How to choose the right supplement for Arthritis

arthritisIf you suffer from arthritis, chances are you look high and low for relief. It can be a constant struggle of trial and error trying to find an effective treatment. Did you know that certain herbal, dietary, and natural supplements could help relieve arthritis pain and discomfort?

Some not only reduce pain and discomfort, but swelling too. If this is new to you, you may want to run out and purchase a bottle of supplements, but wait! If this is your first time buying these supplements, you must first know some important things.

Not all supplements aid in arthritis relief. There are wide ranges of dietary, herbal, and natural supplements available for sale, both locally and online. Make sure you do your research first to determine what supplements may reduce your joint pain and swelling.

For instance, Avocado Soybean Unsaponifiables (ASU) is believed to slow down the making of inflammation causing chemicals. Devil’s Claw can reduce inflammation and pain in arthritis patients. These are just a sample of the supplements that can help. Before heading to the health store, know what to buy.

When researching supplements or when browsing at the store, read all packages. Most will outright state what the product can do. For example, capsules of Devil’s Claw may state they assist with the reduction of arthritis pain and swelling.

While arthritis has no permanent cure, you can learn to manage and temporarily treat the joint pain, stiffness, and swelling associated with it. When shopping for supplements be sure to avoid any product that claims it will cure your arthritis. This is an outright lie and usually a waste of money.

Herbal, natural, and dietary supplements are not like over-the-counter pain relievers. They rarely provide you with immediate relief. To see results they must be taken consistently overtime. Most reduce the likelihood of pain and inflammation, especially with regular and continued use.

Unfortunately, this means you may have to purchase and try many supplements. To prevent the costs from becoming too high, price compare. Find a quality, yet economical brand. Buy your supplements on sale, buy in bulk, use coupons, or shop at a store with good prices. Always compare price with quantity. A larger package of supplement capsules will cost more money, but it is usually a better value for that money.

– Doctor recommendations

Most arthritis patients fear discussing supplements with their physician. Most believe they will only hear discouragement. Not all physicians believe in or recommend the use of supplements, but don’t be afraid to discuss this with your doctor. Many now embrace supplements, when used with prescribed or recommended medicine. So, tell your doctor you want to try ASU to reduce your joint swelling, but that you will continue to take your over-the-counter pain relievers for pain, as directed.

– Drug interactions
Why is it important to speak with your physician about supplements? Some can interact with common medications. For example, the Devil’s Claw mentioned above can counteract with diabetes medication, acid reducers, and blood thinners. Ask your doctor if the supplement you intend to take is risky with your current medications.

– Side effects

Most supplements come directly from nature, but not all things in nature are safe for all. Some supplements can have side effects. For instance, Gingko can reduce disease flare-ups for some. However, it does have many side effects. These include headaches, upset stomachs, and dizziness. Always be sure to look at the side effects for your preferred supplement before you begin taking them.

Many natural supplements can provide you with arthritis relief. Nevertheless, don’t run out and buy the first supplement you see at the health store. Opt for a supplement that will not interact with your current medications, one that is affordable, one that has little to no side effects, and one that will treat your troubling arthritis symptoms.