Joint, muscles and back pain comes in the category of musculoskeletal pain. Such type of pain results from a range of genetic and lifestyle factors. Treatments to deal with it are customised for every individual according to the degree of inflammation, other health conditions, and how they experience the pain. Currently, many supplements are used to help patients relieve pain in these areas. For example, you can find curcumin tablets containing antioxidants that minimise free radical damage to body cells. Such tablets are combined with phospholipids to enhance their absorption across cell membranes. Here are the different types of supplements you can use to relieve musculoskeletal pain.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Many studies have revealed the effectiveness of omega-3 supplements for various inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. These studies demonstrate how fish oil supplements are helpful in minimising joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. You can ensure that your diet is rich in omega-3 items like tuna, tofu, walnuts, flaxseeds, and salmon. But apart from that, consuming its supplements will also help you experience a decrease in joint tenderness and swelling.
Collagen
Collagen refers to a protein that consists of amino acids. It provides many skin elasticity benefits. Many studies have pointed out that regular intake of this protein can improve joint pain and minimise muscle soreness. It’s available in powder, liquid, and capsule form. You can stir it into any drink and food to increase its levels in your body. Collagen is also known to help people experiencing conditions like a hamstring injury. But the supplement only shows results when you take it consistently, at least for a period of six months.
Curcumin
Curcumin is the significant ingredient in turmeric that people use for making curry in South Asia. This ingredient can help minimize inflammation. But to make it effective as a supplement, it should be absorbed with a source of fat like avocado or olive oil. A great way to reap the benefit of this ingredient is by consuming curcumin tablets that are equal to 18 teaspoons of powdered turmeric. If you take two of these tablets, you can get as much as 36 teaspoons of powdered turmeric in a day. However, be sure to consume it regularly rather than once or twice a week.
Glucosamine
Glucosamine refers to a natural substance present in an individual’s cartilage. With age, this natural substance starts to decrease around the joints. Supplements containing glucosamine have been shown to minimise the pain resulting from cartilage loss. Glucosamine also minimises joint stiffness. Glucosamine sulphate and glucosamine hydrochloride are mainly found in supplements. The former slows the progression of osteoarthritis when taken consistently.
SAM-e
SAM-e or S-adenosyl-methionine is a compound in a person’s body having anti-inflammatory and cartilage-protecting effects. It’s as good with alleviating osteoarthritis pain as medicines like ibuprofen but without any side effects. Various studies show that the daily dosage of 1200 mg of this supplement can be effective in treating osteoarthritis pain. It is also helpful for depression as it imparts a moderate anti-depressant effect. However, don’t be impatient while using this supplement for treating joint pain. To notice an improvement in pain, take it consistently for a few weeks.
All the supplements in this article are effective in helping people alleviate swelling, joint pain, and stiffness. But it’s always a good idea to discuss with your healthcare provider before taking them consistently. You should also combine their intake with suitable lifestyle modifications.