Study Links Micronutrient Deficiencies to Increased Chronic Pain Risk

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Arizona Health Sciences has revealed a significant correlation between deficiencies in essential micronutrients and the severity of chronic pain in individuals. Published in the journal Pain Practice on July 16, 2025, this groundbreaking research utilized data from the National Institutes of Health's All of Us Research Database, marking a pivotal advancement in the understanding of chronic pain management.

The study examined the micronutrient levels of a diverse population, categorizing participants into three groups: those without pain, those with mild-to-moderate chronic pain, and those experiencing severe chronic pain. Researchers found that lower levels of vitamins D, B12, folate, and magnesium were prevalent among individuals with severe chronic pain. Conversely, those suffering from severe deficiencies of these vitamins were more likely to report heightened pain levels.

Dr. Julie Pilitsis, MD, PhD, senior author of the study and head of the Department of Neurosurgery at the University of Arizona College of Medicine - Tucson, emphasized the importance of a holistic approach to pain management. "This study is a novel way to approach chronic pain treatment," she stated, highlighting that dietary changes could serve as an effective alternative to traditional medication. "Patients often present with chronic pain without clear diagnoses, and understanding systemic factors like micronutrient deficiencies could lead to more effective treatments."

Co-author Dr. Deborah Morris, a research laboratory manager in the same department, noted some unexpected findings regarding vitamin B12 levels. "Asian females with severe chronic pain had higher vitamin B12 levels than anticipated," she explained. This suggests a complex interaction between demographic factors and micronutrient levels, indicating that assumptions based on race or gender may not apply universally.

The study's findings come at a time when chronic pain affects nearly 25% of U.S. adults, according to a November 2024 data brief from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Chronic pain is associated with reduced quality of life, increased rates of opioid misuse, and heightened anxiety and depression.

Pilitsis and Morris collaborated with international researchers from institutions such as Florida Atlantic University, Florida International University, Grigore T. Popa in Romania, and Vrije Universiteit Brussel in Belgium, demonstrating a broad commitment to addressing chronic pain through interdisciplinary research.

The implications of this study are profound, as they suggest that personalized nutritional strategies could not only improve the quality of life for those suffering from chronic pain but also reduce reliance on opioids, which have been a significant concern in the U.S. healthcare system.

As research continues in this area, the hope is that healthcare providers will integrate micronutrient assessments into their treatment protocols, fostering a more comprehensive approach to pain management that addresses the nutritional needs of their patients. The study underscores the necessity of further exploration into how dietary interventions can complement existing pain management strategies and enhance overall patient outcomes.

Reference: Goon M, Schmidt N, Berwal D, et al. Micronutrients and chronic pain: A cross-sectional analysis. Pain Prac. 2025. doi: 10.1111/papr.70053.