6 Supplements to Help Treat Back Pain Naturally
Affecting almost 8% of the global population, back pain is one of the most common complaints among Americans. Due to the prevalence of this condition, countless treatments have emerged to help relieve back pain, from surgeries to Eastern medicine practices. One option is taking supplements to help treat back pain naturally, as they offer numerous benefits for your physical and cognitive health. While supplements alone may not get rid of your pain, they may help promote overall health and well-being.
Be sure to speak with your healthcare provider before taking any new supplements.
Here are six supplements that may help prevent or relieve your back pain:
1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Boasting extensive benefits, omega-3 fatty acids are one of the most well-known supplements to fight back pain. Omega-3 fatty acids are an essential fat found primarily in lean proteins, such as:
- Fatty fish: salmon, mackerel, tuna, herring, sardines
- Nuts and seeds: walnuts, chia seeds, flax seeds
Omega-3 fatty acids may help with back pain by reducing the production of proinflammatory cytokines, resulting in less reliance on anti-inflammatory drugs. When inflammation is present in the body, fluid buildup can cause significant swelling and push tissues against sensitive nerve endings. Lowering inflammation in the back can help relieve pressure on these nerve endings, thereby decreasing overall pain.
2. Tumeric
Known for its prominent orange hue, turmeric is a culinary spice most commonly used in Eastern dishes like curry. Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound that improves inflammatory conditions, relieves pain, and benefits metabolic syndrome. A majority of curcumin’s benefits revolve around its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Turmeric is used around the globe in various methods, including:
- Foods
- Tea, energy drinks, and other beverages
- Soaps and cosmetics
- Preservatives
- Coloring agents
- Capsules and tablets
- Antiseptics
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies the use of curcumin as “generally recognized as safe.”
3. Glucosamine and Chondroitin
Glucosamine and chondroitin are natural compounds found in healthy cartilage, the connective tissue that protects and cushions the joints. Some research has found that glucosamine and chondroitin may have anti-inflammatory properties and protect cells that maintain cartilage structure, potentially slowing down cartilage deterioration. As a result, these natural supplements are often used to help back pain and other painful joints.
4. Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin responsible for numerous critical processes in the body, including reducing inflammation. Along with lowering inflammation and pain in the back, vitamin D helps with:
- Calcium absorption
- Bone growth
- Neuromuscular and immune function
- Glucose metabolism
- Cell growth
Due to its various benefits, vitamin D can help support the muscles and bones in the spine, preventing conditions such as osteoporosis and rickets.
5. Ginger
Ginger is a popular spice that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of conditions, including back pain. It contains a compound called gingerol, which is reported to have several bioactivities, such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-neuroinflammation benefits. Multiple studies also indicate that ginger is effective at relieving muscle pain, nausea, frequency of migraines, and inflammation.
6. Collagen
Another supplement you can take to help back pain is collagen, a protein with a fiber-like structure that is an integral component of your bones, skin, muscles, tendons, and cartilage.
Collagen is composed of amino acids, the building blocks of protein, which are crucial to support muscle and bone health in your spine. From your vertebral discs to your spinal column, collagen can help all of the various structures in your spine.
Treat Back Pain at The Spine Pro
If you’re one of the thousands of Americans experiencing back pain, trying these natural supplements may help promote overall wellness to ease your pain. If you have experimented with non-surgical treatments and none have effectively relieved your pain, it may be time to seek professional help at The Spine Pro.
The Spine Pro was founded by a top US spine surgeon, Dr. Hooman Melamed. Dr. Melamed adopts a holistic approach focused on treating the entire patient, not just their spine. A specialist in minimally invasive spine surgery, Dr. Melamed is on the cutting-edge of the latest treatment options and can help you get the spine care you deserve. Call (424) 21-SPINE to get started today.
