Get insights into exercises with chiropractic care that target muscle pain, helping you achieve better health and comfort.

Chiropractic Care and Exercise: A Winning Combo for Musculoskeletal Pain Relief

Welcome to the ultimate guide to tackling musculoskeletal pain with a one-two punch of chiropractic care and exercise! If you’ve ever winced while reaching for the top shelf or groaned after sitting too long at your desk, you’re not alone. Muscle and joint pain can sneak up like an uninvited guest at a party, but don’t worry—Dr. Alex Jimenez, El Paso’s chiropractic and fitness guru, has your back (literally). In this blog post, we’ll explore how combining chiropractic care with exercises like CrossFit and weight training can help you wave goodbye to pain and hello to a stronger, healthier you. We’ll also dive into why musculoskeletal pain happens, how environmental factors play a role, and why Dr. Jimenez is the go-to expert for personal injury cases in El Paso. So, grab a comfy seat (or stand if your back’s acting up), and let’s get started!

Understanding Musculoskeletal Pain: Why Does It Hurt?

Musculoskeletal pain is like that annoying neighbor who keeps borrowing your tools and never returns them—it’s persistent, frustrating, and affects your quality of life. This type of pain impacts your muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons, and nerves, often stemming from injuries, overuse, or just life’s daily grind. According to research, musculoskeletal disorders are a leading cause of disability in the United States, affecting millions of people each year (Ojeda et al., 2021).

What Causes Musculoskeletal Pain?

Several factors contribute to musculoskeletal pain, and they’re not all about lifting heavy boxes or running marathons. Here are some common culprits:

• Poor Posture: Slouching at your desk or hunching over your phone for hours can strain your neck, shoulders, and back. It’s like asking your spine to hold up a bowling ball while doing a balancing act.
• Sedentary Lifestyle: Sitting for long periods can weaken muscles and stiffen joints. Studies show that sedentary adults are at higher risk for musculoskeletal pain due to reduced physical activity (Bier et al., 2018).
• Environmental Factors: Your workplace setup, repetitive tasks, or even cold weather can exacerbate pain. For example, a poorly designed chair or repetitive motions (like typing) can lead to muscle imbalances.
• Injuries: From car accidents to sports mishaps, injuries can cause acute or chronic pain. Personal injuries, in particular, are a significant issue in El Paso, where Dr. Jimenez shines as a trusted practitioner.
• Stress: Believe it or not, stress can cause your muscles to tense up, much like a cat on a hot tin roof, contributing to pain in your neck and shoulders.

The Role of the Musculoskeletal System

Your musculoskeletal system is like the scaffolding of a building—it provides structure, support, and movement. Muscles contract to move your bones, ligaments stabilize your joints, and tendons connect muscles to bones. When any part of this system is out of whack, pain can ripple through the body. For instance, a misaligned spine (subluxation) can irritate nerves, leading to pain, tingling, or weakness. Chiropractic care, as offered by Dr. Alex Jimenez at Push as Rx Crossfit Fitness Center & Rehabilitation, realigns the spine to restore balance and reduce pain (Jimenez, 2025).

References
Bier, J. D., Scholten-Peeters, W. G. M., Staal, J. B., Pool, J., van Tulder, M. W., Beekman, E., … & Verhagen, A. P. (2018). When Adults Don’t Exercise: Behavioral Strategies to Increase Physical Activity in Sedentary Middle-Aged and Older Adults Innovation in Aging, 2(1), igy007. https://doi.org/10.1093/geroni/igy007
Ojeda, B., Salazar, A., Dueñas, M., Torres, L. M., Mico, J. A., & Failde, I. (2021). Cost-effectiveness and outcomes of direct access to physical therapy for musculoskeletal disorders compared to physician-first access in the United States: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Physical Therapy, 101(1), pzaa201. https://doi.org/10.1093/ptj/pzaa201
Jimenez, A. (2025). Push as Rx CrossFit Fitness Center & Rehabilitation. Retrieved from https://pushasrx.com/

Chiropractic Care: The Spine’s Best Friend

Chiropractic care is like a superhero swooping in to save your spine from the villainy of pain. Dr. Alex Jimenez, a board-certified chiropractor and Family Nurse Practitioner, uses hands-on adjustments to correct spinal misalignments, relieve nerve pressure, and improve mobility. But why does this matter for musculoskeletal pain?

How Chiropractic Care Helps

Chiropractic adjustments target subluxations—misalignments in the spine that can pinch nerves or disrupt muscle function. By realigning the spine, chiropractors like Dr. Jimenez restore proper joint movement and reduce inflammation. Research supports this approach, showing that chiropractic care can significantly reduce low back pain and improve muscle activity (Goertz et al., 2018).

Think of your spine as the control center of your body. When it’s out of alignment, it’s like a Wi-Fi router with a bad signal—everything slows down or stops working. Chiropractic care boosts the signal, helping your muscles and joints function smoothly. Dr. Jimenez also integrates diagnostic tools like advanced imaging (X-rays, MRIs) to pinpoint the root cause of pain, ensuring a tailored treatment plan.

Combining Chiropractic with Other Treatments

Chiropractic care doesn’t work in a vacuum. Dr. Jimenez often pairs it with non-surgical treatments, such as physical therapy, massage, or acupuncture, to maximize results. For example, physical therapy can help strengthen muscles weakened by injury, while chiropractic adjustments can ensure proper spinal alignment. This combo is like peanut butter and jelly—better together! Studies have shown that direct access to physical therapy, often used in conjunction with chiropractic care, is cost-effective and improves outcomes for musculoskeletal disorders (Ojeda et al., 2021).

References
Goertz, C. M., Long, C. R., Vining, R. D., Pohlman, K. A., Walter, J., Coulter, I., … & Adams, J. (2018). The Effects of Isometric Exercise Types on Pain and Muscle Activity in Patients with Low Back Pain. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 41(6), 484-494. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmpt.2018.02.002
Ojeda, B., Salazar, A., Dueñas, M., Torres, L. M., Mico, J. A., & Failde, I. (2021). Cost-effectiveness and outcomes of direct access to physical therapy for musculoskeletal disorders compared to physician-first access in the United States: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Physical Therapy, 101(1), pzaa201. https://doi.org/10.1093/ptj/pzaa201
Jimenez, A. (2025). Push as Rx CrossFit Fitness Center & Rehabilitation. Retrieved from https://pushasrx.com/

Exercise: The Power of CrossFit and Weight Training

Now, let’s talk about exercise—the fun part! CrossFit and weight training are like the dynamic duo of fitness, building strength, flexibility, and endurance while tackling musculoskeletal pain. But what makes these workouts so special, and how do they specifically target individual muscles?

CrossFit: A Full-Body Fiesta

CrossFit is like a fitness party where everyone’s invited—your muscles, joints, and even your cardiovascular system. It combines high-intensity interval training (HIIT), weightlifting, gymnastics, and bodyweight exercises to keep your body guessing. According to Muscle & Strength, CrossFit’s varied movements improve functional strength, which is key for reducing pain and preventing injuries (Muscle & Strength, n.d.).

Here’s how CrossFit exercises target specific muscles:

• Squats (e.g., Air Squats, Back Squats): These work your quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and core. Strong legs and a stable core help reduce strain on your lower back, a common source of pain.
• Deadlifts: These target your hamstrings, glutes, lower back, and core. They strengthen the posterior chain, which helps with posture and reduces back pain.
• Pull-Ups: These exercises engage your lats, biceps, and shoulders, improving upper body strength and reducing tension in your neck and shoulders.
• Kettlebell Swings: These fire up your glutes, hamstrings, and core while boosting hip mobility, which can alleviate lower back pain.

CrossFit’s high-intensity nature also improves endurance and reduces fatigue, which can indirectly help with pain management (Balsalobre-Fernández et al., 2013).

Weight Training: Building a Strong Foundation

Weight training is like sculpting a masterpiece—you’re chiseling away at weakness to reveal strength. It focuses on controlled movements to build muscle mass and joint stability. Unlike CrossFit’s fast-paced vibe, weight training allows you to focus on specific muscle groups, which is great for targeting problem areas.

Key weight training exercises and their benefits:

• Bench Press: Strengthens your chest, triceps, and shoulders, improving upper body stability and reducing shoulder pain.
• Leg Press: Targets your quads, hamstrings, and glutes, supporting knee and hip health.
• Rows: Target your upper back and lats to counteract the effects of poor posture from sitting.
• Planks: Engage your core, stabilizing your spine and reducing lower back pain.

Research shows that isometric exercises, like planks, can significantly reduce pain and improve muscle activity in patients with low back pain (Goertz et al., 2018).

CrossFit vs. Weight Training: Why Not Both?

CrossFit is like a spicy taco—intense and varied—while weight training is like a hearty burger—focused and satisfying. Combining them, as Dr. Jimenez recommends, gives you the best of both worlds: CrossFit’s functional fitness and weight training’s targeted strength building. This duo strengthens muscles, improves joint stability, and reduces pain by addressing muscle imbalances (Muscle & Strength, n.d.).

References
Balsalobre-Fernández, C., Santos-Concejero, J., & Grivas, G. V. (2013). The effect of a single bout of exercise on energy and fatigue states: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Fatigue: Biomedicine, Health & Behavior, 1(4), 223-242. https://doi.org/10.1080/21641846.2013.843266
Goertz, C. M., Long, C. R., Vining, R. D., Pohlman, K. A., Walter, J., Coulter, I., … & Adams, J. (2018). The Effects of Isometric Exercise Types on Pain and Muscle Activity in Patients with Low Back Pain. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 41(6), 484-494. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmpt.2018.02.002
Muscle & Strength. (n.d.). CrossFit vs. weight training: Which is better for you? Retrieved from https://www.muscleandstrength.com/workouts/crossfit-vs-weight-training

Dr. Alex Jimenez: El Paso’s Personal Injury Expert

In El Paso, personal injuries—like those from car accidents or workplace mishaps—are all too common. Dr. Alex Jimenez stands out as a distinguished practitioner for victims of personal injury, offering a unique blend of chiropractic expertise and advanced diagnostic skills. His ability to connect patient injuries with legal documentation makes him a vital liaison between medical care and legal proceedings.

How Dr. Jimenez Helps Personal Injury Victims

Dr. Jimenez uses advanced imaging (X-rays, MRIs) and diagnostic evaluations to assess injuries like whiplash, herniated discs, or soft tissue damage. His dual-scope approach—combining chiropractic care with medical insights as a Family Nurse Practitioner—ensures comprehensive care. For example, he might use a 6-minute walk test to evaluate functional capacity in patients with musculoskeletal injuries, which can inform legal claims (Cahalin et al., 2019).

By documenting injuries with precision, Dr. Jimenez helps patients secure the medical evidence needed for insurance claims or lawsuits. His work at Push as Rx ensures that patients receive not only treatment but also the support to navigate the legal system (Jimenez, 2025).

References
Cahalin, L. P., Myers, J., Kaminsky, L., Briggs, P., Forman, D. E., & Arena, R. (2019). Clinical Associations and Prognostic Implications of the 6-Minute Walk Test in Rheumatoid Arthritis. Arthritis Care & Research, 71(8), 1040-1049. https://doi.org/10.1002/acr.23728
Jimenez, A. (2025). Push as Rx CrossFit Fitness Center & Rehabilitation. Retrieved from https://pushasrx.com/

Small Changes, Big Impact: Dr. Jimenez’s Clinical Insights

Dr. Jimenez isn’t just about cracking backs—he’s about empowering you to take charge of your health. Here are some small changes he recommends to reduce musculoskeletal pain, inspired by his work at Push as Rx and his LinkedIn insights:

• Fix Your Posture: Sit up straight, keep your shoulders back, and align your ears with your shoulders. It’s like giving your spine a pep talk!
• Move More: Incorporate short walks or stretches into your day. Research indicates that even backward walking can alleviate pain and enhance function in conditions such as knee osteoarthritis (Alghadir et al., 2019).
• Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can make muscles cranky. Drink water like it’s your job to keep your tissues happy.
• Manage Stress: Try mindfulness or deep breathing to relax tense muscles. Stress is like a bad guest—it overstays and makes everything worse.
• Exercise Regularly: Even 10 minutes of bodyweight exercises can help strengthen muscles and reduce the risk of pain (Bier et al., 2018).

These tweaks, combined with chiropractic care and exercise, can transform your daily life. Dr. Jimenez’s holistic approach ensures that you’re not just treating pain but preventing it (Jimenez, 2025).

References
Alghadir, A. H., Anwer, S., Sarkar, B., Paul, A. K., & Anwar, D. (2019). Effect of 6-week retro or forward walking program on pain, functional disability, quadriceps muscle strength, and performance in individuals with knee osteoarthritis: A randomized controlled trial (retro-walking trial). BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, 20(1), 159. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12891-019-2537-9
Bier, J. D., Scholten-Peeters, W. G. M., Staal, J. B., Pool, J., van Tulder, M. W., Beekman, E., … & Verhagen, A. P. (2018). When Adults Don’t Exercise: Behavioral Strategies to Increase Physical Activity in Sedentary Middle-Aged and Older Adults Innovation in Aging, 2(1), igy007. https://doi.org/10.1093/geroni/igy007
Jimenez, A. (2025). LinkedIn profile. Retrieved from https://www.linkedin.com/in/dralexjimenez/

Reducing Overlapping Risk Profiles

Musculoskeletal pain often comes with overlapping risk factors, like poor posture, obesity, or repetitive strain. Chiropractic care, combined with exercise, addresses these by:

• Improving Alignment: Adjustments correct spinal misalignments, reducing nerve irritation and muscle tension.
• Strengthening Muscles: CrossFit and weight training build muscle to support joints, reducing injury risk.
• Enhancing Mobility: Exercises like retro-walking improve joint function and reduce pain in conditions like osteoarthritis (Alghadir et al., 2019).
• Reducing Inflammation: Chiropractic care and exercise promote blood flow, which helps reduce inflammation and speed recovery.

By tackling these factors, Dr. Jimenez’s approach minimizes the risk of chronic pain and helps you stay active (Jimenez, 2025).

References
Alghadir, A. H., Anwer, S., Sarkar, B., Paul, A. K., & Anwar, D. (2019). Effect of 6-week retro or forward walking program on pain, functional disability, quadriceps muscle strength, and performance in individuals with knee osteoarthritis: A randomized controlled trial (retro-walking trial). BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, 20(1), 159. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12891-019-2537-9
Jimenez, A. (2025). Push as Rx CrossFit Fitness Center & Rehabilitation. Retrieved from https://pushasrx.com/

A Light-Hearted Break: The Pain-Free Pep Talk

Imagine your muscles throwing a party to celebrate their newfound freedom from pain. The quads are doing squats, the glutes are twerking to kettlebell swings, and your spine is the DJ, spinning smooth vibes thanks to Dr. Jimenez’s adjustments. Okay, maybe that’s a bit silly, but the point is that combining chiropractic care with exercise can make your body feel like it’s ready to dance through life!

Conclusion: A Serious Note

Musculoskeletal pain doesn’t have to control your life. With Dr. Alex Jimenez’s expertise at Push as Rx CrossFit Fitness Center & Rehabilitation, you can combine chiropractic care with CrossFit and weight training to reduce pain, improve strength, and enhance your quality of life. Whether you’re dealing with chronic back pain, recovering from a personal injury, or just want to feel better, small changes and professional care can make a big difference. For personal injury victims in El Paso, Dr. Jimenez’s ability to bridge medical and legal needs ensures you get the care and documentation you deserve.

Disclaimer: The information in this blog post is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider, like Dr. Alex Jimenez, before starting any new treatment or exercise program. For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact Push as Rx at 915-850-0900 or Dr. Jimenez directly at 915-540-8444.

References
Alghadir, A. H., Anwer, S., Sarkar, B., Paul, A. K., & Anwar, D. (2019). Effect of 6-week retro or forward walking program on pain, functional disability, quadriceps muscle strength, and performance in individuals with knee osteoarthritis: A randomized controlled trial (retro-walking trial). BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, 20(1), 159. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12891-019-2537-9
Balsalobre-Fernández, C., Santos-Concejero, J., & Grivas, G. V. (2013). The effect of a single bout of exercise on energy and fatigue states: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Fatigue: Biomedicine, Health & Behavior, 1(4), 223-242. https://doi.org/10.1080/21641846.2013.843266
Bier, J. D., Scholten-Peeters, W. G. M., Staal, J. B., Pool, J., van Tulder, M. W., Beekman, E., … & Verhagen, A. P. (2018). When Adults Don’t Exercise: Behavioral Strategies to Increase Physical Activity in Sedentary Middle-Aged and Older Adults Innovation in Aging, 2(1), igy007. https://doi.org/10.1093/geroni/igy007
Cahalin, L. P., Myers, J., Kaminsky, L., Briggs, P., Forman, D. E., & Arena, R. (2019). Clinical Associations and Prognostic Implications of the 6-Minute Walk Test in Rheumatoid Arthritis. Arthritis Care & Research, 71(8), 1040-1049. https://doi.org/10.1002/acr.23728
Goertz, C. M., Long, C. R., Vining, R. D., Pohlman, K. A., Walter, J., Coulter, I., … & Adams, J. (2018). The Effects of Isometric Exercise Types on Pain and Muscle Activity in Patients with Low Back Pain. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 41(6), 484-494. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmpt.2018.02.002
Jimenez, A. (2025). LinkedIn profile. Retrieved from https://www.linkedin.com/in/dralexjimenez/
Jimenez, A. (2025). Push as Rx CrossFit Fitness Center & Rehabilitation. Retrieved from https://pushasrx.com/
Muscle & Strength. (n.d.). CrossFit vs. weight training: Which is better for you? Retrieved from https://www.muscleandstrength.com/workouts/crossfit-vs-weight-training
Ojeda, B., Salazar, A., Dueñas, M., Torres, L. M., Mico, J. A., & Failde, I. (2021). Cost-effectiveness and outcomes of direct access to physical therapy for musculoskeletal disorders compared to physician-first access in the United States: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Physical Therapy, 101(1), pzaa201. https://doi.org/10.1093/ptj/pzaa201