Batna Journal of Medical Sciences
Volume 9, Numéro 1, Pages 64-73
2026-01-02

What If It’s Just Vitamin C Deficiency? The Role Of Vitamin C Deficiency In Musculoskeletal Pain. Mechanisms, Clinical Implications, And Therapeutic Approaches



Authors : Wissem Soumia Haddad . Kamel Remita . Faten Omar .

Abstract

Purpose: Subclinical vitamin C deficiency, though less overt than scurvy, is increasingly implicated in idiopathic musculoskeletal pain yet remains underrecognized in clinical practice. This review synthesizes mechanistic and clinical evidence linking vitamin C insufficiency to joint, bone, and muscle dysfunction, advocating for its inclusion in pain management protocols. Methods: A systematic analysis of peer-reviewed studies was conducted, focusing on vitamin C’s roles in collagen biosynthesis, antioxidant defence, and immunomodulation. Clinical trials, observational studies, and mechanistic research were evaluated to elucidate associations with musculoskeletal symptoms and therapeutic outcomes. Results: Vitamin C deficiency disrupts collagen stability, amplifies oxidative stress, and promotes pro-inflammatory cytokine cascades, contributing to nonspecific myalgia, arthralgia, and delayed recovery. High-risk populations—smokers, elderly individuals, bariatric surgery patients, and socioeconomically disadvantaged groups—are disproportionately affected. Repletion trials demonstrate pain reduction and functional improvement, supporting therapeutic supplementation. Conclusion: Clinicians should screen for vitamin C deficiency in patients with unexplained musculoskeletal pain, particularly in at-risk cohorts. Evidence-based supplementation, dietary interventions, and interdisciplinary collaboration are critical to addressing this reversible contributor to chronic pain. Further research is needed to establish causality and optimize dosing regimens.

Keywords

Vitamin C deficiency ; musculoskeletal pain ; collagen synthesis ; oxidative stress ; subclinical deficiency

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