So… What is the cause of joint pain?
Joint pain is especially common as you age. In a national study, about one third of adults reported joint pain within the past 30 days. Knee pain is the most common, followed by shoulder and hip pain. But joint pain can affect any part of your body with a joint – from your ankles to your shoulders and hands.
Any of the following conditions can cause joint pain:
- Osteoarthritis, a wear and tear type of arthritis is the most common type.
- Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that attacks the body’s own tissues.
- Bursitis is an inflammation of the sacs of fluid that protect your joints.
- Strains, sprains, and other injuries
- Gout is another form of arthritis.
Treatments for joint pain – Diet
- Vegetables, such as leafy greens like chard, spinach, and kale. Avocados. Chili peppers. Cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower, and brussels sprouts. Mushrooms raw or cooked.
- Berries – specifically, strawberries and blueberries.
- Fish and Nuts. Fish, such as salmon and sardines. Nuts, such as hemp seeds, flaxseeds, almonds and walnuts. If you don’t like to eat them plain, add them to salads, breakfast cereal, or roasted vegetables.
- Tumeric. Add this super spice to soups, grain bowls, and dressings. Add black pepper to enhance the absorption of the curcumin in the turmeric.
- Ginger. Ginger helps ease inflammation by slowing down the body’s production of cytokines, a protein that triggers inflammation.
- Water. Drink plenty of water. It soothes inflammation in the body and helps hydrate us.
Treatments for joint pain – Vitamins and Supplements
- Vitamin D. Some researchers believe Vitamin D works on the immune system while others believe it works directly on the joints of the body. There are very few foods that supply Vitamin D – however, salmon and mackerel does supply some; milk fortified with Vitamin D can also supply some. Small doses of direct sunlight can provide Vitamin D; or you can take a Vitamin D supplement.
- Omega3 Fish Oil –Your body turns them into anti-inflammatory chemical called resolvins that can take away joint stiffness and tenderness.
- Chondroitin – It helps boost collagen in your joints which can help you absorb shock better.
- Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM). Found in fruits and vegetables. Can be supplemented up to 3000 milligrams a day. This helps with the symptoms of pain and swelling.
- Borage Oil. The extract from seeds of the borago plant is high in gamma linolenic acid, a fatty acid that fights inflammation in the body.
- Boswellia. The active ingredient in Boswellia can help with pain and improve movement in your joints. Research also shows it can slow down cartilage loss.
Next week, I will discuss the benefits of some exercise and medications to help with joint pain. Until then,
Warm Regards,
Dr. Mike and Mary
References:
https://orthopedicsc.com/news/vitamin-d-benefits-avoid-improve-arthritis-symptoms
https://www.prevention.com/health/g20507607/7-natural-remedies-for-joint-pain/
https://www.webmd.com/arthritis/ss/slideshow-supplements-for-joint-pain