Discover What The Link Between Nutrition and Chronic Pain Means For You
Chronic pain affects nearly 30% of the adult population in the United States and is one of the most common reasons adults seek medical care. With so many people affected, there is growing interest in understanding the ways nutrition and chronic pain are linked as an alternative to daily medication.
Studies show that specific foods can trigger inflammation, a common feature in chronic pain conditions. The good news is that certain healthy foods can reduce inflammation, which helps decrease symptoms of chronic pain.
While our physical therapists are not nutritionists, they have the expertise to provide nutritional advice to patients.
Contact Sterling Physical Therapy & Wellness to schedule an appointment with one of our physical therapists and learn more about the importance of nutrition in combating aches and pains.
Which Foods Affect Inflammation And Chronic Pain?
Many Americans’ dietary choices fall short of nutritional guidelines. Studies show they eat too few fruits and vegetables, drink too many sugar-based drinks, and derive a significant portion of protein from meat.
Relief from chronic pain often starts with reviewing meal preparation practices and the snacks you eat throughout the day.
Patients with inflammation and chronic pain often report diets that include excess amounts of:
- Fried food
- White bread
- White rice
- Pre-packaged meals
- Red meat
- Soda
- Foods with added sugar and preservatives
However, research indicates that incorporating nutritious, fresh foods into the diet can alleviate inflammation, establishing a direct connection between proper nutrition and chronic pain relief. Examples of inflammation-fighting foods include:
- Grilled fish
- Whole grain bread
- Brown rice
- Fresh vegetables
- Fresh fruits
- Nuts and seeds
- Water
Additionally, diets high in protein further support physical therapy efforts by enhancing muscle recovery after and between appointments. The clear connection between good nutrition and chronic pain proves the importance of a healthy diet for overall health and well-being.
What Nutritional Advice Can You Expect As Part Of Your Physical Therapy?
Our physical therapists always begin with a comprehensive evaluation of your medical history and current physical condition, followed by implementing a treatment plan tailored to you and your needs.
You’ll discover how gradual, achievable enhancements to your meal plan complement your overall physical therapy program, helping reduce inflammation and alleviate chronic pain. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and skills to make better dietary choices that amplify your physical therapy results.
Contact Sterling Physical Therapy & Wellness today to learn how to make the link between nutrition and chronic pain work for you.
Sources:
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2771434/#:~:text=Irrespective%20of%20the%20characteristic%20of,inflammation%20and%20the%20inflammatory%20response.
- https://academic.oup.com/ptj/article/101/5/pzab062/6134600?login=false
- https://academic.oup.com/ptj/article/101/5/pzab061/6134190?login=false
- https://academic.oup.com/ptj/article/102/4/pzab296/6492043?login=false
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