Expert explains how specific supplements relieve chronic joint pain and stiffness

Joint pain stems from underlying inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, or arthritis, significantly impacting daily mobility. Dr Kunal Sood, an anaesthesiologist and pain medicine specialist, shared five beneficial supplements on Instagram on Saturday.

He noted that symptoms improve when inflammation and cartilage stress are addressed together. Regarding turmeric, Dr Sood explained, "Systematic reviews of randomised trials show curcumin improves pain and physical function in knee osteoarthritis, with some studies showing effects comparable to NSAIDs.

Mechanistically, it downregulates inflammatory pathways such as NF-κB, MAPK, and JAK/STAT, reducing cytokine-driven joint inflammation."

Boswellia and collagen peptides

Herbal extracts from Boswellia, or Indian frankincense, also offer relief. The physician explains, "Meta-analyses of RCTs show Boswellia reduces joint pain, stiffness, and improves function in osteoarthritis. Its active compound AKBA inhibits 5-lipoxygenase, reducing leukotriene-driven inflammation and potentially slowing cartilage breakdown."

Additionally, collagen provides the amino acids necessary for repair. Dr Sood highlights, "Clinical trials and meta-analyses show collagen supplementation improves joint pain and function, especially in knee OA.

It provides amino acids for connective tissue and may support cartilage and joint structure, though evidence for structural regeneration is limited."

Omega-3s and Vitamin D

Fatty acids and vitamins play crucial roles in metabolic support:

• Omega-3s: "Omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammatory cytokines and shift eicosanoid signalling toward anti-inflammatory pathways. Meta-analyses show improvements in pain, stiffness, and reduced NSAID use in arthritis."
• Vitamin D: "Low vitamin D is associated with worse joint pain and inflammation. It regulates immune signalling and may influence cartilage health and muscle function."

Maintaining these levels is essential for those with inflammatory conditions.

"Please Note: This information is for educational purposes only and does not count as medical advice. Readers should always consult a qualified doctor regarding any questions about their health or a medical condition."