Last Updated on December 5, 2023 by Dr. Shikha Shiromani
Quick Take
A social media post claims that consuming hot sauce can eliminate back pain. We fact-checked and found this claim to be False.
The Claim
A Twitter post with the caption, “Why is hot sauce one the best things for Back Pain? #BackPain #SpineHealth #HealthTips” shares a video which states that hot sauce is the best for back pain as it contains Cayenne Pepper.
Fact Check
Can consuming hot sauce eliminate back pain?
No. There is no scientific evidence to support the idea that consuming hot sauce can eliminate back pain. While some people may experience temporary relief from back pain after eating spicy foods, this is likely due to the distraction caused by the heat rather than any direct effect on the pain itself.
Hot sauce contains a compound called capsaicin, which is what gives chili peppers their heat. When capsaicin comes into contact with the body’s tissues, it triggers a pain response along with a burning and irritant effect. However, this pain response is caused by the release of endorphins and dopamine, which are hormones that have pain-relieving effects.
The release of such hormones can provide temporary relief from pain, but it does not address the underlying cause of the pain. Back pain can result from various factors such as muscle strain, injury, or underlying medical conditions, such as arthritis, or a herniated disc. Managing back pain typically involves a comprehensive approach, including proper rest, exercise, physical therapy, and, if necessary, medical interventions prescribed by healthcare professionals. Hot sauce will not help to treat any of these conditions.
In addition, eating too much hot sauce can actually worsen back pain. Spicy foods can irritate the digestive system, leading to symptoms such as heartburn, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. These symptoms can be uncomfortable and can make it difficult to focus on anything else, which can make back pain seem worse.
Dr Rachit Gulati, orthopaedician and Medical Director at SAAOL Ortho Care states, “Hot sauce contains capsaicin, which has anti inflammatory and anti oxidant properties. These properties can help in keeping our body healthy and reduce inflammation. However, it cannot cure your back pain. Diet can have an adjuvant effect on back pain treatment. That means, good diet can improve treatment outcomes and bad diet can downgrade it. But the mainstay of back pain treatment includes medications, minimally invasive interventions, physiotherapy, posture correction, weight loss and lifestyle changes.”
Consuming hot sauce is unlikely to have a significant impact on the physiological factors contributing to back pain. If you are experiencing persistent or severe back pain, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. Relying on unproven remedies like practicing chiropractic treatment or consuming hot sauce may not address the root cause of the pain and could potentially lead to delayed or inadequate treatment.
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