Vitamin D: Treatment for Back Pain

Earlier this decade, bad press surrounded vitamin D when news broke out that it could increase the risk of several cancers. However, this notion has been corrected mostly due to other studies with supporting evidences showing that, vitamin D deficiency symptoms are found in people who suffer diseases in the prostate, breast, heart, immune system and kidneys. It is important for the general population to know that the benefits of vitamin D vary from person to person. For instance, underlying factors could be weight, lifestyle and family medical history. Doctors must always be consulted to determine the right amount to be taken for each person. Back Pain Linked to Vitamin D Deficiency Twenty two cases were investigated by Stewart B. Leavitt, PhD, who is the author of the report that discusses Vitamin D as a “neglected analgesic” for recurring muscular pain.(read more about the report here) All individuals who complained of chronic back pain showed insufficient amounts of vitamin D in their systems. When the volunteers were given supplements to normalize levels, they showed relief and even the disappearance of pain. Considering that 8 out of 10 people will have back pain in their lives, this news is helpful to the majority of the population who are looking for alternatives to combat back pain. Here are some significant points taken from Dr. Leavitt’s report:

• The lower back is an area that is greatly affected by insufficient vitamin D levels.
• Calcium absorption is one of the main functions of vitamin D. Low levels can lead to softening of bones.
• In a span of three months of supplementation, 95% of the volunteers experienced relief from back aches.
• New research discovered that the recommended daily amount of 600 IU is not enough for most children and adults. Instead, 1000 IU is the new standard for adequate vitamin D levels.
• Those who suffered from chronic back pain felt better after treatment, using at least 2000 IU.

Old Problem, New Solutions In an effort to search for lasting relief from back pain, many individuals have developed creative and new ways, other than going to the hospitals. Traditional Chinese medicine and methods are making a comeback in this century. They seem to have all the herbs and techniques to make an individual feel better. When it comes to back pain, their solution is Acupuncture. In this method, pain is believed to have resulted from blocked energy. Needles create pathways for the energy to flow more freely. Based on feedback from people who regularly avail of this treatment, depending on the severity and frequency of the pain; it takes about one year for the pain to completely disappear. If you’re the kind of person who doesn’t want to be around needless, Capsaicin cream can be an alternative. This pain reliever delivers a numb feeling. It is similar to the sensation of eating chili peppers. Upon application to the skin, the chemical responsible for the pain greatly decreases. A study revealed that after three weeks of use, individuals felt an average decrease in pain, by as much as 42%. Probably the most practical and convenient way of addressing back pains is through vitamin D supplementation. Many people who prefer not to take any vitamins though, simply expose themselves to sunlight. After all, this is the most efficient and natural way of increasing vitamin D production. Just remember to limit the exposure to 20-30 minutes every other day. In addition, a slight change in one’s diet can do wonders for your back. Other good sources of vitamin D include oily fish with small bones like: herring, catfish, salmon and mackerel. Seafood like mollusks, shrimp, crustaceans and oysters are also good sources. Fortified products or foods that are added with vitamins come in the form of: cereals, infant formula, butter, soymilk, orange juice and cod liver. Chicken and beef also contain natural vitamin D. These solutions enable people to be more assertive when searching for ways that work for them. There are many untapped alternatives in the field of nutrition. Finding natural means to help our bodies cope is still the best option.