The Best Joint Supplements in 2023 (Ranked and Reviewed)
Maintaining joint health should be a priority for all, but it becomes particularly important for those of us who are aging or lead an active lifestyle.
The Top Four Joint Supplements
Editor's Choice
Thrivous Athroprotector
- Scientifically Backed
- All Natural Ingredients
- Effective for Joint Relief
- Good Pricing
Runner Up
Glucosamine & Chondroitin
- Extensive Reseach
- Excelent for Arthritis
- Little to no Side Effects
- Slower to Take Effect
Best for Athletes
Animal Flex
- Complete Joint Supplement
- Ideal Dosages
- Geared Towards Athletes
- More Expensive
Worthy Mention
Collagen Peptides
- Promising Studies
- Helps Rebuild Joints
- Ideal for Aging Related Joint Pain
- Takes Time to Work
Introduction
Joint pain can be a significant hindrance, preventing individuals from fully participating in everyday activities. It is crucial to consult medical professionals to address joint pain and enhance joint functionality. Numerous treatments are available to alleviate pain associated with chronic joint conditions like arthritis.
Physical therapy, acupuncture, and massage therapy are all proven methods for providing pain relief. Additionally, a wide range of joint supplements and topical creams can contribute to improved joint health and decreased inflammation.
How We Evaluate Supplements
- Scientific Research: One of the most important factors we look at is the scientific evidence supporting the supplement’s effectiveness. We review published research studies and clinical trials to determine whether the supplement is backed by reliable scientific evidence.
- Ingredient Quality: We also consider the quality and purity of the ingredients used in the supplement. We review the sourcing and manufacturing processes to ensure that the supplement is free of contaminants and meets quality standards.
- Dosage Effectiveness: Another key factor we consider is the dosage and recommended use of the supplement. We evaluate whether the dosage and use instructions are appropriate for the intended purpose of the supplement, and whether they align with the scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness.
- Pricing: Pricing is important to consumers. We compare the cost of the supplement to other products on the market with similar ingredients and intended uses. This helps us determine whether the supplement is reasonably priced or if there are more affordable options available that are similarly effective.
- Side Effects: Finally, we take into account any potential side effects or interactions with other medications or supplements. We review the safety data and consider any warnings or precautions provided by the manufacturer.
Should You Take Multiple Supplements?
Yes, you can take multiple supplements, and the research indicates that combining supplements can have a beneficial effect. For example, Athroprotector, combined with Glucosamine and Chondroiton will have an enhanced effect that is better than taking one or the other. However, it’s important to keep an eye on dosages. For example, Animal Flex has some Glucosamine and Chondroiton already, so you wouldn’t want to stack the dosages.
Detailed Reviews of the Best Joint Supplements
Thrivous Athroprotector
Editor's Pick for the best joint supplement
Athroprotector is the top supplement for joint pain, with numerous studies supporting the effectiveness of it’s ingredients.
As we age, maintaining joint and bone health becomes increasingly important. Based on our research the best joint supplement is Arthroprotector. Tenacity Arthroprotector is an advanced supplement that provides a month’s supply of natural joint supplements (geroprotectors) to support better aging. This section will explore the potent ingredients in Tenacity Arthroprotector and the science behind their efficacy in aiding joint health. We rate this as the best joint supplement on the market today.
An Overview of the Ingredients
ApresFlex Boswellia Serrata is a next-generation extract of Boswellia Serrata resin with improved bioavailability. It promotes healthy joints and connective tissues, enhancing overall joint function.
S Adenosyl Methionine, or SAMe, is a vital compound that enhances joint function and comfort. It helps maintain cartilage health, reduces inflammation, and supports overall joint mobility.
Turmeric Curcumin, when combined with Black Pepper, is a powerful natural remedy for joint discomfort. This potent combination enhances joint comfort, supports overall better aging, and provides antioxidant benefits.
Vitamin D3 is essential for healthy mobility and overall better aging. It plays a crucial role in calcium absorption, which supports healthy bones and joints, while also contributing to a robust immune system.
The Vitamin K Complex, consisting of K1 and K2 MK7 vitamers, supports healthy bone function. It is vital for bone mineralization, and helps maintain bone density and strength.
Scientific Evidence: Thrivous developed Tenacity Arthroprotector based on the best scientific evidence from multiple human studies – the gold standard of health science. In consultation with their advisory board of physicians and scientists, Thrivous performs extensive analysis of decades of clinical research from scientists around the world. The research is one of the reason’s it’s considered the best joint supplement.
Pricing: Tenacity Arthroprotector is available for a one-time purchase of $39.80 or as a subscription with a 20% discount for $31.84 per month, saving you $7.96. You can adjust the subscription frequency and quantity to suit your needs. This is a very reasonable price for this type of supplement.
Joint Pain: Clinical trials demonstrate the effectiveness of Athroprotector on join health and relieving joint pain.
Side Effects: Because it is made of natural, vegan ingredients, there is little risk of side effects or interactions. However, you should always consult with a doctor if you take other medications to ensure there are no interactions.
Now Glucosamine & Chondroitin MSM
A simple but effective supplement that should be part of every joint health routine
Glucosamine and Chondroitin are two of the most popular joint health ingredients. We recommend NOW brand for their quality and labeling accuracy.
Glucosamine is a building block for joint cartilage, which is the tissue that cushions the joints and allows for smooth movement. Chondroitin is a molecule that helps to maintain the structure of joint cartilage and promotes water retention in the tissue.
Several studies have evaluated the effectiveness of glucosamine and chondroitin supplements for joint health, with mixed results. Many studies have shown that these supplements can be effective in reducing joint pain and improving joint function. The only reason this supplement doesn’t get higher results on joint health, is because it can take weeks or months to make a noticeable effect. However, we highly recommend it as part of any joint health routine.
An Overview of the Ingredients
Glucosamine is a naturally occurring compound found in healthy joint tissue that is commonly used in joint relief supplements. It is a building block for joint cartilage, which is the tissue that cushions the joints and allows for smooth movement. Glucosamine supplements are often used to support joint health and reduce joint pain and inflammation, particularly for individuals with knee osteoarthritis symptoms.
Chondroitin is a naturally occurring molecule found in healthy joint tissue. It helps to maintain the structure of joint cartilage and promotes water retention in the tissue. Chondroitin supplements are often used to support joint health and reduce joint pain and inflammation, particularly for individuals with knee osteoarthritis symptoms.
Scientific Evidence: Studies have shown that these supplements may effectively reduce joint pain and improve joint function, particularly for individuals with knee osteoarthritis symptoms. A meta-analysis of several studies found that a combination of glucosamine and chondroitin supplements was more effective in reducing joint pain than a placebo, while another study found that a combination of these supplements was as effective as the medication celecoxib in reducing knee pain.
Pricing: At about $28 per bottle, this is a relatively affordable supplement. While there are some cheaper options, we recommend this brand (NOW) because they are considered one of the top supplement companies in terms of quality of ingredients and accuracy of labeling. Several third party studies have validatedthe accuracy of the nutritional claims made by the company.
Joint Pain: The ingredients are demonstrated to relieve joint pain. It’s also important to note that glucosamine and chondroitin supplements may take several weeks or even months to produce noticeable effects. They are not a quick fix for joint pain and should be used as part of a long-term joint health plan. The science is clear that these are effective, especially in combination with proper nutrition and exercise.
Side Effects: Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements are generally considered safe and do not have many side effects. However, a small percentage of people may experience mild side effects, such as nausea. Chondroiton may interact with some blood thinning medications. Talk to your doctor if you use any blood thinning medications.
Animal Flex
The best joint relief supplement for athletes and fitness enthusiasts
Animal Flex is a joint supplement that is specifically designed for athletes and individuals with active lifestyles.
Animal Flex is a more complete joint pain relief supplement intended for athletes and active individuals who are looking for a comprehensive approach to joint health. The ingredients are ideal for active people that put additional strain on their joints through lifting weights, running, or sports.
The supplement contains a wide range of ingredients aimed at reducing joint pain and inflammation, promoting joint health and function, and supporting bone health. While the supplement may have a higher price point than some other supplements, it may be worth considering for individuals who are looking for a more complete solution to their joint health needs.
An Overview of the Ingredients
The supplement includes a Joint Construction Complex with glucosamine, MSM, and chondroitin sulfate, which are all commonly used in health supplements and have been shown to be effective in reducing joint pain and improving joint function in some studies.
The supplement also includes a Joint Lubrication Complex with flaxseed oil and hyaluronic acid, which may help to lubricate the joints and reduce friction.
The Joint Support Complex includes ginger root extract, turmeric, and boswellia, which have anti-inflammatory properties and have been shown to help to reduce joint pain and inflammation.
Scientific Evidence: Animal Flex contains a variety of ingredients that have been shown to be effective in reducing joint pain and inflammation, including glucosamine, MSM, and chondroitin sulfate. Additionally, the supplement contains vitamins and minerals that are important for overall joint health and function. While some of the individual ingredients in Animal Flex have been studied more extensively than others, overall there is scientific evidence to support the use of these ingredients for joint health.
Pricing: Animal Flex is a joint health supplement that is priced at a higher level compared to other supplements on the market. While it does contain a variety of ingredients aimed at reducing joint pain and inflammation, the high price point may make it less accessible to some individuals. However, it’s important to consider the quality and quantity of the ingredients in the supplement when evaluating its pricing. Animal branded products are considered high quality.
Joint Pain: Animal Flex has been reported to provide joint pain relief for individuals who take it. The supplement contains a variety of ingredients that are aimed at reducing joint pain and inflammation, and many users have reported significant improvements in their joint health after taking the supplement. However, it’s important to note that not all users will experience the same level of joint pain relief, and many of the studies and research has been gathered from athletes and bodybuilders.
Side Effects: While Animal Flex is generally considered safe, some users have reported mild side effects such as upset stomach and nausea. Additionally, the supplement contains lactose (milk), which may be problematic for individuals with lactose intolerance.
Momentous Collagen Peptides
The best collagen supplement
By supporting the production of collagen, these supplements can effectively enhance joint health and alleviate age-related or activity-induced joint issues.
The body of evidence is still limited on collagen peptides, but the studies that have been conducted are very promising. In our opinion collagen supplements can be an excellent option for athletes aiming to support joint health, as studies indicate they may assist in healing and preventing soft tissue and joint injuries among active individuals. Specifically, consuming 10 to 15 grams of collagen with vitamin C about an hour before exercising has been demonstrated to enhance collagen formation.
The collagen peptides come in powder form, allowing for easy mixing into your preferred drink, smoothie, or liquid. Momentous advises consuming this collagen supplement two to three hours after ingesting caffeine on rest days or 30-60 minutes before exercise on training days.
An Overview of the Ingredients
Collagen supplements contribute to improved joint health by providing the body with the necessary building blocks to produce collagen, a vital structural protein found in cartilage, tendons, and other connective tissues. As we age, natural collagen production declines, leading to a weakening of these structures and resulting in joint pain and stiffness. When ingested, collagen peptides from supplements are absorbed into the bloodstream and stimulate the body’s natural collagen synthesis. This process helps to maintain and repair joint tissues, reducing inflammation and discomfort, while promoting overall joint function and flexibility.
Scientific Evidence: Research on collagen supplements for joint health has shown promising results, with several studies indicating that they can provide relief from joint pain and improve joint function. Collagen, being a primary component of connective tissues, plays a crucial role in maintaining joint integrity. Studies have demonstrated that supplementing with collagen peptides can stimulate the synthesis of collagen in the body, subsequently promoting joint health and reducing discomfort.
Price: The cost of collagen supplements can vary widely based on the brand, source, and quality of the ingredients. While some affordable options are available, higher-quality collagen supplements with third-party certifications and additional beneficial ingredients, such as vitamin C, may come at a higher price. When considering a collagen supplement for joint health, it is essential to balance the price with the quality and effectiveness of the product to ensure you are receiving the best value for your investment.
Joint Relief: Many users of collagen supplements report experiencing significant joint relief after consistent use. The ingestion of collagen peptides is thought to promote the body’s natural production of collagen, which in turn supports the maintenance and repair of joint tissues. As a result, individuals suffering from joint pain or stiffness due to aging, injury, or arthritis may find that collagen supplementation can help alleviate their symptoms and improve overall joint function.
Side Effects: Collagen supplements are generally considered safe, with minimal side effects reported by users. However, some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms, such as bloating or an upset stomach, particularly when first introducing collagen supplementation. Additionally, it is important to note that collagen supplements are sourced from animal products, so individuals with allergies to specific sources, such as fish or bovine, should choose a supplement derived from a suitable alternative.
More About Joint Pain and Supplements
How to Choose a Joint Supplement
Opt for Reputable Retailers
Supplements can be purchased without a prescription at drug stores, supermarkets, health food stores, and specialty nutrition stores. Online purchasing is also an option, but it is crucial to select well-established and trustworthy companies like The Vitamin Shoppe, Walgreens, or Amazon. Chris D’Adamo, PhD, director of Research & Education at the University of Maryland School of Medicine Center for Integrative Medicine, recommends avoiding dubious-looking websites.
Beware of Exaggerated Promises
Be skeptical of overblown claims, such as “Rebuilds damaged joints.” If a statement appears too good to be true, it likely is. Dietary supplements are not legally allowed to claim to diagnose, cure, treat, or prevent diseases.
Seek Third-Party Seals of Approval
To ensure the quality of the supplements, opt for brands that carry seals of approval from the U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP), ConsumerLab.com, or NSF International. These independent organizations conduct quality tests to confirm that the listed ingredients are present and that the products do not contain dangerous contaminants. An NSF seal signifies that the product adheres to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs), ensuring the strength, composition, quality, and purity listed on the label. While an annual fee may be required for these services (ConsumerLab.com charges $42 a year), it can be a worthwhile investment for frequent supplement users.
Look for Lot and Batch Numbers
These numbers enable companies to trace products and notify consumers if issues arise. According to D’Adamo, this demonstrates that the company is taking responsibility in case of recalls or consumer complaints.
Evaluate the Costs
Supplement expenses can accumulate quickly, especially when multiple pills are required for desired effects. A one-month supply of glucosamine and chondroitin or SAM-e can cost over $30. Consult with an integrative medicine specialist or rheumatologist before purchasing any product to ensure that it is necessary and suitable for you.
Monitor Your Supplement Usage
Remain vigilant while using supplements. If after a few months, there is no noticeable improvement in your joints, revisit your doctor. Adjusting arthritis medications or exploring alternative options like exercise or physical therapy could be more beneficial.
How Common is Joint Pain?
Joint pain is a common health issue that affects millions of Americans. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an estimated 23% of American adults, or roughly 54 million people, have arthritis, a condition that can cause joint pain and inflammation.
In addition to arthritis, joint pain can also be caused by other conditions, such as injuries, overuse, and age-related wear and tear. While there is no exact data on how many Americans suffer from joint pain, it is estimated that millions of people experience joint pain on a regular basis.
Joint pain can be a debilitating condition that affects a person’s quality of life and ability to perform daily activities. It’s important for individuals who are experiencing joint pain to speak with their doctor to determine the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan to manage their symptoms and support joint health. This may include measures such as exercise, weight management, physical therapy, medication, and joint health supplements.
How Do Joint Health Supplements Work?
Joint health supplements work by providing the body with the nutrients it needs to support joint health. The ingredients in these supplements are often found naturally in the body and are essential building blocks for healthy joints.
Glucosamine, for example, is a naturally occurring substance that is found in the fluid around joints. It plays a vital role in the development and maintenance of cartilage, the flexible tissue that cushions joints. Chondroitin is another natural substance found in the body that is essential for healthy cartilage.
MSM, or methylsulfonylmethane, is a sulfur compound that is found naturally in some plants and animals. It has anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce arthritis pain and stiffness.
Other ingredients commonly found in joint health supplements include omega-3 fatty acids, turmeric, and ginger, all of which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce arthritis pain and inflammation.
Are Joint Health Supplements Effective?
While joint health supplements have become increasingly popular, there is still some debate about their effectiveness. Some studies have shown that certain ingredients commonly found in joint health supplements, such as glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin, may help reduce joint pain and inflammation in some people.
For example, a 2010 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that glucosamine and chondroitin were effective in reducing pain in some people with moderate to severe knee osteoarthritis.
However, not all studies have found these supplements to be effective, and individual results may vary. It’s also worth noting that joint health supplements are not a cure-all and should be used in conjunction with other measures to support joint health, such as exercise and a healthy diet.
The effectiveness of joint health supplements may also depend on the specific formulation and dosage of the supplement. It’s important to choose a joint health supplement that contains clinically proven ingredients in the correct dosage and form.
Ingredients & Potential Interactions
Joint health supplements can contain a variety of ingredients that work together to support joint health and treating joint pain and inflammation. While these supplements are generally considered safe for most people, it’s important to be aware of the potential interactions between the ingredients and any medications or health conditions you may have.
Here are some common ingredients found in joint health supplements and their potential interactions:
1. Glucosamine: Glucosamine sulfate is a natural substance found in the fluid around joints and is essential for healthy cartilage. It is commonly found in joint health supplements and is generally considered safe for most people. However, if you are allergic to shellfish, you should avoid glucosamine supplements as they are often derived from shellfish.
There are three main types of glucosamine commonly found in supplements:
Glucosamine sulfate: This form of glucosamine is the most common and well-researched variant. It is typically derived from the shells of shellfish and is often combined with chondroitin sulfate in joint health supplements. Studies have shown that glucosamine sulfate can help alleviate joint pain, improve joint mobility, and slow down the progression of osteoarthritis.
Glucosamine hydrochloride: Also derived from shellfish shells, glucosamine hydrochloride is another popular form of glucosamine found in supplements. While it has a higher concentration of glucosamine compared to glucosamine sulfate, research findings regarding its effectiveness in joint health are less consistent.
N-acetyl glucosamine (NAG): This form of glucosamine is chemically different from the other two types and is derived from the natural polymer chitin, which is found in the shells of crustaceans and insects. NAG is less commonly used in joint health supplements but has shown potential benefits in supporting gut health and reducing inflammation.
2. Chondroitin: Chondroitin is another natural substance found in the body that is essential for healthy cartilage. It is often combined with glucosamine in joint health supplements. While chondroitin is generally considered safe, it may interact with blood-thinning medications, such as warfarin, and may increase the risk of bleeding.
3. MSM: MSM, or methylsulfonylmethane, is a sulfur compound that is found naturally in some plants and animals. It has anti-inflammatory health benefits and may help reduce joint pain and stiffness.
4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil supplements), such as those found in fish oil, have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce joint or arthritis pain and inflammation.
5. Turmeric: Turmeric is a spice that is often used in traditional medicine to reduce inflammation. It contains a compound called curcumin, which has been shown to aid in overall joint health. Turmeric is generally considered safe for most people.
6. Ginger: Ginger is a spice that is also commonly used in traditional medicine to reduce inflammation. It has anti-inflammatory health benefits and may help reduce joint pain and joint stiffness. Ginger is generally considered safe for most people, it’s an excellent addition to supplements for joint pain.
If you are taking any medications or have any health conditions, it’s important to speak with your doctor before starting any new supplement, including joint health supplements. They can help you determine if there are any potential interactions or risks and recommend the best course of action for your individual needs.
How Do Joint Pain Supplements Repair Cartilage?
The optimum functions of joints are repair and replacement of cartilage. Cartilage provides an important cushion to joints. The thicker the joint the more they rub together, resulting in friction and pain. Cartila thins and degrades with age because the body lacks nerves. Nervous system is the first signal that alerts your brain about injury so your cartilage may be worn out before joints begin to rub together. Sadly cartilage cannot repair itself and needs external assistance.
How Do Supplements Lubricate Joints?
Many supplement companies are talking about the benefits of lubricating joint lubricants for pain relief. Lubrication in joints can reduce pain. When cartilage wears out joint cartilage has less friction. These frictions cause joint discomfort. Joint supplements help soothe achy joints through support of synagonous fluids, a vital component naturally present. It delivers nutrients to cartilage in joints, making joints smooth.
Joint health supplements may help lubricate joints by providing the body with essential nutrients that are needed for healthy joint function. Here’s how:
- Hyaluronic Acid: Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in the body that is essential for healthy joint function. It is a key component of synovial fluid, which is the fluid that lubricates joints and reduces friction between the bones. Hyaluronic acid is often included in joint health supplements and may help improve joint lubrication and reduce joint pain.
- Collagen: Collagen is a protein that is found in the body’s connective tissues, including the joints. It provides structure and support to the joints and helps keep them lubricated. Collagen supplements are often used to support joint health and may help improve joint lubrication and for treating joint pain.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids, such as those found in fish oil supplements, are anti-inflammatory in nature and may help reduce joint pain and inflammation. They may also help improve joint lubrication by reducing inflammation in the joint.
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin: Glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin are natural substances found in the body that are essential for healthy joint function. They are often included in joint health supplements and may help improve joint lubrication by supporting the development and maintenance of healthy cartilage.
Common Uses for Joint Supplements
Joint health supplements are commonly used to support joint health and reduce joint pain and inflammation. Here are some common uses for joint supplements:
- Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the joints wears down over time. This can lead to joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation. Joint health supplements, such as those containing glucosamine and chondroitin, may help reduce joint pain and inflammation in people with osteoarthritis.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation. Joint health supplements may help with treating arthritis pain and inflammation in people with rheumatoid arthritis, although more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness.
- Joint Injuries: Joint injuries, such as sprains and strains, can cause joint pain and inflammation. Joint health supplements may help reduce pain and inflammation and support the healing process.
- Active Lifestyle: Joint health supplements may be used by athletes and others with an active lifestyle to support joint health and reduce the risk of joint injuries.
- Aging: As we age, our joints may become more susceptible to wear and tear, leading to joint pain and inflammation. Joint health supplements may help support joint health and reduce the risk of age-related joint pain and inflammation.
How Much Do Joint Support Supplements Cost?
The cost of joint support supplements can vary depending on several factors, including the brand, the quality of the ingredients, the dosage and form, and the retailer.
Generally, joint health supplements can range from around $10 to $50 per month, depending on the brand and quality of the ingredients. Cheaper supplements may not be as effective or may contain lower-quality ingredients, while more expensive supplements may contain higher-quality ingredients and have better formulations.
The form of the supplement can also affect the cost. For example, liquid or powder supplements may be more expensive than pills or capsules, as they are often more concentrated and may require more processing.
It’s important to remember that cost should not be the only factor when choosing a joint health supplement. It’s essential to choose a supplement that contains clinically proven ingredients in the correct dosage and form, is manufactured by a reputable company, and is tested for purity and potency.
How Do I Know If I Need to Take a Joint Supplement?
Any sufferer of joint problems may benefit if he takes joint supplements. Joint supplements contain natural ingredients and are effective for rebuilding cartilage and stopping inflammatory reactions.
When you suffer severe arthritis symptoms from arthritis, you should take joint supplements to relieve your symptoms and to reduce pain. Before using joint supplements consult your doctor, and he may recommend combining dietary supplements and prescription supplements instead of relying on them all together. Occasionally they suggest physical therapy in order to increase mobility.
Should Athletes Take a Supplement for Joints?
Yes, joint supplements can be beneficial for athletes who put a lot of stress on their bodies through regular, intense exercise. Athletes are at risk of developing joint pain and inflammation due to the wear and tear that comes with frequent and intense physical activity.
Joint health supplements can help support joint health, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility, which can be especially important for athletes who need to maintain peak physical performance.
However, it’s important to note that joint health supplements should not be relied upon as the only method for supporting connective tissue. Athletes should also engage in other measures to support joint health, such as stretching, foam rolling, and proper warm-up and cool-down techniques to improve joint health.
Joint Supplements vs Arthritis Medications
Joint supplements are dietary supplements that are taken orally to support joint health and reduce joint pain and inflammation. They may contain ingredients such as glucosamine and chondroitin, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins and minerals that are known to support joint health.
Joint medications, on the other hand, are prescription drugs that are used to treat specific joint conditions, such as arthritis. These medications may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and corticosteroids. These medications are typically prescribed by a doctor and should only be taken under their guidance.
While joint medications can be effective in treating joint conditions, they can also have side effects and may not be appropriate for everyone. Joint supplements, on the other hand, are generally considered safe and can be used as a complementary approach to joint health.
However, it’s important to note that joint supplements are not a cure-all and should be used in conjunction with other measures to support joint health, such as exercise and a healthy diet.
Joint Supplement Risks
It’s important to be aware of the potential risks associated with taking dietary supplements. Unlike prescription and over-the-counter medications, supplements are not regulated by the FDA, meaning there is no requirement for manufacturers to demonstrate the safety or effectiveness of their products.
This lack of regulation can lead to mislabeling or contamination of supplements, which can pose serious risks to consumers. Some supplements may also interact with prescription medications, leading to harmful side effects or reduced effectiveness of the medication.
To ensure the safety and effectiveness of the supplements you take, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional and do your own research using reputable sources such as the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. By being informed and cautious, you can minimize your risk of negative outcomes associated with supplement use.