You may experience sore or stiff muscles for a number of reasons, from intense workouts, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, an underactive thyroid, vitamin D deficiency or just the normal aging process when muscles become weaker and less flexible. While your doctor may prescribe nonsteroidal and anti-inflammatory drugs, alternative therapies may offer relief from pain, soreness and inflammation.
Omega-3
Omega-3 fatty acids contain eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids, which act as anti-inflammatories. Many fish, such as mackerel, lake trout, albacore tuna and salmon, as well as certain nut oils, naturally contain high levels of omega-3, which is also sold in concentrated tablet form. Clinical studies show the supplement is effective in treating joint pain and morning stiffness in people suffering from arthritis, according to Medline Plus, the National Library of Medicine's online health directory,
Glucosamine/ Chondroitin Sulfate
Glucosamine and chondroitin repair connective tissue, including joint cartilage and fascia, and treat arthritis symptoms and speed joint recovery after intense workouts. While both occur naturally in the body, they replenish slowly. Supplements, derived from animal products, are sold separately or in a combined form. The supplements have anti-inflammatory effects and, according to the American Association of Orthopedic Surgeons, clinical studies show they are effective in relieving joint pain. Glucosamine and chondroitin have not been tested to determine whether they help restore lost cartilage.
SAMe and TMG
SAMe, S-adenosyl-methionine, and TMG, trimethylglycine, are two supplements often used in conjunction. They are used in the treatment of arthritis and fibromyalgia. While it is inconclusive whether these supplements rebuild cartilage, a study completed by researchers from the University of California Irvine Medical Center indicates that SAMe is equally effective in reducing osteoarthritic pain as COX-2 inhibitors, which are commonly prescribed for joint pain.
Vitamin D
You may also develop muscle aches from lack of vitamin D. As concerns about sun exposure and cancer grow, some scientists worry that a lack of sunlight, a major source of the vitamin, can contribute to deficiencies. You can take supplements to boost the amount of the vitamin within your body, though the high amount needed is easier attained by several minutes of sun exposure.
References
- Medline Plus: Omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil, alpha-linolenic acid
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-3 fatty acids
- Mayo Clinic: Treatments Can Improve Troublesome Aches
- American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons: Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate
- PubMed: S-Adenosyl methionine (SAMe) versus celecoxib for the treatment of osteoarthritis symptoms: A double-blind cross-over trial
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