Natural Substances that Can Provide Relief for Seniors with Back Pain

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All-Natural Remedies for Back Pain in the Elderly in Toronto, ON

Living with chronic back pain can quickly put a halt to your senior loved one’s active lifestyle, but finding relief is easier than you may think. Many seniors have had success with these natural supplements that help them find pain relief without depending on pharmaceuticals. 

White Willow Bark

White willow bark comes from a tree native to Europe and Asia, and the salicin extract from this tree provides relief for some symptoms. The most well-known benefit of using white willow bark is the reduction of inflammation in seniors with acute back pain, joint pain, and osteoarthritis. White willow bark is also a natural substitute for aspirin.

 

A home caregiver can help your loved one with daily tasks that are challenging because of back pain. Aging adults who require assistance with the tasks of daily living can benefit from reliable home care service. Families trust Home Care Assistance to provide the high-quality care their elderly loved ones need and deserve. Our caregivers are trained to help seniors prevent serious illnesses and encourage them to make healthier decisions as they age.

Turmeric

Instead of cooking with salt, your parent should use spices with anti-inflammatory properties, such as turmeric. Curcumin is the active ingredient in this centuries-old spice. Commonly used in Indian cuisine, turmeric can be found in bulk powder and capsule form. Turmeric is well known for its ability to provide relief from joint and muscle pain. Studies have shown the consumption of turmeric has allowed some individuals to eliminate NSAID treatment. The antioxidants found in other healthy spices, such as black pepper, garlic, and sage, can also reduce inflammation in the joints and ease pain.

Even if back pain makes it difficult for your parent to handle the tasks of daily living, he or she can continue to age in place with assistance from a trained caregiver. If your aging loved one needs help managing everyday tasks or encouragement to adopt healthier lifestyle choices, turn to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of at-home care. Toronto Home Care Assistance provides professional in-home caregivers around the clock to help seniors live longer, happier, and healthier lives.

Ginger

Another well-known anti-inflammatory spice is ginger, which can be found in capsule, bulk powder, raw, and tea form. Ginger is widely used for relief of the inflammation that causes joint pain. It’s also often used to combat colds, headaches, and upset stomachs.

Fish Oil

A daily dose of 2 to 4 grams of DHA and EPA from fish oil has been shown to ease the inflammation that can cause back pain and other chronic conditions. The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil provide this beneficial relief.

Vitamin D

Low levels of vitamin D have been proven to contribute to back pain and inflammation. Vitamin D can boost the immune system and build strong bones. Seniors with back pain due to arthritis typically have lower vitamin D levels, causing symptoms of the disease to worsen. The best ways for the elderly to get vitamin D are being exposed to sunlight and eating certain foods, such as salmon, yogurt, cheese, nuts, and mushrooms. Raising vitamin D levels by taking supplements can be challenging, and partnering with your loved one’s doctor for the proper levels is recommended.

Glucosamine Sulfate

This is probably the best-known and most widely advertised supplement for relieving back and joint pain. Widely available as a supplement, glucosamine sulfate not only eases the pain but also slows the progression of osteoarthritis.

There is no reason to live with back pain when there are many supplements that can relieve the symptoms. Speak with your loved one’s physician about incorporating one of more of these natural remedies as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. 

Chronic pain can make it challenging for aging adults to live at home independently without assistance. Every senior has different needs when aging in place. Some simply need occasional assistance with household chores, while others may be managing a serious illness and require more extensive live-in care. Toronto seniors can count on Home Care Assistance to provide the in-home care they need and deserve. To schedule a free in-home consultation, give us a call at (416) 488-8777 today.

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