osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis: causes, drivers and interventions for protection

Osteoarthritis is a condition characterised by the World Health Organisation as the deterioration of cartilage in joints which results in bones rubbing together and creating stiffness, pain, and impaired movement. The degeneration and loss of cartilage can subsequently lead to alterations of the subchondral (underneath cartilage) bone. It is a reasonably common condition, 80% of adults over 50 will demonstrate some evidence of OA, which many people associated with wear and tear, as it is correlated with advancing age and excess pressure on joints.

However, it is slightly misleading to consider it a condition of wear and tear as this would suggest that the less you use your joints the less likely you are to develop osteoarthritis, this is not the case as sedentary lifestyle is a risk factor for the development of the condition. This blog will highlight the cause and drivers of osteoarthritis with interventions for protection against and support for those with this debilitating condition.1

Skip to Key Takeaways

Osteoarthritis is divided into two categories: primary and secondary.

Primary – is the form more associated with wear and tear and aging, this degeneration process tends to occur at the age of 50-60, with no predisposing abnormalities. These changes are due to cumulative effects of decades of use leading to stress on the collagen matrix of cartilage. This damage causes the release of enzymes which destroy collagen components. On top of that, as we age our ability to synthesise and restore normal collagen structure decreases.1

Secondary – as the name suggests means that OA occurs in association with a predisposing factor that has caused degenerative changes. These include.

  • Congenital abnormalities, such as hypermobility and abnormal joint structure
  • Trauma (Joint injury but also includes obesity and surgeries)
  • Crystal deposition (e.g., uric acid in gout)
  • Prescence of abnormal cartilage (genetic)
  • Inflammation (especially previous inflammatory disease such as rheumatoid arthritis)

Interventions to Support Osteoarthritis:

Repair of collagen matrix and regeneration of connective tissue cells

Cartilage is made up of specialised cells known as chondrocytes, these produce an extracellular matrix made up of collagen, proteoglycans, and elastin. This matrix acts as shock absorber in the joint, to take strain off the end of the bone and help prevent wear and tear on the cartilage itself. Therefore, supporting this matrix and regenerating chondrocytes is essential for supporting joint health.

Collagen – Collagen type II is a major component of the extracellular matrix of hyaline cartilage and its synthesis and catabolism is regulated by chondrocytes (cells found in cartilage connective tissue).2

Collagen type II fibres: the main structural component of cartilage, providing structure, firmness, and resistance to compression – account for 60% of cartilage. Studies have demonstrated that the supplementation of specific collagen peptides in young adults with functional knee problems led to a statistically significant improvement of activity-related joint pain. For more information on collagen, its different forms and functions within the joint see our blog.

Vitamin C– vitamin C is essential to produce collagen, it is a cofactor in the binding, cross-linking, and folding of collagen to provide its unique structure. Several in vitro studies have shown that vitamin C has an anabolic effect on cartilage. A threefold reduction in the risk of OA progression was found in the middle and highest tertials of vitamin C intake. Additionally, there is evidence that vitamin C is useful for pain relief particularly of the musculoskeletal system, and vitamin C deficiency is associated with higher incidence of pain. Accumulating evidence indicates that vitamin C can exhibit analgesic properties in some clinical conditions, thus potentially mitigating suffering and improving patient quality of life.3

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs): mainly consist of two building blocks – aggrecan (a large proteoglycan containing chondroitin sulphate) and hyaluronic acid, both essential components for maintaining a cushioned and lubricated joint environment, allowing for easy joint movement – this accounts for approximately 40% of the cartilage.

Hyaluronic Acid – is another GAG in joints which provide a structural framework and allows cartilage to hold water. By the age of 70, hyaluronic acid contents has dropped by 80% leading to loss of connective tissue integrity, there by affecting joint health.

Glucosamine – composed of a glucose and an amine molecule it has been shown to stimulate the production of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), which give the shock absorbing capabilities of cartilage. It also promotes the incorporation of sulphur into cartilage. Studies show that the ability to manufacture glucosamine declines with age, therefore cartilage loses its shock-absorbing and gel-like functions, affecting the health of the joint and contributing to the progression of OA. Studies have shown reduced pain and improved quality of life in patients with OA.4

MSM – contains high levels of sulphur which are important for maintaining normal connective tissue. MSM has also been demonstrated to have anti-inflammatory activities, chemoprotective properties, prostacyclin (PGI2) synthesis inhibition, anti-atherosclerotic action, salutary effect on eicosanoid metabolism, and free radical scavenging activity. In a pilot study MSM (3 g twice a day) improved symptoms of pain and physical function during the short intervention without major adverse events.5

Bridge the nutrition gap

Other nutrients including vitamins A, D and E, B6, zinc, copper and boron are all essential for collagen production. A deficiency in any one of these nutrients will contribute to accelerated joint degeneration. Therefore, it is recommended to use a multi vitamin and mineral to ensure optimal intake of all nutrients.1

Reduce inflammation

Inflammation plays a major role in osteoarthritis by contributing to both joint pain and degradation of the joint, therefore interventions to reduce inflammation are essential for supporting wellbeing of OA patients.

Boswellia – is an Ayruvedic herb with anti-inflammatory properties. These anti-inflammatory effects have been investigated for their benefits in osteoarthritis (OA), and it appears that oral Boswellia supplements can suppress pain and immobility associated with OA quite significantly with the effects taking as little as a week to occur. (Examine.com). as well as reducing inflammation it is thought that Boswellia’s mechanism of action on joints also includes the prevention of GAG degradation and improved blood supply to joint tissues.1

Proteolytic enzymes – taken away from food, to simply prevent the breakdown of dietary protein, has been shown to reduce inflammatory markers including IL-6 and CRP5. Studies performed with bromelain (a proteolytic enzyme from pineapple) demonstrated as reduction in pain, swelling and joint stiffness in OA patients.

Celadrin – Celadrin® is a patented combination of fatty acids which beneficially enhance the integrity of cell membranes in the body thus, subduing the inflammatory process and reducing pain. Hence Celadrin® is considered an aid to joint mobility and flexibility. It has high affinity for small joints, such as fingers. It is a combination of plant based fatty acids including cetyl myristoleate, cetyl palmiotoleate, cethy laureate, cetyl palmitate and cetyl oleate. Evidence shows that these fatty acids stabilise and enhance the integrity of cell membrane and therefore halts the production of inflamamtory compounds. It has also been shown to reduce the production of inflammatory markers including IL-6. It has been shown to improve knee range of motion, flexion and overall joint function in OA patients compared with placebo.1 Celadrin can be used orally and/or topically.

Other interventions to reduce inflammation include:

  • Reducing foods high in omega 6 – e.g., farmed meats, dairy products and vegetable oils (such as sunflower and corn oils). These are high in the omega 6 fat Arachidonic acid or Linoleic Acid (precursor to arachidonic acid). Arachidonic acid can be converted to the pro-inflammatory prostaglandin PGE
  • Increasing sources of omega 3 from e.g., oily fish and flax, chia seeds and/or a supplement containing EPA. EPA is found in oily fish or can be supplemented; alpha linolenic acid is found in flax and chia seeds and dark leafy green vegetables and can be converted to EPA by the body. EPA is converted into anti-inflammatory prostaglandins.
  • The ratio of omega 6 to 3 is very important, most people are consuming too high a level of omega 6 to 3 and therefore are often producing excess amounts of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins.
  • Curcumin – found in turmeric, has been shown to inhibit Cox-2 enzymes which produce inflammatory prostaglandins.
  • Obtaining good levels of vegetables (6-8 per day) including dark leafy greens high in anti-inflammatory phytonutrients and antioxidants.
  • Vitamin E has been shown to supress inflammatory markers (IL-6, TNFα and NO) and down regulate the transcription factor NF-kB. Sources of Vitamin E are avocados, almonds, green vegetables, and olives.

Achievement of normal body weight

It is very important to consider body weight in OA patients as obesity is a driver of trauma to joints, placing excess stress and therefore accelerating degeneration of cartilage. This blog will not discuss weight loos in full details, but it is important to consider blood sugar regulation but limiting refined carbohydrates and including lean protein, healthy fat in fibre in meals to improve insulin sensitivity, which can aid maintenance of normal weight.  See our blog for more information with regards to weight loss strategies.

Non-Nutritional Interventions

Exercise 

Lack of exercise decreases the hydration of joint cartilage and decreases muscle strength placing further strain on joints. Pain for OA reduced movement and exercise is reduced, this inactivity can lead to weight gain, exacerbating the vicious cycle. Additionally, strengthening muscles around the joint is important for joint stability and reducing excess stress that may be placed on joints. Exercises which strengthen muscles around the joint but are not significantly weight bearing are recommended such as swimming and isometrics.

Running has for a long time been associated with deterioration of the knee joint leading to osteoarthritis, however now there is conflicting evidence and there is potential that emerging evidence suggests that running has a positive effect on joint health.8

Backward walking

One form of exercise which has gained much attention is backward walking – Backward walking (BW) is a counter sequential exercise and is a common method of rehabilitation training and disease-assisted treatment. Studies have shown that BW has a helpful effect on improving lower limb proprioception, gait synergy and improving limb balance. Many studies have concluded that BW can improve the symptoms of patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA) and can be used for rehabilitation and adjunctive treatment of KOA, however the paper also states more evidence is needed.9 

One thing is certain, is that keeping active whilst ensuring that joints are used optimally, without abnormal structural issues is essential for maintaining the health of the joint and protecting against and improving symptoms of OA.

Topical Analgesics 

Topical applications can be very useful for relieving and pain/or localised inflammation. Topical products with most evidence for OA relief include capsaicin and as well as topical forms of Celadrin®, see above.

Manual therapies

Other therapies which have been shown to help support pian, motion and recovery in OA patients and could be considered as an adjunct to nutrition and exercise include1

  • Acupuncture
  • Magnetic therapiesRelaxation Techniques

Protocol for acute OA

  • Anti-inflammatory diet (as above)
  • CytoProtect Joints 2 capsules per day
  • MSM 1 per day
  • Glucosamine Hydrochloride 3 per day
  • Celadrin 2 per day
  • Multi vitamin and mineral, CoQ10 Multi
  • Gentle muscle building exercise
  • Therapies discussed above as preferred

Protocol for long-term joint maintenance

  • Anti-inflammatory diet (as above)
  • Multi vitamin and mineral, CoQ10 Multi
  • CytoProtect Joints 2 capsules per day
  • Celadrin 2 per day
  • 2 x Organic vitamin C
  • Gentle muscle building exercise
  • Therapies discussed above as preferred

Glossary

  • Chondrocytes – Cartilage-forming cells. chromosome. Pairs of structures within cells made of DNA. confluent monolayer. An unbroken layer of cells, one cell thick.
  • Cartilage – a firm, elastic, flexible type of connective tissue of a translucent whitish or yellowish colour; gristle.
  • Collagen – A natural protein that forms connective tissue and provides strength, resilience, and support to the skin, ligaments, tendons, bones, and other parts of the body.
  • Proteoglycans – composed of multiple glycosaminoglycans attached to a core protein. These core proteins are sometimes attached to a hyaluronic acid molecule.
  • Isometrics – a system of physical exercises in which muscles are caused to act against each other or against a fixed object.

Key Takeaways

  • Osteoarthritis is caused by a degeneration of cartilage in joints leading to pain and reduces functionality.
  • Risk factors for osteoarthritis include age, injury/trauma, obesity, abnormal joint structure, genetic abnormalities to cartilage and age.
  • Interventions for osteoarthritis include supporting collagen production, reducing inflammation, normalising body weight, and strengthening surrounding muscles to stabilise joint.
  • Cartilage production can be supported with Type 2 collagen hyaluronic acid, glucosamine, vitamin C and ensuring there are optimum levels of all nutrients including vitamin A, D, E, B6, zinc and copper.
  • Exercise is essential for preventing cartilage degradation and providing muscle strength. Although excess weight bearing exercise should be done with caution and not when there are joint injuries or abnormalities. Swimming, cycling and backwards walking have shown to be effective for OA patients.
  • Other therapies such as magnetic therapy, acupuncture and relaxation techniques have also been shown to be helpful for OA patients.

If you have questions regarding the topics that have been raised, or any other health matters, please do contact me (Helen) by phone or email at any time.

helen@cytoplan.co.uk
01684 310099

Amanda Williams and the Cytoplan Editorial Team


References 

  1. Pizzorno JE, Murray MT. Textbook of Natural Medicine 4th Ed. 2013. Elsevier
  2. Zdzieblik D, Oesser S, Gollhofer A, König D. Improvement of activity-related knee joint discomfort following supplementation of specific collagen peptides. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2017;42(6):588-595. doi:10.1139/apnm-2016-0390
  3. Carr AC, McCall C. The role of vitamin C in the treatment of pain: new insights. J Transl Med. 2017;15(1):77. Published 2017 Apr 14. doi:10.1186/s12967-017-1179-7
  4. Ogata T, Ideno Y, Akai M, et al. Effects of glucosamine in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Rheumatol. 2018;37(9):2479-2487. doi:10.1007/s10067-018-4106-2
  5. Kim LS, Axelrod LJ, Howard P, Buratovich N, Waters RF. Efficacy of methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) in osteoarthritis pain of the knee: a pilot clinical trial. Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 2006 Mar;14(3):286-94. doi: 10.1016/j.joca.2005.10.003. Epub 2005 Nov 23. PMID: 16309928.
  6. Marie-Eve Paradis, Patrick Couture, Iris Gigleux, Johanne Marin, Marie-Claude Vohl, Benoît Lamarche. (2015) ‘Impact of systemic enzyme supplementation on low-grade inflammation in humans’, PharmaNutrition. Volume 3, Issue 3. Pages 83-88
  7. Brien S, Lewith G, Walker A, Hicks SM, Middleton D. Bromelain as a Treatment for Osteoarthritis: a Review of Clinical Studies. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2004;1(3):251-257. doi:10.1093/ecam/neh035
  8. Timmins KA, Leech RD, Batt ME, Edwards KL. Running and Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Am J Sports Med. 2017 May;45(6):1447-1457. doi: 10.1177/0363546516657531. Epub 2016 Aug 20. PMID: 27519678.
  9. Wu Y, Lei C, Huangfu Z, Sunzi K, Yang C. Effect of backward walking training on knee osteoarthritis: protocol of a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Open. 2020;10(10):e040726. Published 2020 Oct 31. doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2020-040726

Last updated on 10th September 2021 by cytoffice


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125 thoughts on “Osteoarthritis: causes, drivers and interventions for protection

  1. Please would you send on your price list and catalogue.
    Thank you – (by post if possible to new address).

        1. For initial pain relief I would recommend our Boswellia, at 2 capsules daily, although this can be increased for acute needs. I would also recommend you followed the advice outlined in the blog in terms of further anti-inflammatory support and nutrients that can help to repair the cartilage of your knee.

          1. Hi there – if you are in severe pain I would always recommend a visit to your GP in the first instance, after which you might like to consider our Boswellia, a potent anti-inflammatory supplement which can reduce pain and stiffness, and results can often be seen within a few days. If your pain transpires to be from wear and tear or osteoarthritis, the information contained in this blog will be applicable to you – but if you need any further advice please do contact our team of nutritional therapists on nutrition@cytoplan.co.uk

          2. While the information contained in the blog could be very supportive, I’m afraid we are not qualified to offer medical advice and would recommend you visited your GP with your concerns.

          1. While the information contained in the blog could be very supportive, I’m afraid we are not qualified to offer medical advice and would recommend you visited your GP with your concerns.

          1. Hi Ann, if you are in severe pain I would always recommend a visit to your GP in the first instance, after which you might like to consider our Boswellia, a potent anti-inflammatory supplement which can reduce pain and stiffness, and results can often be seen within a few days. If your pain transpires to be from wear and tear or osteoarthritis, the information contained in this blog will be applicable to you – but if you need any further advice please do contact our team of nutritional therapists on nutrition@cytoplan.co.uk

          2. Good day mam and sir yes I’m also problem my knees f I walk long it’s pain my knees and legs both yes I have osteoarthritis bcuz I also visit doc and he request for X-ray so it’s badly look my knee bones he give me perscreaption but once medicine I take some time 3 hours again back pain he also given me collagen and now little fine but some times back pain

          3. Hello,

            Yes collagen (CytoProtect Joint health) is very useful for arthritis as is omega 3 to dampen down the inflamamtory response. You could also add in 2 x Boswellia to help ameliorate the pain and inflammation.

            Thank you

          4. Hello Amadu,

            Thank you for your comment. If you would like advice regarding your knee injury, please do feel free to contact us on nutrition@cytoplan.co.uk with more details such as any medications you are on, what happened to your knee etc and one of our nutritional advisors will come back to you as soon as possible.

            Thank you

        2. I have stayed with painful arthritis for almost 12 years now to the extent of failing to squatting and failing to climb up steps. What can I do to heal it at least even a relief?

          1. Hello,

            We do have some products to aid with Arthritis but we would need to understand a little more about you and your lifestyle before being able to advise safely. I have included the link to our health questionnaire which asks for more information and we one of our nutritional therapists will be in touch.

            https://www.cytoplan.co.uk/health-questionnaire-adults

            Thank you

    1. Sir/madam I am thankful for this information but I would like to know what I can do quickly to ease my pain when walking .I think all of my catalige are gone I am 71 years old. My email is mauricebalgobin84@gmail.com.
      Thankyou in advance
      From Guyanasouth america.

      1. Hi Maurice – our Boswellia is a potent anti-inflammatory supplement which can reduce pain and stiffness, and results can often be seen within a few days so would be a good first option for you. Longer term I would recommend you considered a supplement to help repair and regenerate the cartilage in the joints, such as our Cytoprotect Joint Health, Glucosamine HCl and MSM. You can find our full range of Joint Health Supplements here.

    2. I’m interested to buy this arthritis medicine. I have chronic knee pain and I can’t fold my left leg. Please send me cost including freight. I’m writing from Papua New Guinea .

      1. Hello Robert,

        Cost of shipping varies on the weight of the parcel and it’s destination – it is not a flat rate cost when we ship internationally. You are able to add items to your basket and your shipping address for an estimate cost before clicking through to check out and making payment.

        I hope this helps, please do feel free to contact our customer services team if you require further assistance

        Thank you

  2. My husband – healthy 83 year old- had just told me he’d slept badly because of ongoing shoulder and knee joint pain, and there was your article in my inbox! Wonderful synchronicity! I struggle to get him to take tablets but give him magnesium, 50+, Glutathione, Vit C and D plus a healthy organic diet with olive oil and coconut oil . He suffers with severe constipation so I give him dandelion root tincture and hawthorn and ashawagandha for his heart( high BP). He’s reasonably active but could do more – we walk in the hills here in N Wales several times a week , weather permitting. Of the supplement you mention, which would be the most effective and could I replace any or the ones I give him? He doesn’t take any pharmaceutical drugs, accept the occasional paracetamol , because of unpleasant and dangerous side effects ( like rubber knees causing him to fall over – from Blood pressure tablets etc!) many thanks. A very comprehensive and well researched , and clearly explained article. Thank you .

    1. Hi Charmain – the supplements your husband is taking are all good – if you want to drop off anything then glutathione does not need to be taken every day. I would recommend celadrin and glucosamine capsules for his joint pains and they will begin to work within a couple of weeks. I would go for 2 of each daily for two weeks and then reduce to 1 daily of each once the pain has reduced.

      1. Hi Solomon – I would recommend you phoned our customer service team on 01684 310099, who will be very happy to help with your query.

  3. Thank you, very informative, I can see I have been doing some things wrongly, however I can’t afford a lot of expensive supplements.

  4. Another excellent, informative and well researched article – thank you! Wish their was just one nutrient pill from those recommended!

  5. Is this OA: pain & stiffness above my patella on left side? It is worse in my left leg especially when both legs are stiff in the morning.
    I’m 76 & very active, biking, table tennis, sailing.
    Thanks
    Lynne
    lsjaboard@gmail.com

    1. Hi Lynne – It is almost impossible to be diagnostic in something like this without examination. It is possible it is arthritis, but unless this joint has had more wear and tear than our other joints, it would be unusual for it to occur only in one joint. It is great you are so active and that will help your joints stay mobile. But as we age the ability of the body to repair wear and tear begins to wane and this is when conditions like arthritis set in. Please can I advise you to go to your Dr who will be able to tell you if the problem you are experiencing is arthritis or if in fact it is something else. Once you know this please do come back and we can make recommendations as to supplements that can help with the problem.

      1. I’m having an injury which is the knee,during playing football but I don’t know exactly what’s the problem and it’s about 3 months now,it really disturbs me as am speaking right now

        1. Hi there – if you are in pain I would certainly recommend that you visited your GP in the first instance as they may be able to diagnose any specific injury you might have incurred. Our Boswellia is an extremely potent anti-inflammatory that may help to reduce the pain and improve movement and flexibility. If your injury is to the tendons and ligaments of your knee, our Marine Collagen can have a very supportive role to any connective tissue.

    2. I would suggest from your symptoms it’s tight quads. If stretching the quads isn’t easing it then it may be the soft tissue of the lower leg has become stuck and is restricting the quad from free movement.

      You would be better to consult a professional bodyworker, physio etc for a proper examination of the exact cause(s) and suggested programme to free things up again.

  6. Interesting article, thanks for bringing all the constituent parts together in one place.
    I would add another contributor to the primary phase. We constantly work our muscles but rarely stretch them back out again to regain their normal/ natural length.
    People expect to stretch after anything that they perceive as exercise, but rarely recognise sitting at a desk 8 hours a day (and possibly an hour each morning and evening to get to that desk), plus another couple of hours sitting watching TV, reading, or using a laptop or tablet or phone, as exercise.

    Sustained poor posture – especially that we adopt to maintain these activities – probably cause as much trauma to muscles as accidents, injuries, operations and other causes together.

    These shortened muscles then pull the relevant joins into a closer contact than is natural, leaving insufficient space for synovial fluid etc to maintain a good lubricating presence.

    Combined with the poor hydration levels of the average person, this leads to a significant deterioration in joints generally, delivering us at the door of the cartilage breakdown phase.

    Having specialised in treating pain and mobility problems for some 14 years now, I truly believe that if we were taught correct hydration and stretching techniques from school age we would suffer very few of the effects we call ‘old age’.

    Throw in decent nutrition advice and we would be into our 50s and 60s before we had many problems (barring accident and natural illness of course).

    Thanks again for a thought-provoking article.

    1. Hi Natalia – I cannot tell which supplement you are referring to sorry. But broadly, the same protocol as helps with osteoarthritis will help with rheumatoid arthritis. The same inflammation and joint degradation are present. However because RA is an autoimmune condition it is usually helpful to also address diet and factors that help modulate overaction of the immune system. If you want individual help please complete a health questionnaire, available on our website under Nutrition Advice and we can help you directly.

  7. A really excellent article. But could you do one on Rheumatoid Arthritis please? Are the supplements the same or different?

  8. I was surprised not to see selenium (Se) mentioned in your article here. Se is required in proper amounts for cartilage homestasis and deficiency is long known to hinder the growth and development of cartilage as well as bone. Everybody rushes to prescribe chondrotin or glucosamine but given the known levels of Se in soils are generally depleting globally due to bad agricultural practices, shouldn’t we be considering Se as our chief go-to nutrient in cases of OA?

    1. Hi Maeve – Yes, we agree that it would be good to have discussed selenium in this article. We do use it within protocols for osteoarthritis and appreciate the depletion of selenium in soils. The main function is through redox homeostasis, which wasn’t discussed in this article therefore we will look at this for further articles, and always advise ensuring there are optimum levels of nutrients as a base. Thanks, Helen

    1. Hi there – our Cytoprotect Joint Health contains type 2 collagen, which is the main structural component of cartilage, so could be a very supportive supplement to take following a meniscal tear. You might also like to consider our Boswellia for anti-inflammatory support. If you are on any medication or need any further advice, please get in touch with our team of Nutritional Therapists at nutrition@cytoplan.co.uk

    1. Hi Philip – while it is possible, you would be able to get confirmation of the condition from your GP. It may also be simple wear and tear to the joints or inflammation, and by following the protocols outlined in the blog, such as ensuring intake of the key nutrients for collagen formation and reducing inflammation as well as maintaining a health body weight and perhaps introducing some non weight bearing exercise such as swimming to strengthen the muscles surrounding your knee joints.

  9. I have fatty liver and fibrosis in the liver with high cholesterol, in view of my liver health is it possible for me to take medicine for OA?

    1. Hi Fazila, it would depend very much as to whether you were taking any medications for your conditions. Please drop an email to our team of nutritional therapists with a little more information and they will be able to advise: nutrition@cytoplan.co.uk

  10. applied MALSON jnection by orthopedist Dr on my left shoulder osteoarthrites. My age is 70. How may days takes for relief ?

    1. Hello – I’m afraid I wouldn’t be able to advise and would recommend you spoke to your doctor with your queries.

  11. My father who is above 50 is suffering from osteoarthritis, stiffness, inflammation and has difficulty in walking , which medicines he should take to reduce severity of the pain..please guide me

    1. Hi Imran – on the assumption that your father is not taking any medication currently, I would recommend our Boswellia; a potent anti-inflammatory supplement which has been shown to suppress both pain and immobility, and effects can usually be felt within a week of taking the supplement. Alongside this I would recommend our Cytoprotect Joint Health, which provides nutrients that act as shock absorbers in the joint, to take strain off the end of the bone and help prevent wear and tear on the cartilage itself. Anecdotally we have found that if this product is taken alongside our Glucosamine HCL and MSM initially for the first 8-10 weeks, results are typically seen more quickly and the latter two products can be discontinued as symptoms improve.

  12. Hi!, Im experiencing pain in my left knee after jogging a 3.2km which im always experiencing after running. What would be its cause.

    1. Hi Jomer – it is difficult to say for sure, and with any persistent pain we would always recommend a visit to your GP in the first instance. There might be an element of inflammation, in which case an Omega 3 supplement and Boswellia may be supportive and help to reduce the pain. I would also recommend that you followed the dietary advice in the blog. You might also benefit from undertaking strengthening exercises on the muscles around your knee joint such as swimming and isometrics. Using our Celadrin Cream topically may also help to relieve the pain you experience after running.

  13. Comprehensive and useful breakdown of OA and needs to help it. This depth of unbiased reading is time consuming to find – much appreciated. Thanks
    Lynne Stoppard-Jones

  14. Hi there
    Can you please send me your catalogue and list price to my address PLEASE very interested in osteoarthritis in knees.
    Thank you

    1. I’m afraid we don’t have a catalogue available for the general public but we will pop a price list in the post for you.

  15. Please I am experiencing pain around my spinal cord which was diagnosed to be osteoarthritis, ots been bothering me for days now

    What drugs and other precautions can you recommend for me

    1. Hi Ahmed – the advice in this blog could certainly apply to you. To summarise, I would recommend supplements to help to repair the collagen matrix and regenerate the cells of your connective tissue. This could include Type II Collagen, Vitamin C, Glucosamine HCl and/or MSM – as well as a comprehensive multi including nutrients such as Vitamins A, D, E, B6, zinc, copper and boron as these are all essential for collagen production.
      I would also recommend reducing inflammation through supplements such as Boswellia and Omega 3 and following an anti-inflammatory diet such as reducing sources of omega 6 in favour of omega 3s (oily fish, flax and chia seeds) and increasing your intake of vegetables to 6-8 daily, with plenty of green leafy vegetables for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

      1. As we are not doctors, we cannot recommend any prescribed medication – but the supplements, diet and lifestyle advice contained in this blog can be supportive for those diagnosed with osteoarthritis, or for general joint health.

    1. Hi Ronald, I would recommend you phone our customer service team on 01684 310099, who will be very happy to help with your query.

  16. A very impressive artical on OA. I am from SriLanka and I am diagnosed as aOA patient. I have been taking Western and Ayurvedic treatment for the past 2 years. Of recent I started on Osteo Active capsules 1 a day . Glucocimine 1500 mcg 1 aday Vitamin D3 , 5000 withK2 again 1 aday. My inflammatory condition comes up often and feel alot of pain. I do my regular walking for 15 min. knee exercises. I would like to find out about Bosweilia supplement and a name of the medicine and also whether it will be too much with what I take now. Also BW is better than the normal walk I do now.Thankyou once again

    1. Hi Chrisma – it sounds as though our Boswellia may be supportive alongside the other supplements you are taking to provide a potent anti-inflammatory effect. Through your current supplements you will be providing nutrients to support the health of both your joints and bones, but Boswellia could provide additional protection for the pain your are experiencing, and effects could be seen in as little as a few days. Your regular walking will help to hydrate your joints as well as strengthen the muscles around the joint which may support joint stability and reduce the level of stress placed onto the joint.

  17. I have lower back arthritis since 2019, how can I get help, which home remedy can I use

    1. Hi – the advice in this blog could certainly apply to you. To summarise, I would recommend supplements to help to repair the collagen matrix and regenerate the cells of your connective tissue. This could include Type II Collagen, Vitamin C, Glucosamine HCl and/or MSM – as well as a comprehensive multi including nutrients such as Vitamins A, D, E, B6, zinc, copper and boron as these are all essential for collagen production.
      I would also recommend reducing inflammation through supplements such as Boswellia and Omega 3 and following an anti-inflammatory diet such as reducing sources of omega 6 in favour of omega 3s (oily fish, flax and chia seeds) and increasing your intake of vegetables to 6-8 daily, with plenty of green leafy vegetables for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

    1. Hi Rakhi – as you are unable to stand I think we would need to gain a little more information to be able to provide you some tailored advice. Please complete our online health questionnaire and one of our nutritional therapists will come back to you shortly.

    1. Hi Fazal – if you would like to drop our team on nutritional therapists an email to nutrition@cytoplan.co.uk and give us a little more information about your symptoms, as well as any medication or supplements you may currently be taking, we will be able to come back to you with some recommendations.

  18. What kind of medicine can be use to reduce pain and can ablebto wolk smothly. Pain less movement.

    1. Hi there – the advice in this blog could certainly apply to you. To summarise, I would recommend supplements to help to repair the collagen matrix and regenerate the cells of your connective tissue. This could include Type II Collagen, Vitamin C, Glucosamine HCl and/or MSM – as well as a comprehensive multi including nutrients such as Vitamins A, D, E, B6, zinc, copper and boron as these are all essential for collagen production.
      I would also recommend reducing inflammation through supplements such as Boswellia and Omega 3.

  19. I have osteoarthritis. I noticed this since 2015 and still managing. I need more of your advice and way out. Also, I would like to know if this could be cured, doctor. Thanks

    1. Hi Sanni – while we cannot offer medical advice, and you would need to consult with you GP – the advice contained within this blog is focussed on repairing and regenerating the collagen matrix which becomes degenerated in OA, as well reducing inflammation which is often involved in pain and stiffness. To discuss individual supplements please do get in touch with our nutritional therapists on nutrition@cytoplan.co.uk

    1. While the information contained in the blog could be very supportive, I’m afraid we are not qualified to offer medical advice and would recommend you visited your GP with your concerns.

  20. I am Caleb. I have been diagnosed of Peripheral Neuropathy. I experience severe pain in my hip when I walk for a while. Currently, I have been referred to a physiotherapist who is managing me. Which of your products can help me and how do I get them. I am 53 years.

    1. Hi Caleb, there are certainly supplements that can help to support your condition. Might I suggest that you complete our online health questionnaire, that way we can gain a really thorough picture of your health profile and one of our team of nutritional therapists will be able to reply to you with a tailored protocol of supplements, diet and lifestyle.

    1. While the information contained in the blog could be very supportive, I’m afraid we are not qualified to offer medical advice and would recommend you visited your GP with your concerns.

    1. Hi there, please drop an email to our nutritional therapists with a little more information about your diagnosis, symptoms as well as any medication or supplements you may be taking currently, and we will come back to you shortly. nutrition@cytoplan.co.uk

  21. I don’t know English language but I’m trying to explain I need your help my knee is severe ache so what I’m doing for these my age 62

    1. Hi Asha, if you are in severe pain I would always recommend a visit to your GP in the first instance, after which you might like to consider our Boswellia, a potent anti-inflammatory supplement which can reduce pain and stiffness, and results can often be seen within a few days. If your pain transpires to be from wear and tear or osteoarthritis, the information contained in this blog will be applicable to you – but if you need any further advice please do contact our team of nutritional therapists on nutrition@cytoplan.co.uk

  22. I am a senior 75yrs old diagnose with oesteòporosis with unbalanced while walking no pain. Both thyroid glands and uterus was surgically removed i am taking 75mg thyroxine meds daily for life. Hypothyroid causing me to stop take the meds and drink Irish moss for 4weeks was good. Then I got hypothyroidism then went to the doctor she told me that i am risking my life then I start to take half of the meds with vit D3 tabs daily which make me feel better i become my own specialist for is none in my area. The only problem i have is unbalanced while walking thanks your ŕesponse

    1. Hi Vincent, if you are in severe pain I would always recommend a visit to your GP in the first instance, after which you might like to consider our Boswellia, a potent anti-inflammatory supplement which can reduce pain and stiffness, and results can often be seen within a few days. If your pain transpires to be from wear and tear or osteoarthritis, the information contained in this blog will be applicable to you – but if you need any further advice please do contact our team of nutritional therapists on nutrition@cytoplan.co.uk

  23. Peace Okwudiri. I have been suffering from osteoarthritis since 2015 after I bear my last baby, I hv’ been taking many types of drugs massaging but there’s no improvement at all I don’t know what to do again coupled with knok leg the Doctor said I should go surgery. Ist possible for me to go on surgery? Thanks

    1. Hello Peace,

      Thank you for your email. It is your decision where to opt for surgery, I hope you are feeling well? If you would like initial support, you can try 2 x CytoProtect Joints, 2 x Omega 3 Vegan and 2 x Boswellia. Alternatively, you can complete our online health questionnaire for more tailored advice – https://www.cytoplan.co.uk/health-questionnaire-adults.

      I hope this helps.

  24. I am Dr kassu gizaw working Hawassa Adare general Hospital as central triage physician Please help my to stady PHD thanks .

  25. hi doctor
    I’m 40 years old i found osteoarthritis on my legs ,the bone became old and joints are little closer and my uric acid is high an getting pills (zyril) for decreasing my uric acid so , need your instruction how to remove this sickness to empower my legs bones or how to take foods or supplement or pills ,plz

  26. I don’t understand why you’ve completely disregarded physiotherapy (which has a huge amount of research backing its efficacy)
    and you instead have recommended magnetic therapy (which in the case of static magnets has no evidence of evidence for any medical condition when you consider Cochrane and other high quality reviews etc). Maybe someone with a more detailed understanding of this area should review this blog.

    1. Hi Louise, thank you for your feedback. We are a nutritional therapy company, so the focus of this blog is predominantly focused on nutritional interventions to prevent and support osteoarthritis. The list of non-nutritional interventions mentioned in this blog is by no means exhaustive. We do have guest writers so will certainly consider a specialist in this area for a future blog.

    1. Hello Helen,

      You can order directly through our website – here, or alternatively you can call our customer service team on 01684 310099.

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