to support athletic healing on all levels. For many athletes in El Paso and the surrounding areas, he’s not just a provider—he’s an advocate who helps them restore both their health and opportunities.

Through his integrative practice, Dr. Jimenez embodies the future of personal injury care: one that merges medical science, chiropractic precision, and legal foresight into a single, athlete-focused recovery system.

🔗 References:

Dr. Alexander Jimenez | Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Insights
Dr. Alexander Jimenez | LinkedIn Profile
Car Accident Recovery with Chiropractic and Sports Therapy.-,Intestinal%20Damage,recovery%20(Jimenez%2C%202025.) (Jimenez, 2025)

VII. Whole-Body Healing: Integrative and Functional Care

True recovery after a motor vehicle accident goes beyond treating pain. For athletes, it’s about restoring balance across all systems—musculoskeletal, neurological, gastrointestinal, psychological, and hormonal. Integrative and functional medicine fills in the gaps left by conventional care, offering a whole-body approach that targets root causes, accelerates healing, and promotes lasting wellness.

This approach is particularly effective for athletes, whose bodies rely on optimal function to perform at peak levels. By combining chiropractic care, nurse practitioner expertise, acupuncture, nutrition, and lifestyle support, functional medicine provides a personalized pathway to complete recovery.

Nutrition and Gut Health in Recovery

After an MVA, inflammation can affect not just muscles and joints, but also the gut. Stress, medications, and trauma can all contribute to gastrointestinal dysfunction, which in turn affects nutrient absorption, immune function, and energy levels—key factors for athletic performance.

Functional medicine providers often perform detailed assessments of digestive health and develop anti-inflammatory nutrition plans. These may include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and protein to support tissue healing and reduce oxidative stress. Supplements such as magnesium, collagen, turmeric, or probiotics may also be introduced to help restore the gut lining and regulate systemic inflammation.

At Dr. Jimenez’s clinic, dietary guidance is an integral part of the personalized recovery plan, helping athletes rebuild strength from the inside out.

Customized Rehabilitation and Movement Therapies

No two athletes are alike, and neither are their injuries. That’s why functional medicine incorporates individualized rehabilitation programs, which may include corrective exercises, neuromuscular reeducation, and manual therapies tailored to the athlete’s sport, position, and performance demands.

These programs restore range of motion, muscular balance, joint stability, and motor control—all critical components of injury prevention and sports re-entry. In Dr. Jimenez’s clinic, this often includes chiropractic adjustments, exercise prescription, and coordination with sports physical therapy teams.

Addressing Hormonal and Stress-Related Imbalances

Accidents and their aftermath can disrupt the body’s hormonal balance. Cortisol levels may spike due to emotional trauma or sleep disturbances, interfering with healing, mood, and recovery speed. Functional medicine recognizes the link between stress, hormones, and physical recovery, and works to rebalance the endocrine system.

Athletes under prolonged stress are also more likely to develop conditions like adrenal fatigue, insomnia, or delayed tissue repair. Functional practitioners may recommend adaptogenic herbs, breathing techniques, acupuncture, and biofeedback therapies to regulate stress responses and promote restorative sleep.

Holistic Performance Coaching for Long-Term Wellness

Ultimately, integrative care enables athletes not only to recover but also to thrive. By supporting lifestyle changes—such as improved sleep hygiene, better hydration, mindfulness, and periodized training—functional medicine prepares the athlete to return to sport stronger, healthier, and more mindful of their body’s needs.

Clinics like Dr. Jimenez’s offer health coaching to guide these changes. The goal is not just recovery, but long-term resilience and sustainable performance.

🔗 References:

Car Accident Recovery with Chiropractic and Sports Therapy.-,Intestinal%20Damage,recovery%20(Jimenez%2C%202025.) (Jimenez, 2025)
Dr. Alexander Jimenez | Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Insights
Dr. Alexander Jimenez | LinkedIn Profile
Chiropractic and Nurse Practitioner for Injury Recovery (ChiroMed, n.d.)

VIII. Conclusion: A Winning Recovery Gameplan

For athletes, a motor vehicle accident isn’t just a temporary setback—it can be a life-altering challenge. Physical injuries like whiplash, spinal misalignments, torn ligaments, and nerve damage can disrupt training, performance, and long-term goals. Emotional trauma and psychological stress only deepen the struggle, often leaving athletes feeling stuck between pain and pressure to return to play.

But recovery doesn’t have to be uncertain or incomplete. When care is approached holistically—through a collaborative model that incorporates chiropractic care, nurse practitioners, acupuncture, and functional medicine—athletes can heal more completely and return to sports stronger than before.

Chiropractors realign the spine, reduce inflammation, and restore joint mechanics. Nurse practitioners provide diagnostic oversight, coordinate care, and manage pain. Acupuncture helps relieve deep-tissue pain and reduces stress. Functional medicine addresses systemic imbalances, nutrition, and mental well-being. Together, these disciplines form a powerhouse recovery system.

Dr. Alexander Jimenez of El Paso exemplifies this integrated model. As both a chiropractor and nurse practitioner, he combines precise diagnostics with personalized care to help athletes navigate the full recovery spectrum—from initial injury to return-to-play clearance. His legal documentation expertise also ensures injured athletes are properly supported in insurance and legal claims.

In the high-stakes world of sports, having a comprehensive and athlete-centered recovery plan isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. Whether you're a student-athlete, weekend warrior, or elite competitor, don’t settle for fragmented care. Seek a team that sees the whole picture, honors your goals, and empowers you with every step toward healing.

🔗 References:

The Role of Chiropractic Care in Sports Injury Recovery
Winning the Injury Recovery Race: Effects of Sports Injuries on Athletes
Car Accident Recovery with Chiropractic and Sports Therapy.-,Intestinal%20Damage,recovery%20(Jimenez%2C%202025.)
Injury Rehabilitation: Chiropractic and Sports Recovery
The Role of Chiropractic in Sports Performance and Injury Prevention
Chiropractic Car Accident Treatment
Acupuncture: Treating Car Accident Injuries
What Types of Medical Professionals Treat Car Accident Injuries?
The Emotional Impact of Car Accidents: Coping and Moving Forward
Physiotherapy for Sports Injuries
Benefits of Pediatric Chiropractic Care for Young Athletes
Psychology of Sports Injuries
Chiropractic and Nurse Practitioner for Injury Recovery
Recovering from Car Accidents: A Holistic Approach to Care
Enhancing Athletic Performance and Recovery with Acupuncture Treatment
Acupuncture in Physiotherapy
Acupuncture for Car Accident Injuries
The Healing Power of Acupuncture After an Auto Accident
Dr. Alexander Jimenez | Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Insights
Dr. Alexander Jimenez | LinkedIn Profile

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, and physical medicine, as well as wellness, sensitive health issues, and 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 the jurisdiction in which they are licensed to practice. We utilize functional health and wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders affecting 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 made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and identified relevant research studies that support our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies upon request to regulatory boards and the public.

We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how they may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol. To discuss the subject matter above further, please contact Dr. Alex Jimenez or us at 915-50-0900.

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

Email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

Licensed in: Texas & New Mexico*

Can understanding the mechanics of the throwing motion help to understand why it may cause shoulder pain, the symptoms of a shoulder problem, the diagnosis, and the treatment options available?

Throwing a Ball and Shoulder Pain

The throwing motion is a complex shoulder movement that requires the mechanics of muscles, tendons, joints, ligaments, and bones. They all must move in a synchronized and stable pattern to move the shoulder joint. When these mechanics are interrupted or altered, inflammation can result in pain symptoms. (Wardell M., Creighton D., & Kovalcik C., 2022)

Throwing Motion

Distinct phases characterize the throwing motion:

• The wind up
• Cocking
• Acceleration
• Follow-through
• Deceleration

1. The rotator cuff and shoulder muscles sequentially guide the movements for effective throwing mechanics. (Wardell M., Creighton D., & Kovalcik C., 2022)
2. The labrum stabilizes the ball in the socket of the shoulder.
3. The shoulder blade rotation coordinates with the arm to ensure mobility. (Itoigawa Y. et al., 2023)

The throwing motion generates high torque and acceleration forces acting on the shoulder joint and the surrounding muscles, ligaments, and tendons.

Causes of Pain

Pain when throwing can come from the:

• Shoulder blade
• Shoulder joint - cartilage and labrum
• Rotator cuff muscles and tendons
• Nerves that control the muscles' function 

The shoulder blade is attached to the upper back by ligaments, muscles, and tendons. The various muscles and tendons that control the movement of the shoulder blade impact movements. Abnormalities of any area can lead to shoulder dysfunction and pain when throwing. (Wardell M., Creighton D., & Kovalcik C., 2022) The most common is the tightness of the posterior shoulder capsule, causing a loss of normal internal rotation of the shoulder. If this is causing pain, individuals may notice that they can't reach up as high on the side with the painful shoulder when reaching behind their back.

Symptoms

Whether an athlete or playing catch in the backyard, shoulder function abnormalities can cause significant pain. Some symptoms include.

Aching Pain

• Often deep in the shoulder or extending down the upper arm.

Dead Arm

• Lack of strength in the throwing motion.

Pain at Night

• Pain can awaken you from sleep.

Diagnosis

Finding a healthcare provider familiar with sports injuries can be helpful. They can best determine if a structural abnormality needs to be addressed. (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 2021)

Treatment

Most can improve with nonsurgical treatments. The earliest phase of treatment is resting the joint and reducing inflammation. Treatments can include:

• Ice
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Cortisone injection

Once the inflammation has subsided, the source of the discomfort can be addressed.

Physical Therapy

Therapy can include:

• A structured shoulder stretching and strengthening program will help.
• The physical therapist will focus on scapular mobility when managing shoulder joint problems.

Exercises may include: (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 2024)

• Stretching to improve internal rotation or any other lost motion can help allow a more normal throwing motion.
• Strength exercises are often aimed at the rotator cuff, as these muscles initiate proper shoulder movements and stabilize the shoulder joint.
• Maintaining flexibility and strength of the periscapular muscles (muscles that attach to the scapula bone) is important to ensure that the scapular movements are coordinated with the throwing motion.

If improvements are not made within three months of therapy, or individuals can't return to competitive sports within six months. In that case, the individual may need to return to their healthcare provider or see an orthopedic specialist who may recommend surgery. (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 2024)

Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic

As a Family Practice Nurse Practitioner, Dr. Jimenez combines advanced medical expertise with chiropractic care to address various conditions.

• Wellness & Nutrition: Personalized plans to optimize health and prevent disease.

• Chronic Pain Management: Non-invasive solutions for fibromyalgia, sciatica, and low back pain.

• Personal Injury & Auto Accident Care: Tailored rehabilitation for whiplash, soft tissue injuries, and more.

• Sports Injuries & Orthopedic Care: Treatment for sprains, strains, and complex injuries.

• Functional Medicine: Root-cause analysis for chronic disorders, incorporating nutrition, lifestyle, and environmental factors.

• Neuromusculoskeletal Health: Care for neck pain, migraines, herniated discs, and scoliosis.

Our clinic integrates Functional Medicine, Acupuncture, Electro-Acupuncture, and Sports Medicine to create customized care plans that promote natural healing, mobility, and long-term wellness. By focusing on flexibility, agility, and strength, we empower patients to thrive, regardless of age or health challenges.

At El Paso’s Chiropractic Rehabilitation Clinic & Integrated Medicine Center, we passionately focus on treating patients after frustrating injuries and chronic pain syndromes. We focus on improving your ability through flexibility, mobility, and agility programs tailored for all age groups and disabilities. We use in-person and virtual health coaching and comprehensive care plans to ensure every patient’s personalized care and wellness outcomes.

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, and 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 they may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol. To discuss the subject matter above further, don't hesitate to contact Dr. Alex Jimenez or us at 915-50-0900.

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

email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

Licensed in: Texas & New Mexico*

References

Wardell, M., Creighton, D., & Kovalcik, C. (2022). Glenohumeral Instability and Arm Pain in Overhead Throwing Athletes: A Correlational Study. International journal of sports physical therapy, 17(7), 1351–1357. https://doi.org/10.26603/001c.39800

Itoigawa, Y., Koga, A., Morikawa, D., Kubota, A., Uehara, H., Maruyama, Y., Takazawa, Y., & Ishijima, M. (2023). Posterior shoulder stiffness was associated with shoulder pain during throwing in college baseball players: assessment of shear wave elastography. European journal of orthopaedic surgery & traumatology: orthopedie traumatologie, 33(4), 1237–1244. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00590-022-03286-z

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. (2021). Shoulder Injuries in the Throwing Athlete. https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/shoulder-injuries-in-the-throwing-athlete/

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. (2024). Shoulder Impingement/Rotator Cuff Tendinitis. https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/shoulder-impingementrotator-cuff-tendinitis

Finger pulley injuries are unique digital injuries distinct from sprains or dislocations. They occur specifically in rock climbers and occasionally in baseball pitchers. What are the symptoms, diagnoses, and treatments available?

Finger Pulley Injury

A finger pulley injury, common in activities like climbing, involves damage to the fibrous bands (pulleys) that hold tendons against bones. This causes pain, swelling, and potentially bowstringing of the tendons.

• Finger pulleys are structures that hold tendons against the bones of the fingers.
• Injury symptoms include pain, swelling, and a popping sound heard at the time of the injury.
• Finger pulley injuries, or ruptures of the digital pulley, are seen almost exclusively in rock climbers. (Miro P. H. et al., 2021)

This activity stresses the digits when maneuvering along uneven surfaces while supporting the entire body's weight. The injuries result from the mechanics of the finger tendons and joints and the position the fingers hold while rock climbing. Rock climbing has grown in popularity. The only other sport in which this injury has been described is baseball, in pitchers. The forces acting on the finger are very different in these activities, but both place high stress on the finger pulleys.

Digital Pulleys

Everyone has structures in their fingers called digital pulleys. These pulleys hold the tendons against the bones of the fingers. Each finger has eight pulleys, but only two are considered critical to prevent the finger tendons' bowstringing (when one pulley gives out or ruptures). This can result in various injury outcomes, from a simple strain of the pulley to ruptures of multiple pulleys in a single digit. Pain, stiffness, and an inability to fully flex the finger can occur. (Carruthers K. H., Skie M., & Jain M. 2016) In severe situations, when the tendons are bowstringing, the tendon may lift away from the finger when making a fist.

Symptoms

Pain and Tenderness

• Localized pain and tenderness at the finger's base, particularly when gripping or bending. Pain on the palm side of finger and tenderness with pressure

Swelling

• Swelling and bruising around the affected finger joint, especially on the palm side.

Popping Sound

• Some climbers report hearing a "pop" at the time of injury. (Carruthers K. H., Skie M., & Jain M. 2016)

Stiffness and Difficulty Bending

• Stiffness and pain when bending the fingers or difficulty gripping. Difficulty forming a fist

Bowstringing

• Visible displacement of the tendon from its normal position, causing a bulge at the finger's base.

Most commonly, the middle or index digit is the injured finger. The two critical pulleys in the finger are designated the A2 and A4. (Carruthers K. H., Skie M., & Jain M. 2016) Individuals may see swelling, redness, and inflammation at the base of the finger (A2) and/or in the space between the two finger joints closest to the tip of the finger (A4). In rock climbers, either or both of those pulleys may be injured. In baseball pitchers, the injury is typically isolated to the A4 pulley.

Causes

• Overuse and Repetitive Strain: Frequent or intense gripping or crimping, common in rock climbing and other activities, can cause pulley injuries.
• Dynamic or Sudden Movements: Desperate or dynamic moves or poor technique can lead to injury.
• Excessive Force: Pulleys can rupture when the force exerted on them is too great.
• Mechanism of injury: The A2 pulley is the most commonly injured, followed by the A4 pulley.

Diagnosis

Emergency treatment is generally unnecessary. However, it is important to have suspected digital pulley injuries examined by a specialist within several days to a week after the injury. The most important aspect of an evaluation is determining whether the injury has caused the bowstringing of the tendons. Imaging tests may be performed to help with the diagnosis and plan treatment. An ultrasound is recommended as the initial imaging technique. (Miro P. H. et al., 2021)

If an ultrasound is inconclusive, an MRI may be advised. Sometimes, an MRI is performed with the finger held straight and then bent to see if the tendons are bowstringing. An X-ray can also help exclude other causes of finger pain, including sprains and fractures.

Treatment

Conservative Care

• Immobilization, physical therapy, and pulley-protective measures, such as splints or taped fingers, are often used.

Surgery

• Surgery may be necessary for severe grade IV injuries where conservative care fails.
• Only in situations where there are multiple pulley ruptures or if there is delayed treatment should surgery be necessary.

Rehabilitation

• Focuses on regaining flexibility, strength, and grip function through exercises and physical therapy.

If the tendons do not bowstring, treatment usually protects the injured finger until swelling and pain subside. If there is bowstringing of the tendons, more careful management of the injury is needed. Individuals who suspect a pulley injury rest or splint the finger and use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs as necessary for pain until they can get a medical evaluation. (Carruthers K. H., Skie M., & Jain M. 2016) Physical therapy, along with immobilization, the H-tape method, and a protective pulley splint, are recommended for most injuries. (Miro P. H. et al., 2021) Specialized splints and therapy techniques can allow the pulleys to heal properly.

Returning to activity varies significantly with the severity of the injury. With mild pulley strains, full activity can be resumed as soon as swelling and pain have subsided. Treatment for full ruptures that are treated non-surgically typically lasts between one and three months. For individuals requiring surgical reconstruction of a pulley injury, restrictions may apply up to a year after the surgery.

Injury Medical Chiropractic & Functional Medicine Clinic

To prevent complications, a healthcare provider should evaluate pulley injuries immediately. Treatment most often consists of physical therapy, but surgery may be necessary. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to develop an optimal health and wellness solution. We focus on what works for you to relieve pain, restore function, and prevent injury. Regarding musculoskeletal pain, specialists like chiropractors, acupuncturists, and massage therapists can help mitigate the pain through spinal adjustments that help the body realign itself. They can also work with other medical professionals to integrate a treatment plan to resolve musculoskeletal issues.

Sports Injury Treatments

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 they may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol. To discuss the subject matter above further, please contact Dr. Alex Jimenez or us at 915-50-0900.

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

email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

Licensed in: Texas & New Mexico*

References

Miro, P. H., vanSonnenberg, E., Sabb, D. M., & Schöffl, V. (2021). Finger Flexor Pulley Injuries in Rock Climbers. Wilderness & environmental medicine, 32(2), 247–258. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.wem.2021.01.011

Carruthers, K. H., Skie, M., & Jain, M. (2016). Jam Injuries of the Finger: Diagnosis and Management of Injuries to the Interphalangeal Joints Across Multiple Sports and Levels of Experience. Sports Health, 8(5), 469–478. https://doi.org/10.1177/1941738116658643

Could incorporating standing lumbar flexion exercise into a daily routine help decrease pain and improve overall spinal mobility for individuals with low back pain?

Standing Lower Back Flexion Exercise

A chiropractic physical therapy team visit can help determine which exercises are best for an individual's injury or condition and teach them what to stop doing if they have low back pain. Exercise and proper posture can decrease discomfort and improve mobility for individuals with low back pain. (Suh, J. H. et al., 2019) Sometimes, exercises that bend backward are recommended, while other times, flexion or forward bending movements are the best way to manage lower back pain. Many find the standing Williams lumbar flexion exercises maneuver helpful for low back pain. (Amila A, Syapitri H, Sembiring E. 2021)

Benefits

Individuals with certain diagnoses may benefit from spinal flexion. These diagnoses include:

• Spinal stenosis (Lurie J., & Tomkins-Lane C. 2016)
• Degenerative disc disease
• Facet syndrome
• Spondylolisthesis

Be sure to speak with a healthcare provider to understand the diagnosis and low back symptoms, and work with a physical therapist to be sure that forward flexion of the spine is the correct exercise for your back.

When To Avoid Lumbar Flexion

Some should avoid excessive forward bending, which could cause further damage or injury to the spine. Reasons to avoid flexion include:

• Forward bending causes symptoms to worsen. 
• Vertebral compression fracture (Sfeir J. G., Drake M. T., Sonawane V. J., & Sinaki M. 2018)
• Neurological signs such as difficulty urinating or controlling bowel movements (Howell E. R. 2012)

Before starting this or any other exercise program for your spine, check with a healthcare provider or physical therapist.

How to Perform

Gradually progressing with other gentle lumbar flexion exercises before full-standing lumbar flexion is recommended. These include performing a week or two of lumbar flexion lying down, followed by a couple weeks of lumbar flexion seated. Once these exercises are easy to perform and pain-free, progress with lumbar flexion standing postures.​To perform, follow these steps:

• Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.
• Slowly bend forward by sliding your hands down the front of your thighs.
• Reach down as far as possible and let your lower back bend forward.
• Grab your ankles and gently pull into more forward flexion to increase the backstretch.
• Hold the end position for a second or two, then slowly return to the starting position.

As you exercise, be sure to monitor changes in symptoms. Pain worsening in the back or traveling down your leg indicates that you should stop the exercise (Spine-health, 2017). If the pain decreases in your leg or centralizes to your back, continue the exercise. Standing lumbar flexion can be repeated for 10 repetitions a couple of times daily. It can help decrease low back or leg pain symptoms and stretch tight hamstrings and back muscles. (Montefiore Pediatric Orthopedic and Scoliosis Center, 2003)

Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic

Exercise can also prevent future lower back problems. Standing back flexion, postural correction, regular physical activity, and exercise are tools for keeping the spine healthy. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to build optimal health and wellness solutions. We focus on what works for you to relieve pain, restore function, prevent injury, and help mitigate issues through adjustments that help the body realign itself. They can also work with other medical professionals to integrate a treatment plan to resolve musculoskeletal problems.

What Causes Disc Herniation?

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

Suh, J. H., Kim, H., Jung, G. P., Ko, J. Y., & Ryu, J. S. (2019). The effect of lumbar stabilization and walking exercises on chronic low back pain: A randomized controlled trial. Medicine, 98(26), e16173. https://doi.org/10.1097/MD.0000000000016173

Amila A, Syapitri H, Sembiring E. (2021). The effect of William Flexion Exercise on reducing pain intensity for elderly with low back pain. Int J Nurs Health Serv., 4(1), 28-36. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.35654/ijnhs.v4i1.374

Lurie, J., & Tomkins-Lane, C. (2016). Management of lumbar spinal stenosis. BMJ (Clinical research ed.), 352, h6234. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.h6234

Sfeir, J. G., Drake, M. T., Sonawane, V. J., & Sinaki, M. (2018). Vertebral compression fractures associated with yoga: a case series. European journal of physical and rehabilitation medicine, 54(6), 947–951. https://doi.org/10.23736/S1973-9087.18.05034-7

Howell E. R. (2012). Conservative management of a 31 year old male with left sided low back and leg pain: a case report. The Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, 56(3), 225–232.

Spine-health. (2017). Exercise with lower back pain: Should you work through the pain? Spine-health
Knowledge from Veritas. https://www.spine-health.com/blog/exercising-lower-back-pain-should-you-work-through-pain

Montefiore Pediatric Orthopedic and Scoliosis Center. Center, M. P. O. a. S. (2003). Low Back Strain. https://www.cham.org/File%20Library/Global%20Navigation/Expertise%20And%20Programs/Pediatric%20Expertise/Orthopedics/Monte-LOW-BACK-STRAIN-WITH-EXERCISES.pdf

Can incorporating an exercise program like the Alfredson Protocol help athletes and individuals who have hurt their Achilles tendon find pain relief and healing so they can return to regular physical activities?

Exercise Protocol Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis occurs when the tendon at the back of the ankle gets injured. It is common in runners. For individuals who have Achilles tendonitis, walking and running can be painful. You might have to stop engaging in exercise and physical activities like sports. Depending on your job, having the condition may make working harder. Here are a few of the signs and symptoms of the condition:

• Pain in the back of the lower leg, just above the heel.
• Pain with running, jumping, or pointing the toes.
• A small lump on the Achilles tendon just above the heel.

The first line of treatment is to rest and ice the tendon. Anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce pain. (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 2022) Physical therapy can include strengthening exercises, ultrasound heat therapy, and deep massage. Exercises stretching the nearby muscles will help gradually increase the stress the tendon can handle, eventually reducing inflammation and swelling. Stretching and flexibility exercises will help an Achilles tendon heal. (University of Michigan, 2023)

The only way to determine if an individual has injured their Achilles tendon is to see a doctor. If the injury is Achilles tendonitis, a physical therapist may be recommended. A physical therapist can train individuals on the Alfredson protocol, an exercise protocol program for those with Achilles tendonitis (tendinopathy) that research has shown is helpful for those with the condition. The therapist will train on how to exercise to strengthen the tendon. The exercises stretch the Achilles tendon to help it handle forces and stress, known as eccentric loading. (Stevens M., & Tan C. W. 2014)

Inflammation

Tendonitis is inflammation of a tendon. However, studies have shown that the tendon might not be inflamed in those with the condition. When an area of the body is inflamed, inflammatory cells are present. Individuals usually feel pain in the inflamed area. For those with Achilles tendonitis, the tendon will present with pain, but not necessarily because the tendon is inflamed. Under a microscope, researchers examined tissue from the tendons of those with Achilles tendonitis. They did not find inflammatory cells in the tissue. (Stevens M., & Tan C. W. 2014) This means that although individuals felt pain, they were not inflamed. If there are no inflammatory cells in the tendon, this could explain why those with Achilles tendonitis often do not find relief from the anti-inflammatory treatment of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Studies have shown that gentle exercise protocols for the tendon are more helpful. However, researchers are not sure why these exercises are so beneficial. (O'Neill S., Watson P. J., & Barry S. 2015)

Eccentric Exercise

A chiropractic physical therapy team can help individuals heal the injury with eccentric loading exercises. Eccentric loading exercises work the muscles and tendons to help them get stronger. Once healing has begun, they can help strengthen the tendon. Individuals start slowly with easy exercises and then work up to harder ones. They will have the patient lengthen or stretch out the muscle. As the patient moves, the muscles and tendons contract or shorten. The Alfredson protocol consists of eccentric loading exercises for the Achilles and the muscles that support it.

Alfredson Protocol

Before exercising, talk to a doctor or physical therapist to know if it's safe. How to do the Alfredson protocol:

1. First, stand on a small step or curb.
2. Stand with the balls of your feet on the edge.
3. Your heels should hang over the edge.
4. Hold onto something for balance.
5. Keep the knees straight.
6. This will load a muscle part of the Achilles tendon called the gastrocnemius.
7. Using both feet, lift the heels and rise onto the balls of the feet.
8. Keep the foot with the painful Achilles tendon on the step.
9. Lift the non-injured foot off the step.
10. Slowly lower down using the injured ankle.
11. The heel should move towards the floor.
12. The ball of the foot should remain in contact with the edge of the step.
13. Return the non-injured foot to the step.
14. Repeat the exercise.

Do three sets of 15 reps with the knees straight. Then, do the Alfredson protocol again with the knees slightly bent. This will work a muscle called the soleus, which connects to the gastrocnemius. Perform three sets of 15 repetitions. Perform both exercises twice a day. This could be in the morning and the evening. The Alfredson protocol is most beneficial when done for about 12 weeks. (Stevens M., & Tan C. W. 2014)

Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic

The Alfredson exercise protocol can be done at home with a step or raised platform to put the feet on safely. Individuals should consider working with a personal trainer to ensure safety and get the most out of the workouts. Injury Medical Chiropractic and Functional Medicine Clinic works with primary healthcare providers and specialists to build optimal health and wellness solutions. We focus on what works for you to relieve pain, restore function, prevent injury, and help mitigate issues through adjustments that help the body realign itself. They can also work with other medical professionals to integrate a treatment plan to resolve musculoskeletal problems.

Functional Foot Orthotics Achieve Optimal Performance

General Disclaimer *

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

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

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

email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

Licensed in: Texas & New Mexico*

References

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. OrthoInfo. (2022). Achilles Tendinitis. https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/achilles-tendinitis/

University of Michigan. (2023). Achilles Tendon Injury: Physical Therapy and Rehab. https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/tr2261

Stevens, M., & Tan, C. W. (2014). Effectiveness of the Alfredson protocol compared with a lower repetition-volume protocol for midportion Achilles tendinopathy: a randomized controlled trial. The Journal of orthopaedic and sports physical therapy, 44(2), 59–67. https://doi.org/10.2519/jospt.2014.4720

O'Neill, S., Watson, P. J., & Barry, S. (2015). WHY ARE ECCENTRIC EXERCISES EFFECTIVE FOR ACHILLES TENDINOPATHY?. International journal of sports physical therapy, 10(4), 552–562.

Can understanding what knee tests are used help a healthcare provider diagnose the cause of individuals experiencing knee pain?

Knee Pain Tests

A knee examination is the first step in determining the cause of knee pain. Different knee tests may be performed during the exam to help the healthcare provider find the cause and develop an optimal treatment plan. These tests evaluate knee function and range of motion and look for conditions and injuries such as arthritis, meniscus tears, ACL tears, other ligament injuries, and kneecap issues.

Checking If There is Fluid in the Knee

Many individuals know if their knee is swollen, as they can see or feel the swelling. However, if there is excess fluid in the knee joint, the healthcare provider may compress the joint to feel for excess fluid. Fluid is often visible above the kneecap and can be compressed in this area. Fluid may also be detected in the back of the knee, referred to as a Baker's cyst if the fluid has collected into a cluster. (Frush T. J., & Noyes F. R. 2015)

Arthritis Tests

Certain characteristic findings can detect knee arthritis:

Crepitus

• Crepitus is the sensation when rough cartilage or exposed bone is rubbing when the knee is bent. (Lo G. H. et al., 2018)
• The examiner will feel and listen for grinding as the knee is bent back and forth.

Deformity

• As knee cartilage wears away, the knees can become progressively knock-kneed or bow-legged.

Limited Motion

• If arthritis, bone spurs, and swelling prevent normal mobility, the knee's range of motion often becomes limited.

Torn Meniscus Tests

Tests used to determine if there is a meniscus tear include:

Joint Line Tenderness

• Joint line tenderness is a non-specific test in which the area of the meniscus is felt. It is considered a positive test when there is pain in this area.