People with chronic widespread pain should be investigated for vitamin D deficiency highlights new research

Vitamin D replacement treatment in people with nonspecific chronic widespread pain may lead to improvements in musculoskeletal symptoms, level of depression and quality of life, says a small study published in The International Journal of Rheumatic Diseases.Experts set out to evaluate the effect of vitamin D replacement treatment on musculoskeletal symptoms and quality of life in 58 people with chronic widespread musculoskeletal pain including fibromyalgia and vitamin D deficiency.

Replacement treatments of 50,000 IU/week oral vitamin D3 were given to participants for three months and they were assessed before and after treatment.

The results

By the end of the study, levels of vitamin D had risen in the participants.

Scores showed a decrease in pain, an increase in energy levels and the participants felt more refreshed when they woke in the mornings. They had fewer tender points, less depression and a better quality of life. A total of 85% were satisfied with their treatment.

The implications

“Vitamin D replacement treatment in patients with nonspecific chronic widespread pain has provided improvements in musculoskeletal symptoms, level of depression and quality of life of patients,” the authors conclude. “Patients with chronic widespread pain should be investigated for vitamin D deficiency.”

Where to get vitamin D from?

If you think you may be deficient in vitamin D, speak to your GP about whether you should take a supplement. Known as the sunshine vitamin, other natural sources of vitamin D include:

• Oily fish (eg salmon and mackerel);
• Red meat;
• Egg yolks;
• Fortified foods (eg breakfast cereals and fat spreads).

Remember to only buy vitamins and supplements from a reputable source. The NHS recommends a daily supplement of 10mcg of vitamin D.

Click here to read the original research.