Arthritis, injury, inflammation and even moving wrong can all cause joint pain. People who suffer from chronic joint pain may seek relief in supplements or vitamins to help ease inflammation and control pain, as opposed to staying on prescription medications. Some remedies claim to treat the actual causes of joint pain instead of just medicating the symptoms.
Overview of Supplements
Glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin are two of the most popular supplements for joint pain relief. According to Dr. Jason Theodosakis, author of "Maximizing the Arthritis Cure," glucosamine sulfate can help produce new cartilage and prevent existing cartilage from fraying. Dr. Ron Hobbs, professor at Bastyr University, asserts that chondroitin supplements help patients suffering from joint pain move with less pain because chondroitin occurs naturally in healthy cartilage.
SAM-e can help ease pain and increase mobility in arthritis patients. SAM-e provides cartilage with the sulfur it needs to build the protein fibers called collagen to strengthen joints.
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) provides the body with needed sulfur as well. MSM occurs naturally in the body, but levels decline with age. MSM also functions as an anti-inflammatory to reduce joint swelling.
Turmeric is a spice in the ginger family that can relieve joint pain and inflammation. Turmeric has been used in ayurveda, India's traditional medical system, for centuries due to its healing properties. Dr. Hobbs states that although experts are unsure exactly how turmeric works, many doctors believe it blocks the production of certain chemicals in the body that cause inflammation, thus easing swelling and pain in the joints.
Dosages and Warnings
Always check with your doctor before taking any new supplements or herbs.
You can purchase glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin supplements separately, but most doctors who believe in the benefit of supplements for joint pain suggest taking them together to boost their pain-relieving properties. Generally, 1500 mg of glucosamine and 1200 mg of chondroitin taken daily in one to three doses is considered safe. If you take aspirin or other blood thinners, check with your doctor before taking chondroitin to prevent complications.
SAM-e is usually most beneficial when taken daily in one or two doses that total up to 1000 mg. Eat foods like leafy greens that have a high folic acid content or add a 400-mg folic acid supplement to your daily routine to maximize the benefits of SAM-e. Check with your doctor before taking SAM-e if you are at risk for heart disease. Common side effects of SAM-e include stomach problems, jitters and insomnia. These side effects are usually mild and go away with a reduced dose.
MSM is found in many foods, such as grains, vegetables, fruits and milk. The amount is usually rather small and MSM is fragile, so it can be destroyed when the food is stored or cooked. MSM dosing varies widely from person to person. Start with 1000 mg daily. and talk with your doctor to determine how much you should increase your dosage to achieve the best results. The most common side effects of MSM are gastrointestinal problems, rash and headache. Check with your doctor before taking MSM if you are on blood thinners.
Take 1200 to 1500 mg of turmeric daily in two or three doses to achieve the best results. Check with your doctor before taking turmeric if you are on blood thinners. Pregnant women should not take turmeric as it may cause loss of fluid. (See Reference 1)
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