Shoulder pain can be caused by a number of diseases or injuries. However, most shoulder pain results in swelling, inflammation or tearing of the tendons or joints in the shoulder area. Specific vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, calcium, copper and vitamin D, can help relieve shoulder pain. Consult a health care practitioner or a qualified nutritionist for advice before taking nutritional supplements for shoulder pain.
Causes
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, shoulder pain is commonly caused by either the aging process or an injury. Diseases such as arthritis and bursitis also contribute to shoulder pain. Inflammation and swelling are common side effects of shoulder pain. Many prescription medications help relieve shoulder pain but taking an appropriate nutritional supplement can help reduce shoulder pain too. Some vitamins and minerals are natural anti-inflammatories. In addition, other vitamins and minerals help regenerate damaged cartilage, which is another cause of shoulder pain.
Calcium
According to the Health Supplements Nutritional Guide, deficiency in calcium can cause shoulder pain. Calcium is required for the formation of strong bones and for muscular growth and contraction. Calcium is naturally found in green leafy vegetables, seafood and milk and dairy products. It is also available as a nutritional supplement.
Vitamin C
According to the Health Supplements Nutritional Guide, shoulder pain can also be caused by a deficiency in vitamin C. Vitamin C is required for tissue growth and repair and the healing of injuries. Vitamin C is naturally found in citrus fruits and green vegetables. It is also available as a nutritional supplement.
Copper
Shoulder pain can also be caused by a deficiency of the mineral copper, which is necessary for the formation of bone and healthy joints and is needed in the healing process. Copper is naturally found in beans, garlic, oats, oranges, seafood, green leafy vegetables, almonds and nuts.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is required for protection against muscle weakness and the normal development of bones. Vitamin D has to be converted in the body by the liver and kidneys before it is fully active. Exposure to sunlight helps increase the amount of vitamin D that you receive. In addition, vitamin D is also found in dairy products, eggs and fish liver oils. It is also available as a nutritional supplement.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, Phyllis A. Balch; 1997
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Shoulder Pain -- Overview
- Health Supplements Nutritional Guide: Joint Pain Causes
