Research Backed Supplements for Chronic Pain

Feeling more in control over your health gives you great peace of mind. But when you’re in chronic pain, a sense of control might seem well out of reach!

At Integrated Pain Solutions in Columbus, Ohio, our pain specialists encourage patients to explore a variety of approaches that can help them find relief from chronic pain conditions like arthritis and migraine headaches. For many people, their approach may include supplements.

Since September is Pain Awareness Month, we wanted to share with you some ideas about how supplements can complement your pain management approach. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular supplements that could help people with chronic pain, according to the research.

When used appropriately, supplements can be a beneficial part of your pain management approach, although they cannot replace a specialist’s knowledge. With that said, here are some top supplements many of our patients choose as a complement to (and not a replacement for) their personalized care plan:

• Omega-3 fatty acids: found naturally in fatty fish but available in capsule or liquid form, omega-3 fatty acids are known for their anti-inflammatory effects, among additional benefits. Randomized controlled trials suggest omega-3 fatty acids help alleviate joint pain associated with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
• Willowbark: used for centuries, this herbal supplement (available in liquid, dried, or tablet form) contains a natural compound called salicin which is similar to the main ingredient found in aspirin.
• Cloves: Cloves are the flower buds of evergreen trees and add a spicy, aromatic flavor to many foods and beverages. Many people use cloves in capsule, powdered, or oil form to help with inflammation or ease aches and pains.
• Indian frankincense: derived from the sap of the Boswellia tree, frankincense has a long history of use as a natural pain-reliever and is commonly used for joint inflammation. You can find it most often in capsule form.

It’s important to keep in mind that dietary supplements are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are not intended to cure, prevent, or treat disease. The quality and effectiveness of a supplement can also vary a lot depending on the brand you choose.

For your health and safety, always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new medication, including supplements. Even natural products may have unintended side effects or interact with other medicines.

Looking for Relief From Chronic Pain?

Take a stand against your pain by using a customized, comprehensive approach that offers symptomatic relief and helps you address the root cause of your discomfort. If you live near Dublin, Springfield, or Columbus, OH, and are ready to take your health to the next level, contact Integrated Pain Solutions today at 614-383-6450 to connect with our team of pain management specialists.