Living with chronic musculoskeletal pain is challenging,
often disrupting daily life. While chiropractic treatments positively help, the power of nutrition can really
impact your pain levels. Newer studies show
that dietary changes can substantially impact musculoskeletal
pain's severity and frequency. Let's explore how nutrition is key for pain relief.
THE CONNECTION BETWEEN DIET AND PAIN
It's more and more transparent
that inflammation plays an important role
in musculoskeletal pain, which encompasses conditions
like arthritis, back pain, and neck pain. Certain foods impact
inflammation, thereby impacting pain levels.
Anti-Inflammatory Foods – Adding
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 contain
antioxidants and phytonutrients combatting inflammation.
- Nuts and Seeds - Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds have
fundamental nutrients that support joint health.
- Olive Oil: Contains oleocanthal, a compound with
anti-inflammatory properties similar to ibuprofen.
Foods to Avoid – Some foods can irritate
inflammation, so those with chronic pain should limit:
- 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
increase blood sugar levels and prompt 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), analyzed
patients with rheumatic diseases, revealing that advocates of anti-inflammatory diets achieved
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 approaches.
PRACTICAL STEPS FOR DIETARY CHANGES
Start small by increasing your consumption
of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains little by little
while decreasing processed foods and sugars.
Consult Manchester Chiropractic & Sports Injuries or a nutritionist to
get advice personalized for you.
Stay consistent and committed to
your new habits as dietary changes need time for lasting
benefits.
CONTACT Manchester Chiropractic & Sports Injuries
As part of a general Manchester chiropractic
treatment plan, dietary adjustments present a promising method for managing musculoskeletal pain. By incorporating
anti-inflammatory foods and staying away from those that worsen
inflammation, significant strides can be taken toward a pain-free existence. Talking
with your Manchester chiropractor about such nutritional dietary changes
to your lifestyle, paving 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, Manchester 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.
Schedule your Manchester chiropractic
appointment today to see us!