Joint pain can manifest in various forms and stem from numerous causes, with arthritis being the most prevalent, having over 100 subtypes. If you have experienced severe, chronic joint pain, you know how debilitating it can be. While there isn’t always a cure, several methods can alleviate symptoms, including taking joint supplements as recommended by your doctor.
A comprehensive approach often yields the best results, combining multiple pain-reducing strategies. Low-impact exercises such as walking, cycling, or swimming are typically the first line of defense against worsening joint pain. Gentle stretching is also highly recommended as it helps loosen up the joints and increases flexibility, which can significantly reduce discomfort.
Your doctor might also suggest weight loss, taking medications like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), using topical treatments, or, in severe cases, considering surgery. Additionally, the Cleveland Clinic notes that dietary supplements can play a role in managing joint pain. These recommendations aim to provide a multifaceted approach to tackle the pain from different angles.
Dr. Raj Dasgupta, a medical reviewer for the National Council on Aging (NCOA) and an ABIM quadruple board-certified physician specializing in internal medicine, pulmonology, critical care, and sleep medicine, emphasizes that supplements are not a cure-all. “There are several therapies for osteoarthritis of unclear or unproven benefit that many clinicians do not routinely use due to a lack of sufficient data,” he tells Best Life. “However, some may be reasonable to try as adjunctive measures for patients who do not respond to usual therapy.”
In this guide, doctors share six joint supplements that are most likely to yield positive results for those suffering from joint pain:
- Glucosamine: This natural compound found in cartilage helps maintain cartilage health and may reduce joint pain and improve function. Occupational therapist Brittany Ferri, PhD, OTR/L, notes that glucosamine is available in various forms, such as glucosamine sulfate, glucosamine hydrochloride, and N-acetylglucosamine, often used to treat symptoms of bone and joint disorders like osteoarthritis.
- Chondroitin: Often taken with glucosamine, chondroitin helps retain water in the cartilage, essential for its elasticity and shock-absorbing properties. Regular supplementation can reduce joint pain, increase mobility, and slow the progression of osteoarthritis. Chris Mohr, PhD, RD, highlights that chondroitin works well with glucosamine and helps maintain healthy cartilage.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These play a significant role in overall health and can reduce joint inflammation. Found in fish oil and flaxseed oil, omega-3s have anti-inflammatory effects that reduce joint pain and stiffness, especially in people with rheumatoid arthritis. Dr. Dasgupta advises taking omega-3 supplements under the guidance of a healthcare professional to avoid negative interactions with other medications.
- Collagen: As the primary protein in connective tissues, collagen supports joint health by providing building blocks for cartilage repair and regeneration. While some doctors believe supplementing with collagen can reduce joint pain, particularly in those with degenerative joint diseases, more research is needed to confirm its benefits.
- Curcumin (Turmeric): Known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, can help reduce joint inflammation and alleviate pain. Preliminary research suggests curcumin supplements might be effective for rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, but more extensive studies are needed before broad recommendations can be made.
- Vitamin D: Deficiency in vitamin D is common and can contribute to joint pain. If a deficiency is confirmed, correcting vitamin D levels through supplementation may reduce joint pain. However, for those with healthy levels of vitamin D, additional supplementation is not supported by research for reducing joint pain.
These supplements, combined with other pain management strategies, can offer relief to those suffering from joint pain. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure it is appropriate for your specific health needs.
