Dad for joints: What is important to know before buying?

Dad for joints: What is important to know before buying?

I. Anatomy and joint physiology: the basis of understanding of problems

Before considering biologically active additives (dietary supplements) for the joints, it is necessary to understand the structure and function of these complex anatomical formations. The joints are places of connection of two or more bones, ensuring the mobility of the skeleton and allowing us to perform a wide range of movements. Joint health directly affects the quality of life, so it is important to know how they are arranged and how they function.

A. The main components of the joint:

1. Bones: The basis of the joint providing structural support. The ends of the bones forming the joint are covered with articular cartilage.

2. Joint cartilage: Smooth, elastic fabric covering the ends of the bones. It acts as a shock absorber, reducing friction between bones during movement and preventing their wear. Cartilage consists of chondrocytes (cartilage cells) and intercellular substance, consisting mainly of collagen, proteoglycans and water.

3. Synovial shell: A thin membrane lining the joint capsule. It releases a synovial fluid that lubricates the joint and provides nutrition of cartilage.

4. Synovial fluid: A viscous fluid filling the joint cavity. It reduces friction between the joint surfaces, provides nutrition of cartilage and removes metabolism products.

5. The joint capsule: A dense fibrous shell surrounding the joint and stabilizing it. It consists of several layers and is strengthened by ligaments.

6. Blues: Durable fibrous bones connecting the bones and ensure the stability of the joint. They limit the range of movements in the joint, preventing its dislocation.

7. Meniskis (in some joints): Cartilage gaskets located between the joint surfaces (for example, in the knee joint). They improve the congruence of the articular surfaces, amortize shots and distribute the load.

B. Types of joints:

The joints are classified according to the degree of mobility and structure:

1. Sinartrosis (motionless joints): Connect the bones by means of dense connective tissue or cartilage. Examples: seams of the skull.

2. Amphartrosis (sedentary joints): Provide limited mobility. Examples: Intervertebral discs.

3. Diarthrosis (mobile joints): They have a wide range of movements. Examples: knee, hip, shoulder joints. Diarthrosis has a joint cavity, a synovial shell and joint cartilage.

C. Joint functions:

1. Ensuring mobility: Joints allow various movements, such as flexion, extension, rotation, abduction and bringing.

2. Depreciation: The articular cartilage and synovial fluid amortize blows and reduce the load on the bones.

3. Stability: The ligaments and the joint capsule provide the stability of the joint and prevent its dislocation.

4. Load distribution: Meniski (in the knee joint) distribute the load on the joint surfaces, reducing the pressure on individual areas.

D. Factors affecting the health of the joints:

1. Age: With age, the joint cartilage occurs, the amount of synovial fluid decreases, the ligaments become less elastic.

2. Genetic predisposition: The presence of genetic factors can increase the risk of joint diseases, such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

3. Injuries: Joint injuries, such as dislocations, stretching and fractures, can lead to damage to cartilage, ligaments and other structures, which increases the risk of arthrosis.

4. Overweight: Excess weight increases the load on the joints, especially on the knee and hip, which accelerates the wear of the cartilage.

5. Sedentary lifestyle: The lack of physical activity leads to the weakening of the muscles that support the joints and the deterioration of the blood supply to the cartilage.

6. Excessive physical activity: Intensive training and hard physical work can lead to overload of the joints and cartilage damage.

7. Inflammatory diseases: Rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases can cause inflammation of the joints, leading to the destruction of cartilage and bones.

8. Inal meals: The deficiency of vitamins and minerals necessary for the health of the joints can contribute to the development of degenerative changes.

II. Common joint diseases: causes, symptoms, diagnosis

Understanding of common joint diseases is necessary for choosing the right strategies for treatment and prevention, including the use of dietary supplements. It is important to distinguish various types of diseases, since they have different causes and require different approaches.

A. Osteoarthritis (OA):

1. Definition: Chronic degenerative joint disease, characterized by progressive destruction of joint cartilage and changes in bone tissue.

2. Reasons:

   • Age: The main risk factor. With age, natural wear of the cartilage occurs.
   • Genetic predisposition: The presence of genes predisposing to the development of OA.
   • Injuries: Transferred joint injuries (fractures, dislocations, stretching).
   • Overweight: Increased joint load.
   • Repeating movements: Professional or sports loads leading to the overload of the joints.
   • Congenital joint abnormalities: Hip joint dysplasia and others.

3. Symptoms:

   • Joint pain: It intensifies when moving and decreases at rest.
   • STATION: Especially in the morning or after the period of inaction.
   • Mobility restriction: Difficulty in performing movements.
   • Cryst in the joint: It occurs when moving.
   • Swelling and inflammation: In the joint.
   • Joint deformation: In the late stages of the disease.

4. Diagnosis:

   • Physical examination: Assessment of the mobility of the joint, the presence of pain and crepitus.
   • Radiography: Detection of narrowing of the joint gap, osteophytes (bone growths) and other changes.
   • Magnetic resonance tomography (MRI): Visualization of cartilage, ligaments and other soft tissues of the joint.
   • Analysis of synovial fluid: The exclusion of other causes of pain in the joint (infection, gout).

B. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA):

1. Definition: Chronic autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation of the joints and damage to other organs and systems.

2. Reasons:

   • Autoimmune reaction: The immune system attacks its own tissues of the body, including joints.
   • Genetic predisposition: The presence of certain genes (for example, HLA-DR4).
   • Environmental factors: Smoking, infection.

3. Symptoms:

   • Pain and stiffness in the joints: Usually symmetrical (the same joints on both sides of the body are affected).
   • Morning stiffness: It lasts more than 30 minutes.
   • Swelling and inflammation of the joints: Warm to the touch.
   • Fatigue and weakness: General malaise.
   • Damage to other organs: Eyes, lungs, heart, skin.

4. Diagnosis:

   • Physical examination: Assessment of joints for the presence of inflammation, soreness and limitation of mobility.
   • Blood test: Determination of the rheumatoid factor (RF) and antibodies to the cyclic citrullinated peptide (ACCP).
   • Radiography: Detection of bone erosion and narrowing of the joint gap.
   • MRI: Visualization of inflammation of the synovial membrane and other changes.

C. gout:

1. Definition: The disease caused by the deposition of uric acid crystals in the joints and other tissues.

2. Reasons:

   • Hyperuricemia: Increased uric acid level in the blood.
   • Violation of uric acid metabolism: Increased formation or reduced excretion of uric acid.
   • Diet: The use of a large number of products rich in purins (red meat, seafood, alcohol).
   • Renal failure: Reduced elimination of uric acid by the kidneys.
   • Medicines: Diuretics.

3. Symptoms:

   • Acute joint pain: Usually in the thumb of the leg (gouty arthritis).
   • Swelling, redness and soreness of the joint: Strong inflammation.
   • Fever: In some cases.
   • Tofu: Deposits of uric acid crystals in subcutaneous tissue.

4. Diagnosis:

   • Physical examination: Assessment of the joint for inflammation and pain.
   • Analysis of synovial fluid: Detection of uric acid crystals.
   • Blood test: Determination of uric acid level.
   • Radiography: Detection of bone erosion in the late stages of the disease.

D. Bursis:

1. Definition: Inflammation of the synovial bag (Bursa), which is a small bag filled with liquid, located between bones, tendons and muscles.

2. Reasons:

   • Repeating movements: Cracing the joint.
   • Injuries: Blows, fall.
   • Infections: Rarely.
   • Rheumatoid arthritis and other diseases: Autoimmune processes.

3. Symptoms:

   • Joint pain: Intensifies when moving.
   • Swelling: Soft education under the skin.
   • Mobility restriction: Difficulty in performing movements.

4. Diagnosis:

   • Physical examination: Assessment of the joint area for the presence of pain and swelling.
   • Radiography: Exclusion of other causes of pain (fractures).
   • Ultrasound examination (ultrasound): Visualization of the brush and the presence of liquid in it.

E. Tandinite:

1. Definition: Inflammation of the tendon that connects the muscle to the bone.

2. Reasons:

   • Repeating movements: Coasting the tendon.
   • Injuries: Stretches, tears.
   • Age: With age, tendons become less elastic.

3. Symptoms:

   • Tendon pain: Intensifies when moving.
   • Palpation soreness: A feeling of pain when touching the tendon.
   • Mobility restriction: Difficulty in performing movements.

4. Diagnosis:

   • Physical examination: Assessment of the tendon for the presence of pain and limiting mobility.
   • Ultrasound: Visualization of the tendon and the presence of inflammation.
   • MRI: In more complex cases.

III. A review of the dietary supplements for the joints: composition, mechanism of action, efficiency

Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) for joints become more and more popular, since many people are looking for ways to relieve pain, improve mobility and slow down the progression of joint diseases. However, it is important to understand the composition, mechanism of action and the proven effectiveness of these additives before making a decision on the purchase.

A. Glucosamine:

1. Composition and sources: Aminosaccharide, naturally present in the human body. They are obtained from shells of crustaceans (shrimp, crabs, lobsters) or produced synthetically.

2. The mechanism of action:

   • Building material for cartilage: Glucosamine is the precursor of glycosaminoglycans (GAG), which are the main components of the articular cartilage.
   • Synthesis of cartilage: It is assumed that glucosamine stimulates chondrocytes (cartilage cells) to the synthesis of a new cartilage.
   • Anti -inflammatory action: It has a weak anti -inflammatory effect.

3. Output forms: Glucosamine sulfate, glucosamine hydrochloride, n-acetylhlucosamine.

4. Dosage: Usually 1500 mg per day, divided into several tricks.

5. Efficiency: Research gives conflicting results. Some studies show that glucosamine can reduce pain and improve the function of the joints with osteoarthritis, especially the knee joint. Other studies have not revealed a significant effect. Meta analyzes also demonstrate ambiguous results. Glucosamine sulfate is often considered more effective than hydrochloride glucosamine.

6. Side effects: Usually well tolerated. Light side effects are possible, such as nausea, diarrhea, heartburn and constipation. People with allergies for seafood should be careful when taking glucosamine obtained from crustaceans.

B. Honroitin sulfate:

1. Composition and sources: Glycosaminoglican, naturally present in cartilage. They are obtained from the cartilage fabric of animals (for example, cattle, pigs, sharks).

2. The mechanism of action:

   • Holding water in cartilage: Chondroitin sulfate has the ability to hold water in cartilage, which ensures its elasticity and depreciation properties.
   • Inhibition of enzymes that destroy the cartilage: It is assumed that chondroitin sulfate suppresses the activity of enzymes, such as matrix metal proproteinase (MMP), which destroy cartilage.
   • Anti -inflammatory action: It has an anti -inflammatory effect.

3. Output forms: Hondroitine is sulfate.

4. Dosage: Usually 800-1200 mg per day, divided into several tricks.

5. Efficiency: As in the case of glucosamine, research gives conflicting results. Some studies show that chondroitin sulfate can reduce the pain and improve joint function in osteoarthritis. Other studies have not revealed a significant effect. Efficiency may depend on the quality of chondroitin sulfate and the source of its receipt. It is important to choose products from reliable manufacturers.

6. Side effects: Usually well tolerated. Light side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea and stomach disorder, are possible.

C. Methyl sulfonylmetatan (MSM):

1. Composition and sources: The organic compound of sulfur, naturally present in the human body, animals and plants. Can be obtained synthetically.

2. The mechanism of action:

   • Source Source: Sure is an important component of many proteins and enzymes necessary for the health of the joints.
   • Anti -inflammatory action: MSM has an anti -inflammatory effect and can reduce pain and edema in the joints.
   • Antioxidant action: MSM is an antioxidant and can protect the cells from damage by free radicals.

3. Output forms: MSM.

4. Dosage: Usually 1500-3000 mg per day, divided into several tricks.

5. Efficiency: Some studies show that MSM can reduce pain and improve joint function with osteoarthritis. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results.

6. Side effects: Usually well tolerated. Light side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea and headache, are possible.

D. Collagen (Types I, II, III):

1. Composition and sources: Protein, which is the main component of connective tissue, including cartilage, ligaments and tendons. They are obtained from leather, bones and cartilage animals (cattle, pigs, fish).

2. The mechanism of action:

   • Building material for cartilage: Collagen is the main component of the articular cartilage.
   • Collagen synthesis stimulation: It is assumed that the intake of collagen inward stimulates chondrocytes to the synthesis of its own collagen.
   • Reducing inflammation: Some types of collagen (for example, type II collagen) can have an anti -inflammatory effect.

3. Output forms: Hydrolyzed collagen (collagen peptides), non -neaturated collagen type II.

4. Dosage: Depends on the type of collagen. Typically, 5-10 grams of hydrolyzed collagen per day or 40 mg of non-aatured collagen type II per day.

5. Efficiency: Some studies show that collagen can reduce pain and improve joint function with osteoarthritis. Non -unauthorized type II collagen can be more effective for reducing inflammation.

6. Side effects: Usually well tolerated. Mild side effects are possible, such as a disorder of the stomach and heartburn.

E. Hyaluronic acid:

1. Composition and sources: Polysaccharide, naturally present in the synovial fluid and other tissues of the body. Received by fermentation of bacteria or from the rowers of roosters.

2. The mechanism of action:

   • Lubrication of the joints: Hyaluronic acid is the main component of the synovial fluid and provides lubrication of the joints, reducing friction between the articular surfaces.
   • Depreciation: Hyaluronic acid has the ability to hold water and amortize blows.
   • Anti -inflammatory action: Hyaluronic acid can have an anti -inflammatory effect.

3. Output forms: Capsules, tablets, injections (for intra -articular administration).

4. Dosage: Usually 100-200 mg per day.

5. Efficiency: Some studies show that hyaluronic acid taken inward can reduce pain and improve the function of the joints with osteoarthritis. Injections of hyaluronic acid into the joint can also be effective, but they should be carried out by a doctor.

6. Side effects: Usually well tolerated. Mild side effects, such as stomach disorder, are possible. Injections of hyaluronic acid can cause pain and swelling at the injection site.

F. Omega-3 fatty acids:

1. Composition and sources: Paul -saturated fatty acids contained in fish (salmon, tuna, herring), linen seeds, walnuts and other products.

2. The mechanism of action:

   • Anti -inflammatory action: Omega-3 fatty acids have an anti-inflammatory effect and can reduce pain and inflammation in the joints.

3. Output forms: Fish oil, flaxseed oil, capsules with omega-3 fatty acids.

4. Dosage: Usually 1-3 grams per day.

5. Efficiency: Some studies show that omega-3 fatty acids can reduce pain and constraint in the joints with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

6. Side effects: Side effects are possible, such as a fish flavor in the mouth, stomach disorder and nausea.

G. Curcumin (from the turmeric):

1. Composition and sources: Active component of turmeric, spices used in Indian cuisine.

2. The mechanism of action:

   • Anti -inflammatory action: Kurkumin has a powerful anti -inflammatory effect and can reduce pain and inflammation in the joints.
   • Antioxidant action: Kurkumin is an antioxidant and can protect the cells from damage by free radicals.

3. Output forms: Capsules with turmeric extract, turmeric powder.

4. Dosage: Usually 500-2000 mg per day. It is important to choose products with high bioavailability (for example, containing pipin or liposomal form of turmeric).

5. Efficiency: Some studies show that curcumin can be effective for reducing pain and improving joint function in osteoarthritis.

6. Side effects: Usually well tolerated. Mild side effects, such as stomach disorder, are possible.

H. S-adenosylmetionine:

1. Composition and sources: The natural compound present in the human body and involved in many biochemical processes.

2. The mechanism of action:

   • Participation in the synthesis of the cartilage: Same is involved in the synthesis of proteoglycans, which are important components of the articular cartilage.
   • Anti -inflammatory action: Same can have an anti -inflammatory effect.

3. Output forms: Tablets.

4. Dosage: Usually 600-1200 mg per day, divided into several tricks.

5. Efficiency: Some studies show that SAME can be effective for reducing pain and improving joint function in osteoarthritis, comparable to non -steroidal anti -inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

6. Side effects: Side effects are possible, such as nausea, stomach disorder and headache. It is not recommended to take SAME to people with bipolar disorder.

I. Vitamin D:

1. Composition and sources: Fatable vitamin, which is synthesized in the skin under the influence of sunlight. Also contained in some foods (fish, eggs, enriched products).

2. The mechanism of action:

   • Maintaining bone health: Vitamin D is necessary for the absorption of calcium, which is important for the health of bones.
   • Reducing inflammation: Vitamin D can have an anti -inflammatory effect.

3. Output forms: Capsules, tablets, oil solution.

4. Dosage: Depends on the level of vitamin D in the blood. Usually 2000-5000 IU per day. It is necessary to consult a doctor to determine the optimal dosage.

5. Efficiency: Vitamin D deficiency can aggravate joint pain and increase the risk of osteoarthritis. Vitamin D intake can help improve the condition of the bones and reduce inflammation.

6. Side effects: An overdose of vitamin D can lead to hypercalcemia (an increased level of calcium in the blood), which can cause nausea, vomiting and other symptoms.

IV. Factors that should be taken into account when choosing dietary supplements for joints:

When choosing dietary supplements for joints, it is important to consider many factors to ensure the safety and efficiency of the product. Not all dietary supplements are the same, and it is important to conduct a study before making a decision.

A. Sostal Product:

1. Active ingredients: Make sure that the product contains ingredients that are proven, useful for joint health (glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, collagen, hyaluronic acid, omega-3 fatty acids, turmeric, vitamin D).

2. Dosage: Check that the dosage of active ingredients corresponds to the recommended doses specified in the studies.

3. Excipients: Pay attention to the auxiliary substances (fillers, dyes, preservatives). Choose products with a minimum amount of artificial additives.

4. Allergens: Check if the product of allergens (gluten, lactose, soy, seafood) contains if you have an allergy.

B. Quality and safety:

1. Manufacturer: Choose products from famous and reliable manufacturers with a good reputation.

2. Certification: Look for products certified by independent organizations (for example, NSF International, USP, Consumerlab.com). This confirms that the product has undergone cleanliness, efficiency and safety.

3. Production: Make sure that the product is produced in accordance with the GMP standards (Good Manufacturing Practice).

4. Reviews: Read the reviews of other customers about the product.

C. Form of release:

1. Capsules: Easy to swallow and usually tolerate well.
2. Tablets: It can be cheaper than capsules, but it can be more difficult to swallow.
3. Powders: You can mix with water or juice.
4. Liquids: It is easy to dose and accept, but can have an unpleasant taste.
5. Creams and gels: For local use. They can relieve pain and inflammation in the joints, but do not penetrate deep into the fabric.

D. Compatibility with other drugs and additives:

1. Consult a doctor: Before taking any dietary supplements for the joints, you need to consult a doctor, especially if you take other medicines or have chronic diseases.

2. Possible interactions: Some dietary supplements can interact with drugs (for example, anticoagulants, antiplatelets, immunosuppressants).

E. Individual features:

1. Age: Older people can be more sensitive to side effects of dietary supplements.
2. Health status: Some diseases (for example, diseases of the liver, kidneys, hearts) can affect the choice of dietary supplements.
3. Allergies: Make sure that the product does not contain allergens that you have an allergy.
4. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: It is not recommended to take dietary supplements for joints during pregnancy and breastfeeding without consulting a doctor.

V. Myths and errors about the dietary supplements for the joints:

There are many myths and misconceptions about the joints for joints that can mislead consumers and lead to unrealistic expectations. It is important to debunk these myths so that people can make conscious decisions about their health.

A. Myth: Dietary supplements for joints are a miraculous agent that completely cures arthrosis.

Reality: Dietary supplements for joints are not a cure for arthrosis. They can help reduce pain, improve joint function and slow down the progression of the disease, but they cannot restore the damaged cartilage or completely cure arthrosis.

B. Myth: The larger the dose of dietary supplements, the better the effect.

Reality: An increase in dose of dietary supplements does not always lead to an improvement in the effect and can increase the risk of side effects. It is important to observe the recommended dosage indicated on the packaging of the product or recommended by the doctor.

C. Myth: All dietary supplements for joints are equally effective.

Reality: The effectiveness of dietary supplements for joints can vary depending on the composition of the product, the quality of the ingredients, the dosage and the individual characteristics of the body. It is important to choose products from reliable manufacturers and consult a doctor in order to choose the most suitable dietary supplement.

D. Myth: Dans of joints have no side effects.

Reality: Like any other drugs and additives, bars for joints can cause side effects, especially when taking high doses or in the presence of individual intolerance. It is important to carefully read the instructions and follow the recommended dosage.

E. Myth: If dietary supplements are sold in a pharmacy, then it is safe and effective.

Reality: The presence of dietary supplements in the pharmacy does not guarantee its safety and effectiveness. Bades do not go through the same strict test as drugs, so it is important to carefully choose products and consult a doctor.

F. Myth: Dietary supplements can be taken without consulting a doctor.

Reality: Before taking any dietary supplements for the joints, you need to consult a doctor, especially if you take other medicines or have chronic diseases. The doctor can evaluate your health status, choose the most suitable dietary supplement and control its effectiveness and safety.

VI. Alternative and additional methods of treating joint diseases:

It is important to remember that dietary supplements for joints are only one of the possible methods of treating joint diseases. There are other alternative and additional treatment methods that can be effective in combination with dietary supplements or as independent therapy.

A. Physiotherapy:

1. Exercise: Special exercises aimed at strengthening muscles that support joints, improve mobility and reduce pain.
2. Massage: It can help reduce pain and muscle tension.
3. Heat and cold therapy: The use of heat or cold can relieve pain and inflammation.
4. Electrotherapy: The use of electrical impulses to reduce pain and improve muscle function.
5. Ultrasound therapy: The use of ultrasound waves to reduce pain and inflammation.

B. Therapeutic physical education (exercise therapy):

1. Individual programs: They are developed by an exercise therapy doctor taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient and the nature of the disease.
2. Exercises for stretching: Improve the flexibility and mobility of the joints.
3. Muscle strengthening exercises: Strengthen the muscles supporting the joints.
4. Aerobic exercises: Improve the overall health and cardiovascular system.

C. Change in lifestyle:

1. Weight loss: Reducing the load on the joints.
2. Proper nutrition: The use of products rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
3. Refusal of smoking: Smoking worsens the blood supply to the joints and slows down the healing process.
4. Regular physical exercises: Maintaining muscle mass and improving joint mobility.
5. Avoiding joint overloads: Time