Musculoskeletal Pain and Inflammation Positively Impacted by Food Changes

October 08, 2024

Living with chronic musculoskeletal pain is demanding, affecting daily life. While chiropractic treatments make a positive effect, the power of nutrition can really impact your pain levels. Recent studies indicate that dietary changes can substantially impact musculoskeletal pain's severity and frequency. Let's look deeper at 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 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 lower inflammation.
  • Fruits and vegetables - Berries, leafy greens, and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and brussel sprouts have antioxidants and phytonutrients combatting inflammation.
  • Nuts and Seeds - Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds have fundamental nutrients that boost 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 packed with 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, 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), investigated 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

CONTACT Manahawkin Chiropractic Center

As part of an overall Manahawkin chiropractic treatment plan, dietary adjustments offer a promising method for managing musculoskeletal pain. By incorporating anti-inflammatory foods and staying away from those that worsen inflammation, significant steps can be taken toward a pain-free daily living. Talking with your Manahawkin chiropractor about such nutritional dietary modifications to your lifestyle, paving the way for better health.

By choosing better dietary choices along with chiropractic care, chronic pain sufferers can enhance their current treatment plans quite nicely. Keep in mind, Manahawkin chiropractic care and diet changes 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 discusses how spinal manipulation like with The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management might affect the immune system and even potentially inflammation.

Schedule your Manahawkin chiropractic appointment soon to see us!

 
Manahawkin chiropractic tip: anti-inflammatory foods