We explored how eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) might help in treating intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD), a major contributor to back pain. Research highlights that this condition often involves endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and breakdown of the extracellular matrix (ECM), key processes that worsen IDD. Our investigation demonstrated that EPA can promote autophagy, a process that helps cells clean up and maintain balance within the ECM.
Through our experiments, we treated nucleus pulposus cells—cells in the discs that often suffer from degeneration—with EPA. We observed that EPA not only boosted autophagy but also suppressed the harmful effects of ER stress, reducing cell death and limiting ECM degradation. Additionally, we utilized a rat model of IDD to see if these protective effects translated into a real-world setting. The findings indicated that EPA improved the health of the discs and effectively slowed down the progression of IDD in these rats.
In summary, this research highlights the potential of EPA as a therapeutic option for managing back pain related to disc degeneration. Our results suggest that EPA could play an important role in supporting the health of intervertebral discs and mitigating some of the common issues associated with chronic back pain.
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8
Omega-3 reduces menstrual back pain
Effect of Clupeonella grimmi (anchovy/kilka) fish oil on dysmenorrhoea.
We conducted a study to see if omega-3 fatty acids, specifically sourced from Clupeonella grimmi fish oil, could help alleviate back pain associated with dysmenorrhoea. Our research involved a cross-over trial with 36 young women aged 18-22 years.
Participants were split into two groups: one group took 15 mL of fish oil each day, while the other received a placebo. After three months, we switched their treatments.
The results were quite compelling. Women who took the fish oil reported a significant drop in their pain levels on the visual analogue scale, scoring an average of 20.9 compared to 61.8 for those on the placebo. We also noticed a remarkable reduction in both low back and abdominal pain.
Furthermore, the use of fish oil allowed participants to need fewer ibuprofen doses for pain relief, suggesting its effectiveness in managing menstrual-related discomfort. Overall, our findings indicate that eicosapentaenoic acid can play a positive role in easing back pain during menstruation.
This study explored whether omega-3 fatty acids (n-3 FA) could slow down intervertebral disc degeneration, a common source of lower back pain. We induced disc degeneration in rats and then divided them into two groups—one received a daily diet enriched with omega-3s, while the other had a control diet.
After a month, we noted a decrease in inflammation markers in the omega-3 group. Furthermore, MRI scans showed better hydration in their discs and histological assessments indicated less tissue damage. These findings suggest that omega-3 supplementation could be beneficial for back pain related to disc degeneration.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Pain relief achieved
107 people found this helpful
After developing stomach ulcers from pain medications, I switched to Nordic Naturals and noticed a significant improvement. My knee swelling and pain disappeared shortly after starting them. I highly recommend this product as it works better than any other brands I've tried, plus it has no unpleasant aftertaste.
Read More
9
Reduced knee pain
3 people found this helpful
Champion, I had a voice. Sitting caused pain in my knees, but after using it, I found it much easier. If it helps, like it. May God grant you Paradise.
Read More
0
Stomach issues
2 people found this helpful
Unfortunately, this product did not suit my stomach, causing cramps and back pain, making it a waste of money for me.
We explored how eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) might help in treating intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD), a major contributor to back pain. Research highlights that this condition often involves endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and breakdown of the extracellular matrix (ECM), key processes that worsen IDD. Our investigation demonstrated that EPA can promote autophagy, a process that helps cells clean up and maintain balance within the ECM.
Through our experiments, we treated nucleus pulposus cells—cells in the discs that often suffer from degeneration—with EPA. We observed that EPA not only boosted autophagy but also suppressed the harmful effects of ER stress, reducing cell death and limiting ECM degradation. Additionally, we utilized a rat model of IDD to see if these protective effects translated into a real-world setting. The findings indicated that EPA improved the health of the discs and effectively slowed down the progression of IDD in these rats.
In summary, this research highlights the potential of EPA as a therapeutic option for managing back pain related to disc degeneration. Our results suggest that EPA could play an important role in supporting the health of intervertebral discs and mitigating some of the common issues associated with chronic back pain.
Read More
8
l-Serine and EPA reduce pain
l-Serine and EPA Relieve Chronic Low-Back and Knee Pain in Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.
We investigated whether l-serine and EPA could help relieve chronic low-back and knee pain in adults. In a well-structured study with 120 participants, half received a combination of these compounds while the other half received a placebo. After eight weeks, results showed that those taking l-serine and EPA experienced significant pain relief.
This suggests that these compounds could be beneficial for individuals suffering from chronic pain, improving their overall quality of life. However, as with all treatments, individual results may vary.
This study explored whether omega-3 fatty acids (n-3 FA) could slow down intervertebral disc degeneration, a common source of lower back pain. We induced disc degeneration in rats and then divided them into two groups—one received a daily diet enriched with omega-3s, while the other had a control diet.
After a month, we noted a decrease in inflammation markers in the omega-3 group. Furthermore, MRI scans showed better hydration in their discs and histological assessments indicated less tissue damage. These findings suggest that omega-3 supplementation could be beneficial for back pain related to disc degeneration.
Read More
8
Omega-3 reduces menstrual back pain
Effect of Clupeonella grimmi (anchovy/kilka) fish oil on dysmenorrhoea.
We conducted a study to see if omega-3 fatty acids, specifically sourced from Clupeonella grimmi fish oil, could help alleviate back pain associated with dysmenorrhoea. Our research involved a cross-over trial with 36 young women aged 18-22 years.
Participants were split into two groups: one group took 15 mL of fish oil each day, while the other received a placebo. After three months, we switched their treatments.
The results were quite compelling. Women who took the fish oil reported a significant drop in their pain levels on the visual analogue scale, scoring an average of 20.9 compared to 61.8 for those on the placebo. We also noticed a remarkable reduction in both low back and abdominal pain.
Furthermore, the use of fish oil allowed participants to need fewer ibuprofen doses for pain relief, suggesting its effectiveness in managing menstrual-related discomfort. Overall, our findings indicate that eicosapentaenoic acid can play a positive role in easing back pain during menstruation.
Read More
8
DHA linked to back pain relief
Causal association of polyunsaturated fatty acids with chronic pain: a two-sample Mendelian randomization study.
We explored the connection between docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and back pain. This study aimed to understand if higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, like DHA, can lead to less frequent or intense back pain.
Using robust data from previous genome-wide association studies, we found that increased levels of circulating omega-3 fatty acids were linked to a lower risk of experiencing lower back pain and sciatica. This suggests that incorporating more omega-3 fatty acids in our diet could potentially help alleviate some of the discomfort associated with back pain.
Our analysis also pointed out that individuals with higher omega-3 levels experienced less abdominal and pelvic pain, alongside the benefits for back pain. It’s exciting to think about how simple dietary adjustments could contribute to managing chronic pain effectively.
After developing stomach ulcers from pain medications, I switched to Nordic Naturals and noticed a significant improvement. My knee swelling and pain disappeared shortly after starting them. I highly recommend this product as it works better than any other brands I've tried, plus it has no unpleasant aftertaste.
Read More
9
Reduced knee pain
3 people found this helpful
Champion, I had a voice. Sitting caused pain in my knees, but after using it, I found it much easier. If it helps, like it. May God grant you Paradise.
Read More
0
Stomach issues
2 people found this helpful
Unfortunately, this product did not suit my stomach, causing cramps and back pain, making it a waste of money for me.
Read More
2
Ineffective treatment
1 people found this helpful
I found these fish oil capsules ineffective for back pain over 21 days, despite their flagship status. I switched back to Carlson Elite 1600mg, which yielded better results for my back pain. Nordic seems more hype than substance compared to Carlson, which I also bought from iHerb.
Read More
9
Osteoporosis prevention
High-quality omega-3 fatty acids prevent osteoporosis, maintain healthy joints, and relieve back pain during flare-ups. They fight inflammation and support joint health.
Back pain is a common ailment that affects millions of people worldwide and can vary significantly in intensity and duration. It can be classified into two main categories: acute and chronic. Acute back pain often arises suddenly due to a specific injury or strain, while chronic back pain persists for a longer duration, typically defined as lasting for 12 weeks or more. The pain can occur in various regions of the back, including the lower, middle, or upper sections, and may be accompanied by additional symptoms such as stiffness, muscle spasms, or reduced mobility.
Causes of back pain can range from poor posture, overexertion, or lifting heavy objects incorrectly to more serious conditions such as herniated discs, arthritis, or spinal abnormalities. Treatment options usually depend on the underlying cause and may include rest, physical therapy, medications, or, in some cases, surgical interventions. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise, proper ergonomics, and strength training can help prevent back pain and improve overall spinal health.
Omega-3 fish oil is a nutritional supplement derived from the fatty tissues of fish, particularly fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential fats that the body cannot produce on its own. The most significant types of omega-3s found in fish oil are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), both of which are known for their numerous health benefits. These include reducing inflammation, supporting heart health, and promoting brain function.
Incorporating omega-3 fish oil into your diet can be beneficial if you don’t consume enough fish regularly. Many health experts recommend oily fish as a part of a balanced diet due to their high omega-3 content. For those who find it difficult to include fish in their meals, fish oil supplements can offer a convenient alternative, providing the same essential fatty acids in concentrated form. However, it’s essential to choose high-quality supplements that are third-party tested for purity and potency to avoid contaminants such as heavy metals or other toxins that can impact health.
Omega-3 fish oil is widely recognized for its anti-inflammatory properties, which could potentially provide relief for certain types of back pain. Several studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids, commonly found in fish oil, may help reduce inflammation in the body, potentially alleviating pain associated with conditions like arthritis or general muscle soreness. By decreasing inflammatory markers, omega-3s may aid in easing chronic pain and improving overall mobility, making it a worthwhile consideration for those suffering from back discomfort.
However, it is important to note that while some individuals may experience relief from back pain with the use of omega-3 fish oil, results can vary significantly from person to person. It’s always wise to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially for chronic pain management. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific health needs and the underlying causes of your back pain. Overall, while omega-3 fish oil might help in managing back pain for some, it should be viewed as part of a broader approach that includes physical therapy, exercise, and possibly other treatments.
Based on user reviews, the timeline for seeing results from this back pain supplement can vary significantly. Some users mention experiencing an improvement in back pain within a few weeks of consistent use. For instance, one reviewer noted a reduction in back pain after three weeks of taking omega-3 fatty acids, indicating that this might be a common timeframe for some users to start noticing effects Read Review. However, other users did not experience beneficial results even after longer periods; one user reported no effectiveness for back pain after 21 days and opted for a different product instead Read Review.
It’s important to note that individual experiences can vary widely based on personal health conditions and reasons for back pain, as well as adherence to supplement usage. While some have praised the product for alleviating discomfort and enhancing overall well-being Read Review, others have found the supplement ineffective or unsuitable Read Review. Therefore, it may take several weeks to a couple of months to determine if this supplement effectively addresses your back pain.
When considering the potential for omega-3 fish oil to alleviate back pain, research yields mixed results. A study involving 605 adults found that an increased ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids was linked to higher pain intensity, including low back pain, suggesting a complex relationship between these fatty acids and pain perception [1]. While the study hinted that higher omega-3 levels, particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), may offer protective effects, it ultimately did not provide strong evidence supporting omega-3 fish oil as a direct treatment for back pain.
However, several studies indicate that specific omega-3s like eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) may have a more promising role. Another investigation involving 120 participants revealed significant pain relief for those taking a combination of l-serine and EPA, suggesting these compounds could be beneficial for chronic back pain management [3]. Furthermore, findings from a rat model demonstrated that EPA could improve disc health and reduce inflammation associated with disc degeneration [6]. Taken together, while omega-3 supplementation may not provide a blanket solution for back pain, certain formulations containing these fatty acids warrant further exploration as a potential adjunctive therapy for pain relief.
Users have reported a range of improvements in symptoms related to back pain and joint health after using omega-3 supplements. For instance, one user noted significant relief from back pain and even an increase in energy levels after battling tendonitis, leading them to repurchase the product Read Review. Another reviewer specifically mentioned that omega-3 fatty acids not only alleviate back pain but also have beneficial effects on inflammation and joint health overall Read Review.
Additionally, some users have experienced a reduction in PMS-related back pain symptoms, indicating versatility in the supplement's effects Read Review. However, it’s crucial to underscore that individual results can vary, as some have found the product ineffective or unsuitable for their needs, with reports of stomach cramps and no improvement in back pain Read Review. Thus, while many users celebrate substantial symptom relief, others advise caution and suggest exploring alternatives if their initial experiences are disappointing.
Based on user reviews, combining this supplement with other supplements has produced varied results for managing back pain. Some reviewers found significant benefits when using omega-3 fatty acids alongside other health-focused supplements. For example, one user noted an improvement in back pain and overall energy levels after battling tendonitis while using these omega-3 supplements Read Review. In another case, a user indicated that while the omega-3 supplements successfully alleviated back pain and improved joint health, they were also taking Evening Primrose, suggesting that combining supplements might enhance effectiveness Read Review.
However, it should be noted that not all experiences were positive. Some users reported adverse effects such as stomach cramps and ineffective results for back pain when taking this omega-3 supplement Read Review. Additionally, one reviewer switched to a different omega-3 brand after finding this one ineffective for their back pain, highlighting the importance of personal suitability when combining supplements Read Review. Thus, while many users found value in using omega-3s in conjunction with other supplements, individual results and tolerances may vary widely.
The optimal dose of Omega-3 fish oil for treating back pain appears to vary based on different research studies. One significant study indicated that a daily intake of 1200 mg of omega-3 fatty acids led to a notable improvement in pain levels for 60% of participants, with many able to discontinue traditional nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) after using the supplement [5]. Additionally, another study suggests that combining eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) with l-serine at doses totaling 594 mg of EPA may also yield significant reductions in chronic low-back pain after an eight-week treatment period [3].
It's important to note that not all studies show consistent results, as some suggest potential benefits while others highlight the need for more specific findings related to gender or specific omega-3 components like DHA and EPA. Particularly, research points to the protective effects of higher levels of DHA in potentially mitigating back pain linked to disc degeneration [4]. Overall, though individual responses may vary, these findings suggest that around 1200 mg to 594 mg of daily intake of omega-3s could be beneficial for managing back pain.
7.5
Back pain improvement
1 people found this helpful
After three weeks, my hair stopped falling out and my skin became less dry. Omega-3 fatty acids relieve joint pain and back pain, reduce inflammation, and prevent depression. They also improve heart and cognitive functions.
2
Ineffective treatment
1 people found this helpful
I found these fish oil capsules ineffective for back pain over 21 days, despite their flagship status. I switched back to Carlson Elite 1600mg, which yielded better results for my back pain. Nordic seems more hype than substance compared to Carlson, which I also bought from iHerb.
9
Cholesterol reduction
I feel good consuming it, as it has a pleasant lemon taste. It helps my back pain caused by inflammation and lowers cholesterol levels.
0
Stomach issues
2 people found this helpful
Unfortunately, this product did not suit my stomach, causing cramps and back pain, making it a waste of money for me.
9
Less back pain
I really like these omega-3 supplements. I have more energy and less back pain after battling tendonitis. I've purchased a second bottle because they help without side effects.
9
Osteoporosis prevention
High-quality omega-3 fatty acids prevent osteoporosis, maintain healthy joints, and relieve back pain during flare-ups. They fight inflammation and support joint health.
7.5
PMS relief
I take this omega for my family, and it helps reduce the symptoms of PMS, particularly back pain and discomfort. I am satisfied with its quality.
7.5
Joint pain relief
2 people found this helpful
This product is excellent for skin, joint pain, and overall health. I noticed a significant improvement in my skin and a considerable reduction in joint pain, especially with Evening Primrose. I highly recommend it.
7
Omega-3 fish oil and pain
Circulating Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Pain Intensity in Five Chronic Pain Conditions.
We explored the link between omega-3 fatty acids and various pain conditions in a study involving 605 adults. Despite high expectations, our findings revealed that a higher intake ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids was associated with increased pain intensity, including low back pain.
Notably, higher levels of the omega-3 docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) seemed to have a protective effect, indicating that bolstering omega-3 intake might help reduce pain levels. However, the study did not show strong evidence that omega-3 fish oil directly alleviates back pain specifically.
8
l-Serine and EPA reduce pain
l-Serine and EPA Relieve Chronic Low-Back and Knee Pain in Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial.
We investigated whether l-serine and EPA could help relieve chronic low-back and knee pain in adults. In a well-structured study with 120 participants, half received a combination of these compounds while the other half received a placebo. After eight weeks, results showed that those taking l-serine and EPA experienced significant pain relief.
This suggests that these compounds could be beneficial for individuals suffering from chronic pain, improving their overall quality of life. However, as with all treatments, individual results may vary.
9
Eicosapentaenoic acid alleviates back pain
Eicosapentaenoic Acid-Induced Autophagy Attenuates Intervertebral Disc Degeneration by Suppressing Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress, Extracellular Matrix Degradation, and Apoptosis.
We explored how eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) might help in treating intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD), a major contributor to back pain. Research highlights that this condition often involves endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and breakdown of the extracellular matrix (ECM), key processes that worsen IDD. Our investigation demonstrated that EPA can promote autophagy, a process that helps cells clean up and maintain balance within the ECM.
Through our experiments, we treated nucleus pulposus cells—cells in the discs that often suffer from degeneration—with EPA. We observed that EPA not only boosted autophagy but also suppressed the harmful effects of ER stress, reducing cell death and limiting ECM degradation. Additionally, we utilized a rat model of IDD to see if these protective effects translated into a real-world setting. The findings indicated that EPA improved the health of the discs and effectively slowed down the progression of IDD in these rats.
In summary, this research highlights the potential of EPA as a therapeutic option for managing back pain related to disc degeneration. Our results suggest that EPA could play an important role in supporting the health of intervertebral discs and mitigating some of the common issues associated with chronic back pain.
7
Fish oil may ease back pain
Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) as an anti-inflammatory: an alternative to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for discogenic pain.
We explored the effectiveness of omega-3 fish oil supplements as an alternative treatment for nonsurgical neck and back pain. Over a period from March to June 2004, we asked 250 patients to take 1200 mg of omega-3 fatty acids daily. After about a month, a questionnaire revealed that 60% of participants reported improvement in their overall pain and joint pain. A significant number even stopped using traditional NSAIDs, with over 88% expressing the desire to continue taking fish oil. Overall, our findings suggest that fish oil could be a safer option for managing pain without notable side effects.
This study explored whether omega-3 fatty acids (n-3 FA) could slow down intervertebral disc degeneration, a common source of lower back pain. We induced disc degeneration in rats and then divided them into two groups—one received a daily diet enriched with omega-3s, while the other had a control diet.
After a month, we noted a decrease in inflammation markers in the omega-3 group. Furthermore, MRI scans showed better hydration in their discs and histological assessments indicated less tissue damage. These findings suggest that omega-3 supplementation could be beneficial for back pain related to disc degeneration.
References
Sanders AE, Weatherspoon ED, Ehrmann BM, Soma PS, Shaikh SR, et al. Circulating Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Pain Intensity in Five Chronic Pain Conditions. J Pain. 2023;24:478. doi:10.1016/j.jpain.2022.10.008
Sanders AE, Weatherspoon ED, Ehrmann BM, Soma PS, Shaikh SR, et al. Circulating Omega-6 and Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Painful Temporomandibular Disorder and Low Back Pain. J Pain. 2022;23:1724. doi:10.1016/j.jpain.2022.05.008
Sasahara I, Yamamoto A, Takeshita M, Suga Y, Suzuki K, et al. l-Serine and EPA Relieve Chronic Low-Back and Knee Pain in Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. J Nutr. 2020;150:2278. doi:10.1093/jn/nxaa156
NaPier Z, Kanim LEA, Arabi Y, Salehi K, Sears B, et al. Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation Reduces Intervertebral Disc Degeneration. Med Sci Monit. 2019;25:9531. doi:10.12659/MSM.918649
Maroon JC, Bost JW. Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) as an anti-inflammatory: an alternative to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for discogenic pain. Surg Neurol. 2006;65:326.
Lin Z, Ni L, Teng C, Zhang Z, Wu L, et al. Eicosapentaenoic Acid-Induced Autophagy Attenuates Intervertebral Disc Degeneration by Suppressing Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress, Extracellular Matrix Degradation, and Apoptosis. Front Cell Dev Biol. 2021;9:745621. doi:10.3389/fcell.2021.745621
Kawabata F, Tsuji T. Effects of dietary supplementation with a combination of fish oil, bilberry extract, and lutein on subjective symptoms of asthenopia in humans. Biomed Res. 2011;32:387.
Moghadamnia AA, Mirhosseini N, Abadi MH, Omranirad A, Omidvar S. Effect of Clupeonella grimmi (anchovy/kilka) fish oil on dysmenorrhoea. East Mediterr Health J. 2010;16:408.
Dai Y, Chen Y, Gu R, Zhang C, Jiang R. Causal association of polyunsaturated fatty acids with chronic pain: a two-sample Mendelian randomization study. Front Nutr. 2023;10:1265928. doi:10.3389/fnut.2023.1265928