Living with chronic musculoskeletal pain is demanding,
affecting daily life. While chiropractic treatments make
a positive effect, the power of nutrition can significantly
affect your pain levels. Recent studies show
that dietary changes can substantially affect 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's more and more transparent
that inflammation plays an important part
in musculoskeletal pain, which comprises conditions
like arthritis, back pain, and neck pain. Certain foods affect
inflammation, thereby affecting pain levels.
Anti-Inflammatory Foods – Incorporating
anti-inflammatory foods can lessen pain and improve
overall health:
- Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in
omega-3 fatty acids and have been shown to reduce
inflammation.
- Fruits and vegetables - Berries, leafy greens, and
cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and brussel sprouts have
antioxidants and phytonutrients combatting inflammation.
- Nuts and Seeds - Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds have
fundamental nutrients that boost joint health.
- Olive Oil: Contains oleocanthal, a compound with
anti-inflammatory properties similar to ibuprofen.
Foods to Avoid – Some foods can exacerbate
inflammation, so those with chronic pain should limit:
- Processed foods are packed with 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, showing that advocates of anti-inflammatory diets experienced
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), demonstrated
that a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods is an effective addition
to usual pain management strategies.
PRACTICAL STEPS FOR DIETARY CHANGES
Start small by expanding your intake
of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains bit by bit
while decreasing processed foods and sugars.
Talk with OrthoIllinois Chiropractic or a nutritionist to
get personalized advice.
Stay steady and loyal to
your new habits as dietary changes require time for lasting
benefits.
CONTACT OrthoIllinois Chiropractic
As part of an overall McHenry chiropractic
treatment plan, dietary adjustments offer a promising method for managing musculoskeletal pain. By including
anti-inflammatory foods and staying away from those that irritate
inflammation, significant steps can be taken toward a pain-free existence. Talking
with your McHenry chiropractor about such nutritional dietary changes
to your lifestyle that may help pave the way for better
health.
By making informed dietary choices
along with chiropractic care, chronic pain sufferers can improve
their current treatment plans quite nicely. Note, McHenry chiropractic care and diet
changes can be your helper in attaining
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 affect the immune system and even possibly
inflammation.
Make your McHenry chiropractic
appointment soon to visit us!