Osteoarthritis |
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| As we get older, one of universal consequences is development of aches and pains, often secondary to arthritis, otherwise known as the "wear and tear" disease. Osteoarthritis develops when the lining of our joints (hips, knees, etc.) breaks down, leading to degenerated cartilage, bony changes and ultimately, pain, decreased mobility and function. Many things can contribute to the development of arthritis including normal aging, obesity, and injury. |
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| Arthritis usually has a gradual onset and most often affects hips, knees, fingers and spine, though other joints can be involved. Pain is usually the first symptom, and it worsens with exercise. Morning stiffness is also common. As osteoarthritis progresses, mobility is generally reduced. |
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| Approaches To Protect Joints |
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| There are several self-care techniques you can employ to help protect your joints, minimize pain and prevent further development of joint degeneration. Your joints as well as your overall health will benefit from the addition of a whole food source multi-vitamin with anti-oxidants. Eat more fruits and vegetables as well to get more anti-oxidants, which will protect your joints. |
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| People who have osteoarthritis and eat a large amount of anti-oxidants in food have been reported to exhibit a much slower rate of joint degeneration, particularly in the knees. Vitamin E supplementation has been shown to reduce joint pain of arthritis in blind studies. |
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| Supplements That Could Help With Osteoarthritis |
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| Capsaicin cream applied topically over a sore joint can help with discomfort. Often, when arthritis sufferers feel pain, they take an anti-inflammatory drug, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen. These drugs are often very effective in reducing the pain, but may have unwanted side effects, such as increased bleeding and gastrointestinal problems. |
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| Glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulphate are components needed for synthesis and repair of joint cartilage, and supplementation with these nutrients can significantly reduce symptoms and have been shown to be beneficial to arthritis patients. |
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| SAMe (S-adenosyl methionine) has anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving and tissue-repairing properties that help protect joint health. Other vitamins and supplements that have shown to be beneficial to osteoarthritis patients are niacinamide, green-lipped mussel, DMSO, MSM, Boron, CMO, D-phenylalanine, and omega-3 fish oils. Herbs that have been shown to be beneficial include cayenne extract, meadowsweet, colchicines, willow, stinging nettle, boswellia, cat's claw, ginger, and devil's claw, among others. |
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| Talking with an integrative practitioner can help safely sort all these supplements, alternative therapies and help you determine the best treatment for your needs. |
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