ADVERTISING: Advertorial — DR. WAYNE M. FICHTER: Vitamin D and spinal health

The potential health effects of vitamin D deficiency are serious, as vitamin D deficiency is linked to muscle weakness, bone pain, constant respiratory problems, depression, chronic infections, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, chronic pain, and tiredness.

New research suggests there may be a link between low levels of vitamin D and spinal health. In a study presented to the North American Spinal Society conference, a majority of patients who were about to have spine surgery had significant low levels of vitamin D.

The study was conducted at the Washington University of St. Louis — 313 patients scheduled to receive spinal-fusion surgery were tested. “57% of patients had inadequate vitamin D levels, enough to be considered a deficiency. This was especially concerning given that spinal-fusion surgery requires the body to create new bone, something that requires high amounts of vitamin D.”

Although each case is different and unique, researchers did recommend any patients getting spinal surgery should have their vitamin D levels evaluate, especially if they have a history of smoking, obesity, diabetes and are over the age of 55. The study also raised important questions in the role vitamin D may play in preventing spinal degeneration. Natural sources of vitamin D are sunlight, fatty fish (Salmon, Tuna, and Mackerel), raw milk, eggs and certain mushrooms. A high quality, whole food supplement, like Standard Process, is usually recommended to help elevate low vitamin D levels. But, too much vitamin D could be toxic.

Surgery is usually the last resort, so before resorting to surgery, consult a doctor of chiropractic to see if they may be able to help. Chiropractic can provide conservative care that has been proven to help many patients with spinal related conditions. At Natural Spine Solutions, we offer complimentary consultations to review your case and see if you may benefit from our services.

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Dr. Wayne M. Fichter Jr. is a chiropractor at Natural Spine Solutions. The business is located at 3913 Schreiber Way in Coeur d’Alene, 208-966-4425.