Aching muscles and bones are relatively common health complaints. These symptoms may occur together or they may occur independently of one another. According to MedlinePlus, muscle aches are more commonly experienced than bone pain. The causes of muscle and bone aches may be obvious or subtle. Dietary supplements may be a helpful adjunct therapy in treating your muscle and bone aches, but you should always clear the use of supplements with your doctor before using them.
Aching Muscles and Bones
Muscle aches are a common health complaint that often involves multiple muscles. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that most muscle aches are caused by overuse injuries or traumatic injuries associated with work or recreational activities. Certain chronic health problems, such as fibromyalgia, may also cause muscle aches. Bone pain or tenderness may be caused by numerous factors, including fractures, osteoporosis, bone infection, sickle cell anemia, and primary or metastatic cancer.
Commonly Used Supplements
Dietary supplements are a common inclusion in muscle and bone pain treatment plans. According to Phyllis A. Balch, certified nutritional consultant and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, manganese, MSM, DL-phenylalanine, white willow bark, slippery elm, devil's claw, boron and proteolytic enzymes may be helpful in treating these symptoms. Some supplements traditionally used in treating muscle and bone aches may need further scientific scrutiny to determine their true merits and mechanisms of action.
Highlighted Supplement
White willow bark is a dietary supplement that has long been used in treating all types of musculoskeletal problems, including muscle and bone aches. According to naturopathic physician William A. Mitchell Jr., author of "Plant Medicine in Practice," white willow bark contains salicylates--pain-relieving compounds--and is a natural anti-inflammatory agent. White willow bark has been used in treating muscle and bone pain, neuralgia, lower back pain, joint pain, and the swelling and inflammation associated with traumatic injuries.
Disclaimer
Most causes of muscle and bone pain are benign, but certain conditions, such as cancer or fractures, require immediate intervention by a trained medical professional. If you develop severe or persistent muscle or bone pain, schedule a visit with your family physician to discuss safe and relevant treatment strategies to counter your health complaint. Conservative care methods, including dietary supplements, have their own set of risks. Always ask your doctor if supplements are right for you before using them.
References
- MedlinePlus: Bone Pain or Tenderness
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Muscle Aches
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "Plant Medicine in Practice"; William A. Mitchell Jr., N.D.; 2003
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