Glucosamine, Chondroitin and Osteoarthritis
Glucosamine and Chondroitin work!
Whether you have just started to feel the signs of Osteoarthritis (OA), have just been diagnosed, or have been suffering for years, there are several questions you should ask your doctor.
With the combination of a trusted physician and personal knowledge, you can have the peace of mind of an effective osteoarthritis management plan. Knowing everything you can about your condition can keep you healthy and active. Sometimes doctors are so used to seeing the disease, that they are programmed to skip steps and head straight to medications that could potentially be avoided.
It is to your advantage to ask as many questions as possible, to become well informed and proactive about your health. You may wish to make a list ahead of time, so, you don’t lose sight of important details during your consult.
Questions You May Have about Glucosamine, Chondroitin and Osteoarthritis:
- How progressed is my Osteoarthritis? It is important to know how severe your arthritis is, or if you are in the beginning stages. X-rays are able to detect arthritis after it has progressed. Sometimes early signs of OA will not show up on the film. A management plan should be based on your exact case of OA.
- Do I really need to take NSAID’s? Are they safe? NSAID’s (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) are effective at managing pain, but sometimes that is at the expense of your overall health. NSAID’s are very harsh on your body, and they are not ideal for long term use. You may be able to avoid NSAID’s by following a management plan of diet, exercise, and a glucosamine supplement.
- Should I exercise if I am in pain, or will it make my OA pain worse? Exercise is extremely important for arthritis sufferers. It helps to build the needed muscles that support the body and joints. Also, it helps to keep your joints fluid and your limbs flexible. It also helps you maintain an ideal body mass. Speak to your doctor about the best exercises for your particular OA, but in most cases, swimming, walking, yoga, and tai chi are recommended. They are easy on the joints (low impact), yet very effective.
- Should I take any nutritional supplements? Speak to your doctor about the benefits of liquid Glucosamine/Chondroitin supplement. Clinical studies that date back decades havea indicated that Glucosamine has been beneficial to OA sufferers. Many doctors recommend the supplement as the first course of action, and there are no adverse effects like those with NSAID’s.
