Got Chronic Knee Pain? Answer Lies in Vitamin D

21 November 2007

A new study* by Mayo Clinic researchers shows for the first time a link between chronic pain and low levels of Vitamin D. Regularly eat high level Vitamin D foods like the “oily” fish - mackerel, tuna, salmon and sardines - and it’s quite likely you’ll enjoy a reduction in chronic pain, the research indicates. Getting a good dose of sunshine will also boost Vitamin D levels.

The researchers, who measured and recorded the blood levels of Vitamin D in 267 adults undergoing outpatient treatment for chronic pain, found that 26 percent had low Vitamin D.

Double Jeopardy
Those with low Vitamin D levels were on nearly twice the morphine dose of that of the group with adequate levels.

The low-Vitamin D patients also:
• used morphine longer
• reported lower levels of physical functioning
• had a poorer view of their overall health.

Poor Response to Pain Meds
It has long been known that inadequate levels of Vitamin D can cause pain and muscle weakness and increase the risk of osteoporosis. Previous studies also indicated that pain-related symptoms of low Vitamin D respond poorly to pain medications. But this is the first time researchers have established the prevalence of Vitamin D among a diverse group of chronic pain patients.

The researchers believe that while low Vitamin D is not the main cause of chronic pain, it may contribute to it. If that’s the case, Vitamin D supplements may be effective in helping to ease pain and improve overall health.

Sunshine Good for Vitamin D
Getting a good dose of sunshine will also help chronic pain related to inadequate Vitamin D levels, because UV rays trigger Vitamin D synthesis in skin.

An initial exposure to sunlight (10 -15 minutes) allows adequate time for Vitamin D synthesis and should be followed by application of a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 to protect the skin.

Ten to fifteen minutes of sun exposure at least two times per week to the face, arms, hands, or back without sunscreen is usually sufficient to provide adequate Vitamin D. It is very important for individuals with limited sun exposure to include good sources of Vitamin D in their diet.

*Presented at the annual meeting of the American Society of Anesthesiologists, October 2007.

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