Osteoarthritis, known as OA, is usually a disease of aging but may also come from overuse of a joint in athletic activities. Symptoms include joint pain, stiffness and swelling. OA occurs most often in the knees and hips, but can affect other joints. Osteoporosis, the age-related loss of calcium in the bones, usually carries no symptoms. There are a number of prescription and over-the-counter medications for bone and joint disorders, and some people also use supplements to relieve painful joints and prevent bone loss. Talk to your doctor before using any products or supplements for your condition.
Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a component of the exoskeletons of marine life, like crabs, lobster and shrimp. It has been used for a number of years to treat arthritis pain, and to help preserve joint mobility by working to support cartilage regeneration and slow breakdown. As glucosamine is often harvested from shellfish, those with shellfish allergies may not be able to take the supplement, depending upon the source. Contact a doctor immediately if you experience any symptoms of allergic reaction. Glucosamine is widely available as a supplement alone or combined with chondroitin.
Chondroitin
Chondroitin is a natural component of cartilage. It helps keep cartilage healthy by providing building blocks for new cartilage, and may help prevent the breakdown of connective tissue. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, research has suggested that chondroitin may reduce OA pain, relieve joint swelling and stiffness, and improve function of the joints, particularly the hip or knee. However, a 2006 study sponsored by the National Institutes of Health that evaluated people taking a combination of chondroitin and glucosamine found conflicting results.
MSM
Methylsulfonylmethane, MSM, also known as DMSO2, is a supplement used to treat osteoarthritis symptoms. It is found in green plants and algae, along with certain vegetables, fruits and grains, but it is destroyed by cooking and dehydration. MSM also occurs naturally in animals and humans. Few clinical studies have been performed on MSM as of 2011, but it has been reported to alleviate arthritis pain, possibly by maintaining connective tissue and exhibiting anti-inflammatory activity. It is often combined with other supplements for arthritis, such as glucosamine and chondroitin.
Calcium and Vitamin D
Calcium supplements are often recommended to prevent osteoporosis, which is mainly a condition of aging. Eating foods rich in calcium, like dairy products, and taking calcium supplements can reduce the risk of osteoporosis, softening of the bones and fractures, especially in the vertebrae or hips where most age-related fractures occur. Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption and use. Vitamin D can be manufactured by the body with sun exposure, however many people now avoid the sun and are deficient in both vitamin D and calcium. Health professionals recommend consuming at least 1,200 mg of calcium daily. Many calcium supplements also contain vitamin D to aid with calcium absorption.
References
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center; Glucosamine; July 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Chondroitin
- Drugs.com: MSM
- "The Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2005
