Many people all over the world suffer from stiffness and pain in the different joints of their mobility. This can significantly impact their level of mobility and quality of life. There are many different reasons for joint pain starting from arthritis to chronic injuries and many more.
Some Supplements To Aid Joint Health
The underlying conditions for joint pain need to be treated by medical professionals in order to get full relief from joint pain. But there are some supplements that can improve the overall joint health of most patients. However, it is important to always consult a doctor before taking any kinds of supplements to avoid any adverse reactions or side effects.
❇ Fish oil- fish oil helps reduce inflammation in the joints. It contains some omega 3 fatty acids with anti-inflammatory properties. But research shows that fish oil is only effective in reducing pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis. It does not have any effects on reducing joint pain caused by osteoarthritis. People with rheumatoid arthritis usually take 300mg to 1000mg doses of fish oil daily as per their pain requirements.
❇ Turmeric- multiple research studies have shown that turmeric has significant benefits for reducing joint pain. Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin which reduces inflammation in the joints. Patients suffering from osteoarthritis-related joint pain have reported significant benefits from the regular use of turmeric supplements. 500mg turmeric doses can be taken two to four times a day to help reduce joint pain and improve joint mobility.
❇ SAMe- SAMe is actually a compound produced naturally by our liver. But when taken as a supplement it can work to reduce the pain caused by osteoarthritis. SAMe has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce joint pain. 200mg to 400mg SAMe supplements can be taken thrice daily to see an improvement in symptoms.
❇ Glucosamine- this is a compound that is found in the cartilage of the human body. Glucosamine supplements have been found to be one of the most effective treatments against osteoarthritis. When glucosamine supplements are taken for at least two to three years, they work to reduce the narrowing of the space between the bones of a joint which is the biggest reason behind the pain and stiffness caused by osteoarthritis. Glucosamine sulfate supplements are usually recommended in doses of 1500mg to be taken once daily.
❇ Chondroitin- Chondroitin is also a compound found in human cartilage and it works similarly to glucosamine by preventing the breakdown of cartilage between the joints and controlling the narrowing of space between the bone joints. A study found the 53% of people who take chondroitin supplements regularly for over two years report a 20% reduction in their osteoarthritis-related joint pain. People can take chondroitin supplements of 400mg to 800mg two or three times daily.
❇ Devil’s claw- Devil’s claw is a compound called harpagophytum. It contains an anti-inflammatory compound called harbourside that is believed to reduce symptoms of osteoarthritis. 600mg to 800mg doses of Devil’s claw thrice a day are necessary to see any significant benefits from the supplement.
❇ ASUs- ASUs are avocado soybean unsaponifiable. ASUs work to reduce the breakdown of cartilage that happens in patients with osteoarthritis. ASUs are also believed to promote the repair of joint cartilage. ASUs are generally consumed in 300mg doses once daily.
❇ Indian frankincense- Indian frankincense refers to a compound called Boswellia. Boswellia acids have anti-inflammatory properties and have been found to reduce joint pain in people suffering from osteoarthritis symptoms. Boswellia supplements usually come in many different doses- dosage can vary from 100mg once daily to 333mg thrice daily.
❇ MSM- MSM refers to methylsulfonylmethane. Studies have shown that MSM can be effective in reducing joint pain and stiffness in patients with osteoarthritis. MSM supplements also come in a variety of dosages between 1500mg to 6000mg to be divided into two doses consumed daily.
Conclusion:
There are many other joint health supplements as well available in the market. Not every supplement is equally effective for every kind of joint pain or joint-related complication. Every patient needs to understand the specific kind of joint problem and then take supplements that target that condition. Just like all kinds of supplements, joint health supplements also contain a variety of ingredients, so thorough research is necessary to avoid any kinds of allergic reactions. Medical professionals specializing in joint pain-related problems are the best authority to consult for advice before starting any joint health supplement regimen.