Musculoskeletal Pain and Inflammation Positively Impacted by Food Changes
Living with chronic musculoskeletal pain is challenging, affecting daily life. While chiropractic treatments make a positive effect, the power of nutrition can really impact your pain levels. Newer studies indicate that dietary changes can substantially impact 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 encompasses 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 improve overall health:
- Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and have been shown to decrease 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 essential nutrients that support 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 raise blood sugar levels and prompt increased inflammation.
- Red and processed meats have high levels of saturated fats, causing 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, showing that adherents to anti-inflammatory diets achieved significant pain relief and better 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 increasing your intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains gradually while decreasing processed foods and sugars.
- Consult OrthoIllinois Chiropractic to get advice personalized for you.
- Stay steady and committed to your new habits as dietary changes need time for lasting benefits.
CONTACT OrthoIllinois Chiropractic
As part of a general McHenry chiropractic treatment plan, dietary adjustments present a promising way to manage 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 McHenry 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. Keep in mind, McHenry chiropractic care and changes in diet can be your ally in attaining 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 McHenry chiropractic appointment soon to visit us!
