Arthritis refers to several conditions that involve the inflammation of the joints. Osteoarthritis, which is associated with aging, is the most common form. According to the Mayo Clinic, it results from the gradual breakdown of cartilage, a rubbery tissue that cushions and lines the bones inside a joint. Most often, arthritis impacts the knees, hands, neck, lower back and hips. No cure currently exists. Supplements may help, but if your arthritis is persistent or severe, talk to your doctor.
Glucosamine Sulfate
Glucosamine sulfate occurs naturally in the fluid that surrounds the joints. The mechanism by which glucosamine sulfate helps with arthritis is unclear, but it may help protect cartilage from potentially damaging enzymes. To date, most studies on the use of glucosamine sulfate for arthritis have focused on the knee; according to the U.S. Library of Medicine, research has confirmed its usefulness for that joint. The jury is still out as to whether glucosamine sulfate is useful for arthritis in other parts of the body, but preliminary research suggests that it also may be helpful in treating arthritis of the hip and the spine. Glucosamine sulfate may interfere with acetaminophen and certain diabetes drugs. Check with your physician before using it to treat arthritis or any other condition.
Chondroitin
Chondroitin is a natural substance in the body that helps promote elasticity and water retention in the connective tissue. There are no common food sources for chondroitin, so those who want to boost it in their systems must obtain it in a dietary supplement. Chondroitin made from cow cartilage is often combined with glucosamine in arthritis remedies. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, numerous research studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of chondroitin in reducing arthritis pain. Chondroitin may also help to diminish joint stiffness and inflammation. Gastrointestinal upset is a side effect that may occur with the use of this supplement. More research is necessary before chondroitin can be widely recommended in the treatment of arthritis.
SAMe
S-Adenosylmethionine, abbreviated as SAMe, is a supplement used both for mood and arthritis. A research study from the University of California Irvine Medical Center found that SAMe was just as effective in the management of arthritis symptoms as celecoxib, a prescription medicine whose brand name is Celebrex. While celecoxib appeared to control pain better than SAMe in the first month of the study, by the second month of the study the difference was no longer statistically significant. SAMe, a compound that is naturally present in body tissues and fluids, may work by increasing certain proteins found in connective tissue and by reducing pain and inflammation. However, more research is needed to determine the long-term safety and effectiveness of SAMe supplements.
