Osteoarthritis: the 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 a progressive breakdown of cartilage, the smooth substance that covers the ends of bones and allows their movement to be smooth. Unlike other inflammatory joint diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis is primarily non-inflammatory, although minor inflammation may occur in advanced stages. Contrary to the older view of simple "wear-and-tear" related to aging, osteoarthritis is now considered a condition that can appear early, although its symptoms often do not become apparent until 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 may include genetic, metabolic and mechanical factors. Aging remains an important risk factor, but other factors such as obesity, joint trauma, and certain metabolic diseases (such as diabetes) also contribute to the development of the disease. The underlying causes of osteoarthritis may be related to endocrine disorders or other internal metabolic problems (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 upon waking in the morning. • Crackling sounds: during joint movement. • Deformity: of the joints, especially in the hands. • Reduced mobility: limiting daily activities. • Joint effusion: accumulation of synovial fluid in the 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 thinning of the cartilage and the formation of osteophytes. Osteophytes, also known as "parrot beaks," are bony outgrowths that form around joints affected by osteoarthritis.

Treatments

The treatment of osteoarthritis primarily aims to relieve pain, improve joint function and slow the progression of the disease. Here are some therapeutic options: • Medications: Analgesics such as acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to relieve pain. Corticosteroids are often administered as injections directly into or around the joint to reduce pain and inflammation. These injections should be performed by an experienced physician and under strict aseptic conditions to avoid infections. It is also possible to use hyaluronic acid injections, although their effectiveness is considered insufficient. • Supplements and chondroprotective agents: Supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are sometimes recommended to maintain cartilage health, although 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 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 physical therapy to maximize results. • Physical therapy: Physical exercise under the supervision of a physical therapist helps maintain joint mobility, strengthen the 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 is based on several simple but effective measures. Controlling weight to reduce the load on weight-bearing joints such as the knees and hips. Regular, moderate physical activity helps strengthen the muscles around the joints, thereby improving their stability. It is also recommended to avoid repetitive movements and activities that place excessive pressure on the joints. Finally, a diet rich in essential nutrients, such as zinc, copper, sulfur and omega-3s, contributes to joint health and the prevention of long-term inflammation.