Omega 3s for Back and Neck Pain Relief

Category: Diet and Nutrition , Dietary Supplements

One of the most common complaints in late adult life is neck or back pain. As a matter of fact it is estimated that more than 25% of Americans suffer from degenerative joint disease, or DJD.

DJD affects all joints, but in particular those used day in and day out like the spine, hip, and knee. In most physician visits back or neck pain will be mentioned as a complaint while most MDs do not have a safe, effective treatment to reduce the pain.

As we age, naturally our bodies are able to handle less stress and the wear and tear starts to add up. This is degenerative joint disease in a nutshell. Some joints begin to wear away the protective cartilage; others have erosion of bony material or cysts that develop. While most commonly in the spine, small bony growths called osteophytes develop.

The osteophytes cause a restriction in the natural range of motion of the vertebrae. We see osteophytes most commonly in the neck (C-spine) and low back (Lumbar spine). As the joint becomes restricted, the muscles begin to spasm and lock into place, creating more pain. It is a viscous tug of war that ever so often results in chronic back or neck pain.

Well there is good news. Omega 3 fatty acids can relieve back pain according to a new study released in the journal Surgical Neurology. Omega 3 fatty acids are so beneficial; this just adds another complement to them.

In the study 250 men and women with neck and back pain were required to take omega 3 fatty acids from fish oil or placebo. The dosage was 2.4 grams per day. They also were on NSAIDs (Tylenol, Aleve, Advil), which were gradually tapered off according to pain relief with oils.

At completion more than 60% of those in the fish oil group reported decreased general pain as well as 60% said they had less joint pain. More than 80% stated full satisfaction with the fish oil treatment and 88% would continue to follow protocol results were so great.

What may be even better to hear is that 59% of the participants in the fish oil group were able to completely quit using the NSAIDs. Chronic NSAID use can help treat chronic neck and back pain, but comes at a cost. NSAIDs increase the risk for stomach ulcers and liver problems. As well recent news reports of prescription NSAIDs (Vioxx, Celbrex) point to even riskier complications.

So for anyone with back or neck pain, adding Omega 3 fatty acids to your daily regimen may bring much needed relief. As well Omega 3 fatty acids are protective for your heart, reduce inflammation, reduce allergies, and the list can go on and on.

Posted by Kristopher Foster on November 14, 2013 10:00 AM