Experiencing joint pain and stiffness? Maryland doctor shares 5 supplements to provide relief

As the modern lifestyle becomes more sedentary, joint pain and stiffness becomes ever more common. Dr Sood shares supplements that help with the issue.

Joint pain and stiffness are one of the most common lifestyle issues that people face with ageing. However, as a result of our increasingly sedentary lives, one is now at risk of experiencing them at much younger ages as well.

While maintaining regular healthy habits, such as exercising and eating nutritious meals, goes a long way in keeping the issue at bay, supplements also help. Taking to Instagram on June 25, Dr Kunal Sood, a Maryland-based physician in Anesthesiology and Interventional Pain Medicine, listed five of them.

1. Curcumin

Curcumin is the primary bioactive polyphenol found in turmeric. Its medicinal properties are well documented, and it is known for helping with joint aches. The absorption of curcumin from turmeric is greatly improved when paired with black pepper.

Explaining the benefits, Dr Sood stated, “Curcumin targets inflammatory pathways such as NF-κB, COX-2, cytokines, and oxidative stress. Clinical trials and meta-analyses suggest improvements in pain, stiffness, and function in osteoarthritis, with some studies reporting symptom relief comparable to NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) over the short term.”

2. Boswellia

A herbal extract from the plant with the same name, as per Dr Sood, “Boswellia contains boswellic acids that inhibit 5-lipoxygenase and other inflammatory pathways involved in synovitis and joint discomfort. Meta-analyses report improvements in pain, stiffness, and function, with benefits often appearing after at least four weeks.”

3. Omega-3s

While people are often worried about their cholesterol intake, there are certain good cholesterols that are beneficial for health. Among them are omega-3 fatty acids, which also help relieve joint pain.

EPA and DHA are essential long-chain omega-3 fatty acids often found in fatty fish. According to Dr Sood, they “influence inflammatory lipid signalling and help generate specialised pro-resolving mediators. Studies show modest improvements in osteoarthritis pain and function, while rheumatoid arthritis studies suggest reductions in morning stiffness and NSAID requirements.”

4. Collagen

Collagen is a structural protein found in the human body. “Collagen supplements may support joint tissues through connective tissue and immune-related pathways, depending on the formulation,” noted Dr Sood. “Meta-analyses suggest small-to-moderate improvements in pain and function, though current evidence does not show cartilage regeneration.”

5. Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble micronutrient that is essential for bone health, calcium absorption, and immune function. When an individual is deficient in vitamin D, supplements are a great way to bridge the gap.

“Low vitamin D can contribute to bone pain, muscle weakness, and impaired mineralisation. Correcting deficiency may improve function, but vitamin D has not been established as a reliable osteoarthritis pain treatment in vitamin D-replete adults,” noted Dr Sood.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

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