Stiff, painful joints are a common complaint among people of all ages, although this complaint becomes more common as a person ages. Fortunately, there are several different types of joint supplements available without a prescription to help prevent and treat this painful condition. Each type of joint supplement performs a different task, from pain relief to promoting overall bone and joint health. Some of these joint supplements include glucosamine, chondroitin, and various types of vitamins and medications that combine several different joint supplements. A doctor should always be consulted before beginning any new treatment, including the use of vitamin and herbal supplements.
Glucosamine is a type of chemical known as an amino acid that occurs naturally in the body. Glucosamine supplements are believed to help heal damaged joints and prevent future problems by supplying the body with more of the building blocks that are necessary in creating healthy joint cartilage. Positive results are usually noticed within a few weeks of starting treatment with this supplement. Ongoing usage may help to prevent joint problems from returning, or at the very least it may help existing problems to be less severe and bothersome.
Chondroitin is a type of molecule that occurs naturally within the body and helps to form healthy cartilage. Chondroitin also helps to prevent the destruction of cartilage. Improvements are typically noticed within a few weeks of starting this type of treatment. Joint supplements containing chondroitin usually contain glucosamine as well.
Various types of vitamins may be used as joint supplements. Some of these vitamins are often used together in various joint supplements. Some joint supplements containing these vitamins may also contain glucosamine and chondroitin. Vitamin B-6 helps to rid the body of various toxins and may help to reduce the chances of developing infections that can cause joint inflammation. This vitamin is often combined with other B vitamins in a formulation known as B-complex.
Vitamin C is thought to stop the progression of joint disease and may help the body to repair damaged cartilage. Selenium may be able to reduce the risks of developing a joint disease known as osteoarthritis. Vitamin E is believed to slow the rate of deterioration of the joints and may be beneficial to those who have joint diseases such as arthritis. Vitamins A and D may be useful in improving overall bone health, thus reducing the chances of developing various types of joint disorders.