Dr. Nikesh Seth encourages arthritis patients to consider an alternative, non-drug options for treating arthritis pain. Integrated Pain Consultants has a rich variety of options available and will also work with patients to design a customized treatment plan that’s safe and effective. This can sometimes include taking natural supplements, but always check with a doctor before adding any supplement (even natural) to your diet. Some supplements can interfere with certain medications or conditions.
Fish oil, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, is one of the most commonly recommended supplements for arthritis—and many other conditions. The omega-3s block cytokines and prostaglandins (both inflammatories) by turning them into anti-inflammatory resolvins. Fish oil has been shown to decrease joint stiffness pain in numerous studies for those with rheumatoid arthritis. It can also be effective for osteoarthritis.
There’s also GLA, or gamma-linolenic acid. It’s an omega-6 fatty acid that also produces powerful anti-inflammatory chemicals in the body. It’s been shown to reduce dependency on pain relievers. Add ginger for a triple whammy of anti-inflammatory power because it’s been shown to have similar properties to Ibuprofen. Both rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis can be helped with these two supplements.
Capsaicin is another commonly recommended supplement because it temporarily reduces “substance P,” the body’s natural pain transmitter. It stops the pain, not the inflammation, but it’s shown by Arthritis Research to be an effective tool for arthritis patients (and it also works as a topical). Turmeric is rich in curcumin, a natural way to reduce swelling and pain in the joints by blocking inflammatory properties.
Add in some ASU (avocado-soybean unsaponifiables) for even more blocking of inflammatory chemicals. You’ll also be stopping the breakdown of synovial cells that line the joints and maybe even re-build broken connective tissue. One study found that ASU could “significantly reduce progression” of osteoarthritis in the hips as reported by the Arthritis Foundation.
For more ways to treat arthritis, contact Integrated Pain Consultants at 480-626-2552 and schedule a consultation.