Can Vitamins Help Reduce Stiff Muscles in the Lower Back & Butt?

Magnesium
Potassium
Vitamin D
Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Written by Lisa Ellis

08 July, 2011

Fact Checked

Muscle stiffness most commonly affects the muscles of the back, hips and shoulders. Many lifestyle choices lead to back and buttock stiffness, such as exercise, sleep disturbances and nutritional deficiencies. People often reduce muscle stiffness by taking one or more supplements. Supplements should be taken under the supervision of your health care provider.

Magnesium

Every organ and system in the body utilizes magnesium. It aids enzymes, regulates minerals and contributes to energy production. Also, while calcium helps muscles to contract, magnesium helps muscles to relax. The recommended amount of magnesium for adults is between 270 and 400 miligrams, depending on size and sex of the individual.

Every organ and system in the body utilizes magnesium.
It aids enzymes, regulates minerals and contributes to energy production.

Potassium

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Potassium is a mineral and electrolyte that is utilized throughout the body. It aids in the function of smooth, skeletal and cardiac muscles and helps with the conduction of electricity in the body. Potassium deficiency usually results from excessive loss through the urine or intestines. The recommended intake of potassium for adults is 2,000 mg.

Potassium is a mineral and electrolyte that is utilized throughout the body.
It aids in the function of smooth, skeletal and cardiac muscles and helps with the conduction of electricity in the body.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin that aids in calcium balance, immunity, blood pressure regulation, insulin secretion and cell growth. Vitamin D deficiency causes muscle weakness, pain and stiffness. Also, low levels of vitamin D are linked to calcium deficiency and osteoporosis. The recommended daily allowance of Vitamin D for adults is 15 micrograms.

Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin that aids in calcium balance, immunity, blood pressure regulation, insulin secretion and cell growth.
Also, low levels of vitamin D are linked to calcium deficiency and osteoporosis.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Muscle Weakness & Nutrition

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Omega-3 fatty acids are part of a category of poly-unsaturated fats that the body cannot manufacture but must obtain from the diet. Omega-3 fatty acids are important for brain development, growth and function. Research indicates that omega-3 fats have anti-inflammatory properties as well. The recommended intake of omega-3 fatty acids varies between 1 and 4 grams per day, depending on medical history and dietary intake 1.

Omega-3 fatty acids are part of a category of poly-unsaturated fats that the body cannot manufacture but must obtain from the diet.
Research indicates that omega-3 fats have anti-inflammatory properties as well.