Osteoarthritis is an inflammatory degenerative joint disease. Degradation of cartilage makes joint movement difficult and painful over time. Although this condition isn’t quite reversible there are natural ways to support the body in its own healing.

Glucosamine – is necessary for the production of glucose amino glycans which is a constituent of connective tissue in cartilage. This may help improve its composition to help repair it. One study found it also helped increase hyaluronic acid which serves to increase lubrication of the joint for easier, more seamless gliding. (1)

Chondroitin sulfate – is a compound found in cartilage naturally. It helps improve its elasticity by increasing water retention. Studies have shown that chondroitin can reduce enzyme activity of those that assist in cartilage breakdown. (2)

Fish oils – contain omega 3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) which are beneficial for decreasing inflammation caused by the production of pro inflammatory eicosanoids and cytokines (compounds). numerous studies have signified improvements in joint swelling and pain and overall seems to slow disease progression. (3)

Turmeric – curcumin is one of the main active compounds in turmeric. It has been studied to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Turmeric or curcumin capsules are best consumed with piperine (active compound in black pepper) or an oil/fat to help facilitate better absorb it. (4)

Collagen peptides – can be a usefully dietary addition to improve cartilage composition (mainly type 2). In randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, assessment of knee pain symptoms during certain movements using the Lysholm score (out of 100) demonstrated improved scores over 6 months compared to placebo. (5)

To conclude a combination of a diet rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory foods, nutraceuticals to manage pain and swelling, along with therapeutic movement to reduce stiffness, can provide relief. This is especially true if osteoarthritis is addressed at early onset.

At Revitamax Rehab & Wellness, our massage therapists, chiropractors and physiotherapists are well trained at assessing your muscle pain, joint pain and nerve pain. When it comes to arthritis (whether knee pain, shoulder pain, back pain, neck pain, etc.), a hands on approach combined with rehab exercises should be a first approach to managing the issue conservatively.

Visit us in Etobicoke-Rexdale by calling (416) 360-8326 or emailing info@revitamax.ca. We are located at 680 Rexdale Blvd, Unit 11, Etobicoke, M9W 0B5.

References

1. Uitterlinden, E. J., Koevoet, J. L., Verkoelen, C. F., Bierma-Zeinstra, S. M., Jahr, H., Weinans, H., Verhaar, J. A., & van Osch, G. J. (2008). Glucosamine increases hyaluronic Eacid production in human osteoarthritic synovium explants. BMC musculoskeletal disorders, 9, 120. https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2474-9-120
2. Kwan Tat, J.-P. Pelletier, & J. Martel-Pelletier. (2010). Effects of chondroitin sulfate in the pathophysiology of the osteoarthritic joint: A narrative review. Osteoarthritis and Cartilage,18, S7-S11. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.joca.2010.01.015
3. Miles, E., & Calder, P. (2012). Influence of marine n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on immune function and a systematic review of their effects on clinical outcomes in rheumatoid arthritis. British Journal of Nutrition, 107(S2), S171-S184. doi:10.1017/S0007114512001560
4. Henrotin, Y., Priem, F. & Mobasheri, A. Curcumin: a new paradigm and therapeutic opportunity for the treatment of osteoarthritis: curcumin for osteoarthritis management. SpringerPlus2, 56 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1186/2193-1801-2-56
5. Jiang, J.-X & Yu, Shen & Huang, Q.-R & Zhang, X.-L & Zhang, C.-Q & Zhou, J.-L & Prawitt, Janne. (2014). Collagen peptides improve knee osteoarthritis in elderly women: A 6-month randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Agro Food Industry Hi-Tech. 25. 19-23.