Posted by Maria Velazquez
on July 20, 2025
A Comprehensive Approach to Relieving Joint Pain and Improving Your Quality of Life
Osteoarthritis, a condition that affects millions of people worldwide, is much more than a simple
Natural wear and tear. It's a chronic degenerative disease that significantly impacts quality of life, limiting mobility and causing persistent pain. But what exactly is osteoarthritis, and how can we address it effectively? At Nutremys, we believe in a holistic approach that combines scientific knowledge with the power of nutrition and supplements to offer you real solutions.
What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis, also known as osteoarthritis, is the most common joint disease and a leading cause of disability worldwide [1]. It is characterized by the progressive degeneration of articular cartilage, the smooth, elastic tissue that covers the ends of bones in joints, allowing for smooth, frictionless movement. When this cartilage deteriorates, the bones begin to rub against each other, leading to pain, inflammation, stiffness, and a gradual decrease in mobility [2].
Unlike other forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, which are autoimmune diseases, osteoarthritis is primarily a mechanical and biological disease affecting the entire joint, including the subchondral bone, ligaments, joint capsule, and periarticular muscles [3]. Although commonly associated with aging, it is not simply an inevitable consequence of age, but a complex condition influenced by multiple factors.
Most Common Causes of Osteoarthritis
The causes of osteoarthritis are multifactorial and often interconnected. Understanding them is crucial for implementing effective prevention and management strategies.
Primary Risk Factors:
• Aging: This is the most significant risk factor. Over time, cartilage loses its ability to repair and regenerate, becoming more susceptible to damage [4].
• Obesity: Excess body weight increases the mechanical load on weight-bearing joints, such as the knees and hips, accelerating cartilage wear. In addition, adipose tissue produces pro-inflammatory substances that can contribute to cartilage degradation [5].
• Previous Joint Injuries: Trauma, fractures, sprains or joint surgeries can alter the structure and biomechanics of the joint, predisposing to the development of osteoarthritis years later [6].
• Genetics: There is a genetic predisposition to developing osteoarthritis. If there is a family history of the disease, the risk may be higher.
• Excessive or Repetitive Use of Joints: Certain professions or sports activities that involve repetitive movements or high loads on the joints can contribute to premature wear of the cartilage.
• Congenital or Acquired Joint Deformities: Abnormalities in the shape of joints, such as hip dysplasia, can lead to an abnormal distribution of loads and an increased risk of osteoarthritis.
• Other Diseases: Some medical conditions, such as diabetes, gout, or rheumatoid arthritis, can increase the risk of developing secondary osteoarthritis.
Main Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
The symptoms of osteoarthritis usually develop slowly and worsen over time. They vary in intensity and can affect one or more joints. The most common include:
• Joint Pain: This is the cardinal symptom. Initially, the pain occurs during or after physical activity and improves with rest. As the disease progresses, the pain may become constant, even at rest, and affect sleep. This pain is aggravated by movement and weight-bearing on the affected joint, being one of the main reasons for seeking relief from joint pain [7].
• Stiffness: Especially noticeable in the morning or after periods of inactivity. This stiffness usually lasts less than 30 minutes and improves with gentle movement.
• Decreased Flexibility: The affected joint may not be able to move through its full normal range of motion. Everyday activities such as bending down, climbing stairs, or lifting objects may become difficult.
• Sensitivity: The joint may feel sensitive to touch or pressure.
• Crackling: You may hear or feel crackling noises
A clicking or cracking sound when moving the joint, due to the rubbing of the bones from the loss of cartilage.
• Inflammation: There may be swelling around the joint, caused by fluid buildup.
• Formation of Osteophytes (Bone Spurs): As cartilage deteriorates, the body attempts to repair the damage by forming small bony growths at the edges of the joint, which can cause pain and further limit movement.
Conventional Treatments for Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis treatment focuses on relieving pain, improving joint function, and slowing disease progression. Conventional approaches include a combination of non-drug and drug-based measures:
Non-Pharmacological Approaches:
• Education and Self-Management: Understanding the disease and learning to manage it is fundamental. This includes joint protection and adapting activities.
• Therapeutic Exercise: Personalized exercise programs, including muscle strengthening, stretching, and low-impact aerobic exercises (such as walking, swimming, or cycling), are crucial to maintaining mobility, reducing pain, and improving function [8].
• Weight Loss: For overweight or obese individuals, weight reduction significantly decreases the load on affected joints, especially knees and hips, and can relieve pain [9].
• Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy: These help improve strength, flexibility, balance and posture, as well as teach techniques for performing daily activities with less stress on the joints.
• Support Devices: The use of walking sticks, walkers, knee braces or orthotic insoles can help reduce the load and pain on the joints.
• Applying Heat or Cold: Hot or cold compresses can provide temporary relief from pain and stiffness.
Pharmacological Approaches:
• Analgesics: Medications such as paracetamol are often the first line of treatment for mild to moderate pain [10].
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Ibuprofen, naproxen, among others, are used to reduce pain and inflammation. They can be oral or topical [11].
• Intra-articular injections:
• Corticosteroids: They provide fast relief from pain and inflammation, but their effects are temporary and they should not be used too often [12].
• Hyaluronic Acid: Hyaluronic acid injections (viscosupplementation) can improve joint lubrication and cushioning, relieving pain in some patients, especially in the knee [13].
• Other Medications: In some cases, other drugs may be considered, such as duloxetine, an antidepressant that can also help with chronic osteoarthritis pain.
Surgery:
When conservative treatments are insufficient and pain is severe and debilitating, surgery may be an option. Procedures include osteotomies (bone reshaping) or arthroplasties (total joint replacement, such as knee or hip replacement) [14].
How Nutrition and Dietary Supplements Can Help
While conventional treatments are essential, a growing body of research highlights the crucial role of nutrition and dietary supplements in managing osteoarthritis. A proper diet and strategic supplementation can not only complement existing treatments but also address key aspects of the disease, such as inflammation, oxidative stress, and cartilage health. This holistic approach aims to improve joint health from within, offering a way to alleviate joint pain and enhance quality of life.
Nutrition plays a vital role in modulating systemic inflammation, a factor that contributes to the progression of osteoarthritis. A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods can reduce the inflammatory burden in the body, while certain supplements can provide the necessary building blocks for cartilage or compounds with protective properties. At Nutremys, we understand that joint nutrition is a fundamental pillar for the well-being of your joints.
Top Supplements with Scientific Evidence for Joint Health
Scientific research has highlighted the potential of several supplements to support joint health and help relieve pain associated with osteoarthritis. It's important to note that effectiveness can vary between individuals and that the quality of the supplement is crucial. Below, we explore some of the most notable:
1. Collagen (Especially Hydrolyzed Collagen)
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body and a key structural component of cartilage, bones, tendons, and ligaments. In osteoarthritis, collagen degradation in cartilage is a central factor. Hydrolyzed collagen, a form of collagen that has been broken down into smaller peptides for easier absorption, has shown promising results.
• Scientific Evidence: Some studies suggest that supplementation with hydrolyzed collagen may contribute to reducing joint pain and improving mobility and function in people with osteoarthritis [15, 16]. Daily doses of 10 grams of hydrolyzed collagen have been observed to have beneficial effects on pain and functional disorders [17]. Furthermore, research in athletes has indicated that collagen supplements may improve joint flexibility and function [18]. Although the European Food Safety Agency (EFSA) has noted that the evidence is not conclusive for all claims, research continues to support its use in joint nutrition.
2. Turmeric and Curcumin
Turmeric is a spice known for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, primarily attributed to its active compound, curcumin. Chronic inflammation is a key driver in the progression of osteoarthritis, making curcumin a target of interest.
• Scientific Evidence: Numerous studies have reported positive effects of curcumin on osteoarthritis, helping to reduce pain and inflammation [19, 20]. Meta-analyses and randomized clinical trials have shown that curcumin can be as effective as some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in reducing pain and improving function in patients with knee osteoarthritis, with a favorable safety profile [21, 22]. Doses of around 1000 mg/day of curcumin for 8 to 12 weeks have been shown to be effective [23].
3. MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane)
MSM is an organic sulfur compound found naturally in plants, animals, and humans. Sulfur is an essential mineral for the formation of connective tissue, including cartilage and ligaments.
• Scientific Evidence: MSM supplementation has been shown to slightly reduce pain and swelling and improve physical function in people with osteoarthritis [24]. It acts as a natural pain reliever and has anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to the repair of joint tissue [25]. Clinical studies suggest that MSM may be effective in reducing pain, stiffness, and swelling, and its effects are enhanced when combined with other supplements such as glucosamine [26].
4. Glucosamine and Chondroitin
Glucosamine and chondroitin are natural components of healthy cartilage. They are believed to help maintain cartilage structure and elasticity, and to inhibit enzymes that break it down.
• Scientific Evidence: Research on glucosamine and chondroitin has been extensive and, at times, contradictory. However, several meta-analyses and clinical trials have indicated that these supplements may offer modest pain reduction and functional improvement in patients with osteoarthritis, particularly in the knee [27, 28]. A multinational study (MOVES, 2016) found that the combination of glucosamine and chondroitin was as effective as celecoxib (an NSAID) in relieving pain and swelling in knee osteoarthritis [29]. Despite some controversy regarding the magnitude of their effect, many healthcare professionals consider them a safe and beneficial option for joint nutrition.
5. Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid is a key component of synovial fluid, which lubricates joints and acts as a shock absorber. While best known for its intra-articular injections, oral supplementation has also gained attention.
• Scientific Evidence: Studies suggest that oral hyaluronic acid may be beneficial in combating the symptoms of osteoarthritis, helping to reduce joint pain and improve function [30, 31]. It is believed to act by modulating inflammatory and catabolic processes within the joint, as well as improving lubrication and cushioning [32].
6. Vitamin D
Vitamin D is essential for bone health and plays an important role in muscle function and the immune system. Its deficiency has been linked to an increased risk of osteoarthritis progression and chronic pain.
• Scientific Evidence: Maintaining adequate vitamin D levels is crucial for joint health. Some studies have associated vitamin D deficiency with an increased risk of osteoarthritis progression and pain intensity [33]. In addition, vitamin D has anti-inflammatory properties that may be beneficial in the context of osteoarthritis [34].
7. Omega-3
Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, are known for their potent anti-inflammatory properties. They are found in fatty fish, flax seeds, and chia seeds.
• Scientific Evidence: Omega-3 supplementation may help reduce systemic inflammation, which is beneficial for people with osteoarthritis, as inflammation contributes to cartilage degradation and pain [35]. Although they do not act directly on cartilage, their general anti-inflammatory effect may help relieve joint pain and improve overall well-being.
Nutrition for Healthy Joints: Beyond Supplements
In addition to supplements, a nutrient-rich, anti-inflammatory diet is essential for joint health. Prioritize foods such as:
• Fruits and Vegetables: Abundant in antioxidants and vitamins that combat oxidative stress and inflammation.
• Fatty Fish: Salmon, mackerel, sardines, rich in Omega-3.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Source of healthy fats and anti-inflammatory compounds.
• Nuts and Seeds: They provide healthy fats, fiber and antioxidants.
• Spices: In addition to turmeric, ginger and cinnamon have anti-inflammatory properties.
Avoid or limit your consumption of processed foods, refined sugars, trans fats, and red meat, as these can promote inflammation in the body.
Conclusion: A Step Towards Healthier Joints with Nutremys
Osteoarthritis is a complex condition that requires a multifaceted approach. While conventional treatments are essential, nutrition and strategic supplementation are emerging as powerful allies for relieving joint pain, improving function, and slowing disease progression. By integrating an anti-inflammatory diet with science-backed supplements, you can take an active role in caring for your joints and significantly improve your quality of life.
At Nutremys, we are committed to your well-being. Our product line is carefully formulated to offer you the highest quality supplements, designed to support your joint health. We invite you to explore our selection of collagen, turmeric, MSM, glucosamine, chondroitin, hyaluronic acid, vitamin D, and Omega-3, and discover how Nutremys can be your ally on the path to stronger, more flexible, and pain-free joints. Your joint health is our priority!
Scientific References
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