Evidence shows that lacking vitamin D can cause bone and lower back pain, neck pain and muscle spasms.
A review conducted in 2018, which analysed 81 studies, revealed that individuals suffering from arthritis, muscle pain, and chronic widespread pain generally had lower vitamin D levels compared to those who did not have these health issues. A study involving 98 adults suffering from lower back pain also found that lower vitamin D levels were associated with more intense pain.
A 2014 study also found that 71% of individuals suffering from chronic pain had a vitamin D deficiency. Research from 2019 discovered that taking high doses of vitamin D supplements could help alleviate different kinds of pain in individuals who are deficient in vitamin D.
Vitamin D supports bone health by improving your body’s absorption of calcium and bone metabolism. A lack of vitamin D can raise your chances of developing bone-related conditions such as osteoporosis and sarcopenia, which involves the loss of muscle mass.
The vitamin D receptor can be found in nerve cells known as nociceptors, which are responsible for detecting pain. This vitamin might also influence the body’s pain signalling pathways, potentially influencing chronic pain.
Vitamin D deficiency is more common than you might think. Still, its symptoms can be subtle and vague, making it difficult to determine if you’re experiencing a deficiency or another health issue. If you suspect you might lack vitamin D, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare professional for a blood test.
Typically, vitamin D deficiency is addressed through supplements along with adjustments to your diet and lifestyle.But besides vitamin D, vitamins B12 and C can also contribute to back pain:
Vitamin B12:
A lack of vitamin B12 can lead to neurological problems, including nerve-related back pain. This vitamin is crucial for keeping nerves healthy, particularly in the spinal cord.
Vitamin C:
A lack of vitamin C can lead to back pain because it negatively affects collagen production. Additionally, insufficient vitamin C levels are linked to neck pain and sciatica.
Magnesium plays a key role in activating vitamin D, so it might be a good idea to include this mineral in your diet as well. Additionally, increasing your intake of foods high in vitamin D could help enhance your levels.
Foods rich in vitamin D include:
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fatty fish
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egg yolks
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fortified cereals
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fortified milk and juices
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yoghurt
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meat liver
Courtesy: Charlotte Smith, The Mirror
