Joint pain and how to relieve it

Glucosamine, chondroitin and msm (methylsulfonyl methane) are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and ability to ease joint pain. Many people take these supplements in a bid to ease their symptoms and support the natural processes of their body.

Glucosamine is a safe supplement when taken as suggested. However, the following have been listed as possible side effects:

If you experience any of the side effects after taken oral glucosamine, please speak to your doctor.

If you’re allergic to shellfish you should not take glucosamine, as often this supplement is derived from the shells of shellfish. If you have a chronic health condition make sure to check with your GP before starting glucosamine.

If you eat a healthy balanced diet you should be able to get all of the vitamins your body needs to function. However if you experience joint pain you might want to consider taking extra vitamins and minerals to help support your joints.

These vitamins for bones and joints include:

Finding the best joint pain reliever for you can take a lot of trial and error, what works for one person may not work for all. Many people take glucosamine for its anti-inflammatory affect, as well as omega-3 fatty acids which are also believed to help to control inflammation.

There’s not a clear answer for whether joint support supplements help to ease pain. Studies suggest glucosamine supplements have minimal effect on relieving joint pain. But many people take them regularly in the hope to ease stiff joints.

Studies have found that vitamins for joint pain and stiffness such as glucosamine and chondroitin either don’t work or there’s not enough evidence to say they do.

Whether you take vitamins for joint pain is completely up to you, however you should be able to get all the vitamins you need from a healthy, varied and balanced diet. If you’re thinking of taking joint supplements talk to a pharmacist or GP, they’ll find what’s right for you.

Some people find that certain foods make their arthritis worse, and that cutting them out help. These foods include citrus fruits such as oranges and vegetables such as potatoes tomatoes and chillies. However Arthritis UK do not recommend that you cut these fruits and vegetables from your diet as they contain important nutrients.

If you're experiencing swelling around your kneecap, this could be because you have a build-up of fluid on the knee. This effusion indicates that there is a problem with your knee and if it is accompanied by pain or other symptoms you should visit you GP. Before you see the doctor you should practice RICE – Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation to help treat your knee.