Vitamin D & Myofascial Pain Syndrome

Vitamin D, a fat-soluble vitamin produced by a reaction that occurs when cholesterol in your skin is exposed to sunshine, serves a variety important health functions. Vitamin D is necessary for calcium absorption, and vitamin D deficiency may play a role in the development of some myofascial pain syndromes. Consult your doctor about using vitamin D to treat a medical condition.

Common Occurrence

Vitamin D deficiency is a common occurrence among patients with myofascial pain syndromes, according to physical therapist Jan Dommerholt, author of the book "Myofascial Trigger Points: Pathophysiology and Evidence-Informed Diagnosis." Non-specific muscle pain, muscle weakness, reduced muscle mass, osteoporosis and decreased function have all been associated with low levels of vitamin D. Northern Europe and America experience high rates of vitamin D deficiency. In these areas, as many as 90 percent of people with muscle and joint pain have been found to have vitamin D levels below 20 ng/ml, with 30 ng/ml and above recommended for optimal health.

Chronic Pain

Chronic pain may occur with vitamin D levels that are low but not low enough to be considered deficient, according to licensed massage therapist Sharon Sauer, author of the book "Trigger Point Therapy for Low Back Pain: A Self-Treatment Workbook." As many as 72 percent of myofascial pain patients have vitamin D levels that are within normal range, implying that even low-normal levels of this vitamin can lead to chronic pain. Sauer notes that excessive levels of vitamin D can also contribute to chronic pain. Consult your doctor for guidance on safe use of vitamin D supplementation.

Muscle Weakness

A study published in the January 2010 issue of the "Journal of Clinical Rheumatology" reported on a case of vitamin D deficiency and depression in a 20-year-old male vegetarian. The patient was admitted to a hospital complaining of muscle weakness and difficulty walking. The patient was also found to be deficient in calcium and phosphates and had multiple bone fractures. Treatment with 20,000 IU of vitamin D once a week along with 1 g of calcium for eight months reversed the symptoms.

Spa Therapy

Researchers at the DMZ Medical Center in Israel reported that increased vitamin D levels from engaging in spa activities such as daily sun exposure, bathing in Dead Sea mineral water, mud baths and exercise significantly increased vitamin D levels. Pain reduction occurred in conjunction with the increase in vitamin D levels in the 60 study participants. The study appeared in the April 2011 issue of the "Israeli Medical Association Journal."