Are Your Joints Becoming More Painful?

The body has over 300 joints that all work together to perform every single movement the body makes. As a result, occasional joint pain happens to almost every individual, especially with age. Joint pain is any discomfort, aches, or pains felt where 2 bones meet. The condition is often due to inflammation of the cartilage and tissue that helps joints function effectively. Joint inflammation is common in major joints like the knee, shoulder, hips, and ankles but can occur almost anywhere. Inflammation occurs when the immune system or surrounding tissue releases compounds that cause swelling and pain. Over time, joint inflammation worsens, but some helpful supplements can slow the condition.

Causes of joint inflammation

An acute or chronic attack on the joints by the immune system is the cause of inflammation. There are several reasons for this condition. Most cases are due to osteoarthritis (OA), the wear and tear of bone and cartilage in the joints. The cartilage and fluid in the joints are meant to act as shock absorbers. Loss of the cartilage, membrane, and eventually bone causes the joints to rub together, leading to inflammation. Weakened or damaged muscles and ligaments can also lead to joint pain. Many cases of joint inflammation can be due to rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or other forms of arthritic pain. With these conditions, the immune system attacks the joints, leading to chronic stiffness and pain. Joint pain is never fun, but certain supplements can help reduce inflammation and improve joint health.

1. More than a sunshine vitamin

Vitamin D is commonly known as the sunshine vitamin, as the skin synthesizes the sun’s rays to produce enough for everyday function. This vitamin is critical for healthy bone and muscle health. Vitamin D helps minerals like calcium and magnesium perform effectively. Vitamin D deficiencies are quite common, and studies show most individuals with joint pain often have low vitamin D levels. In many instances, people with RA are also known to have low vitamin D levels. A supplement may help with muscle pain, joint pain, and relief of long-term symptoms of arthritis.

2. Glucosamine and chondroitin

Joint cartilage is the smooth covering of bone that helps with movement and limits shock caused by all levels of movement. This cartilage consists of many compounds, with the main components being glucosamine and chondroitin. Both are naturally occurring amino sugars and compounds that attract water to joints, maintain elasticity, and prevent the breakdown of cartilage. Like most compounds in the body, glucosamine and chondroitin production decreases with age, so obtaining more from a supplement is necessary with age. Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements may reduce pain in conditions like osteoarthritis.

3. Try omega-3 fatty acids

Found in fish oil, nuts, and seeds, omega-3 fatty acids contain fantastic antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Eicosatetraenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), specific types of omega-3s, may help with inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids have been routinely used to treat OA and RA. Such supplements may also help with overall joint function.

4. What about curcumin?

The active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin, contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. People who consume turmeric in the diet or take turmeric supplements have reported reduced pain from osteoarthritis. Studies show that the supplement can also benefit patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Turmeric contains less than 10% curcumin. Therefore, a curcumin supplement, combined with black pepper to help with absorption, can be more effective.

Are supplements enough?

People with joint pain can benefit from certain supplements. However, supplements alone may not be enough to reduce chronic pain. Lifestyle changes, including weight loss, diet, and exercise, can strengthen joints and help with pain management. Furthermore, seeing a specialist also ensures there is no underlying condition leading to joint pain. The doctor can also recommend non-surgical or surgical options for joint relief. The goal of supplement use is to contribute to a holistic approach to healing.

Give the joints a boost

Inflammation in the joints can be painful, limit mobility, and lead to more severe conditions, especially with age. The pain could be a sign of missing nutrients, which supplementation can provide. Omega-3s, vitamin D, glucosamine, chondroitin, and curcumin can help with joint support. A pharmacist or doctor can suggest a high-quality supplement with minimal side effects. The right supplement can protect joints, slow degeneration, and even reduce pain, leading to a better quality of life.