The Bull stops here

It is common to experience joint pain and have creaking joints particular complaints are kness, hips and shoulders. This could be caused by a sporting injury, wear and tear, post-operation pain, illness, chronic disease and ageing.

Some joint pain can be so severe it hurts to bend the joints, which can have a severe impact on the quality of life, especially if you have various areas in the body which are painful. A common mistake is a reduction in the amount movement but this can make the joint stiff and just adds to the pain of the joint when it is moved.

There are many supplements you can take which help to reduce  the risk of getting pain initially, or reudce the severity of pain.

• Glucosamine - helps ease pain and repair cartilage
• Omega 3 - fatty acids have anti-inflammatory  qualities
• Devils Claw – Anti-inflammatory reduces swelling around joints and reduces stiffness.
• Rosehip – Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant can help to prevent damage to joint so reduce the risk of swelling/inflammation and minimises pain. 
• Chondroitin – is part of a large protein molecule which provides elasticity to the cartilage to help reduce bones rubbing together, and reduce degradation over time.
• Ginger - reduces muscle sorness post workout
• Celadrin - helps improve joint function and mobility
• Hyaluronic Acid - occurs naturally in the body, helps cell growth and renewal within in the joints.
• Green Lipped Mussel - high in Omega 3, helps to reduce inflammation.
• Bromelain - anti-inflammatory.
• Collagen - ligaments and tendons contain high amounts of collagen: a main componenet for the strength and elasticity.
  

One of the key factors which can help joint pain, and as much as you may not want to hear it, it is exercise;

• keeping the body as active keeps joints fluid.
• Reduce weight as this reduces pressure on the joints.
• Try to avoid stress or injury to the joint - using a support can be really helpful
• Diet canhave an impact on the joint, although some doctors may not agree, but from a personal view - wheat, yeast, salt, bad fats - can swell the joints and increase pain.

If you do take painkillers prescribed  by the doctor ensure you check out the side effects and any problems with long term use.

Article Updated: 14th May 2012