Low Back Pain: Most Effective Dietary Supplements

Low back pain is common and affects a large part of the adult population. It encompasses several conditions, ranging from muscle strains to more serious structural pathologies like a herniated disc or ankylosing spondylitis: • Common low back pain: Caused by muscle strains or ligament injuries, they often occur after physical exertion or poor posture. It's one of the most frequent musculoskeletal disorders in the general population. It is estimated that 50 to 80% of adults suffer from low back pain at least once in their lives. • Structural pathologies: Herniated disc and spondylolysis result from excessive stress on the discs or vertebral structures. • Ankylosing spondylitis: A chronic inflammatory form, often associated with nighttime pain and morning stiffness. • Neuropathic pain: Related to nerve injuries, like sciatica, they manifest as radiating pain. In young athletes, conditions like spondylolysis are common and can result from repetitive movements (gymnastics, dance). The main risk factors include: • Prolonged poor posture. • Inadequate or excessive training. • Structural abnormalities of the spine.

Therapeutic Approaches

Treatments for low back pain vary depending on the nature and severity of the problem. • Conventional methods: Rest, physiotherapy, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or even surgical interventions for severe cases (significant herniated discs). • Complementary therapies: Targeted muscle strengthening exercises and yoga, which improve spinal stability. Dietary recommendations highlight an anti-inflammatory diet based on raw and gluten-free or dairy-free foods, which could reduce pain in inflammatory conditions like ankylosing spondylitis. Furthermore, intakes of magnesium, omega-3, and antioxidants enhance muscle and joint health.