Dr. Alex Jimenez, El Paso's Chiropractor
I hope you have enjoyed our blog posts on various health, nutritional and injury related topics. Please don't hesitate in calling us or myself if you have questions when the need to seek care arises. Call the office or myself. Office 915-850-0900 - Cell 915-540-8444 Great Regards. Dr. J

Stress, like inflammation, is a natural response. We need stress to function on a normal basis.  So, when the question arises, “Are you stressed?” the answer is yes, but what is happening is complex. Indeed, this physical adaptation is modulated by the HPA- axis, and even if the physical response is an orchestrated cascade reaction, the triggers can be varied.

Stress is defined as a state of a real or perceived threat to homeostasis. Indeed, when the balance of our body is threatened, and activation of several responses occur. This response is the combination of complex reactions modulated by the endocrine, nervous and immune systems. Nevertheless, the stress response has the only purpose of maintaining the stressed individual alive.

Stress response:
§  increased awareness.   §  improved condition. §  euphoria. §  enhanced analgesia.
Physiological adaptations:
§  increased cardiovascular tone.   §  high respiratory rate. §  inhibition of feeding and digesting. §  growth. §  reproduction. §  immunity.
HPA-axis and stress response:

The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA-axis) is how we commonly call the interaction between the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) located in the hypothalamus, the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland, and finally, the adrenal glands located over the kidneys. Besides, other structures like the brain stem noradrenergic neurons, sympathetic adrenomedullary circuits, and parasympathetic systems.

Nevertheless, the stress cascade’s first trigger is a corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF), secreted by the PVN’s hypophysiotropic neurons. Afterward, CFR travels through the hypophysial portal vessels that lead to the anterior pituitary gland. In this site, CFR binds to its receptor on the pituitary corticotropes and releases adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and then gets released into the systemic circulation.

Once ACTH reaches the adrenal cortex, the synthesis and release of glucocorticoids these glucocorticoids are the starters of the downstream effects controlled by the HPA-axis. Finally, the homeostasis returns with a negative feedback loop of cortisol that inhibits CFR release. Nevertheless, the unbalanced regulation of HPA effects is linked to the development of physiopathology.

Glucocorticoids:

When we talk about glucocorticoids, we refer to cortisol in humans and corticosterone in rodents. As estrogen, cortisol is considered a hormone, and cortisol receptor is widely distributed in our body. Therefore, cortisol regulates metabolism, cardiovascular processes, as well as the immune system and behavioral processes.

General adaptation syndrome:

First described by Hans Selye in 1930, the general adaptation syndrome is described as the manifestation of stress in the whole body, as developed over time. Once a stressor, considered either good or bad, starts the stress cascade, the body initiates an alarm reaction.

Alarm reaction: Selye
§  gluconeogenesis.   §  decreased insulin sensitivity. §  amino acid mobilization. §  protein catabolism. §  mobilization of free fatty acids from the adipose tissue. §  decreased phagocytosis. §  decreased white blood cell migration. §  decreased lymphocyte production. §  increased red blood-cell production.
 Levels of resistance:

Alarm reaction: body’s defenses are low.

Stage of resistance: on a chronic state of alarm, defenses are elevated.

Stage of exhaustion: the cortisol feedback receptors in the hippocampus become desensitized and damaged. Afterward, the defenses get depleted and reduced.

Symptoms of adrenal dysfunction:
Afternoon low between 3-4 PM   Anxiety
Cognitive dysfunction Confusion Decreased libido Decreased memory recall Decreased productivity Decreased tolerance Depressed mood Difficulty concentrating Fatigue not relieved by rest Feeling better after eating. Increased effort to do every day Insomnia
Craving salt or sugar
Dark circles under eyes Decreased ability to handle stress.Difficulty getting up in the morning tasks.Increased fears
Elevated recovery timeExacerbated symptoms with skipped meals   Lethargy
Orthostatic hypotension Pain
Pre-menstrual tension
How to treat adrenal dysfunction:

Test don’t guess. Indeed, that is the rule; what we are looking for are high cortisol levels at times where they should be low. For example, we want cortisol to be released in the morning, to feel awake, and go on with our morning routine. On the other hand, cortisol levels should remain low when we get prepared to sleep and have a relaxing night sleep.

Ironically, blood tests for CRH, ACTH stimulation can induce a cortisol upregulation. Nevertheless, salivary cortisol tests are available and have similar results compared to plasma-cortisol levels. A cortisol salivary test can be sufficient to assess HPA-axis status.

Lifestyle modifications:

Cortisol can influence glucose levels the same way hypoglycemia can induce cortisol release. Indeed, the alarm reaction caused by cortisol release induces gluconeogenesis, protein catabolism, and amino acid mobilization. On the other hand, we skip a meal and present a hypoglycemia state. Our body responds to it as a “stress” signal. This induces the release of cortisol, which in chronic stress condition will raise blood glucose levels.

Also, caffeine should be avoided in patients who are under chronic stress. Caffeine is a stimulant of the central nervous system, and additionally, it amplifies cortisol production that could last several hours after drinking it.

Stress-relieving techniques can lower cortisol levels, as well as exercise. In fact, exercise is considered a stressor and releases cortisol, but constant exercise has been shown to induce a cortisol receptor sensitivity factor. Also, the stress signal induced by exercise is less-inflammatory than the immune-stress response.

Nutraceutics and adrenal dysfunction:

Eleutherococcus senticosus: (Siberian ginseng) antistress, antifatigue, and immunomodulatory properties.

Ginkgo biloba: used in the Chinese culture to aid short-term memory loss and vertigo. It is linked to have anti-stress properties and a potent antioxidant.

Ocimum sanctum: Borrowed from Ayurvedic medicine, it reduces the levels of cortisol.

Panax ginseng: It contains polysaccharides, flavonoids, and it is the most antistress adaptogen.

Nutrigenomics and SNP Care Plan Dynamics

A sound mind in a sound body

As part of your care plans with our office, we offer DNA testing to better aid in your treatment protocols.

According to our research, neuropsychiatric disorders account for up to 25% of all disability-adjusted life years. Whilst the heritability of these mental disorders is significant, environmental factors also factor in their development. To that point, genetic variations involved in key biological processes that contribute toward the risk of development of mental health disorders may give insights into the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of the disease.

[better-wp-embedder width=”100%” height=”1500px” download=”all” download-text=”” url=”http://www.dnalife.healthcare/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/DNA-Mind-Sample-Report-2019.pdf” /]

References: 

Anderson, D. “Assessment and nutraceutical management of stress-induced adrenal dysfunction.” Integrative Medicine 7.5 (2008): 18-25.

Smith, Sean M., and Wylie W. Vale. “The role of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in neuroendocrine responses to stress.” Dialogues Clin Neurosci 8 (2006): 383-395.

Book online appointments or Online nutritional assessments.

Additional Useful Links:

Set Appointments 24/7:
Book Online Appointment: bit.ly/Book-Online-Appointment

Take Your Functional Wellness Assessment Today:
Online Functional Medicine Assessment: bit.ly/functionmed

Post Disclaimer

Professional Scope of Practice *

The information herein on "HPA-axis. Are you stressed?" is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care 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.

Blog Information & Scope Discussions

Our information scope is limited to Chiropractic, musculoskeletal, acupuncture, physical medicines, wellness, contributing etiological viscerosomatic disturbances within clinical presentations, associated somatovisceral reflex clinical dynamics, subluxation complexes, sensitive health issues, and/or 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 has identified the relevant research 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, DC, or contact us at 915-850-0900.

We are here to help you and your family.

Blessings

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

email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

Licensed as a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) in Texas & New Mexico*
Texas DC License # TX5807, New Mexico DC License # NM-DC2182

Licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN*) in Florida
Florida License RN License # RN9617241 (Control No. 3558029)
Compact Status: Multi-State License: Authorized to Practice in 40 States*

Presently Matriculated: ICHS: MSN* FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner Program)

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, RN* CIFM*, IFMCP*, ATN*, CCST
My Digital Business Card

Again  We Welcome You¸

Our Purpose & Passions: I am a Doctor of Chiropractic specializing in progressive, cutting-edge therapies and functional rehabilitation procedures focused on clinical physiology, total health, practical strength training, and complete conditioning. We focus on restoring normal body functions after neck, back, spinal and soft tissue injuries.

We use Specialized Chiropractic Protocols, Wellness Programs, Functional & Integrative Nutrition, Agility & Mobility Fitness Training, and Rehabilitation Systems for all ages.

As an extension to effective rehabilitation, we too offer our patients, disabled veterans, athletes, young and elder a diverse portfolio of strength equipment, high-performance exercises, and advanced agility treatment options. We have teamed up with the cities premier doctors, therapists, and trainers to provide high-level competitive athletes the possibilities to push themselves to their highest abilities within our facilities.

We’ve been blessed to use our methods with thousands of El Pasoans over the last three decades allowing us to restore our patients’ health and fitness while implementing researched non-surgical methods and functional wellness programs.

Our programs are natural and use the body’s ability to achieve specific measured goals, rather than introducing harmful chemicals, controversial hormone replacement, unwanted surgeries, or addictive drugs. We want you to live a functional life that is fulfilled with more energy, a positive attitude, better sleep, and less pain. Our goal is to ultimately empower our patients to maintain the healthiest way of living.

With a bit of work, we can achieve optimal health together, no matter the age or disability.

Join us in improving your health for you and your family.

It’s all about: LIVING, LOVING & MATTERING!

Welcome & God Bless

EL PASO LOCATIONS

East Side: Main Clinic*
11860 Vista Del Sol, Ste 128
Phone: 915-412-6677

Central: Rehabilitation Center
6440 Gateway East, Ste B
Phone: 915-850-0900

North East Rehabilitation Center
7100 Airport Blvd, Ste. C
Phone: 915-412-6677

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CIFM, IFMCP, ATN, CCST
My Digital Business Card

Clinic Location 1

Address: 11860 Vista Del Sol Dr Suite 128
El Paso, TX 79936
Phone
: (915) 850-0900
EmailSend Email
WebDrAlexJimenez.com

Clinic Location 2

Address: 6440 Gateway East, Building B
El Paso, TX 79905
Phone: (915) 850-0900
EmailSend Email
WebElPasoBackClinic.com

Clinic Location 3

Address: 1700 N Zaragoza Rd # 117
El Paso, TX 79936
Phone: (915) 850-0900
EmailSend Email
WebChiropracticScientist.com

Just Play Fitness & Rehab*

Address: 7100 Airport Blvd, Suite C
El Paso, TX 79906
Phone: (915) 850-0900
EmailSend Email
WebChiropracticScientist.com

Push As Rx & Rehab

Address: 6440 Gateway East, Building B
El Paso, TX 79905
Phone
: (915) 412-6677
EmailSend Email
WebPushAsRx.com

Push 24/7

Address: 1700 E Cliff Dr
El Paso, TX 79902
Phone
: (915) 412-6677
EmailSend Email
WebPushAsRx.com

EVENTS REGISTRATION: Live Events & Webinars*

(Come Join Us & Register Today)

Call (915) 850-0900 Today!

Rated Top El Paso Doctor & Specialist by RateMD* | Years 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 & 2021

Best Chiropractor In El Paso

Scan QR Code Here - Connect Here With Dr. Jimenez Personally

Qrcode Chiropractor
Dr. Jimenez QR Code

Additional Online Links & Resources (Available 24/7)

  1. Online Appointments or Consultations:  bit.ly/Book-Online-Appointment
  2. Online Physical Injury / Accident Intake Form:  bit.ly/Fill-Out-Your-Online-History
  3. Online Functional Medicine Assessment:  bit.ly/functionmed

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

phone: 915-850-0900

Licensed in Texas & New Mexico *

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CIFM, IFMCP, ATN, CCST
My Digital Business Card

Post Disclaimer

Professional Scope of Practice *

The information herein on "Spinal Decompression in Depth | El Paso, Tx (2023)" is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care 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.

Blog Information & Scope Discussions

Our information scope is limited to Chiropractic, musculoskeletal, acupuncture, physical medicines, wellness, contributing etiological viscerosomatic disturbances within clinical presentations, associated somatovisceral reflex clinical dynamics, subluxation complexes, sensitive health issues, and/or 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 has identified the relevant research 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, DC, or contact us at 915-850-0900.

We are here to help you and your family.

Blessings

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

email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

Licensed as a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) in Texas & New Mexico*
Texas DC License # TX5807, New Mexico DC License # NM-DC2182

Licensed as a Registered Nurse (RN*) in Florida
Florida License RN License # RN9617241 (Control No. 3558029)
Compact Status: Multi-State License: Authorized to Practice in 40 States*

Presently Matriculated: ICHS: MSN* FNP (Family Nurse Practitioner Program)

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, RN* CIFM*, IFMCP*, ATN*, CCST
My Digital Business Card