Mikronährstoffe bei Arthrose: Wie können sie die Behandlung unterstützen?

Micronutrients for osteoarthritis: How can they support treatment?

What effect can micronutrients have on migraines? Reading Micronutrients for osteoarthritis: How can they support treatment? 4 minutes Next Can micronutrients support wound healing?

Share

Osteoarthritis is joint wear and tear, often caused by excessive strain on the joints or incorrect strain. Osteoarthritis is associated with pain and limited mobility.

The disease begins with loss of cartilage. This impairs the function of the joint and causes painful inflammation. In the final stage, the bones rub against each other unprotected, which is very painful.

Osteoarthritis can occur in all joints. However, knee, hip and shoulder joints are particularly frequently affected. It is accompanied by inflammation (arthritis), which often becomes chronic.

Joint wear is usually caused by a combination of different factors and the exact cause is often difficult to determine. The most common causes include:

high load or incorrect load,
genetic predisposition,
Lack of exercise,
Diabetes,
Menopause and old age

Physiotherapy and regular, joint-friendly exercise are important components of the treatment.

If the joints are subjected to heavy strain (e.g. due to excess weight), the cause of the strain should be eliminated.

Insoles, joint supports and bandages can relieve pressure on the joints.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often used to relieve inflammation and pain. Opioids are also used for very severe pain.

As a last resort, surgery may also be useful.

Micronutrients are used in osteoarthritis to counteract inflammation and relieve pain.

Omega-3 fatty acids

In osteoarthritis, the joints are usually inflamed. The inflammation contributes to the pain and damages the cartilage.

Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory effects. High levels of omega-3 fatty acids are associated with reduced cartilage loss. [1] In one study, taking omega-3 supplements was able to relieve joint pain and improve joint function. [2]

Vitamin D, Vitamin K2 & Calcium

The breakdown of cartilage puts a lot of strain on the bones in osteoarthritis. That is why it is particularly important to ensure a good supply of nutrients that are essential for bone health in osteoarthritis.

Calcium is an essential component of bones that is important for bone strength.

Vitamin D , in turn, is needed for the absorption of calcium. Vitamin K promotes the storage of calcium in the bones.

MSM

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is organic sulfur, which is an important component of cartilage.

MSM also has anti-inflammatory properties and counteracts oxidative stress. Oxidative stress leads to inflammation and can worsen osteoarthritis.

In studies, MSM was able to slightly relieve osteoarthritis pain. [3] It appears to be particularly effective in combination with chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine – two other important cartilage components.

Hyaluronic acid

Hyaluronic acid is an important component of synovial fluid and acts as a “lubricant”.

In osteoarthritis, hyaluronic acid is usually injected into the joint. But studies suggest that taking hyaluronic acid ingestion could also be helpful in osteoarthritis. [4]

Curcumin

Curcumin from the turmeric root has a strong anti-inflammatory effect. It also has an antioxidant effect, which also reduces inflammation.

A large meta-analysis concluded that taking curcumin can relieve knee pain and improve quality of life in osteoarthritis. [5]

There are many other important antioxidants such as zinc , selenium , vitamin C and vitamin E, which should not be missing in the case of osteoarthritis. Grape seed extract (OPC) can also probably support the therapy.

Collagen

Collagen is an important component of articular cartilage and supports its strength.

Studies suggest that taking collagen can improve mobility and reduce pain in osteoarthritis. [6]

Conclusion: Micronutrients can reduce inflammation and counteract pain

Micronutrients can support the treatment of osteoarthritis. They can provide components for building cartilage. Many micronutrients also have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which are useful in therapy.