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JOINT
REHABILITATION
Joint and Muscle Ache Supplements
For
pain relief, specific COX-2 inhibitors (inhibitors that block only the COX-2
enzyme, a catalyst in a reaction for pain and inflammation) such as Celebrex and
Viox are often prescribed. A non-specific COX inhibitor (inhibitors that block
both the COX-2 and the COX-1, the latter being unrelated to pain and
inflammation) such as Motrin is used more often and is over the counter. These,
however, only mask the underlying problem and treat the symptoms, not the cause.
Using
nutritional products to repair, maintain, strengthen joints (both bone and soft
tissue) is the only way to not only reduce pain permanently, but prevent further
degradation to the joint and bring back an optimal range of motion. This coupled
with a sensible physical therapy program and healthy lifestyle will create an
environment much more conducive to recovery and health than simply medicating
the pain.
Essential nutrients for the health of soft tissue are vitamins A, B (B-6
in particular), C, E, and the minerals Copper, Zinc, Selenium, and manganese.
The vitamins A, C, E, and the minerals Selenium and Zinc are the most important;
they are antioxidants that perform several soft tissue maintenance functions. A
relatively new compound to the supplement industry is ALA. It is a powerful
antioxidant and although there are not as many studies to back up its claimed
effects on soft tissue, it has enough anecdotal evidence behind it to warrant it
as a prudent ingredient in any joint rehabilitation supplement regimen.
Glucosamine is an amino acid sugar that is naturally produced in our
bodies from glucose and sulfur. Supplementation with Glucosamine has been shown
in both actual studies and anecdotal cases to help the body replace sulfur
stores, which is a major constitute of ligaments, tendons, and cartilage. The
studies also showed a maintenance and repair of damaged tissues. The changes
have often been dramatic. Glucosamine Sulfate is the common form, however
Glucosamine Hydrochloride is thought to be slightly more bioavailable.
Chondroitin is another natural component of joint tissues. It has a
similar effect to Glucosamine. MSM (Methylsulfonylmmethane) is yet another
source of organic sulfur that, like Chondroitin and Glucosamine, has been shown
to positively affect joint structure and strength. Any two of these supplements
together will exert a synergistic effect, but “stacking” all three together
will have the greatest effect.
An effective ratio of the above supplements has been shown to be 6:3:3.
Dosage varies, but is usually 3g Glucosamine, 1.5 grams Chondroitin, and 1.5
grams MSM. After six months (or longer if severe joint trauma is present), the
dosages can be cut in half for maintenance.