Living with chronic musculoskeletal pain is demanding,
affecting daily life. While chiropractic treatments positively help, 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 clear
that inflammation plays an important part
in musculoskeletal pain, which involves conditions
like arthritis, back pain, and neck pain. Certain foods affect
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 lower
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 offer
fundamental 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
increase blood sugar levels and lead to increased
inflammation.
- Red and processed meats contain 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, revealing that adherents
to 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
Start small by expanding your intake
of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains gradually
while reducing processed foods and sugars.
Talk with Gormish Chiropractic & Rehabilitation or a nutritionist to
get advice personalized for you.
Stay steady and loyal to
your new habits as dietary changes need time for lasting
benefits.
CONTACT Gormish Chiropractic & Rehabilitation
As part of an overall Carrolltown 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 strides can be taken toward a pain-free daily living. Talking
with your Carrolltown chiropractor about such nutritional dietary modifications
to your lifestyle that may help pave the way to better
health.
By making informed dietary choices
along with chiropractic care, chronic pain sufferers can improve
their current treatment plans effectively. Keep
in mind, Carrolltown 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.
Schedule your Carrolltown chiropractic
appointment today to see us!