Best Joint Supplements for Knees

Common Causes of Joint Pain

There are different causes of joint pain. But here, we will discuss some of the most common causes of joint pain. Joint pain is commonly caused by:

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Injuries and Overuse

Osteoarthritis is what happens when cartilage breaks down, causing bare bones to rub against each other. When this happens, it can cause stiffness, swelling, and pain that gets worse over time. While osteoarthritis is common in older adults, it can affect anyone.

Rheumatoid arthritis is different. It’s an autoimmune disorder where the body attacks its joints, causing joint inflammation (swelling, pain, and long-term damage). It often affects both knees at the same time.

Joint pain can also result from injuries and overuse. Repetitive movements, heavy lifting, or past injuries can weaken the joints and make them stiff and sore. Even minor injuries can cause long-term problems if not properly treated.

No matter the cause, joint pain can make daily life difficult, and the right supplements may help ease discomfort and support joint health over time.

Best Supplements for Joint Pain Relief

Best Supplement for joint Pain Relief

Here are some of the most popular ingredients contained in the joint pain supplement:

Glucosamine and Chondroitin

Glucosamine and chondroitin may help maintain cartilage (the cushioning between bones). They are commonly used to manage osteoarthritis, as they may slow cartilage breakdown and reduce pain.

Some studies suggest they provide relief, while others show little to no effect. Despite mixed research, many people report improvement after consistently taking these supplements. They may work best for mild to moderate joint pain rather than severe cases.

A study published in Cochrane Library shows that the typical daily dosage range is 1,500 mg of glucosamine, if this upsets your stomach, spread it out over 3 doses of 500mg.

Chondroitin recommendations can vary from 800 mg to 1,200 mg. You may take this as a single dose or in 400 mg doses 2 to 3 times.

Although side effects are rare, they may include stomach upset or allergic reactions, especially for those allergic to shellfish.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids (Fish Oil)

Omega-3s reduce inflammation. So, it may be able to help reduce joint inflammation and ease joint pain and stiffness. They may be beneficial for people with rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory conditions.

Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in omega-3s, but supplements are also widely available. For convenience, many people take fish oil capsules.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends 1,600 mg daily for men and 1,100 mg daily for women. However, high doses may cause mild side effects, such as nausea or blood thinning, so consult a healthcare provider before use.

Turmeric (Curcumin)

Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has strong anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies show it may help with joint pain, especially in people with arthritis.

Curcumin should be taken with black pepper or fatty foods for better absorption. Many supplements include piperine, a black pepper extract, to enhance their effectiveness.

Turmeric can be consumed as a spice, but supplements provide a concentrated dose. A typical dosage ranges from 500 to 1,500 mg daily. High doses may cause stomach issues.

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)

MSM is a sulfur compound that may help reduce joint pain and improve flexibility. Some people use it to relieve arthritis and recover from exercise.

It naturally occurs in fruits, vegetables, and grains, but supplementing ensures a higher intake. MSM may support collagen production, which is essential for joint structure.

Some studies have used 1,500 mg of MSM for 3 months, and others have used up to 2,600 mg. Side effects are usually mild but can include digestive discomfort.

Boswellia Serrata

Boswellia, also called Indian frankincense, has been used for centuries to ease inflammation. Some research suggests it may help reduce joint pain, particularly in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

It is available in capsules, extracts, and topical creams. The active compounds, boswellic acids, are believed to block inflammatory enzymes.

Studies support its effectiveness, but more research is needed. The NIH recommends 250 to 500 mg of Boswellia serrata 2 or 3 times daily.

SAM-e (S-adenosyl-L-methionine)

SAM-e may help with joint pain by promoting cartilage health and reducing inflammation. It is sometimes recommended for osteoarthritis.

Research shows it may work as well as NSAIDs for pain relief without the same risks. However, it can take a few weeks to show results.

In past studies, SAMe was often taken in doses of 800 mg daily. People taking antidepressants should consult a healthcare provider before use, as SAM-e may interact with certain medications.

Introducing JointXL Plus: A Comprehensive Joint Support Supplement

JointXL Plus Supplement

JointXL Plus combines scientifically backed ingredients to rebuild damaged cartilage, lubricate stiff joints, enhance range of motion, boost mobility and flexibility. Whether your pain comes from aging, arthritis, or past injuries, this supplement is designed to care for joint health.

Key Ingredients and Their Benefits

• Glucosamine Sulfate (1,500 mg per serving) – Helps maintain cartilage, potentially slowing joint deterioration and reducing stiffness.
• Boswellia serrata (200 mg per serving): Also known as Indian Frankincense, this herbal extract may help reduce inflammation and ease joint pain.
• Chondroitin Sulfate (150 mg per serving) – Supports joint flexibility by helping retain water in cartilage for better cushioning.
• Turmeric (Curcuma Longa) (150 mg per serving) – Contains curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which may help relieve joint pain.
• Quercetin (25 mg per serving) – A natural antioxidant that may help protect joints from oxidative stress.
• Methionine (25 mg per serving) – An amino acid that supports cartilage formation and joint tissue repair.
• Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) (25 mg per serving) – A sulfur compound that may help reduce pain and improve joint function.
• Bromelain (25 mg per serving) – An enzyme derived from pineapple that may help with inflammation and recovery.

Benefits of JointXL Plus

This formula brings together powerful ingredients that work together to:

• Supports cartilage health and joint flexibility
• Reduces inflammation and discomfort
• Rebuild damaged cartilage for long-term joint strength
• Enhance range of motion for easier movement
• Improve joint lubrication to reduce stiffness
• Protects joints from further wear and tear
• Eases daily activities by promoting smoother movement
• Supports joint function for active living

Usage Instructions

Take three (3) JointXL Plus capsules daily before a healthy meal. Take a loading dose of six capsules daily for the first two weeks for immediate relief support.

If you have allergies (especially to shellfish), consult a healthcare professional before use, as this supplement contains crayfish-derived glucosamine. Use consistently over time for best results.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Joint Supplements

When selecting supplements for joints, it's crucial to consider several factors to ensure their effectiveness and safety:

Quality and Purity: You should choose supplements from reputable manufacturers committed to high-quality standards. The supplement industry isn't strictly regulated, so the product quality can vary. Some products may not contain the ingredients listed on their labels or might include unwanted contaminants. For instance, a Consumer Reports' new tests of 16 widely sold joint supplements found that some contained less chondroitin than they said, and two didn't dissolve sufficiently.

This means that some products may not deliver the benefits they claim, leading to wasted money and ineffective results. Checking for third-party testing and certifications can help ensure you're getting a safe and reliable supplement.

Third-Party Testing: Choose supplements that have undergone independent testing to verify their potency and purity. Third-party certifications from organizations like NSF International or USP indicate that the product has been tested for quality and is free from harmful substances. This extra layer of scrutiny helps ensure you're getting a safe and effective product. ​

Consulting Healthcare Providers: Before starting any new supplement regimen, consult a healthcare professional, especially if you're on medication or have existing health conditions. Supplements can interact with drugs or exacerbate specific health issues. For example, glucosamine and chondroitin may interact with blood-thinning medications, increasing the risk of bleeding.

Expert Opinion: Dr. John R. Moore emphasizes the importance of understanding supplement ingredients and their sources. He advises,

Lifestyle Tips to Complement Supplement Use

To enhance joint health alongside supplement use, consider the following lifestyle strategies:

Regular Exercise: Engaging in low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, or cycling can strengthen the muscles surrounding your joints, reducing strain and improving flexibility. According to The Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise on osteoarthritis,

Physical activity decreased pain and improved physical function (strong evidence) and improved HRQoL (moderate evidence) among people with hip or knee OA relative to less active adults with OA.

Balanced Diet: Consuming a diet rich in nutrients supports joint health. Incorporate foods high in omega-3 fatty acids (like fatty fish), antioxidants (such as berries and leafy greens), and adequate calcium and vitamin D to maintain bone strength. Some epidemiological evidence suggests that diets high in omega-3 fatty acids (n-3 FAs) may be beneficial for skeletal health.

Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on weight-bearing joints, particularly the knees and hips. Excess body weight can accelerate joint degeneration and exacerbate pain. As documented in the MAYO CLINIC on obesity, “Weight loss and exercise are the most safe and effective long-term treatments.” ​

Expert Opinion: Dr. Heidi Prather, a specialist in lifestyle medicine, advocates for comprehensive lifestyle changes to manage joint health, stating,

Lifestyle medicine, which promotes behavioral changes to reduce inflammation, offers a comprehensive solution.