Joint swelling, stiffness or pain can be caused by many things, including a hard workout. There are supplements that may help your joints recover from strain or injury, but more research needs to be done to establish guidelines and conclusive evidence. Prior to taking any supplements, ask your health-care provider if it is safe for you to take, as even natural supplements can interact with medications.
Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a substance naturally found in healthy cartilage, but is also taken as a supplement. In the body, it helps to build cartilage, which is connective tissue that cushions joints. It is usually taken with chondroitin to help strengthen cartilage, and is often used in patients with osteoarthritis, says the Mayo Clinic. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, glucosamine has been shown to possibly reduce joint pain that osteoarthritis sufferers experience, as well as reduce joint swelling and stiffness. More studies need to be done, as there is no definitive evidence that glucosamine can help build new cartilage or repair damaged cartilage.
Chondroitin
Chondroitin is another naturally occurring substance in cartilage. It helps cartilage absorb fluid into the connective tissue, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It is also thought to block chemicals that break cartilage down and aids the body in building new cartilage. Like glucosamine, chondroitin has been found to help reduce pain in individuals with osteoarthritis and reduce swelling and stiffness in the joints. Studies are mixed as to its exact effects on growing and repairing cartilage, and more research needs to be done.
SAMe
SAMe is a supplement used for a variety of disorders in the body, including depression and musculoskeletal problems. The Mayo Clinic describes SAMe as a primary methyl group donor for various reactions occurring in the body. This supplement has been shown to lessen the pain of osteoarthritis and is as effective as traditional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications in reducing joint swelling, says the Mayo Clinic. More research needs to be done on this supplement, but it shows promise for helping joints.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C does more than just boost your immune system; it helps the body produce collagen, which is used to make skin, cartilage, tendons, blood vessels and ligaments, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. Collagen is part of healthy cartilage, and it is hypothesized that free radicals damage cartilage as well, according to the University of Maryland. Vitamin C is an antioxidant, which can help protect cells against the damage caused by free radicals. There is no evidence that proves this, but individuals who consume diets high in vitamin C are less likely to have arthritis.
