Vitamin D and Pain

The Connection

Vitamin D deficiency is remarkably common in people with chronic pain conditions. While research is still evolving, low vitamin D levels have been associated with muscle pain, fibromyalgia, and other pain conditions. Correcting deficiency may help reduce pain in some people, though it's not a cure-all.¹

Vitamin D and the Body²

Essential for bone health
Involved in muscle function
Affects immune system
May reduce inflammation
Role in nerve function

Pain Conditions Linked to Low Vitamin D

Fibromyalgia
Chronic widespread pain
Chronic low back pain
Rheumatoid arthritis
Osteoarthritis
Headaches and migraines
Muscle pain (myalgia)

Signs of Deficiency³

Muscle weakness
Bone pain
Fatigue
Depression
Frequent infections
Many have no symptoms

Who's at Risk

Limited sun exposure
Darker skin pigmentation
Older adults
Obesity
Chronic pain (less active)
Northern latitudes
Certain medications

Testing

Blood test: 25-hydroxyvitamin D
Optimal levels debated
Deficiency: below 20 ng/mL
Insufficiency: 20-30 ng/mL
Ask your doctor about testing

Sources of Vitamin D

Sun Exposure

10-30 minutes midday sun
Depends on skin tone, latitude
Balance sun safety

Food Sources

Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel)
Fortified milk and cereals
Egg yolks
Fortified orange juice

Supplements

Vitamin D3 preferred
Typical doses: 1000-4000 IU daily
Higher doses need monitoring
Take with fat for absorption

Cautions

Too much can be harmful
Toxicity possible at very high doses
Get levels tested before high-dose supplements
Some medications interact

References

Yong WC, Sanguankeo A, Upala S. Effect of vitamin D supplementation in chronic widespread pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Rheumatol. 2017;36(12):2825-2833.
Holick MF. Vitamin D deficiency. N Engl J Med. 2007;357(3):266-281.
Plotnikoff GA, Quigley JM. Prevalence of severe hypovitaminosis D in patients with persistent, nonspecific musculoskeletal pain. Mayo Clin Proc. 2003;78(12):1463-1470.