Melatonin can help alleviate chronic muscle and joint pain

The studies evaluated the effect of melatonin on chronic musculoskeletal pain and post-operative pain. The results showed that melatonin simultaneously reduced discomfort and improved sleep in patients with chronic pain. On average, the pain intensity decreased by approximately 9 points on a 100-point scale, which is comparable to the effect of some anti-inflammatory drugs (although a direct comparison was not conducted in these studies).

However, the effect was significantly weaker in the postoperative period, with an improvement of only about 2.5 points on the same scale, which is unlikely to be clinically significant for patients.

Melatonin is believed to affect pain in several ways: it suppresses pain signals in the brain and spinal cord, reduces inflammation, calms overexcited nerves, and protects cells from oxidative stress. However, the exact mechanisms and optimal conditions for its use have not yet been established.

In trials, doses ranging from 1 to 10 mg were used, but the most effective dose could not be determined. There is also indirect evidence that a longer course may be more effective in treating chronic pain, but more data is needed.

At this stage, melatonin should not be considered a substitute, but rather as a possible addition to standard treatments such as physical therapy, exercise, and anti-inflammatory medications. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using melatonin, especially for individuals with liver, kidney, or autoimmune conditions. In addition, the regulatory status of melatonin varies greatly from country to country, with some countries selling it as a non-prescription dietary supplement and others requiring a doctor’s prescription.