Joint pain is common, and it can make living life on a daily basis difficult. After all, we use our joints to function in just about every capacity when it comes to movement, and we need them to bear the weight of our bodies.
One of the most common reasons for joint pain is osteoarthritis (OA). In general, OA can cause a number of symptoms related to the joints, like pain, swelling and stiffness.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 13.9 percent of American adults older than 25 have osteoarthritis. And 33.6 percent of American adults older than 65 suffer from this condition. This accounts for more than 47 percent of arthritis-related hospitalizations. Osteoarthritis is more prevalent in women than men.
However, OA isn’t the only thing that can cause joint pain. Joint pain can be caused by certain diseases, like Lyme disease and Adult Still’s disease, or it can be caused by sprains, strains, tendinitis, hypothyroidism, gout and numerous other issues.
To help to combat joint pain, consumers often turn to supplements. Taking over-the-counter pain medications too often can lead to alarming health consequences, and people who suffer from joint pain will do just about anything to relieve frustrating symptoms.
If you suffer from joint pain, take a look at these six supplements that may support joint pain relief. And be sure to tell your healthcare providers about any changes that you make to your medical routine.
1. Glucosamine Sulfate
Glucosamine is said to be helpful in relieving the pain associated with osteoarthritis. This chemical occurs naturally in the body. The body uses it to manufacture other chemicals used to build tendons, cartilage, ligaments and fluid surrounding the joints.
So why is glucosamine sulfate effective in the relief of joint pain?
Some who suffer from arthritis experience cartilage thinning and breakdown, which creates a stiff and painful feeling in the body. Glucosamine sulfate supplements may reverse this process by increasing both cartilage and fluid that surrounds the joints.
Another benefit of this option is that it may slow the actual breakdown of the joints, making it a worthy consideration for those looking to avoid knee replacement surgery.
Research backs these theories up. According to Medline Plus, studies show that glucosamine sulfate may be as effective in pain reduction for osteoarthritis related to the knee as Tylenol and other over-the-counter options. However, it’s important to note that it is said to take longer than other options when it comes to reducing pain.
Studies show that it takes two weeks for symptom relief when using Motrin and Advil. However, glucosamine sulfate is said to take between one and two months, and it works better for some than others.
2. Capsaicin
Do you like spicy foods? If so, you’ll love this.
Capsaicin is something that is found in hot peppers. For example, capsaicin can be found in cayenne. Generally, capsaicin is used to treat joint pain in the form of a cream, gel or patch. According to the Arthritis Foundation, it works by reducing something called substance P, which is a pain transmitter. Studies support this theory. In fact, one such study, published in Phytotherapy Research, found that joint pain decreased by half after three weeks of using capsaicin.
3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, omega-3 fatty acids (or polyunsaturated fatty acids) are essential fatty acids that the body can’t make. The most popular source of omega-3 fatty acids is fish. However, omega-3 fatty acids also can be found in nut oils and plants. And, of course, omega-3 can be obtained by taking supplements.
Research suggests that omega-3 fatty acid supplements may be helpful in treating symptoms associated with rheumatoid arthritis. That said, experts say that it doesn’t slow the progression of the disease. It simply helps to reduce symptoms (like pain).
4. Chondroitin
According to the Arthritis Foundation, chondroitin is found in connective tissue in the cartilage and bones. This supplement is said to reduce both inflammation and pain associated with the joints. It is said to make joints function better while slowing the rate at which osteoarthritis progresses.
Interestingly, many studies have researched the effects of chondroitin and glucosamine when used together. The Arthritis Foundation says that the largest of these examined 1,600 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. Some subjects did experience pain relief. However, joint damage did not slow. And some other studies show no effects of supplementation.
Chondroitin can improve function when used alone. One study conducted in 2011, demonstrated that chondroitin can improve hand function in those with osteoarthritis of the hands. In addition, it was shown to reduce pain.
5. Ginger Extract
Do your knees often hurt? Ginger extract may help.
Research shows that ginger extract may be a safe way to reduce symptoms associated with arthritis of the knee. In one study, 261 patients received either ginger extract or a placebo twice a day for six weeks. Acetaminophen was also available as a “rescue medication.” Researchers concluded that knee pain when standing lessened more in those who consumed ginger extract than in those in the control group. Those in the ginger extract group took the “rescue medication” fewer times. However, those in the ginger group demonstrated more gastrointestinal effects. Researchers concluded that ginger had a statistically significant effect on symptom reduction.
6. SAM-e
According to WebMD, SAM-e has been used as an over-the-counter supplement in the U.S. since the late 90s. However, it is considered a prescription drug in other countries like Italy, Spain and Germany.
According to the Arthritis Foundation, this supplement has both pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory qualities. In addition, it is said to stimulate cartilage growth. And it even influences neurotransmitters, like serotonin. This may affect how a patient experiences pain.
The Arthritis Foundation says that two studies support this theory, both of which concluded that SAM-e may reduce symptoms associated with osteoarthritis to the same capacity that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs do. This supplement has been said to come with fewer side effects, and it works better long term.