Living with chronic musculoskeletal pain is challenging,
affecting daily life. While chiropractic treatments positively help, the power of nutrition can significantly
affect your pain levels. Recent studies indicate
that dietary changes can substantially affect musculoskeletal
pain's severity and frequency. Let's explore how nutrition is vital for pain relief.
THE CONNECTION BETWEEN DIET AND PAIN
It is increasingly transparent
that inflammation has an important role
in musculoskeletal pain, which comprises conditions
like arthritis, back pain, and neck pain. Certain foods affect
inflammation, thereby impacting pain levels.
Anti-Inflammatory Foods – Adding
anti-inflammatory foods can lessen pain and enhance
overall health:
- Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in
omega-3 fatty acids and have been shown to lower
inflammation.
- Fruits and vegetables - Berries, leafy greens, and
cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and brussel sprouts have
antioxidants and phytonutrients to combat inflammation.
- Nuts and Seeds - Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds have
essential nutrients that boost joint health.
- Olive Oil: Contains oleocanthal, a compound with
anti-inflammatory properties similar to ibuprofen.
Foods to Avoid – Certain foods can exacerbate
inflammation, so those with chronic pain should curb:
- Processed foods are packed with trans fats,
sugars, and artificial additives, these foods can promote
inflammation.
- Refined carbohydrates like white bread and sugary drinks can
boot blood sugar levels and lead to increased
inflammation.
- Red and processed meats contain high levels of
saturated fats, adding to inflammation.
INSIGHTS FROM RECENT STUDIES
Study 1: Dietary Practices and Rheumatic Diseases - A study
led by Renard D. et al., and published in Joint Bone Spine (1), analyzed
patients with rheumatic diseases, revealing that adherents
to anti-inflammatory diets attained
significant pain relief and improved quality of life.
Study 2: Nutrition's Role in Chronic Pain Management - Research
by Cuomo A. and Parascandolo I., published in J Pain Res (2), showed
that a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods is an effective supplement
to traditional pain management approaches.
PRACTICAL STEPS FOR DIETARY CHANGES
Start small by expanding your consumption
of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains gradually
while decreasing processed foods and sugars.
Talk with Satterwhite Chiropractic or a nutritionist to
get personalized advice.
Stay consistent and committed to
your new habits as dietary changes require time for lasting
benefits.
CONTACT Satterwhite Chiropractic
As part of an overall Oxford chiropractic
treatment plan, dietary adjustments present a promising way to
manage musculoskeletal pain. By including
anti-inflammatory foods and avoiding those that worsen
inflammation, significant strides can be taken toward a pain-free existence. Talking
with your Oxford chiropractor about such nutritional dietary changes
to your lifestyle that may help pave the way to better
health.
By choosing better dietary choices
along with chiropractic care, chronic pain sufferers can improve
their current treatment plans effectively. Note, Oxford chiropractic care and changes in diet can be your friend in achieving
overall well-being.
Listen to this PODCAST
with Dr. James Cox on The Back Doctors Podcast with
Dr. Michael Johnson as he discusses how spinal
manipulation like with The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management might have
an impact on the immune system and even possibly
inflammation.
Schedule your Oxford chiropractic
appointment now to see us!