Living with chronic musculoskeletal pain is demanding,
often disrupting daily life. While chiropractic treatments make
a positive effect, the power of nutrition can really
affect your pain levels. Recent studies indicate
that dietary changes can substantially affect musculoskeletal
pain's severity and frequency. Let's look deeper
at how nutrition is vital for pain relief.
THE CONNECTION BETWEEN DIET AND PAIN
It's more and more transparent
that inflammation has an important part
in musculoskeletal pain, which encompasses conditions
like arthritis, back pain, and neck pain. Certain foods affect
inflammation, thereby affecting pain levels.
Anti-Inflammatory Foods – Adding
anti-inflammatory foods can lessen pain and improve
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 to combat 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 irritate
inflammation, so those with chronic pain should limit:
- 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
raise blood sugar levels and prompt 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 advocates of anti-inflammatory diets got
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 supplement
to traditional pain management approaches.
PRACTICAL STEPS FOR DIETARY CHANGES
Start small by increasing your consumption
of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains little by little
while reducing processed foods and sugars.
Talk with Manahawkin 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 Manahawkin Chiropractic Center
As part of an overall Manahawkin 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 steps can be taken toward a pain-free existence. Talking
with your Manahawkin chiropractor about such nutritional dietary changes
to your lifestyle, paving the way for better
health.
By making informed dietary choices
along with chiropractic care, chronic pain sufferers can improve
their existing treatment plans effectively. Note, Manahawkin 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 Manahawkin chiropractic
appointment today to visit us!