Vitamin D Deficiency & Foot Pain

Vitamin D, sometimes known as the “sunshine vitamin” is an essential supplementary compound that can be found in foods such as fish, cheese, cereals, and eggs as well as being synthesized from contact with sunshine. In most mammalian species the compound is created when ultra violet rays from the sun come in contact with the surface of the skin, this can then supplement the dietary intake of vitamin D that is ingested through food.

Vitamin D is responsible for a number of functions in the body. It is conducive to the maintenance of healthy bones and joints, preventing diseases like rickets and osteoporosis and some studies have even suggested in may play a role in the prevention of cancer. As the vitamin D acts to facilitate the absorption of phosphates and calcium through digestion, which is required to maintain healthy bones and joints, it can be particularly useful in managing bone related conditions.

A number of recent studies found some links between vitamin D and the management of chronic pain. In one study carried out in America a female patient suffering from chronic pain and multiple other unexplainable symptoms was given a controlled high dose of vitamin D. It was reported that within days her condition improved and after a few weeks she could report to be completely well again with the absence of all her symptoms. It should be noted however that this was just one documented case and further study must be done to further validate results but initial indications are promising.

In another reported study “The British Medical Journal” showed strong evidence to suggest how vitamin D could be used to control chronic foot pain, especially that which is related to conditions such as osteoporosis, plantar fasciitis, arthritis and other inflamed joints and tendons. It seems that the mechanisms by which vitamin D works by can be instrumental in reducing the inflammation and swelling of the joints and tendons in the affected area relieving the pain that comes with the above conditions.

Although there is strong evidence to show vitamin D may be a suitable supplementary compound to help treat conditions of chronic foot pain, further more complete studies need to be carried out to verify results and fully assess its potential. It is important to also not the dangers of excessive vitamin D intake. Having too much vitamin D in the body can cause an increased level of calcium building up in the blood which could cause complications such as kidney stones. Anyone considering increasing their vitamin D intake should only do so under instruction and advice of a nutritionist or doctor.