From the Guidelines
For patients with joint pain or osteoarthritis, turmeric and ginger extract are conditionally recommended as they may help reduce pain and improve function, according to the most recent and highest quality study 1. When considering supplements for joint health, it's essential to evaluate the evidence and prioritize those with the most significant potential benefits.
- The 2022 study from the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons 1 suggests that turmeric, ginger extract, glucosamine, chondroitin, and vitamin D may be helpful in reducing pain and improving function for patients with mild-to-moderate knee osteoarthritis.
- However, the evidence is inconsistent and limited, and additional research is needed to clarify the efficacy of each supplement.
- In contrast, the 2020 study from Arthritis Care & Research 1 and Arthritis and Rheumatology 1 strongly recommends against the use of glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, and combination products for patients with knee and/or hip OA, citing a lack of efficacy and large placebo effects.
- Furthermore, fish oil and vitamin D are also conditionally recommended against in patients with knee, hip, and/or hand OA, as the evidence fails to show significant benefits 1.
- Given the inconsistent evidence and potential risks, it is crucial to exercise clinical judgment and consider patient preferences when recommending supplements for joint health.
- A more effective approach may involve combining gentle exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and considering alternative supplements like turmeric and ginger extract, which have shown promise in reducing pain and improving function 1.
From the Research
Supplements for Joint Health
The following supplements have been studied for their potential to improve joint health and reduce symptoms of osteoarthritis:
- Glucosamine sulfate: has been shown to improve symptoms of pain related to osteoarthritis, as well as slow disease progression in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee 2, 3
- Chondroitin sulfate: appears to reduce osteoarthritis symptoms and is often combined with glucosamine, but there is no reliable evidence that the combination is more effective than either agent alone 2, 3, 4
- Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM): has been shown to be effective in reducing pain and inflammation in patients with osteoarthritis, and may be a useful alternative to glucosamine sulfate 5
- Boswellic acids: have anti-inflammatory properties and may be useful in reducing pain and inflammation in patients with osteoarthritis 5
- Omega-3 fatty acids: have anti-inflammatory properties and may be useful in reducing inflammation and promoting joint health 6
- S-adenosylmethionine: may reduce pain, but high costs and product quality issues limit its use 2
- Harpagophytum procumbens (devil's claw), Curcuma longa (turmeric), and Zingiber officinale (ginger): have been promoted for treating osteoarthritis, but there is insufficient reliable evidence regarding long-term safety or effectiveness 2
Potential Benefits and Risks
The potential benefits of these supplements include:
- Reduced pain and inflammation
- Improved joint function and mobility
- Slowed disease progression However, there are also potential risks and limitations to consider, including:
- Variable quality and efficacy of supplements
- Potential interactions with other medications
- Limited understanding of long-term safety and effectiveness 2, 3, 4