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Abundant Life with |
I’m regularly contacted by people with severe osteoarthritis, usually in knees and hips. The question is whether anything other than pain relief or surgery medication can help? In most cases nutritional therapy can help. I have a client with severe knee osteoarthritis. He gets noticeable relief, enabling him to continue his physical lifestyle.
Severe osteoarthritis is characterised by significant deterioration of cartilage. This usually results in bones rubbing against each other. This leads to pain, swelling, stiffness, and a reduction in joint mobility.
Severe osteoarthritis requires a wider range of supplements at higher doses. An anti-inflammatory diet will increase chances of success. Before we commence, we need to ensure compatibility of higher dose supplements with prescription medicines.
The key supplements we need are, in order of importance, chondroitin, curcumin (from turmeric), Omega 3 fish oil and glucosamine. If medications, age and circumstances allow, we start with a very intensive period, usually for 12 weeks. This involves daily doses of chondroitin 1600mg, 100% water soluble (pepper-free) curcumin 1200mg, EPA from fish oils 1000mg and glucosamine 1600mg. This involves three supplements.
Chondroitin sulphate can make a significant difference to joint function. The main benefits come from supporting healthy cartilage secreting cells (chondrocytes) and reducing joint inflammation.
I’ve seen excellent results from this approach. The benefits can be anything from, like my client, noticeable improvements in comfort and mobility through to people cancelling planned surgery. There are only a relatively small group who have no benefits. The key is to work to a personalised plan with regular reviews.
John Arts (Adv.Dip.Nut.Med) is a nutritional medicine practitioner and founder of Abundant Health Ltd. For questions or advice, contact John on 0800 423559 or email: john@abundant.co.nz. Join his newsletter at: www.abundant.co.nz