Arthritis can be a complex disorder that includes more than 100 conditions. It can affect anyone at any age. Rheumatoid and osteoarthritis are two of the most common forms. Both of these forms have very different causes, risk factors, as well as effects on the body. Both forms have persistent joint pain as the most common symptom. Joint pain can manifest as pain in the hip, knee, wrist, and hand. It can also cause pain in other parts of the body. As we age, arthritis pain and inflammation are not something that can be avoided. Over time, joints naturally become less healthy. There are many ways to manage arthritis. These include vitamins, medication and exercise.
Arthritis
Arthritis can be a chronic condition that will affect your life for many years. Your treatment may change over time, and your medication may need to be adjusted. Positive mental outlook and support from family and friends can help you manage arthritis and continue your daily activities. Before you start adding vitamins and supplements to your diet, it is important to consult your doctor. Although it is rare, some vitamins or supplements can cause adverse reactions to medications you already take. Talk to your doctor before you stop taking any prescribed medication.
Vitamins
Vitamin supplements are an alternative to consuming your RDA through diet.
- Vitamin B5 – When B vitamins are combined, they work at their best, with B5 being particularly good for swelling reduction.
- Vitamin B3 – This vitamin reduces tissue inflammation and dilates small vessels, improving grip strength, joint mobility, and increasing blood flow. Vitamin B3 is not recommended for people with high blood pressure, gout, or other sliver conditions.
- Vitamin B6 – Another B that reduces tissue inflammation. B-6 shrinks the thickness of the synovial membranes that line weight-bearing joints. It helps to reduce pain and restore mobility in the elbows and knees.
- Vitamin B12 – This vitamin has many functions. It aids in cell formation, digestion and myelin production.
- Vitamin C – This vitamin acts an anti-inflammatory, relieving the pain, and eliminating free radicals. Vitamin C helps reduce inflammation and also forms collagen, the protein glue that holds cells together. Collagen is particularly important in connective tissue, which helps to maintain healthy ligaments, cartilage and tendons, as well as the joints.
- Vitamin E – This strong antioxidant protects joints from damage by free radicals and increases joint flexibility.
- Vitamin K – This vitamin aids in mineral deposit into the bone matrix.
- Selenium, Zinc – Antioxidants such as zinc and selenium may also be effective due to their ability to prevent free radical damage to the joint linings. This in turn can cause fluid accumulation, swelling, and associated pain. Chondroitin is a key structural component of cartilage and plays a vital role in maintaining joint cartilage.
Conclusion
These guidelines will help guide you in evaluating supplements that can be used to treat arthritis symptoms. You may be able to find a dietary supplement that will complement your current arthritis treatment plan if you follow the advice of your doctor. The right information is all you need to know how to distinguish potentially useful supplements from the rest.