Chronic osteoarthritis is so common that arthritis joint pain is often considered to be a natural part of the aging process. Nevertheless, arthritis pain can make it difficult to get around - particularly in the morning when joint stiffness is a problem. Many people turn to prescription anti-inflammatory medications for arthritis pain relief, while others avoid them due to their side effects.
Some treatments such as glucosamine with chondroitin sulfate have shown potential for relieving arthritis joint pain - although studies regarding their effectiveness have been mixed. Now, there may be a new alternative when it comes to arthritis pain relief. A supplement called pynogenol could provide a natural way to treat chronic osteoarthritis pain.
What is Pygnogenol?
Pycnogenol is an extract that comes from the bark of the French maritime pine tree. It's a good source of natural compounds called proanthocyanidins, which have anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. It's the anti-inflammatory properties of pycnogenol that may provide arthritis pain relief.
How Does Pycnogenol for Osteoarthritis Treatment Work?
There's a protein called C-reactive protein that's frequently elevated when there's inflammation going on in the body. When a group of patients was given either pycnogenol or a placebo twice a day for three months, the group receiving the pycnogenol experienced lowering of their C-reactive protein levels - by over 70%. This suggests that pycnogenol can reduce the inflammation that triggers arthritis pain and stiffness.
But, what about arthritis pain relief? Does pycnogenol help with that? According to a study carried out in Italy, pycnogenol also improves joint pain and stiffness that makes movement so uncomfortable for osteoarthritis sufferers.
Pycnogenol for Osteoarthritis: What are the Side Effects?
Pycnogenol is generally tolerated well. Some people experience headaches, mild dizziness, stomach upset, and, in rare cases, ulcers involving the mouth. Pycnogenol can stimulate the immune system, which means it shouldn't be used by anyone with an autoimmune disease or by women who are pregnant. It's not clear whether it interacts with other prescription medications. Pycnogenol may have the additional benefit of lowering blood pressure and improving circulation - two other conditions it's sometimes used for.
Pycnogenol for Osteoarthritis Joint Pain: The Bottom Line?
Pycnogenol offers potential for treating chronic arthritis pain, but larger studies are needed to confirm its benefits. Since it seems to be safe for treating chronic osteoarthritis pain, it may be worth a six month trial while under the care of a doctor. It's available at most health food stores, but should only be used under close medical supervision.
References:
Medical News Today Website
Merck Manual. 18th Edition.
Kristie Leong - I'm a family physician interested in all aspects of traditional and alternative medicine, especially the use of nutrition to prevent ...
