Living with chronic musculoskeletal pain is demanding,
affecting daily life. While chiropractic treatments positively help, the power of nutrition can significantly
influence your pain levels. Newer studies show
that dietary changes can substantially impact musculoskeletal
pain's severity and frequency. Let's look more closely how nutrition is key for pain relief.
THE CONNECTION BETWEEN DIET AND PAIN
It is increasingly clear
that inflammation has a major 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 alleviate 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 – Certain foods can irritate
inflammation, so those with chronic pain should limit:
- Processed foods are full of trans fats,
sugars, and artificial additives, these foods can promote
inflammation.
- Refined carbohydrates like white bread and sugary drinks can
boot blood sugar levels and lead to more
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, revealing that advocates of 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), demonstrated
that a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods is an effective addition
to traditional pain management strategies.
PRACTICAL STEPS FOR DIETARY CHANGES
Start small by expanding your consumption
of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains gradually
while reducing processed foods and sugars.
Talk with Wilson Family Chiropractic or a nutritionist to
get personalized advice.
Stay consistent and loyal to
your new habits as dietary changes require time for lasting
benefits.
CONTACT Wilson Family Chiropractic
As part of a general Millville chiropractic
treatment plan, dietary adjustments offer a promising way to
manage musculoskeletal pain. By incorporating
anti-inflammatory foods and avoiding those that irritate
inflammation, significant strides can be started that will move
you toward a pain-free daily living. Talking
with your Millville chiropractor about such nutritional dietary modifications
to your lifestyle, paving the way to better
health.
By choosing better dietary choices
along with chiropractic care, chronic pain sufferers can enhance
their current treatment plans effectively. Keep
in mind, Millville chiropractic care and diet
changes 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 affect the immune system and even possibly
inflammation.
Make your Millville chiropractic
appointment now to see us!