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 indicate
that dietary changes can substantially affect musculoskeletal
pain's severity and frequency. Let's look deeper
at how nutrition is key for pain relief.
THE CONNECTION BETWEEN DIET AND PAIN
It's increasingly transparent
that inflammation plays a major part
in musculoskeletal pain, which comprises conditions
like arthritis, back pain, and neck pain. Certain foods impact
inflammation, thereby impacting pain levels.
Anti-Inflammatory Foods – Incorporating
anti-inflammatory foods can ease pain and enhance
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 to combat inflammation.
- Nuts and Seeds - Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds have
essential nutrients that support 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 curb:
- 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
boot blood sugar levels and prompt 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), 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), demonstrated
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 increasing your intake
of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains gradually
while reducing processed foods and sugars.
Talk with Shoreline Medical Services/ Hutter Chiropractic Office or a nutritionist to
get advice personalized for you.
Stay consistent and committed to
your new habits as dietary changes require time for lasting
benefits.
CONTACT Shoreline Medical Services/ Hutter Chiropractic Office
As part of an overall Groton chiropractic
treatment plan, dietary adjustments present a promising way to
manage musculoskeletal pain. By including
anti-inflammatory foods and staying away from those that worsen
inflammation, significant strides can be started that will move
you toward a pain-free existence. Talking
with your Groton chiropractor about such nutritional dietary modifications
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 existing treatment plans quite nicely. Note, Groton chiropractic care and changes in diet can be your friend 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 have
an impact on the immune system and even potentially
inflammation.
Schedule your Groton chiropractic
appointment now to see us!