Ease the Aches & Pains: Nutritional Supplements and Osteoarthritis Pain Management––College Pharmacy

Ease the Aches & Pains: Nutritional Supplements and Osteoarthritis Pain Management

By Jerry Gillick, RPh, College Pharmacy, Colorado Springs LIVING WELL Magazine 

In a study released by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, it was found that one in 10 adults in the U.S. receive treatment for arthritis pain (over 20 million people!). Osteoarthritis, the most common form of joint disease, is often caused by the degeneration of a joint due to aging, acute or chronic trauma, or certain metabolic conditions.

For those that suffer from osteoarthritis, the search for pain relief can be frustrating and confusing. While there are many prescription medications available to slow damage and to alleviate symptoms, a growing number of people are turning to nutritional supplements for long-term benefits.

The function of supplements to treat osteoarthritis pain varies; however, it usually includes one of the following: to ease pain and stiffness, prevent or slow further joint erosion, reduce inflammation, or promote the growth of healthy cartilage.

Osteoarthritis Powerhouse Supplements

When choosing a supplement to address osteoarthritis symptoms, look for products that contain the following ingredients. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist prior to incorporating any new supplements into your diet.

  • MSM: Provides sulfur needed for the structural integrity of joint cartilage and connective tissue. Lessens nerve impulses that transmit pain.
  • Glucosamine: Is a building block of joint cartilage and may improve cartilage structure and tendon healing.
  • Chondroitin: Taken with glucosamine, helps support connective tissue renewal and prevent further damage.
  • Hyaluronic Acid: Is a natural lubricating component of joint fluid and connective tissues throughout the body. Joints need to stay lubricated!
  • Fish Oil: Specifically omega-3 fatty acids, EPA, and DHA fight joint-damaging enzymes and reduce inflammation and stiffness.

Quality is key! Not all supplements are created equal. Many supplements that you find at your local drugstore contain small amounts of active ingredients, unneeded fillers, and preservatives. Buy quality supplements for the maximum benefit.

College Pharmacy’s nutritional supplement center offers many hard-to-find, specialty, and pharmaceutical-grade professional supplement lines that are not readily available in many communities.

To learn more about osteoarthritis supplements or to schedule a FREE Nutritional Supplement Consultation, contact College Pharmacy to speak to a pharmacist at 719- 262-0022. Visit College Pharmacy on the web at collegepharmacy.com.