Supplements for Arthritis and Joint Pain

Medically Reviewed by Sabrina Felson, MD on August 06, 2022

Many people take vitamins and supplements to help ease joint pain and arthritis. How effective are these supplements? Here are tips to help you choose the right supplements for your joints.

Arthritis Joint Pain: Supplements and Herbs

Some people use supplements to try to help manage joint pain from arthritis. Glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3, and green tea are just a few of them.

Glucosamine

Glucosamine has been touted as an anti-inflammatory that helps keep the cartilage in joints healthy. Studies have shown some benefit for joint pain, but they are not conclusive. Natural glucosamine levels drop as people age.

Chondroitin

Chondroitin is often used with glucosamine as an osteoarthritis treatment.  Chondroitin, however, has not been shown to help with joint pain.  

The research into the effectiveness of glucosamine and chondroitin for arthritis symptoms is mixed. Doctors do not recommend these supplements but are not opposed to their use if a patient gets relief from using them. Doctors recommend against using glucosamine hydrochloride. 


Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil and other foods, encourage the body to produce chemicals that help control inflammation. This supplement may help ease stiffness caused by inflammation in people with rheumatoid arthritis, but more research is needed.

Curcumin (active ingredient of turmeric) and/or Boswellia serrata

Curcumin (active ingredient of turmeric) and/or Boswellia serrata provides relief for people with osteoarthritis of the knee. They have anti-inflammatory properties. 

Green tea

Green tea contains compounds that have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may be helpful in combating joint pain.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is important for keeping bones strong and preventing injuries from falls. Research shows that people with low levels of vitamin D may have more joint pain.

Information About Vitamins and Supplements

Do you know how to evaluate vitamins and supplements? There are so many vitamins, supplements, and herbal extracts on the shelves. Use these tips to find out which ones may be right for you.

Safe Upper Limits for Vitamins and Minerals

When it comes to vitamins and minerals, how much should you take? Find out the safe upper limits for the vitamins you take, as well as the recommended daily allowance you may need.

As for herbal supplements, ask your doctor about how much you should take. You may also follow the manufacturer's recommendations.

Vitamin and Supplement Glossary: Common Definitions

This glossary provides simple definitions for common terms such as antioxidants, fat soluble, or phytochemicals. Find out what the lingo really means.

Show Sources

SOURCES:

Arthritis Foundation: "Tip-offs to Rip-offs, Common Therapies to Consider, Supplement Guide-Osteoarthritis, Supplements to Avoid."

Natural Standard: "The Authority on Integrative Medicine."

Robert Bonakdar, MD, director of pain management at Scripps Center for Integrative Medicine.

Harvard Health Publications: "Online Medical Dictionary."

FamilyDoctor.org: "Vitamins and Minerals: What You Should Know" and "Fat-Soluble Vitamins.”

UpToDate.

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. 

 

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