Indication: Neck and back pain

Source: American Association of Neurological Surgeons Annual Meeting, April 2005, New Orleans, LA

Research: From March 2004 to June 2004, 250 patients who had been seen by a neurosurgeon and were found to have non-surgical neck or back pain were asked to take a total of 1200 mg of omega 3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA) found in fish oil. A questionnaire was then forwarded to these patients approximately one month after taking the supplement.

Results: Of the 250 patients, 125 returned the questionnaire at an average of 75 days on fish oil. Seventy-eight percent were taking the 1200 mg and 22% were taking a 2400 mg dose. Nearly 60% has since discontinued use of other prescription medications for pain. Further, 60% stated that overall pain improved and 60% stated specifically that joint pain had improved. Eighty percent were satisfied with their improvement, while 88% stated they would continue to take fish oil. There were no significant side effects reported.