The most common causes of joint pain are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis occurs in older people when the protective cartilage of the bones deteriorates over time. It is one of the most leading causes of disability. On the other hand, rheumatoid arthritis happens when the immune system destroys the body’s own tissues, causing a painful swelling that can affect the joints and other body parts. It can happen earlier on, but the risk increases with age.
Many people all over the world experience joint pain. According to the Arthritis Foundation, there are more than 30 million people who suffer from osteoarthritis in America alone. This is the reason why joint supplements with the right ingredients are essential. They do not only alleviate the pain, but they also improve the joints by increasing the cartilage and acting as a lubricant.
With the rise of several joints supplements in the market, people suffering from joint pain might get confused about which brand works best for their condition. To understand fully, one must be knowledgeable of what makes up these supplements and how they actually work.
Glucosamine sulfate
Glucosamine sulfate acts as the building block for the viscoelastic properties of the cartilage. According to Orthopedic Associates, it can penetrate as soon as four hours after intake. It has anti-inflammatory effects and can possibly increase the cartilage.
Chondroitin sulfate
Like Glucosamine sulfate, Chondroitin sulfate is found in the body’s connective tissues. It also acts as an anti-inflammatory and can relieve pain. Orthopedic Associates also reports studies that suggest its ability to slow down cartilage breakdown. Among its main sources is shark cartilage, a strong, elastic, and supportive tissue.
MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane)
MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) is an organic sulfur compound effective in reducing joint pain and swelling. Healthline.com says that it improves the effects of the antioxidant glutathione in the body.
Collagen
Collagen is the main source of protein that forms connective tissues in the body. Natural collagen decreases with age as well. In a 2009 study in the International Journal of Medical Sciences, 80% of osteoarthritis patients who took 40 mg dose of undenatured type-II collagen daily reduced their pain by 26% on average.
Although the mentioned ingredients make up a quality joint supplement, Arthritis Foundation warns the public about the varying effects depending on dosage and overall ingredient. Not all supplements have the same quality content, which makes others less efficient. Arthritis Foundation also wants the patients to be cautious of alternatives with the same ingredients mentioned, but for a way cheaper price. These supplements may not deliver the same results.
Along with quality ingredients, joint supplements work best with consistency. In order for patients to receive optimum results, they need to take these supplements regularly.
Like everything in life, consistency is the key to success. Once you find the quality product you must take it regularly. When it comes to my practice there are 5 steps to getting joints healthy.
- Mobilize – we must mobilize the affected joint
- Ice – we must reduce joint inflammation
- Rest – we must allow joint to heal
- Nutrition – we must learn about inflammatory foods
- Supplementation – quality supplementation is key
This is not an easy task as a Doctor because there is already decay in the joint. There is already damage & we oftentimes cannot reverse. How long it takes to help people with severe joint issues all depends on the age & severity of the patient. If too severe then other alternatives can be explored, ie Stem Cell. We’ll leave that for another topic.