Suffering From Chronic Spine Pain?

According to the American Chiropractic Association 31 million Americans experience low-back pain at any given time. Why does this statistic matter? It’s a reminder to anyone suffering from chronic pain that they are not alone. Back or neck pain can happen to anyone at any age, of any ethnicity, at any level of fitness. There is no “one size fits all” solution to reducing chronic pain, because each person is different. However, there are several things you can do to help reduce or prevent back pain.

The spine has an excellent memory.

It’s true! Your spine has an excellent memory so it’s important to provide it with proper support from an early age. Regular physical activity and a healthy diet not only improve your overall health, they improve your back health. Stretch, strengthen your core muscles, and practice good posture while sitting, standing, and excising to maintain the health of your spine.

While injury or overuse of muscles, ligaments, and joints is one of the most common causes of back pain, another important cause is spine inflammation.

Inflammation

Inflammation, generally defined as “a localized physical condition in which part of the body becomes reddened, swollen, hot, and often painful” is a part of the body’s natural healing process. Acute inflammation is healthy and lasts only a few days. When inflammation lasts for an extended period of time it is considered “chronic” and is not good for your body. Chronic inflammation can lead to additional problems with your spine health, so it’s important to speak with your doctor if you think your back pain is caused by chronic inflammation.

Foods To Help Reduce Inflammation

While it’s not always this simple, like many health issues, an easy way to reduce chronic inflammation is to eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly. Again, this benefits both your spine health and your overall health.

As you make changes to your diet, try adding these foods which contain omega-3s, calcium, fiber, vitamins, iron, lycopene, and other components which have been shown to reduce inflammation:

• Fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, or cherries.
• Dark green, leafy vegetables such as spinach or kale.
• Healthier fats such as walnuts, almonds, or olive oil.
• Fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, or sardines.
• Lean meats such as chicken or turkey.
• Whole grains such as brown rice, pasta, or oatmeal.
• Tomatoes.