Unichem Manly Pharmacy

Its referred to as the “wear and tear” arthritis because it happens when the protective cartilage on the ends of your bones wears down over time and by 60 years of age almost half of us will have osteoarthritis. 

 

If you are suffering with osteoarthritis getting the right medication will be a large help in controlling your pain.  The power of paracetamol can never be underestimated! Many people find that taking paracetamol on a regular basis helps keep the pain at a tolerable level. On the days that you have more pain, then further medications may be taken.  Talk to our Unichem Manly pharmacists about a pain control medication plan so you can be in charge, not the pain!

 

Have you ever tried glucosamine for osteoarthritis? Glucosamine is the main building block for making joint cartilage. It is no surprise then, that clinical studies have shown that taking glucosamine increases joint cartilage and reduces joint stiffness and pain.

 

Turmeric is an anti-inflammatory spice that studies suggest decreases pain and inflammation in osteoarthritis without many of the side effects of anti-inflammatory medication (NSAIDs). Curcumin is the main active ingredient in turmeric, however the curcumin content of turmeric found in your kitchen is about 0.1% whereas a good quality supplement contains around 95 to 98% curcuminoids. plus not all curcumin supplements absorb well, so check with one of our experts at Unichem Manly Pharmacy about which product is best for you.

 

SAMe (pronounced “Sammy”) is a natural substance that is normally present in joints, but has been shown to be deficient in people with osteoarthritis. This is important, because SAMe helps to give cartilage its “gel-like” consistency which helps to cushion the joints. SAMEe has been used in over 20,000 patients in clinical trials and has been shown to be equal to or better than ibuprofen in relieving joint pain. Results could be felt in a week, but are more likely to take one month.

 

Omega-3 fats have not been studied in all forms of arthritis. There is some evidence that fish oils may help control symptoms of osteoarthritis although more studies are needed. Current research suggests omega-3 fats are certainly helpful for people with inflammatory arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis.

 

There are many other ways you can help control the pain including acupuncture, T.E.N.S machines, heat therapy, even losing some weight (if you are carrying some excess).  Extra weight on your joints increases the rate of degeneration, causing a worsening of pain. Every kilo lost takes 6 kilos of pressure off your knees.  A more short term goal can simply be to get moving.  “Use it or Lose It” is not only an expression, it is actually true! Make sure you get advice from a health professional about what sort of exercise would suit you.

 

An integrated approach to health means finding more out about you and your lifestyle in order to provide the best advise regarding your medicines, lifestyle changes and nutritional changes to help you with your health needs. Pop in for some quick advice or book with our nutritionally qualified pharmacists for a clinic session on (09)424-7708.

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The addition of BioPiperine with the curcumin for example enhances the absorption of curcumin by 2000%. MRI scans of study participants have also shown increases in cartilage levels. Fish oils can also help reduce the risk of heart disease and heart attack. Long-term intake of fish oil has been shown to reduce the reliance on NSAIDs in some cases of arthritis.