(NC)- Is this arthritis, we wonder, when examining the pain in our wrist, knee, or hip?

It’s alarming, especially when we think we are too young to have arthritis. But if so, is there anything you can do about it, aside from taking painkillers?

Various degrees of pain in a joint, loss of flexibility, limited movement, and swelling are osteoarthritis symptoms. This chronic disease of the joints is often blamed on day-to-day ‘wear and tear’ on joints and while it is more common among older people, congenital defects, trauma, and metabolic disorders can also be contributing factors. If some of your joints are stiff and painful, and feel worse with increased use, see your medical practitioner to determine the nature and extent of joint damage. There are excellent illustrations and information on osteoarthritis and its symptoms at: www.adam.about.com/reports/Osteoarthritis.htm

Joints are very well “built”. They contain cartilage that covers the ends of bones for shock absorption and the synovium, a membrane that surrounds the joint and is filled with synovial fluid, which provides nutrients and oxygen to keep the cartilage healthy. There are many natural nutritional supplements and products designed to support healthy cartilage and improve joint lubrication. The research scientists at WN Pharmaceuticals report that the three most popular types of natural products, that have shown consistently positive research results against osteoarthritis symptoms are: glucosamine and chondroitin sulfates, Celadrin creams and capsules, and omega-3 essential fatty acids. (NOTE: many people also report joint pain relief or motion improvement with SAMe, MSM, enzymes such as bromelain and other natural products).

Natural Arthritis Relief Top Three

Glucosamine & Chondroitin - this combination of two “sulfates” is a dietary supplement found to both lubricate and help repair damaged cartilage.

Celadrin is a natural compound containing “esterified” fatty acids. Esterifying stabilizes the fatty acid to prevent reaction with oxygen. Three clinical studies on Celadrin topical cream, rubbed on affected joints, have been shown to improve both joint pain and flexibility in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. In one double blind study, published in the Journal of Rheumatology, 100% of the osteoarthritic patients who used Celadrin cream showed significant improvement in just 30 minutes, as well as cumulative benefits. Celadrin is also used as an ingredient in dietary supplements, in capsule form.

Omega-3 essential fatty acids - fish and flaxseed are the two best dietary sources of omega-3 fatty acids, “oils” that support healthy circulation, brain and heart health and also lubricate stiff joints, thanks to their anti-inflammatory action. (More information at www.wnpharmaceuticals.com.)

“As every body reacts differently to nutrition and nutritional supplements, it is important to educate yourself and determine what YOUR body needs,” explains Dr. Joyce Tellier-Johnson, a naturopathic physician. “Look for quality dietary supplements from a trusted manufacturer and find the joint support that works best for you. You can find natural help for the pain and stiffness of osteoarthritis.”

Credit: www.newscanada.com

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