What is Arthritis

When a bone meets another bone, such as in a joint, friction and rubbing can wear away the cartilage that acts as a cushion to prevent the bones grating against each other. When the cartilage is worn away the bones start wearing away each other, causing pain, swelling and further joint damage. This often causes the affected joints to become enlarged or swollen, hot and inflamed.

This is the type of arthritis that occurs as you age and typically feels like aches and pains and creaking bones. This is called osteoarthritis. Most people over the age of 70 suffer from osteoarthritis to some degree. This depends on the wear and tear on their bones from their work, lifestyle or sporting activities.

Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disease that attacks the joints and Psoriatic Arthritis affects the skin and the joints.

What is the treatment for Arthritis?

Most people take painkillers called anti-inflammatories which help to relieve the swelling and pain caused by arthritis. Many are available over the counter, as well as on prescription from your doctor, but need to be taken regularly to have an effect.

Anti-inflammatory medications do not cure the condition or prevent it developing, but can help to prevent the joints becoming more damaged and painful.

Creams and ointments containing capsaicin can be applied to relieve the pain and swelling of osteoarthritis affected joints. Capsaicin is the substance found in capsicum, or bell peppers, and is reported to have a direct effect on joint swelling. It has also been reported to soothe pain by heating the joint.

Can supplements help reduce arthritis symptoms?

Many people take a combination of supplements to help treat and prevent the pain and joint damage caused by osteoarthritis. Benefits and use is still not clinically proven in all cases, but many patients say they feel symptoms are reduced when they regularly take supplements.

Fish oils that contain omega-3 fatty acids have been reported to be helpful in reducing inflammation in inflamed joints, decreasing the need for pain relieving medicines. You can increase your omega-3 fatty acid intake through your diet or by taking supplements. Button: Shop arthritis supplements

What supplements to take for osteoarthritis?

Glucosamine is a naturally occurring substance found in some shellfish. Clinical trials have shown that glucosamine is helpful in regenerating cartilage in knee joints if taken in the right dose for a sustained period of time. If after three months of 1500mg per day there has been no improvement then it is unlikely to improve joint function, and should be discontinued. Since glucosamine is derived from shellfish it is not recommended for anyone with seafood allergies.

Chondroitin and glucosamine are often combined together in supplements for joint conditions. Chondroitin is poorly absorbed compared to glucosamine and the evidence for this supplement is not yet as clear as the evidence for glucosamine, but reports of the combination being helpful are often referenced.

Get help for your arthritis

There are many supplements available that can help reduce the symptoms of arthritis and joint pain. Our community pharmacists can help recommend the supplements that you could try to see if your pain and inflammation can be relieved.

Always seek advice before starting on any dietary supplement, and ensure that you continue to take any medications that your doctor has prescribed. If you have doubts and concerns about arthritis, talk to our pharmacy team.