By Introduction
Lower back pain is common now. Causes include injuries, bad posture, nerve pressure, no exercise, a disc tear, the spinal canal narrowing, or heavy lifting. Pain and more damage can happen if not treated right.
Help can come from exercise or physical therapy, but other remedies may be needed. Supplements can help adults and children with chronic back pain and inflammation. Good ones are omega-3, glucosamine, chondroitin, turmeric, CoQ10 and boswellia.
Taking them can reduce stiff muscles in the spine. No more backaches to ruin your day!
Supplements for Lower Back Pain and Inflammation
Do you have lower back pain and inflammation? There’s help! Supplements are here to aid in easing your symptoms! We’ll look at some of the top supplements for such pains and inflammation. Let’s get started!
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats found in many sources. Studies show they play a major role in managing inflammation and pain from medical conditions, like arthritis and fibromyalgia.
EPA, one of the main omega-3s, has been proven to reduce cardiovascular risk, improve joint health, and decrease inflammation of the muscles and joints. Furthermore, EPA may also reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.
Some sources of omega-3 fatty acids include:
- Salmon
- Mackerel
- Sardines
- Tuna
- Walnuts
- Canola oil
- Chia seeds
- Flaxseed oil
Dietary supplements containing omega-3s are available in capsule form. But, before taking any dietary supplement, please contact your doctor. Some supplements may interact with medications or have side effects.
Turmeric
Turmeric, from the ginger family (Curcuma longa), has been used in medical practices for over 4,000 years. It’s grown in India and southern Asia for both medicinal and culinary uses.
Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with powerful anti-inflammatory properties. It helps reduce joint inflammation caused by arthritis and can even block pain signals from reaching the brain. Curcumin also reduces muscle inflammation due to strenuous exercise or injury.
When taking turmeric for lower back relief, look for supplements derived from the root of the plant (Cur Cummari). Also, select ones with added black pepper extract to help the body absorb more of the benefits. The recommended dosage is 400–600 milligrams (mg) taken three times daily or 500 mg twice daily as a preventative measure. For best results, combine taking turmeric capsules with a healthy diet of colorful fruits and vegetables, healthy fats from fish oil, nuts, seeds, avocado and whole grains.
Bromelain
Go wacky with bromelain if you suffer from lower back pain and inflammation! It’s a pineapple enzyme with anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Studies have shown it can reduce pain and inflammation from acute joint and muscle injuries, and degenerative joint disease.
How does it work? Bromelain blocks the production of pro-inflammatory substances like prostaglandins and cytokines. It also stops platelet activation. Plus, it helps with tissue repair during the healing process.
Humans have seen successful results from bromelain. It can reduce inflammation in lower back injury – similar to prescription meds but without the risk of side effects. However, don’t take more than 1500mg per day – chat to your healthcare provider before you go beyond that amount.
Curcumin
Curcumin, derived from turmeric, is a powerful supplement for treating lower back pain. It works by reducing inflammatory molecules in the body, like prostaglandins and cytokines. These molecules cause muscle tension, pain and swelling.
Curcumin can be taken in pill form or applied topically. Studies have shown it to be effective in relieving pain and inflammation, regardless of the cause. Plus, curcumin has been proven to reduce cardiovascular risk factors like high blood sugar, cholesterol and triglycerides.
It’s best to not exceed 4g of curcumin a day. Black pepper extract can help with absorption. But, be aware that some supplements may have negative side effects like GI discomfort. Talk to a health professional before you start using curcumin for lower back pain. That way you can be sure to make an informed decision.
Magnesium
Magnesium is an important mineral. Studies show it has anti-inflammatory qualities, which can help lessen lower back pain and inflammation. Generally, healthy adults need 310 to 420 milligrams of magnesium each day. This amount changes based on age, gender and other things.
To make sure you are getting the right amount of magnesium, eat whole grains, nuts, seafood, and leafy green veggies. If your diet does not provide enough magnesium for reducing pain, try taking ashwagandha. Also, increasing calcium intake might help too. Low levels of these minerals are associated with more inflammation. So, having a good balance of these vitamins can lead to better health in the long run.
Ginger
Ginger is a popular supplement for those with lower back pain and inflammation. It has many advantageous properties like being an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and pain reliever. Plus, it fights off bacteria and viruses.
Studies show ginger extract helps reduce inflammation from lower back issues such as arthritis or sciatica. It also lessens muscle spasms and relaxes stiff muscles near the area. It even makes joint movement easier for those with rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis.
You can use ginger orally through capsules or tea to reduce lower back pain and inflammation. Rubbing ginger oil or cream onto the affected area can speed up the relief. For extra benefit, take ginger supplements with natural remedies such as:
- Curcumin
- Tart cherry juice extract
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- White willow bark extract
All of these help reduce inflammation.
Conclusion
To end, there are supplements which may help with chronic lower back pain and inflammation. But, it’s important to know that the correct supplement plan depends on your health and any existing medical conditions. Before you start a supplement plan to reduce lower back pain and inflammation, speak to a healthcare expert who can give advice tailored to you.
Furthermore, some natural supplements may not mix with medications you’re taking or may have bad side-effects. Thus, it’s important to talk to a healthcare specialist about your supplement goals, so they can decide which supplement combo is best for you and your health. With the proper info, the right natural supplements can make a major difference in relieving lower back pain and inflammation.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best supplements to alleviate lower back pain and inflammation?
There are several supplements that can help alleviate lower back pain and inflammation, including glucosamine, chondroitin, turmeric, ginger, omega-3 fatty acids, and magnesium.
2. Are there any side effects to taking these supplements?
Side effects are rare with these supplements, but some people may experience upset stomach, diarrhea, or allergic reactions. Consult with your doctor before taking any supplements.
3. How long does it take for these supplements to work?
It varies from person to person, but you should start to notice some relief within a few weeks of taking these supplements regularly.
4. Can supplements replace prescription medication for lower back pain?
While supplements can provide relief for lower back pain and inflammation, they should not replace prescription medication without consulting with your doctor first.
5. How do these supplements work to alleviate lower back pain and inflammation?
Glucosamine and chondroitin help to rebuild cartilage, while turmeric and ginger are natural anti-inflammatories. Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and magnesium helps muscles relax.
6. Where can I purchase these supplements?
You can purchase these supplements at health food stores, drug stores, and online retailers.
