Is There An Effective Alternative Treatment for Osteoarthritis?

Is there an effective alternative treatment for osteoarthrits? What is the best pain killer for osteoarthritis? Most questions about osteoarthritis focus on pain relief, but it is inflammation that causes the pain. Reducing or inhibiting the inflammation can reduce or prevent the pain.

Prescription anti-inflammatories have numerous side effects. Over the counter pain relievers can increase future health risks. The most commonly used over the counter meds are acetaminophen products like Tylenol, but this pain reliever does little to reduce inflammation.

There has been a lot of research concerning an alternative treatment for osteoarthritis. Researchers know that there are numerous anti-inflammatory compounds in nature that have no detrimental side effects and provide additional health benefits, along with pain relief. The latest research indicates that omega 3 fatty acids and an extract from the New Zealand green lipped mussel are very effective at reducing inflammation and pain.

The New Zealand green lipped mussel is a unique shell fish found only in the waters surrounding New Zealand. It contains high levels of a compound known as glycosaminoglycan, an important component of connective tissue i.e. cartilage.

The University of Maryland's Medical Website states:

"...New Zealand green lipped mussel ( Perna canaliculus ), another potential source of omega-3 fatty acids, has been shown to reduce joint stiffness and pain, increase grip strength, and enhance walking pace in a small group of people with osteoarthritis."

Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage cushions between the joints deteriorate. This deterioration can be a result of frequent injury or excessive stress on the joints and it seems that it can also be a result of inadequate or imbalanced nutrition. Laboratory studies have demonstrated that omega 3 fatty acids inhibit the activity of an enzyme that destroys the cartilage.

Alternative Treatment for Osteoarthritis

Studies concerning omega 3 fatty acids have focused primarily on rheumatoid arthritis, but because the pain of osteoarthritis is caused by inflammation and omega 3 fatty acids decrease inflammation, then it follows that those who suffer from either form of arthritis would benefit from supplementation.

What is the best pain killer for osteoarthritis? Opinions will, of course, vary. Many health care professionals believe that the best pain killer is one that naturally reduces inflammation and prevents further deterioration of the cartilage cushions. In addition, it has been recommended that those who suffer from osteoarthritis should receive counseling concerning proper nutrition, weight management (additional weight increases stress on the knees, hips and ankles), regular physical activity and dietary supplements.

As an alternative treatment for osteoarthritis omega 3 supplements and extracts from the green lipped mussel provide the most benefits, with the fewest side effects. Although the extract cannot be used by persons allergic to shellfish, it can be safely used by the majority of arthritis sufferers, should reduce the need for pain medication by reducing the inflammation and by reducing the deterioration of the cartilage.