Best Natural Joint Relief Options

By Margarita Joseph


Joints are found in every part of the human body. Most of these joints are freely movable and allow a great variety of body movements as well as supporting the weight of the body. When joints degenerate for any reason, pain becomes a symptom. Different methods are used to treat this pain and there are various options for natural joint relief.

There are numerous factors that contribute towards degeneration of joints. Trauma, aging, disorders, autoimmune diseases and even infections are some of these. The joints consist of two bones held together by ligaments. Cartilage and synovial fluid ensures that these bones do not grind against one another. It is when these elements are affected that pain occurs.

Over-the-counter medicines and prescription drugs have long been used to ease the pain in joints. They are either swallowed or injected. Steroids such as cortisone and anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen are used. Unfortunately, some of these medications have serious side effects, particularly with long term use.

There are other ways than using conventional medicines to treat problems with joints. Hot and cold therapy as well as massage are well known for their soothing effects. Light exercise, particularly in water, strengthens the muscles surrounding the joints, increasing mobility. Dietary supplements are becoming very popular with a vast number available for purchase.

Taking a dietary supplement may be an important step towards repairing and maintaining the health of your joints. However, products vary considerably in the ingredients they contain and how effective they are. There are many products that contain natural anti-inflammatories such as ginger, devils craw, green tea and willow bark. Some of these also have side effects but they are not usually serious ones.

Many supplements offer a combination of ingredients like Glucosamine Sulphate and Chondroitin Sulphate that help to heal repair and maintain the joints. Glucosamine Sulphate is an amino acid that occurs naturally in the body and it strengthens and repairs cartilage as well as increasing lubrication. Chondroitin sulphate assists cartilage to hold nutrients and water. It helps joints to absorb shock and blocks the breaking down of cartilage.

An organic sulfur compound called methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is also being used increasingly in supplements. It is found in humans, animals, grains, fruits and vegetables. Collagen is believed to be strengthened by the sulfur.

Many supplements claim to not only reduce pain but to work on the tissues of joints. It is often better to use such a supplement sooner rather than later to give it time to have an effect. It is important to be an educated consumer as products vary considerably with regard to price and effectiveness. You need to compare ingredients and their quality as well as price in order to make an informed decision about natural joint relief.




About the Author: