Vitamin D, often called the "sunshine vitamin," is essential for overall health and plays a significant role in musculoskeletal function. As chiropractors, we focus on supporting bone, joint, and neuromuscular health—areas where vitamin D has a profound impact. Deficiency in vitamin D can contribute to increased pain sensitivity, poor recovery, and weakened immune function, making it a crucial consideration for chiropractic patients. During the darker months, when sunlight exposure is minimal, supplementing with vitamin D becomes even more important.
Vitamin D is a pro-hormone synthesized in the skin when exposed to sunlight. It is essential for:
Many people seek chiropractic care for pain management, joint stiffness, and musculoskeletal discomfort. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to increased pain sensitivity, fatigue, low mood, and reduced immune function—all of which can impact recovery and well-being.
Common symptoms of vitamin D deficiency include:
In the UK, sunlight is insufficient for vitamin D production between September and April. Even during summer, optimal exposure is limited to midday hours, and many people use sunscreen or stay indoors. By the end of winter, 87% of people have below-optimal vitamin D levels, with nearly 50% classified as severely deficient (less than 40 nmol/L). Risk factors such as obesity, older age, and darker skin tones increase the likelihood of deficiency.
Given how widespread vitamin D deficiency is, testing can be an important step in determining if supplementation is needed.
Since vitamin D deficiency is widespread, most GPs do not routinely test for it, because it is safe to assume that most of us have low levels at this time of year. Optimal vitamin D levels are generally considered to be between 100-150 nmol/L. If your levels are below 75 nmol/L, supplementation is recommended. Many NHS prescriptions, such as Calichew D forte, contain low doses (400 IU) and are poorly absorbed.
For individuals found to be significantly deficient, a higher dose of 10,000 IU daily may be recommended for a short period before reducing to a maintenance dose of 4000 IU per day.
Vitamin D3 increases calcium absorption, but without adequate vitamin K2, calcium may deposit in arteries rather than bones. Vitamin K2 helps direct calcium to bones and teeth, reducing the risk of arterial calcification. This synergy makes vitamin D3 + K2 an ideal supplement combination.
While vitamin D enhances calcium absorption, not everyone needs additional calcium supplements. Those with sufficient dietary calcium from sources like dairy, leafy greens, and nuts may not require extra supplementation. However, individuals at risk of osteoporosis or with low dietary intake might benefit from a balanced vitamin D3, K2, and calcium regimen to support bone density and overall skeletal health.
For those who need calcium supplementation, the best forms include:
Choosing the right calcium supplement depends on individual needs and digestive health.
The current upper recommended limit is 4000 IU (100 mcg) per day, though studies suggest toxicity is unlikely below 10,000 IU per day.
To support your musculoskeletal health, we offer a high-quality Vitamin D3 4000 IU + K2 supplement for £14 (90 tablets, 15.5p per day!). If you're experiencing persistent pain, fatigue, or low mood, getting your vitamin D levels checked and supplementing appropriately could make a real difference.
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