Osteoarthritis: Most Effective Dietary Supplements

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that affects the joints, particularly those of the knees, hips, hands, and spine. It is characterized by the progressive degradation of cartilage, the smooth substance that covers the ends of bones and allows their fluid movement. Unlike other inflammatory joint diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis is primarily non-inflammatory, although minor inflammation may occur in advanced stages. Contrary to the old view of it as simple "age-related wear and tear," osteoarthritis is now considered a condition that can appear early, though its symptoms often manifest later. Cartilage lesions and the production of osteophytes or chondrophytes are signs of this chronic degenerative pathology.

Etiology

The causes of osteoarthritis are multiple and can include genetic, metabolic, and mechanical factors. Aging remains a major risk factor, but other elements such as obesity, joint injuries, and certain metabolic diseases (like diabetes) also contribute to the development of the disease. The underlying causes of osteoarthritis can be linked to endocrine disorders or other internal metabolic issues (such as high levels of uric acid or oxalate).

Symptoms

The main symptoms of osteoarthritis include: • Joint pain: which worsens with activity and improves with rest. • Stiffness: particularly noticeable after a period of inactivity or waking up in the morning. • Crackling: during joint movements. • Deformation: of joints, especially in the hands. • Reduced mobility: limiting daily activities. • Joint effusion: accumulation of synovial fluid in affected joints. As the disease progresses, these symptoms can become more severe, leading to significant functional loss. Osteoarthritis is often diagnosed using X-rays, which reveal characteristic signs such as cartilage thinning and the formation of osteophytes. Osteophytes, also known as "bone spurs," are bony projections that form around the joints affected by osteoarthritis.

Treatments

The treatment of osteoarthritis primarily aims to relieve pain, improve joint function, and slow disease progression. Here are some therapeutic options: • Medications: Analgesics such as paracetamol and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to relieve pain. Corticosteroids are often administered in the form of injections directly into or around the joint to reduce pain and inflammation. These injections should be performed by an experienced physician in strict aseptic conditions to prevent infections. Hyaluronic acid injections are also possible, although their effectiveness is considered insufficient. • Supplements and chondroprotectors: Supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are sometimes recommended to maintain cartilage health, though their effectiveness is subject to debate. • Intra-articular injections: PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injections have gained popularity as an innovative treatment for osteoarthritis. PRP uses the patient's own platelets to promote tissue repair and reduce inflammation. This method has shown promising results in symptom relief and improvement of joint function. Although these treatments are promising, they can be combined with physiotherapy to maximize results. • Physiotherapy: Physical exercise under the supervision of a physiotherapist helps maintain joint mobility, strengthen muscles surrounding the joints, and reduce pain. • Surgery: In severe cases, where conservative treatments fail, surgical interventions such as arthroplasty (joint replacement) may be necessary.

Prevention

Prevention of osteoarthritis relies on several simple yet effective measures. Controlling weight to reduce the load on weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips is crucial. Regular and moderate physical activity helps to strengthen the muscles around the joints, thereby enhancing their stability. It is also recommended to avoid repetitive movements and activities that put excessive pressure on the joints. Finally, a diet rich in essential nutrients like zinc, copper, sulfur, and omega-3 contributes to joint health and long-term inflammation prevention.