Overview
The pain and inflammation associated with arthritis can be mild, however, it can also be debilitating. The disease develops when pain stems directly from the joint itself. According to the Mayo Clinic, pain may also arise from other areas, such as the cartilage or tendons.
These issues can occur in any part of the body like the back, shoulders, knees, hands, wrists, and feet. People suffering from joint pain may have difficulty with movement and flexibility. It can have a significant impact on daily life, preventing sufferers from carrying out their necessary tasks.
One solution to this problem is to live a healthy lifestyle, which can help to lessen arthritis symptoms. Also, an organic supplement may alleviate pain and inflammation. Some of these products are very effective at reducing the symptoms of joint suffering.
What do joint supplements do?
Most of these supplements are rich in anti-inflammatory agents, which reduce pain and swelling in the joint area. They often have an abundance of antioxidants, which also reduce symptoms. Besides, they boost the immune system and help repair damage to the joints by lessening oxidative stress (1).
Many of these products include ingredients that draw large amounts of hydration, which makes the area in between the joints more liquid. This mechanism helps to improve flexibility and mobility (2). Also, there are substances included which slow cartilage deterioration.
Choosing a Joint Pain Supplement
There are several joint supplements on the market, and it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. It’s important to carefully inspect the ingredients, and do some independent research on each one.
You must check carefully to make sure you aren’t allergic to any of the substances. Also, look up the health warnings to be sure that the product is suitable for you. Before you begin taking any new product, go to your doctor and get medical approval.
WHY IS FLEXOPLEX THE #1 CHOICE OF JOINT SUPPLEMENT? READ HERE!
Key Ingredients for Joint Supplements
Some of the most common primary active ingredients in joint supplements are as follows:
- Glucosamine – This is a substance that exists naturally in the cartilage. The glucosamine in joint supplements is usually derived from shellfish. There’s evidence to suggest that it helps the pain and swelling of osteoarthritis, and it can also lessen cartilage deterioration (3).
- Chondroitin – This is also a natural part of the cartilage and is often used alongside glucosamine. It may reduce pain and inflammation, prevent cartilage breakdown, and help to repair the damage. A study published in the Annals of Rheumatic Diseases concluded that Chondroitin is effective in treating the symptoms of knee osteoarthritis.
- Hyaluronic Acid – This is a part of the synovial fluid. It draws a lot of hydration, making the space between the joints more liquid. Intense hydration improves joint flexibility and mobility. A review in the Nutrition Journal concluded that oral hyaluronic acid relieves knee pain.
- Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) – This substance is made of organic sulfur called dimethyl sulfoxide. It’s an antioxidant that could lessen oxidative stress in the body and strengthen immunity. There’s evidence that it could diminish joint pain and inflammation (4).
- Boswellia Serrata – This is a tree that grows in the mountain regions of India, Northern Africa, and the Middle East. It has numerous medicinal and anti-inflammatory properties. A review in the Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences looked at the potency of this plant as an anti-inflammatory and cited studies where it effectively alleviated joint pain.
- Turmeric – This is a plant in the ginger family often used as a spice in cooking. It contains curcuminoids like curcumin, which are polyphenols. Curcuminoids have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. There’s evidence to suggest that turmeric is an effective treatment for the symptoms of arthritis (5).
The 5 Best Joint Pain Supplements
We surveyed all of the joint supplements on the market today and came up with our favorites. These are the top 5 products available: