Back pain could be a sign of vitamin D deficiency, a condition affecting around one in five adults and one in six children in the UK. The nutrient is essential for absorbing calcium and phosphorus, which keep bones, teeth and muscles strong.
Most vitamin D comes from sunlight reacting with chemicals under the skin, but during UK winters there is not enough sunlight to produce sufficient amounts. A lack of the vitamin over time can lead to deficiency, which is especially common at this time of year.
Symptoms of vitamin D deficiency
An official NHS document lists "widespread bone discomfort or pain in lower back, pelvis and lower extremities, impaired physical function and muscle aches and weakness" as symptoms of vitamin D deficiency. In extreme cases in children, it can cause rickets, while adults may experience weakness and painful or tender bones.
The Cleveland Clinic says symptoms in adults include fatigue, bone pain, muscle weakness, muscle aches or cramps, and mood changes such as depression. The charity Heart UK notes that muscle aches and pains often thought to be caused by statins could actually be due to a lack of vitamin D, as these muscle problems appear similar.
Sources of vitamin D
Sunlight is the main source of vitamin D, and UK Government advice states that "everyone should consider taking a daily vitamin D supplement during the autumn and winter". Vitamin D is also found in a small number of foods, including oily fish such as salmon, sardines, trout, herring or mackerel, red meat, egg yolks, fortified foods such as some fat spreads and breakfast cereals, and liver (avoid if pregnant).
Who is at risk?
Some people are more at risk of vitamin D deficiency, including those who are not often outdoors, such as frail or housebound individuals, people in institutions like care homes, and those who usually wear clothes covering most of their skin when outdoors. People with dark skin may also not make enough vitamin D from sunlight.
