Musculoskeletal Pain and Inflammation Positively Impacted by Food Changes
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. Newer studies indicate 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's increasingly transparent that inflammation has an important 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 enhance 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 essential nutrients that boost joint health.
- Olive Oil: Contains oleocanthal, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties similar to ibuprofen.
Foods to Avoid – Some 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 increase blood sugar levels and lead to 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, revealing that adherents to anti-inflammatory diets experienced 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 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.
- Consult Chiropractic Solutions to get advice personalized for you.
- Stay consistent and committed to your new habits as dietary changes require time for lasting benefits.
CONTACT Chiropractic Solutions
As part of a general San Jose chiropractic treatment plan, dietary adjustments offer a promising way to manage musculoskeletal pain. By including anti-inflammatory foods and avoiding those that worsen inflammation, significant strides can be taken toward a pain-free existence. Consulting with your San Jose chiropractor about such nutritional dietary changes to your lifestyle that may help pave 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, San Jose 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 discusses how spinal manipulation like with The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management might have an impact on the immune system and even possibly inflammation.
Schedule your San Jose chiropractic appointment soon to visit us!
