Musculoskeletal Pain and Inflammation Positively Impacted by Food Changes

October 08, 2024

Living with chronic musculoskeletal pain is demanding, affecting daily life. While chiropractic treatments help a lot, the power of nutrition can really influence your pain levels. Recent studies indicate that dietary changes can substantially impact musculoskeletal pain's severity and frequency. Let's look more closely how nutrition is vital for pain relief.

THE CONNECTION BETWEEN DIET AND PAIN

It is increasingly clear that inflammation has a major part in musculoskeletal pain, which encompasses conditions like arthritis, back pain, and neck pain. Certain foods affect inflammation, thereby impacting pain levels.

Anti-Inflammatory Foods – Incorporating 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 limit:

  • Processed foods are full of trans fats, sugars, and artificial additives, these foods can foster inflammation.
  • Refined carbohydrates like white bread and sugary drinks can increase blood sugar levels and lead to increased inflammation.
  • Red and processed meats have high levels of saturated fats, contributing 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), investigated patients with rheumatic diseases, revealing that advocates of 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 usual pain management approaches.

PRACTICAL STEPS FOR DIETARY CHANGES

CONTACT Chiropractic Spine Sports And Rehabilitation

As part of a general Tonawanda chiropractic treatment plan, dietary adjustments present a promising way to manage musculoskeletal pain. By including anti-inflammatory foods and staying away from those that irritate inflammation, significant steps can be started that will move you toward a pain-free existence. Consulting with your Tonawanda chiropractor about such nutritional dietary modifications to your lifestyle that may help pave the way for better health.

By choosing better dietary choices along with chiropractic care, chronic pain sufferers can improve their existing treatment plans quite nicely. Remember, Tonawanda 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 presents research on how spinal manipulation like with The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management might have an impact on the immune system and even potentially inflammation.

Make your Tonawanda chiropractic appointment now to see us!

 
Tonawanda chiropractic tip: anti-inflammatory foods