Chronic pain affects approximately 100 million Americans every year. Determining the cause of pain is an important step in deciding on treatment options.
Naturopathic doctors (NDs) specialize in identifying the cause of disease (and not just treating the symptoms) — it’s one of their core principles. NDs first identify the cause of chronic pain, then address diet and lifestyle choices that may be contributing to the pain. Often these contributing factors can be identified through diet, sleep habits, activity levels, and such.
There are numerous natural supplements and vitamins that claim to decrease chronic pain. Depending on the cause of the pain and contributing diet and lifestyle factors, natural supplements may or may not be helpful.
Naturopathic physicians will often use vitamins and supplements in conjunction with personalized diet and lifestyle recommendations. Vitamins and supplements are best used with a doctor’s advice so that you receive appropriate, safe products.
By Traci Pantuso, ND, MS, naturopathic doctor and resident, Bastyr Center for Natural Health