Osteoarthritis, like so many other forms of arthritis, is a chronic disease that affects the joints of the body. Osteoarthritis especially affects the weight-bearing joints and develops as the joint linings degenerate, leading to disability. Many individuals with advanced states of osteoarthritis end up limping, having extreme pain in the joints, and have general decreased mobility.

Osteoarthritis is a common occurrence that comes with old age in almost all animals with a skeleton. The disease is primarily associated with aging and injury and consequently has been called by many the "wear-and-tear" arthritis. Like other forms of arthritis, its exact cause is not fully understood.

Osteoarthritis Symptoms

Osteoarthritis develops gradually over many months or years. It usually affects the major joints including those found in the knees, fingers, hips, and spinal column. The primary symptom of the disease is pain that is most intense during times of exercise and movement. Morning stiffness is probably the most notable characteristic of osteoarthritis, but appears to lessen as daily movement is resumed. As osteoarthritis progresses, total mobility may be lost and sharp shooting pains may start.

Natural supplements for osteoarthritis

• Chondroitin sulfate - reported to reduce joint cartilage affected by osteoarthritis
  
  
• Glucosamine sulfate - is an important building block needed for the synthesis and repair of joint cartilage
  
  
• SAMe - possesses anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and tissue-healing properties that may possibly help protect the health of joints
  
  
• Vitamin B3 (niacinamide) - may joint mobility, improve muscle strength, and decrease fatigue in people suffering from osteoarthritis
  
  

• Boswellia - (also in combination with ashwagandha, turmeric, and zinc) - appears to have anti-inflammatory properties that have been compared to those of the NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Starts slower but lasts. Long-term use of boswellia does not lead to irritation or ulceration of the stomach as NSAIDS do.
  
  
• Cayenne (topical, for pain only) - (topical, for pain only) - extract creams containing 0.025 to 0.075% capsaicin may reduce pain and tenderness caused by osteoarthritis.
  
  
• Ginger - has been reported to relieve pain and swelling caused by arthritis.
  
  
• Willow Bark - similar affects as aspirin. Works slower but lasts longer and appear to be safe.