As the most common form of arthritis, osteoarthritis (OA) affects nearly 21 million Americans. Marked by pain and inflammation caused by cartilage breakdown in various weightbearing joints (knee, for instance), sufferers commonly treat their symptoms with over-the-counter or prescription medication. But relief can often be offset by side effects and complications, such as gastrointestinal upset, ulcers -- or worse.
Luckily, you can quell your joint pain and swelling with a number of natural alternatives that are easier to tolerate. Here is a short guide to six options.
Glucosamine (with Chondroitin)
How it works: Supplements of glucosamine, which slows and may even prevent progression of joint changes that cause osteoarthritis, are derived from either the shells of crustaceans, or are manufactured from vegetable materials such as corn.
What the science says: Results from a 24-week study in the New England Journal of Medicine suggest that taking glucosamine and chondroitin together may help reduce pain in individuals with moderate-to-severe osteoarthritis; the combination didn't seem to help those with mild symptoms, however. It may take several weeks to experience the full pain-relieving effects.
The best way to use it: Use the recommended doses -- 1500mg daily for glucosamine sulfate or glucosamine hydrochloride and 800-1200mg daily of chondroitin sulfate. Also, go for quality. "The quality and biologic activity levels of chondroitin and glucosamine sources vary, and good products use the most active components. Many of the cheap brands contain inexpensive and often inactive chondroitin, for instance," says Jason Theodosakis, MD, author of "The Arthritis Cure" and other books.
Caution: Glucosamine may adversely affect insulin sensitivity, a potential issue for diabetics.Product example: Zand Glucosamine/Chondroitin Liquid.Ginger How it works: Ginger contains active compounds that may decrease joint pain and inflammation in people with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.What the science says: Study findings from the University of Miami show that among 247 subjects, 63 percent of people taking 255mg of ginger extract twice daily reduced their knee pain. The ginger users were also able to reduce their need for "rescue" medication, namely acetaminophen.The best way to use it: Ginger is available in multiple forms, including capsules, extract and tincture. Follow dosage guidelines on the label or consult your doctor. You can also use ginger root to make a compress to apply directly to painful joints.Caution: Talk to your doctor first if you are taking antacids and/or any medication for blood pressure, blood thinning, heart disease or diabetes -- ginger could interact with these drugs.Product example: ArthxRelief by Rainbow Light (with ginger, plus glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, turmeric and other nutrients).SAMe (S-adenosylmethionine) How it works: SAMe, a naturally occurring chemical in the body that is also available as a supplement, treats pain, stiffness and joint swelling, improves mobility, rebuilds cartilage; also used to treat depression, fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome.
What the science says: Findings to date indicate that SAMe relieves pain as well as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs but with fewer side effects.The best way to use it: The standard dosage is 600-1200mg daily for osteoarthritis, best taken under a doctor's supervision. Also, take on an empty stomach.Product example: Doctor's Best, Double-Strength SAMe.MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) How it works: MSM is an organic sulfur compound found naturally in fruits, vegetables, grains, animals and humans. "Sulfur is the third most common mineral in the body and is critical for the structure of connective tissues, including those in and around the joints," says Theodosakis. MSM has an anti-inflammatory effect, and is believed to help repair damaged connective tissue associated with joint degeneration.What the science says: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 50 men and women, ages 40-76, with knee pain showed pain reduction and improved mobility after using MSM (3g, twice daily) for 12 weeks. "MSM became popular mostly through anecdote, but now the research is catching up," says Theodosakis.The best way to use it: MSM is available in topical and oral forms. The typical oral dosage for osteoarthritis is 1000-3000mg daily, with meals. To avoid minor gastrointestinal symptoms, try gradually increasing the dose. Follow label directions for topical forms.
Caution: If you are using any prescription or over-the-counter drugs, take several hours before or after taking MSM, as some drugs can bind with mineral-containing supplements. Theodosakis also recommends the American-made, distilled form of MSM; the Chinese version may not have the same quality standards or purity.Product example: ActivJoint Powdered Drink by Trace Minerals in tangerine flavor (with MSM, glucosamine and chondroitin).Zyflamend How it works: This herbal complex boasts anti-inflammatory properties from rosemary, turmeric, ginger, holy basil, green tea and other herbs. According to the manufacturer, Zyflamend reduces inflammation by inhibiting the COX-2 enzyme (involved in pain) and promotes healthy joint fianction.What the science says: Research findings from Columbia University confirm that the herbal complex has anti-inflammatory effects. Scientists are also studying Zyflamend for prostate cancer.The best way to use it: Take one softgel two times daily, preferably in the middle of a meal with eight ounces of water.Caution: If you are pregnant, consult with your health care provider first.Product example: New Chapter Zyflamend.Celadrin How it works: A compound containing esterified fatty acids, Celadrin appears to work by reducing inflammation, lubricating cell membranes in the body, and restoring fluids that cushion bones and joints to promote flexibility.
What the science says: A University of Connecticut study showed that applying Celadrin cream topically (versus a placebo cream) for knee osteoarthritis, improved pain and mobility in all 40 participants. A study of 64 osteoarthritis sufferers found that those taking Celadrin capsules for 68 days had more flexibility, fewer aches, less pain and were able to walk farther than those taking a placebo.The best way to use it: Take one capsule three times daily, or apply cream as needed. There are no known drug interactions.Product example: Natural Factors Celadrin Soothing Cream.Why Hasn't the Pain Gone Away? If you haven't experienced pain relief using natural remedies, give it time. Keep in mind that, unlike conventional pain medication, natural remedies tend to take weeks to start working and don't reach full effect for two to six months. "Many practitioners, including myself, will simultaneously recommend the natural products along with over-the-counter or prescription products for those patients who need immediate relief," says Theodosakis. "The long-term strategy is to eliminate the drugs as soon as possible. This is also the recommendation by the FDA." Source: Better Nutrition. Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning. Powered by Yellowbrix.
