Pain caused by arthritis, tendinitis and other problems that affect the joints can have a dramatic impact on people's lives. Treatment for these conditions often includes anti-inflammatory or pain-reducing medications, physical therapy and/or joint pads or braces. Numerous anti-inflammatory dietary supplements are available for people experiencing joint pain. Supplements may cause side effects or interactions with certain medications. A doctor's guidance is suggested prior to taking dietary supplements of any kind.
Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a substance produced in the body that supports cartilage growth. Though research findings are mixed, glucosamine is believed by some to help rebuild damaged cartilage and tissue that causes joint pain in people with arthritis, tendinitis and other conditions. Since glucosamine cannot be acquired through food, people seeking glucosamine for joint pain must take oral supplements. In many cases glucosamine supplements contain additional substances thought to support joint pain relief, such as chondroitin or manganese. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), people with osteoarthritis are advised to take 500 mg of glucosamine three times per day or 1,500 mg once daily, for one to three months.
Chondroitin
Chondroitin also occurs naturally in the body and is a significant component of cartilage. It is known to support cartilage health by absorbing fluids into ligaments and other connective tissue and may reduce the breakdown of cartilage by blocking certain enzymes. Chondroitin may also help the body manufacture new cartilage. According to the UMMC, 200 mg of chondroitin daily has been proven effective in reducing joint pain affiliated with osteoarthritis, improving joint function in the hips and knees, reducing join inflammation and sustaining relief from joint pain for up to 90 days past the end of treatment.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are considered healthy, essential fats that the body can't produce on its own. According to research conducted by Dr. Joseph Maroon at the University of Pittsburgh, omega-3 fatty acids show similar benefits in treating joint pain and inflammation as various anti-inflammatory medications. Of 120 patients studied, 59 percent exhibited reduced joint pain, and 68 percent were able to stop taking previously prescribed nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements typically come in the form of fish oil supplements, since fatty, cold-water fish, such as salmon, tuna, Atlantic herring, mackerel and sardines, provide rich amounts of the nutrient. Other omega-3 supplements derive from flaxseed oil, which contains substances the body can convert into omega-3 fatty acids. Maroon recommends 3 to 5 mg of fish oil daily for individuals not taking blood-thinning medications, which may interact with omega-3 fatty acids.
