Most arthritis sufferers experience an increased amount of discomfort in the cooler months due to the cold and reduced physical activity.
Arthritis is a name given to a range of conditions that affect the bones. The arthritis that you get as you age: aches and pains and creaking bones is called osteoarthritis.
When a bone meets another bone, such as in a joint, friction and rubbing can wear away the cartilage that acts as a cushion to prevent the bones from grating against each other. When the cartilage is worn away, the bones start wearing away on each other, causing pain, swelling and further joint damage. This often causes the affected joints to become enlarged or swollen, hot and inflamed.
Most people take painkillers called anti-inflammatories, which help to relieve the swelling and pain of this joint disease. Many are available over the counter, as well as on prescription from your doctor, but need to be taken regularly to have an effect.
Fish oils that contain omega-3 fatty acids have been said to be helpful in reducing inflammation in inflamed joints, decreasing the need for pain-relieving medicines.
Capsaicin containing creams and ointments can be applied to relieve the pain and swelling of osteoarthritis affected joints.
This is the substance that occurs in capsicum, or bell peppers, and is reported to have a direct effect on joint swelling, as well as soothing by heating the joint, as it is related to the chilli.
Glucosamine is a naturally occurring substance found in some shellfish, so should definitely not be taken by those that have an allergy to shellfish. Clinical trials have shown that glucosamine is helpful in regenerating cartilage in knee joints if taken in the right dose for a reasonable period of time.
Chondroitin and glucosamine are often combined in supplements for joint conditions. Chondroitin is poorly absorbed compared to glucosamine and the evidence for this supplement is not yet as clear as the evidence for glucosamine but reports of the combination being helpful remain in the literature.
There are many supplements available that are reported to help with osteoarthritis and painful joints. We can advise you as to the supplements that you could try to see if your pain and inflammation could be relieved. Always seek advice before starting on any dietary supplement and ensure that you continue to take any medications that your doctor has prescribed. If you have doubts and concerns about arthritis, talk to us.
