Joint Pain Supplements 

An alternative way of treating, controlling and reducing joint pain is to take certain supplements. Joint pain supplements are certain nutritional supplements with a popularity among some sufferers of joint pain. These come in different types, shapes and tastes. To date, the data/research is sketchy on the overall affect of the substances. Nevertheless they continue to have demand and may prove effective in addressing the mild symptoms of joint pain and can enhance joint health overall.

Types

There are literally dozens of different joint pain supplements available on the market. You can choose from a wide variety of pills, capsules and powders to help relieve or reduce your joint pain problem. The contents of each type of supplements range from the natural to the chemical, from herbal to animal. Each has its proponents.

• Glucosamine - This is an amino sugar. It is a naturally occurring substance and a basic building block. Used for osteoarthritis (OA)
• Gelatin-based pills – add to beverages. The common active ingredients are gelatine, vitamin C and calcium
• Chondroitin – a protein molecule found in cartilage. Most common types used contain beef or pig chondroitin. Usually in the form of chondroitin sulphate. Applicable for OA
• Cat’s Claw (Uncaria tomentosa) – herbal/botanical remedy. Take in tea bags or capsules
• Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHED) – mild male hormone, varies concerning potency. Can create problems regarding hormonal levels and actions
• Dimethyl sulfoxide (DSMO) – a by-product of wood processing and ingredient in anti-freeze. Used in veterinarian medicine effectively. Only external usage and under medical supervision
• Fish Oil – fish oil is high in Omega-5 fatty acids. Fish oil capsules are available in health food stores. Uses mackerel, herring, sardines and salmon. Said to help reduce inflammation
• Flax Seed – This is high in Omega-3 fatty acids
• Herbal COX-2 inhibitors – pharmaceuticals but herbal. Said to be as effective as NSAIDs but without the various gastro-intestinal problems. Used for OA
• Shark cartilage – derived from sharks. Similar role as with chondroitin
• Herbal remedies – a variety of herbal remedies are available on the market. Those said to be effective in treating joint pain include feverfew, ginger, green tea, rosemary,
• skullcap and thyme. You can purchase many at a health food or grocery store. Be sure to heed the instructions and precautions concerning usage including dosage.
• S-adenosyl-L-methione (SAM-e) – this antidepressant is believed to have some affect on joint health.

Whatever joint pain supplement you choose, you need to be careful on a number of levels. There is currently no scientific quantified research to back up the claims of the various supplements. This does not negate the possibility of success in using them. The current state merely indicates the claims may outweigh the actuality.

There is also the issue of quality. Without standardization, the quality of the same product provided by different companies may vary wildly. This acts to produce different level of effects depending upon the batch or company you use. It is essential, therefore, that you consult a professional about which product and which company to use. Deal only with a company and retailer with a proven record of quality and honesty.

Conclusion

Joint pain supplements are one approach to easing joint pain. You can choose this route to help you recover from the discomfort involved in minor joint problems. The actual effect is still uncertain although such things as glucosamine, chondroitin sulphate and omega-3 fatty acids do seem to garner some positive attention from the medical and scientific community.