vitamins/nutrition for back patients

[beaujolais]

Just wondering if any of you take any certain vitamins or have changed your diet hoping it will help your bad back? Will it? - who knows but I feel like I have to try everything I can.

I take: a multi-vitamin, calcium, D3(to help the calcium absorb), B12 (for nerves), COQ10, joint juice

-and-

have tried to change my diet to one that includes more anti-inflammatory type foods (olive oil, whole grains, red wine (yay!), dark chocolate, soy products, ginger, cinnamon, . . .)

---

Yes, I know some might say “ask your Dr.” :winkgrin: but you all often have great ideas.

Thanks.

[Mouse_amp_Bay]

I’m not a doctor but I get to read a lot of medical reports in my real job.

What I see the most frequently from specialists dealing with nerve issues (i.e. herniated discs with pinched nerves etc.) is vitamin B (eg B100). Also lots of recommendations for vitamin D and omega fatty acids.

Surprisingly, acupuncture can be very helpful for back issues, especially if you can find someone who is also a very well qualified physiotherapist (some of these ‘super physios’ have certifications for active manipulations). We alos have local physios who can do GUNN intramuscular stimulation as well, and that has been very helpful for clients with significant back injuries (i.e. compression fractures).

Run it by your family doctor and if they’re not creative, start researching naturopathic doctors (for the supplements - in Canada it requires a B. Sc. + 4 years of school) and qualified physiotherapists/osteopaths. They may have suggestions for you.

[beaujolais]

Thanks so much M&B !

By B100 you mean B complex, 100 mg? The B I’m taking is Methyl B-12, 5 mg. a day. They say this form of B absorbs better. Have you heard that?

Omega Fatty Acids meaning fish oils? Are there any forms that don’t repeat on you and make you taste fish all day, do you know? If not, hey, I’ll live with the bad taste.

I actually just had a consult today with an acupuncturist that is locally well recommended. Sadly, he reads my MRI report, says “Well, this is not good. There are several levels. I don’t think I can do that much for you. You have structural problems and I can’t fix that. Acupuncture does not help much with this.” He said we could try though and we could start once I get approval.

I’m not saying he’s not right but I wonder if my carrier will let me consult with another acupuncturist. I’m going to find out.

I just watched a video on the GUNN method. Thanks.

I will surely look for a naturopathic doctor. I have to try everything possible.

Thanks so much M&B and thanks for being so nice !

[romewhip]

I take a prenatal vitamin because I have trouble with iron pills and am chronically anemic, this keeps my iron levels up. I also take vitamin D, there is a serious lack of sunshine here and almost everyone is severely deficient. I’ve been working on eliminating wheat from my diet, and cutting carbs, both for dieting and reducing inflammation. I had already started this before I got my diagnosis on my back, and it’s paid off in reduced cholesterol numbers. Olive oil and red wine- yes! Lots of leafy greens, I especially like chard, and lean meat. I’m borderline diabetic too, so the diet change affects everything for the better.

I am looking for an acupuncturist now, to see if there is any benefit.

[beaujolais]

Thanks RW. Sending you lots of well wishes.

[magnolia50]

thanks for the info, I have always taken my B’s but I have recently started with krill oil, same benefits but less after taste. and for swelling and soreness, dmso.

[magnolia50]

try krill oil, same thing, no nasty fish burps

[wateryglen]

Sounds like you’ve got it covered OP! The most important thing is to keep your weight down and exercise regularly. Weight is a huge issue for back problems. And don’t be afraid of anti inflamatory medications. Other suggestions have been made on other threads on this forum; do some research on it. Best wishes!

[In1]

I take tart cherry extract- recommended by both my ortho and PT - in attempt to reduce chronic inflammation. There are liquid and pill forms.

[beaujolais]

Thanks so very much all! Some great ideas that I intend to incorporate. (I’m also starting to research PRP, stem cell, prolotherapy.)

[romewhip]

Cherry extract- I had forgotten about that- great tip! I added that to my next shopping list. Also avoiding potatoes and tomatoes can make a difference for some people with inflammation.

[beaujolais]

Just found this good article regarding nutrition & backs:

http://www.backclinicsofcanada.ca/?/backclinics/article/herniated_or_bulging_discs_heal_with_nutritional_supplements_at_toront/