5 of The Best Joint Supplements for Pain
What Causes Joint Pain?
The most common joint disorder in the United States today is Osteoarthritis. The joints in the human body are composed of cartilage. Cartilage is a connective tissue that acts as a buffer between the bones themselves. Cartilage is subject to wear and tear over time and deteriorates on a gradual basis. When this cartilage deteriorates enough, Osteoarthritis is the result. Although it can occur at any age, Osteoarthritis is most seen in adults aged 60 and older. For further information on pain relief, please click this link.
Are There Alternatives to Prescription Medications to Treat Joint Pain?
The short answer to that question is yes. There are supplements that can be purchased over the counter (OTC). They may be found in the vitamin section of your grocery store or pharmacy. It is important to note that OTC supplements are not regulated by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA).
The caveat with OTC supplements is that they may interact with medications you may be taking. There are two different methods of determining whether any interactions may occur. One way is via the internet. You can search for “drug interaction checker” to find what you need.
The other method is through communication with your doctor. Many doctors have online patient portals that will allow you to exchange messages with your doctor without making an appointment. If you do need to make an appointment, some doctors offer virtual appointments. Virtual appointments are done either by your smartphone or your webcam. Below are some questions you may want to ask your doctor about supplements:
- Will this supplement interact with any of my medications?
- Is this supplement safe?
- Is this supplement effective?
- What are the side effects of this supplement?
- What is the proper dosage based upon my condition?
It is important to note that not all supplements are created equal. Since supplements are not regulated by the FDA, you should research the supplement. Below are some things you should check:
- Is the manufacturer reputable?
- Will the strength on the label match the strength contained in the pills/capsules?
- Does the manufacturer guarantee purity?
Now we Can Discuss the Top 5 Supplements for Joint Pain
These top 5 supplements have been listed by the Arthritis Foundation as safe and effective for joint pain.
SAM-e (S-adenosylmethionine)
SAM-e acts as a pain reliever, and it also has anti-inflammatory properties. There is evidence SAM-e has been shown to be as effective at treating Osteoarthritis as NSAID (Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) painkillers. Some examples of NSAIDs are Ibuprofen, Celebrex®, aspirin, and Voltaren® gel.
SAM-e may stimulate cartilage to regenerate itself. It also affects the neurotransmitter known as Serotonin, which helps to relieve pain as well as to help the person feel better overall.
Boswellia Serrate (Indian Frankincense)
The active ingredients in Boswellia Serrate are known as Boswellic acids. These acids work as an anti-inflammatory, and have pain relieving properties as well.
One U.S. study showed the extract of Boswellia Serrate (Loxin 5) made a significant improvement in Osteoarthritis pain, and joint function within seven days. Another study done in India showed that after three months’ use of Boswellia Serrate, damage to the cartilage was slowed.
Capsaicin (Capsicum frutescens)
You may have already heard of Capsaicin, as it is the active ingredient in peppers that makes them hot. It may seem like a paradox, but Capsaicin in its purer forms acts to relieve pain.
There is a neurotransmitter known as “Substance P”, which also acts as a pain perception modulator. It works by altering the signaling pathways on a cellular level.
Multiple studies have been done that prove the effectiveness of Capsaicin as a pain reliever. Capsaicin is not available in an oral supplement. It is available in topical creams, gels, or patches only.
Turmeric (Curcumin, Curcuma Longa)
You may have already heard of Turmeric, as it is one of the main ingredients in yellow mustard. Turmeric has been used in India as a spice, or other purposes, for approximately four millennia.
The main ingredient in Turmeric is Curcumin, which is what allows it to reduce joint pain and swelling. Turmeric has been studied in at least one clinical trial and has been found to be effective in decreasing pain and increasing function in those who have Osteoarthritis of the knee.
Avocado-Soybean Unsaponifiables (ASU)
ASU functions by blocking certain inflammatory chemicals in the body. It also may help regenerate connective tissue, which includes cartilage.
One long-term study indicated that ASU significantly reduced the progress of Osteoarthritis in the hip, when compared with a placebo.
Other analyses showed that ASU improved the symptoms of both hip and knee Osteoarthritis. These analyses also showed that patients were able to reduce their use of NSAID pain relievers.
Where Can I Find Further Information on These Supplements?
The medical professionals at Pain Relief are a wealth of information on a wide variety of topics that are related to joint pain. We hope that you will find what you need in your quest for pain relief.