Fish oil relieves back and neck pain

More than 85% of all people suffer from back pain from time to time. This is usually treated with rest and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Unfortunately, these drugs cause stomach problems in some people and in some cases can even trigger heart attacks or strokes. Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have found in a study that fish oil capsules can relieve back pain just as effectively as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Fish oil contains omega 3 fatty acidswhich have anti-inflammatory effects on joints and body tissue. The subjects in this study took 1.2 to 2.4 grams of fish oil for a period of 75 days. However, the study was poorly monitored, so that the observed effects could also be attributed to the placebo effect. Other studies came to the conclusion that supplements containing glucosamine or chondroitin can also be used effectively to treat joint pain. The combined use of these supplements in conjunction with fish oil could provide additional positive effects and benefits in the treatment or prevention of back pain. (Journal Surgical Neurology, 65:326-331, 2006)