Arthritis is a common chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It refers to a range of diseases that cause joint pain, swelling, and functional impairment, often progressing with age. This article will introduce the symptoms, different types, diagnosis methods, treatment options, and management strategies for arthritis.
Symptoms:
Common symptoms of arthritis include:
- Joint Pain and Stiffness: Affected joints may feel painful, stiff, or inflexible, especially in the morning or after prolonged periods of inactivity.
- Swelling and Redness: Tissues around the joints may become swollen, red, and warm to the touch.
- Limited Range of Motion: Joint pain and stiffness may limit daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, and grasping objects.
- Deformities: Severe arthritis can lead to joint deformities, affecting appearance and function.
Types:
Arthritis comes in various types, with some of the most common including:
- Osteoarthritis (OA): This is the most common type, typically caused by wear and tear of joint cartilage, resulting in joint pain and functional impairment.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): This is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and damage to the joints, potentially affecting multiple joints.
- Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS): This is an inflammatory arthritis affecting the spine and pelvis, leading to spinal stiffness and curvature.
- Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA): This is a form of rheumatoid arthritis that occurs in childhood or adolescence.
5 Supplements to Consider Taking When You Have Arthritis
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids, found abundantly in fish oil, are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, according to a meta-analysis in the journal International Immunopharmacology in 2022. By helping to decrease inflammation, these essential fatty acids may then play a role in alleviating joint tenderness and swelling, notes a review in the Mediterranean Journal of Rheumatology in 2020.
Look for a supplement that provides eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), the two long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fats, recommends Julie Upton, a registered dietitian in the San Francisco Bay area. Aim for a total of 500 milligrams per day of EPA + DHA.
- Curcumin
Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric—it’s what gives the yellow spice its vibrant hue. The chemical is renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it a potentially beneficial supplement for individuals suffering from arthritis.
In research, when compared to a placebo, curcumin supplementation has been found to help decrease inflammation levels and arthritis symptoms and delay disease progression, says Melissa Mitri, M.S., RD, owner of Melissa Mitri Nutrition. A systematic review and meta analysis in Frontiers in Immunology in 2023 evaluating over 500 studies showed that inflammation levels and clinical symptoms in patients with rheumatoid arthritis can be improved by curcumin supplementation, although more data is needed to confirm these findings.
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin
Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements “may benefit someone with arthritis, as glucosamine is a natural compound found in cartilage, and chondroitin is a component of cartilage,” says Mascha Davis, M.P.H., RDN, author of Eat Your Vitamins. She explains that research suggests that these “supplements provide the body with the building blocks it needs to support healthy joints, potentially leading to a reduction in stiffness, pain and improved physical function for those with arthritis.” - SAMe (S-adenosyl-L-methionine)
SAMe (S-adenosyl-L-methionine) has garnered attention as a supplement for its potential role in addressing symptoms of arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis. “SAMe is a naturally occurring compound found in the cells of the human body that plays a role in the maintenance of cell membranes,” Davis explains. Although research is not conclusive, in general, SAMe appears to be as effective as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in improving pain and joint function, with fewer side effects, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.
While SAMe is celebrated for its potential benefits, it’s crucial to be aware of its risks. Because SAMe can influence serotonin levels in the body, it can interact with antidepressant medications. Talk to your doctor about any potential medication interactions before starting a SAMe supplement.
- Vitamin D
Vitamin D plays a critical role in maintaining bone health and regulating the immune system, which is particularly relevant for individuals suffering from arthritis. Research suggests that vitamin D supplementation can lead to a significant reduction in arthritis-related pain and inflammation. Data published in Arthritis Research and Therapy in 2023 showed that, among those with knee osteoarthritis who never underwent knee surgery, vitamin D supplementation was linked to modest improvement in knee pain, function and stiffness over five years.
In conclusion, arthritis is a common but serious health issue that can be managed with early diagnosis, effective treatment, and appropriate management. Seeking timely medical advice and taking proactive measures to manage and cope with arthritis are crucial.