While nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have been a widely recommended and prescribed class of drugs for treatment of joint pain and arthritis, they’ve been making headlines not for their effectiveness but for their sometimes dangerous side effects. NSAID users may find themselves with increased bruising, stomach upset, ulcers, nausea, and more. Take them long enough and you may even experience a breakdown of the joints—definitely not what someone already suffering from arthritis would want. People with joint pain and arthritis are understandably looking for alternatives to these drugs, and natural remedies offer them a number of options.

Glucosamine

One type of natural pain reliever for joint pain and arthritis is glucosamine. While it’s not a cure for arthritis or other causes of joint pain, it doesn’t work as a simple pain cover-up, a description often applied to NSAIDs. Glucosamine actually works within the body to help build and maintain cartilage and other connective tissues. Arthritis often develops when the body lacks sufficient amounts of glucosamine. Taking glucosamine supplements, therefore, can help the body maintain cartilage and other connective tissues and can eventually relieve the pain associated with arthritis. One thing to be aware of, however, is that because of the way the glucosamine works, it’s not a quick fix. It takes time for the body to utilize the increased amounts of glucosamine, so there isn’t the immediate pain relief that’s often found with the use of NSAIDS.

MSM

Similar to how glucosamine helps rebuild connective tissue, so does methylsulfonylmethane (MSM). MSM is naturally found in the body in tissues such as the hair, nails, and skin. Taking MSM supplements has been shown to benefit people seeking treatment for allergies, heartburn, or hair, skin, or nail problems. Because it’s believed to strengthen joints, MSM has become a popular natural treatment for arthritis. Some people’s conditions and body responses mean MSM isn’t a good choice for them, so it’s important to consult with a medical professional before beginning to use MSM.

Other Options

Other natural remedies for arthritis and joint pain are available. Certain foods contain specific substances that will help relieve the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis, and these substances are also available in supplement form. Inflammation may be decreased by ginger, vitamin C, and the omega-3 fatty acids found in many fish. The vitamins and minerals in green and yellow vegetables (beta carotene, vitamin C, and antioxidants can help decrease damage to cells. Zinc is great for boosting the immune system. Capsaicin, found in hot peppers, is often used in ointments that absorb into the skin and relieve joint pain. Boron and vitamin A may also help. Making use of these supplements, along with drinking plenty of water and exercising, can help reduce the effects of arthritis on your body.

When you’re suffering from joint pain and arthritis, the traditional suggested treatment of NSAIDS is not always the best choice. There are natural options that can not only relieve you of your pain, but also help your body repair itself from the inside.

—SMRWriting