7 remedies for bone pain

Bone pain and tenderness

Pain is one of the main symptoms of many musculoskeletal problems. However, bone is less common than muscle and articular.

This can present itself in different ways: from mild to severe and acute or long lasting. It can also be local or generalized (characterized as diffuse pain).

Its most common cause is injury, although there are other conditions that can cause it . Some are very clear (such as accidents and trauma) and others are less obvious.

As pointed out by the United States National Library of Medicine, these are some of the conditions that can cause bone pain:

Bone fractures and trauma.

Bone disorders and infections (such as osteomyelitis).

Overload.

Loss of mineralization.

Lack of blood risk (which can appear as a result of sickle cell anemia).

Bone cancer and leukemia.

Depending on the diagnosis, one treatment or another is applied that may require medication (for pain, inflammation or infections), immobilization, hormonal treatment, etc.

The pain in the bones is usually stabbing, piercing and dull. This should not be overlooked and it is essential to consult a doctor whenever it appears, especially if it has no apparent explanation .

Remedies for bone pain

There are some techniques and complementary therapies that can help reduce bone pain in certain circumstances.

All of them can be applied in a simple way, but it is essential to know that they never replace the indicated treatment or improve the cause that is at the origin of the pain.

1. Vitamin D

Vitamin D for bone pain

Vitamin D favors the absorption of calcium, which is why it helps the mineralization of the bones. Regarding bone pain, it can help patients suffering from osteoporosis .

On the one hand, improving skeletal health makes it possible to reduce the risk of fractures and, consequently, possible pain .

But also, as the authors of the cited article point out, it helps to alleviate the pain of women suffering from osteoporosis in menopause and pain related to hormonal or immunological problems.

Blue fish stand out among the natural foods that provide vitamin D. Oily fish contains between 2 and 5% fat and a good amount of protein .

The most recommended fish are:

Sardines.

Salmon.

Herring.

Mackerel.

2. Cod oil

Extracted from cod liver, this oil has long been used to treat osteoarthritis, a chronic disease that affects the surface of the joints (wears them down) and causes bone pain when they rub against each other.

This is due to its high content of omega-3 fatty acids, responsible, according to this study carried out by the University of Chile, for reducing inflammation.

Although it was previously recommended for the development of the skeletal system in children, today it is more commonly used  as a supplement to relieve pain symptoms .

3. Ginger

Ginger is a root with analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain caused by bone diseases such as arthritis. In fact, according to this study conducted by Qazvin University (Iran), it is just as effective as ibuprofen.

It can be used in different ways, although the most common is to take it in tea or apply it in compresses. In both cases, the macerated root and hot water are used.

4. Nettle

Nettle drink.

Nettle has diuretic properties that help  reduce inflammation in areas affected by joint or bone pain, as confirmed by this study carried out by the Isfahan University (Iran).

The most common is to take it as an infusion.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon of nettle leaves (15 grams).

1 cup of water (250 milliliters).

Preparation

Heat the water and, when it comes to a boil, add the nettle.

Let it rest for 10 minutes, strain and drink the infusion.

It is recommended to drink two cups a day to help blood circulation.

5. Essential oils

chamomile for bone pain

Some essential oils have been shown to improve certain bone properties. In this way, its application can improve mineral density and prevent inflammation and oxidative stress.

For this reason, its topical application in the form of massages could help to improve pain in case of fractures and traumas by reducing inflammation.

The most used for this purpose are those of cinnamon, thyme, rosemary or ginger . To apply them, it is necessary to dilute them in a carrier vehicle such as almond, coconut or olive oil.

6. Application of cold and heat

This is one of the cheapest methods of relieving pain in some musculoskeletal health problems such as arthritis. For this reason, its application can be tested to improve bone pain.

The cold reduces swelling and numbs the affected area while the heat relaxes the muscles, increases circulation and flexibility. It is preferable to consult with a professional to find out which of the two options is most indicated according to each injury.

7. Physical exercise

Physical activity and some specific exercises can help reduce pain in cases of arthritis and osteoporosis. These are indicated to increase flexibility, movement and strengthen the muscles.

Vertebral and hip fractures due to osteoporosis are one of the main causes of loss of functionality and impaired quality of life.

Yoga exercises are used as part of rehabilitation in patients with this disease. These positively affect posture, flexibility and balance and could help improve chronic pain.

Other techniques such as Pilates or postural gymnastics can also be positive. As always, it is best to seek personalized advice before starting any activity.