Joint pain? US doctor recommends 6 supplements to beat osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, affects millions worldwide. This degenerative joint disease leads to symptoms such as joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. While treatments, physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgery, are necessary, adding some supplements may help manage the condition. Dr. Kunal Sood, MD, a double board-certified doctor based in Maryland, US, has shared a list of supplements that ease osteoarthritis and are backed by science. “Some nutraceuticals are researched for joint pain and stiffness. Here’s what they may do and what studies show,” he said. Let’s take a look.

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Glucosamine, a building block of cartilage and glycosaminoglycans, is believed to support joint structure and slow cartilage breakdown, according to the doctor. This supplement may ease knee pain and stiffness. “Results are mixed: the GAIT trial found no overall benefit with glucosamine HCl, while pharmaceutical-grade glucosamine sulfate showed more consistent relief in knee pain,” he explained.

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Another component of cartilage, chondroitin, helps with joint pain sometimes, as per Dr. Sood. However, it really depends on the quality of the product. Chondroitin may slow collagen degradation and inflammation in joints. “Prescription-grade forms improved pain and function and sometimes slowed cartilage loss, but OTC supplements vary in quality,” he explained in a video shared on Instagram.

Another supplement that is studied for pain relief linked to osteoarthritis is Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM). “A sulfur donor that may support collagen cross-linking and modulate oxidative stress. Small trials show modest pain and stiffness improvements, but overall benefits are uncertain,” the doctor wrote in a post shared on Instagram. However, the evidence around its effectiveness is limited. Also See: Joint pain no more: Arthritis management tips that actually work​

Dimethyl sulfoxide is on Dr. Sood’s list. This supplement is used topically. “Acts mainly as a solvent and skin penetration enhancer. Limited osteoarthritis trials show inconsistent pain relief. Benefits in some studies likely came from drugs delivered in a DMSO base, not DMSO itself,” the doctor said. The research on it is, however, small and inconsistent.

A supplement that promises pain reduction is SAMe (S-adenosyl-L-methionine). “A methyl donor involved in cartilage proteoglycan synthesis and anti-inflammatory pathways. Trials show pain relief similar to NSAIDs but with a slower onset,” Dr. Sood wrote. Though some studies show its effectiveness, more data is needed. “Evidence base is limited and older.”

Yes the curcumin found in turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties. According to Dr. Sood, this supplement may offer modest symptom relief. “Polyphenol that down-regulates NF-κB and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Trials and meta-analyses suggest small to moderate reductions in knee pain, sometimes comparable to NSAIDs. Absorption is poor unless paired with enhancers like piperine,” he said.

Also, Including turmeric in meals, smoothies, or as a supplement under medical guidance can support joint comfort and overall musculoskeletal health.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Aways consult your physician or another qualified healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking other medications. Do not wait for the symptoms to worsen either.