Living with chronic musculoskeletal pain is demanding,
affecting daily life. While chiropractic treatments help a lot, the power of nutrition can really
impact your pain levels. Newer studies indicate
that dietary changes can substantially affect 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's more and more 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 impacting 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 decrease
inflammation.
- Fruits and vegetables - Berries, leafy greens, and
cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and brussel sprouts contain
antioxidants and phytonutrients to combat inflammation.
- Nuts and Seeds - Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds offer
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 packed with 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 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), analyzed
patients with rheumatic diseases, revealing that advocates of anti-inflammatory diets experienced
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 addition
to usual pain management strategies.
PRACTICAL STEPS FOR DIETARY CHANGES
Start small by increasing your intake
of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains bit by bit
while reducing processed foods and sugars.
Consult New Roads Chiropractic Center or a nutritionist to
get personalized advice.
Stay steady and loyal to
your new habits as dietary changes need time for lasting
benefits.
CONTACT New Roads Chiropractic Center
As part of an overall New Roads 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. Consulting
with your New Roads 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 existing treatment plans quite nicely. Keep
in mind, New Roads 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.
Make your New Roads chiropractic
appointment now to see us!