Mailbag: Battling Joint Pain? Natural Solutions Could Help
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted December 10, 2024
“I have bone-on-bone knees. I refuse to see doctors about it anymore because their meds keep me sick or make me unable to function. So, I quit.
I’ve ordered several things online to help with pain. Some are pretty good. I need help deciding what to take.”
-Fed Up and Aching
Dear Fed Up,
I understand your frustration with conventional drug treatments and your desire to explore natural alternatives for your bone-on-bone knee pain.
When a patient of mine faces a similar situation, there are several natural options I recommend they consider.
These non-drug solutions can ease joint pain without having to face harsh arthritis drug side effects…
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin: These nutrients are often taken together and can help rebuild cartilage and reduce pain. They’re generally well-tolerated but require patience, as it can take a few months to see results.
- Turmeric (curcumin): This powerful anti-inflammatory spice can be added to your diet, or the extract curcumin can be taken as a supplement. It can help reduce pain and improve joint function. Combine it with black pepper to boost absorption.
- Boswellia: Also known as Indian frankincense, this herb has anti-inflammatory properties that can help ease osteoarthritis joint pain.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: These essential fatty acids, found in fish oil or supplements, can reduce inflammation throughout the body, potentially easing joint pain.
- Collagen: This protein is a key component of cartilage. Supplementing with collagen may help improve joint comfort and function.
- Ginger: Whether taken as a supplement or added fresh to your favorite dishes, ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory that can help with knee pain.
- Devil’s Claw: This herb has been traditionally used for joint pain and may help reduce inflammation.
- Topicals: When applied to the knee or other joints, Arnica gel or creams containing capsaicin (from chili peppers) can provide localized pain relief.
When selecting supplements, some experimenting is often needed to find what works best for you.
And when you’re combining supplements, taking glucosamine and chondroitin with anti-inflammatory herbs like turmeric or Boswellia is generally considered safe. And omega-3s and collagen can typically be added to any regimen.
However, I always advise my own patients to introduce new supplements one at a time to monitor for any reactions. And I recommend talking with a trusted doctor or pharmacist before taking new supplements to be sure they won’t interact with any other meds you’re taking.
Lastly, remember the power of lifestyle changes.
Gentle exercise such as swimming or cycling, maintaining a healthy weight, and using hot/cold therapy can complement your supplement regimen and help you manage your knee pain naturally.
P.S. Could painkillers be DESTROYING your joints?
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
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