Supplements are an alternative treatment option for people with arthritis. Not only are they available in most drug stores, they may improve arthritic joint structure and also provide pain relief. Supplement use can cause side effects, so talk to your doctor about all treatment options and possible repercussions before trying a new product.
Glucosamine
Glucosamine is the big winner among arthritis supplements. It is one of the most commonly used supplements by people with arthritis, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Glucosamine is available in a number of forms, including glucosamine blends and combinations with other ingredients such as chondroitin and MSM. The AAFP reports that glucosamine sulfate can repair some of the soft tissues of the knee, such as ligaments and cartilage, and may increase the amount of lubricating fluid in the joints. The Arthritis Foundation, citing the Glucosamine/chondroitin Arthritis Intervention Trial, suggests glucosamine is best for those with moderate to severe arthritis pain, and in combination with chondroitin. Glucosamine use should be monitored by people taking blood thinners, as the supplement can alter their effectiveness.
Chondroitin
Chondroitin is rarely used on its own; it is more often available in combination with glucosamine. However, the supplement is effective by itself at improving the structure of arthritic joints, says the AAFP. This includes the soft tissues such as cartilage, tendons and ligaments. Chondroitin is safe for most people to use; however. the AAFP reports that because it comes from animal cartilage, it has the potential to carry common animal diseases, though there have been no reports of such an occurrence.
ASU and MSM
ASU and MSM are food-derived substances that can benefit those with arthritis. ASU is short for avocado-soybean unsaponifiables, which is derived from avocado and soybean oils. According to the Mayo Clinic, ASU can help with cartilage repair in the larger joints of the body, such as the knee or hip. MSM stands for methylsulfonylmethane, and is derived from plant sources. The AAFP lists MSM among its arthritis supplements, reporting it is an anti-inflammatory and natural pain reliever. Both are fairly new treatments and thus have limited research; however, they may offer pain relief for some arthritis sufferers. As with other supplements, talk to your doctor before taking ASU or MSM for arthiritis pain.
SAMe
SAMe stands for S-adenosylmethionine, which may have two effects on the soft tissues of the joints. First, it may increase the thickness of the cartilage on joint surfaces, says the AAFP. Also, it has the potential to slow cartilage damage caused by the arthritis disease. In addition to these benefits, it may alter the way pain is perceived by the brain, and according to the AAFP can be equally as effective as many popular arthritis pain medications. However, SAMe may interfere with the effectiveness of certain prescription medications, including antidepressants and other pain medications. If you are interested in trying SAMe, discuss any potential side effects with your doctor first.
