The incidence and prevalence of chronic pain among children and adolescents appears to be increasing. The treatment options are limited. Understandably, one would want to minimize, if not avoid, long-term use of opioids. There are a number of modality and nonopioid therapies available. One approach often overlooked and underutilized, with all age groups, in the use of nutritional and dietary supplements. Many painful conditions, especially neuropathic pain, can be initialed and maintained by neuroinflammatory substances. Certain nutritional and dietary supplements can alter the effect of these substances and the abnormal neuronal functioning associated with pain. Unfortunately, the increased incidence of obesity, even among the younger age groups, reflects a continued trend toward poor dietary habits and food selection. This, along with other lifestyle issues, results in a population that is more vulnerable to developing painful disorders. For this reason, nutritional pain management should be given serious consideration.
