The Diet-Induced Pro-Inflammatory State -
The human body possesses what is referred to as a "fixed acid production." Numerous metabolic reactions produce acids that must be buffered. We derive alkaline buffers from fruits and vegetables, and acidic end products from meats and grains.1-3
It is known that pain is augmented by tissue acidity, and that our musculoskeletal structures, particularly our bones and muscles, degenerate due to tissue acidity. Clearly, this subject has important implications for our patient population.
Spinal Pain and Inflammation
Most patients enter a chiropractic office with pain and inflammation. Although DCs think structurally, we must realize that it is the chemical mediators of inflammation that activate nociceptors, which result in pain and drive patients to our offices.
For many years it has been known that an acidic pH works synergistically with the chemical mediators of inflammation to activate and sensitize tissue nociceptors.5 Evidence existed regarding low back pain and pH at least as early as the 1960s. At the time of surgery, Nachemson discovered that the pH of lumbar discs ranged from 5.7 to 7.5. The lower the pH, the greater the pain, disc degeneration, and fibrous tissue deposition.6
Hambly and Mooney state that "sick" discs, as reflected by pain on discography, have consistently demonstrated an acidic pH.7 Additionally, an acidic pH will reduce proteoglycan synthesis.8
An acidic pH is also known to reduce bone mineral density and promote osteoporosis.9,10 Researchers also believe that an acidic environment will promote the muscle wasting that occurs with aging.11,12
Clearly, an acidic biochemical environment is capable of promoting inflammation; pain; histopathology; bone pathology; and myopathology. When this series of events occurs in the spine, we call it subluxation.
Causes of Acid-Induced Subluxation
Researchers who study pH explain that with advancing age we develop a low-grade metabolic acidosis. Kidney function normally declines as we age, such that we develop renal insufficiency and a compromised acid-base regulatory capacity.12
Presumably, if we take care of ourselves and adopt a healthy lifestyle, we might be able to delay the inevitable decline in body pH that will occur in all of us. In fact, we can profoundly influence body pH by eating more fruits and vegetables and by not smoking. As mentioned above, it has been known for many years that fruits and vegetables are alkaline, while grains and meat are acidic. Additionally, it is known that smoking lowers pH,7 so why not quit if you are a smoker. Drinking soda can also provide an unnecessary acid load, and this should be avoided.
New Study on pH and Back Pain
As described above, increased tissue acidity can cause inflammation; nociception; pain; bone loss; and muscle wasting. Accordingly, researchers recently hypothesized that a latent chronic acidosis might contribute to the symptoms of back pain, and sought to see if supplementation with alkaline minerals might reduce overacidity and pain.13 For four weeks, 82 patients with chronic low back pain took a supplement containing calcium; potassium; sodium; magnesium as citrates; and a number of trace elements. Seventy-six patients reported a reduction in pain, while blood buffering capacity and venous blood pH both increased.
As this was an open trial, a more rigorous placebo-controlled trial is needed. Certainly the research departments at one of our chiropractic colleges could perform such a trial, which may help to elucidate the interactions between mechanical and chemical causes of low back pain.
Summary
Latent chronic tissue acidity is thought to be a cause of skeletal degeneration and pain. While the specific details have yet to be elucidated, there is no reason to wait before implementing corrective nutritional measures. Eat more vegetables and fruits and minimize the consumption of grains and sodas, and add a multiple vitamin, supplemental minerals, and an omega-3 fatty acid supplement. These are simple modifications anyone can make, which may have a profound health outcome for your patients. Don't wait any longer, give your patients a nutritional adjustment.
References
When sports chiropractors first appeared at the Olympic Games in the 1980s, it was alongside individual athletes who had experienced the benefits of chiropractic care in their training and recovery processes at home. Fast forward to Paris 2024, where chiropractic care was available in the polyclinic for all athletes, and the attitude has now evolved to recognize that “every athlete deserves access to sports chiropractic."
It is estimated that 61% of patients with CTS avoid taking surgical options due to postoperative complications and costly surgical procedures. Chiropractic care offers a comprehensive and effective treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome, addressing the condition from multiple angles. Recent studies also have unveiled a game-changing adjunct to chiropractic treatments for CTS: nerve flossing.
Some doctors thrive in a personality-based clinic and have a loyal following no matter what services or equipment they offer, but for most chiropractic offices who are trying to grow and expand, new equipment purchases help us stay relevant and continue to service our client base in the best, most up-to-date manner possible. So, regarding equipment purchasing: should you lease, get a bank loan, or pay cash?
