Are Arthritis Pain Supplements Safe And Effective
In terms of consumer safety, most arthritis pain supplements do not contain controlled substances or other prescription-strength medications. They are classified as food supplements, not medication. However, you should consult with your physicians before beginning a regimen of this type. Diabetics should be careful when using sugar-based ingredients such as glucosamine and chondroitin, and those with severe shellfish allergies should also use caution.
The effectiveness of arthritis pain supplements is a matter of debate. The beneficial effects may not appear for several months, as the body slowly begins to rebuild lost tissue or fluids. Anecdotal testimony from satisfied users indicates a noticeable degree of relief from pain and swelling, but these claims are not fully supported by scientific studies.
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How Much To Get
The answer depends on things including your age, your eating habits and medical conditions, and what medications you take.
The average recommended amounts, measured in micrograms , vary by age:
- Infants up to age 6 months: 0.4 mcg
- Babies age 7-12 months: 0.5 mcg
- Children age 1-3 years: 0.9 mcg
- Kids age 4-8 years: 1.2 mcg
- Children age 9-13 years: 1.8 mcg
- Teens age 14-18: 2.4 mcg
- Adults: 2.4 mcg
Whats The Link Between Rheumatoid Arthritis And Vitamin D
While studies show an association between RA and D deficits, researchers don’t yet have solid evidence of causality. That means we dont know if low D contributes directly to the autoimmune disease, or if its just the consequence of a dysfunctional immune system. But ultimately, it may not matter so much which is correct. By getting enough D, Youre feeding the immune system what it needs to limit attacks, says Dr. Hylland.
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Top 4 Supplements To Treat Arthritis Pain
Choosing the right supplement to ease your arthritis pain and inflammation can be confusing. Which supplements are most effective? Of the many types of supplements available in stores and online, the following 4 have been well-studied for their ability to treat arthritis pain:
Research suggests curcumin, found in the spice turmeric, has anti-inflammatory properties and has the potential to reduce arthritis pain.
Health Benefits And Risks
The Arthritis Foundation states that some supplements may relieve pain, stiffness, and other symptoms of arthritis. It also suggests using supplements alongside arthritis drugs, not as a substitute. Medications are the only scientifically proven treatment to slow joint damage.
A 2020 review on rheumatoid arthritis indicates that some supplements may have beneficial effects. However, research into the impact of diet and dietary supplements on RA is limited.
Furthermore, the AF highlights the importance of consulting a doctor before taking any supplements for arthritis. Some supplements may interact with other medications or cause side effects.
It is also of note that there is little research into the effectiveness of supplements.
Some supplements have different benefits than others. In the sections below, we list supplements and their possible benefits.
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Pain Relief Gels And Sprays
While vitamins can help your body get stronger and alleviate some of the problems linked to pain, there are times when you need something more immediate. Pain relief remedies are available in the form of pain relief sprays, gels, and ointments. Omnigel is a popular topical pain relief treatment that offers respite from aches and pains linked to arthritis, sports injuries, sprains, and more. Easy-to-use, it only needs to be applied to the area where you are experiencing pain for easing of not just the pain but also any associated inflammation and stiffness. Omnigel is available at pharmacies across the country as well as online and is a convenient pain relief remedy for most common ailments.
Try Omnigel as a remedy for your musculoskeletal pains including pain in the joints, neck and shoulder pain, sore muscles, and more. Find out more about Omnigel.
Top 5 Joint Health Supplements Of 2021
Based on our own extensive research, the metrics provided by our Smarter Reviews Ranking System, and consideration of numerous reviews by Smarter Shoppers just like you, weâve compiled a list of what weâve found to be the top five products in this category, on the market today.
Overall Grade
- Ingredient SafetyWe check each and every product ingredient against ingredient safety databases to determine the ingredients proper dosage limits and ultimate safety, as well as banned substances.8.4 Avg.
9.7/10
- Projected EffectivenessWe compare the safe and effective active ingredient dosages established by independent clinical studies and medical databases with those found on the product labeling to measure the projected effectiveness of the product.8.2 Avg.
9.7/10
- ValueWe add the active ingredients, subtract the fillers and compare that to the products price to assess the value youre getting for your money.8.3 Avg.
9.6/10
- Return PolicyWe assess and rank the return policy by testing the actual product return process against the brands return policy.7.8 Avg.
9.8/10
- Customer SatisfactionCustomer satisfaction rankings are provided by Smarter Reviewers who share their ranking or review based on personal experience with a product displayed on Smarter Reviews.7.9 Avg.
- Type XIV Eggshell Membrane Collagen
- Type II Collagen
- No binders, fillers, or synthetic ingredients
- Formulated by a respected medical doctor
- Formulated with a lipid layer
- 90-day, risk-free, money-back, product guarantee
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Can Lack Of B12 Cause Leg Pain
Numbness, Twitching, Tingling, and Painful Spasms In 2009 I learned how dangerous deficiency of vitamin B12 in the body is. I had no idea that the numbness, twitching, tingling, and painful spasms and cramps that my hands, legs, and toes were experiencing for over a year was caused by severe B12 deficiency.
Treatment For Fibromyalgia And Rheumatoid Arthritis
Methylcobalamin has been shown to reduce chronic pain in fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis. Although the causes of both conditions are uncertain, the restoration of neuron cells is known to improve their symptoms. In one study, patients with fibromyalgia who received 1.5 mg per day of the vitamin experience significantly less pain. This is potentially the result of the repair of small nerve fibers close to the skin. Similarly, nerve regeneration is shown to relieve pain in rheumatoid arthritis, likely due to the stronger nerve fibers being more resistant to irritation from inflamed joints.
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How To Use Methylcobalamin As Treatment For Fibromyalgia Ms And Rheumatoid Arthritis
Anyone with the listed neurological conditions can benefit from methylcobalamin. Even people who acquire B12 in their diets and from supplements are likely to be deficient in methylcobalamin. Vitamin supplements and enriched foods contain vitamin B12 in the form of cyanocobalamin, which is not nearly as biologically active. In comparison, methylcobalamin is used more efficiently and is retained in the body at levels 66% higher than cyanocobalamin. Most importantly, methylcobalamin is the only neurologically active form of B12.
When choosing a supplement, look for either methylcobalamin or methyl B12. Studies have found that oral, intravenous, and intramuscular administration provide the same results.
- Treatment for fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis, studies noted clinical benefits using between 1.5 and 6 mg per day. Capsules typically contain between 1 and 5 mg and must be taken at least twice per day to deliver benefits for fibromyalgia and rheumatoid arthritis. Some methyl B12 supplements are designed to be taken sublingually, that is dissolved under the tongue. These can have the added benefit of absorbing directly into the bloodstream.
- For multiple sclerosis, studies suggest 60 mg per day. Up to 12 capsules per day may be necessary.
If you have tried using methyl B12 for a neurological condition, share your experience in the comments section below.
Originally published in 2014, this post has been updated.
Other Culprits: Stopping Methotrexate And Kevzara
Other than adding B12 daily, the only other change or thing I can think of is that I stopped taking my RA medications sometime during the pandemic: methotrexate and Kevzara. That was an accident though, and a long story that I won’t go into right now.
I also know that methotrexate depletes folate, which is a B vitamin, and I took folic acid for years because of this.
Again, I’m not a doctor and I’m not trying to “play doctor,” but my gut instinct tells me that adding vitamin B12 to my daily pill regimen is what helped to drastically improve my iron labs and keep them stable. But I don’t know for sure and the doctors probably don’t even know for sure either, I’m guessing.
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Guidelines For Vitamin B Supplements
Since most arthritis patients and the general population, for that matter — are lacking in vitamin B6 and B9, the National Academies of Science recommends a vitamin B complex for everyone over the age of 50.
Daily supplementation is key, since all B vitamins are processed quickly and flushed out through the urine. Increasing and maintaining your B vitamin levels will encourage your body to produce the proteins that rebuild cartilage.
Taking a B complex is often easier than trying to take the right amount of each of the eight B vitamins. Experts stress the importance of balance: its possible that taking individual B vitamins in isolation can lead to a metabolic imbalance, and even a risk of nerve damage.
Articles On Natural Remedies For Ra Pain
Medication and other forms of treatment play a major role in managing rheumatoid arthritis. Supplements arenât a treatment — they donât promise to cure or treat any condition, and they donât have to meet the same standards as medications. But if youâre looking into trying some in addition to your treatment plan, hereâs what you should know.
First, be sure you talk to your doctor before you begin using any supplement or herbal medication. They may interact with other drugs, supplements, or herbal medicines you are taking and cause serious side effects. They may also put you at a higher risk for certain conditions.
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Upping Your Vitamin D Intake Has Been Shown To Help With Symptoms Of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, which is essential for building strong bones. Too little of this vital nutrient can lead to having thin, soft and brittle bones, known as osteomalacia in adults and rickets in children.
Studies also have found that a lack of vitamin D is linked to rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease characterized by swollen, aching joints and numbness and tingling in the hands and feet.
In a study published in the Journal of Clinical Rheumatology, scientists found that vitamin D deficiency not only is highly prevalent in rheumatoid arthritis patients, but its also related to chronic pain and lower mental and physical quality of life scores. Another study revealed that a higher intake of vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids may be associated with better treatment results in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis.
How Do I Know If Im Getting Enough B12
Symptoms of Vitamin B12 DeficiencyWeakness, tiredness, or lightheadedness.Heart palpitations and shortness of breath.Pale skin.A smooth tongue.Constipation, diarrhea, loss of appetite, or gas.Nerve problems like numbness or tingling, muscle weakness, and problems walking.Vision loss.More itemsMay 3, 2021
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Symptoms And Treatment Of Arthritis
Patients with arthritis experience symptoms such as joint pain and swelling, redness of the skin around the joint, reduced ability to move the joint, joint stiffness and warmth around the joint, according to PubMedHealth. Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis have no cure. Treatment is designed to reduce pain and prevent disability. Doctors may prescribe pain medications such as acetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen and noproxen. Corticostreoids are also used to reduce joint inflammation and swelling.
- Patients with arthritis experience symptoms such as joint pain and swelling, redness of the skin around the joint, reduced ability to move the joint, joint stiffness and warmth around the joint, according to PubMedHealth.
- Corticostreoids are also used to reduce joint inflammation and swelling.
What Is Pernicious Anemia
The term anemia refers to medical conditions in which the body can’t make enough healthy red blood cells to transport oxygen.
Pernicious anemia is a type of anemia mainly caused by an autoimmune process that attacks the cells that produce intrinsic factor, a substance the digestive system needs to absorb vitamin B12 from food.
Intrinsic factor is needed to absorb dietary vitamin B12 in the small intestine. Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin, and you need it to allow for proper red blood cell production and function, as well as to keep nerve cells healthy.
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What Is The Best Vitamin For Arthritis
Top 4 Supplements to Treat Arthritis PainCurcumin Evidence suggests the turmeric root has anti-inflammatory properties. Vitamin D. If you have arthritis pain or are at high risk for arthritis, your doctor may recommend a vitamin D supplement. Omega-3 fatty acids. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate.
How Myrateam Members Use Vitamin B12
Several myRAteam members have shared that they use vitamin B12 to combat fatigue or tiredness. Some find that it helps a little, like a member who shared, I can barely get myself out of the car after the drive home from work. I do take a vitamin B complex with vitamin C and a sublingual B12. It does help a bit.
Others find that vitamin B helps them combat fatigue quite a bit. One member explained, I take a vitamin B1, B6, B12 complex. It allows me to work and is my key guard against being tired. A vitamin B supplement is essential.
Others find that, while vitamin B12 supplementation helps, it does not do as much as they would hope. I have received two B12 shots, and yes, they helped both times, one member shared. I actually had some energy to do a few things around the house and spend some fun time with grandkids. Just didnt last long enough.
Vitamin B12 may be even more essential for people who dont get enough of it through their diet, like vegetarians. As one member explained, I get B12 shots. One of my doctors, who is a vegetarian, told me that the only way vegetarians can get B12 is to take it as a supplement or through injections.
Vitamin B12, while only rarely used alone, may be part of a supplement regimen that can help you feel better.
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Does Vitamin B12 Have Any Side Effects
There are very few side effects from taking vitamin B12, especially when it is taken in normal doses. Some people who take it in high doses may experience gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Theres also a chance of experiencing headaches, increased tiredness, and tingling in your hands and feet.
Iron And Hemoglobin Labs
This has been pleasantly surprising news, although baffling to me until I think I finally figured it out.
In the past, taking oral iron pills never helped raise my hemoglobin or other iron labs much. Also, when I would have iron infusions in the past, they would work for a short period of time but then my hemoglobin and other labs would go back to being abnormally low.
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Symptoms Of B12 Deficiency
Patients with B12 deficiency experience symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, pale skin, coldness in hands and feet, mouth soreness, sore tongue, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, abnormal heart rhythm, constipation, loss of appetite, weight loss, numbness and tingling of extremities, confusion, depression, poor memory and problems maintaining balance, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Untreated B12 deficiency can cause permanent nerve damage, psychosis, severe dementia and problems walking.
Yes It’s Possible To Have Too Much Vitamin D
Supplementing with vitamin D is a balancing act. Excessive vitamin D supplementation over time can be toxic, leading to abnormal heart rhythms, kidney stones, muscle weakness, and confusion. Still, this is rare and happens only with extremely high-dose supplementation60,000 IU a day for several months, according to the Mayo Clinic. Your doctor can help you find the right dose for you.
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Does Vitamin B12 Interact With Ra Medications
Vitamin B12 is not known to interact with any medications taken specifically for RA. It can interact with metformin , most commonly taken for diabetes, or proton pump inhibitors that are taken for gastric issues.
Note that taking other forms of vitamin B, specifically folate or folic acid, may interact with methotrexate . However, vitamin B12 has not been implicated in any of these studies or clinical trials.
Diagnosis And Treatment Of Vitamin B12 Deficiency
As some of the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and vitamin B12 deficiency overlap, it is imperative to diagnose this condition correctly, as there is a greater chance for it to be misdiagnosed. The definitive diagnosis of vitamin B12 deficiency includes serum homocysteine and methylmalonic acid levels, as they are considered more reliable than vitamin B12 blood concentration.
After a definitive diagnosis of vitamin B12, patients can either be treated with vitamin B12 supplements in the form of capsules, sublinguals, nasal sprays or injections. Injections are administered either intramuscularly or subcutaneously they are required in severe vitamin B12 deficiency and stomach disorders that prevent complete absorption of vitamin through food.
Vitamin B12 deficiency can be prevented by taking a healthy diet rich in animal foods such as fish, meat, poultry, milk, cheese and other dairy products. As vitamin B12 is found only in animal sources, strict vegetarians and vegans should consume diet and foods fortified with vitamin B12 such as vecon veg stock, textured veg protein, soya milk, veg and sunflower margarines and breakfast cereals.
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