Dealing with joint pain and stiffness from injuries or arthritis can be extremely difficult. To aid medical therapies and promote quicker healing, many people have started taking a more holistic approach to health by opting for supplements. However, not all supplements are made equal, making finding the right one a daunting task. To help people through this process, here are ten tips for choosing the right joint supplement for one’s needs.

Research well
First and foremost, begin with a round of thorough research. Check the list of ingredients and verify if they are backed by data proving their effectiveness in reducing joint pain. Most often, joint pain supplements contain a mix of glucosamine, methyl sulfonyl methane (MSM), and chondroitin. Explore the web to learn more about these ingredients and how they may help manage pain better before choosing the right supplement for one’s needs.

Steer clear of supplements with questionable ingredients
On any pack of supplements, the list of active ingredients is given the most importance. While these are the primary elements of the product, individuals must also pay careful attention to other ingredients. These aren’t added for their health benefits but to enhance other aspects, such as stability and flavor. Watch out for these additives, and if possible, research them for clarity. Watch out for harmful ingredients, and steer clear of them to ensure the supplement does not cause distress to the body.

Look for supplements with the right amount of active ingredients
Taking vitamins and supplements mindlessly can do more harm than good. Learn about the role of micronutrients in the body and understand what proportions the body needs them in to support optimal functioning. Find supplements with the right proportions of active ingredients to help relieve joint pain.

Understand the risks
Although many supplements are labeled “natural,” they are not always suitable for people. Unlike other food and prescriptions, supplements are not certified for safety or effectiveness, or regulated by the FDA. This creates a major loophole for manufacturers to list ingredients on the label that may not be in the product. It also increases the risk of side effects such as gastrointestinal upsets or excessive bleeding.

To confirm the safety and effectiveness of supplements, consider looking them up on the NMCD database. Since an annual subscription to this data can be pricey, consider asking the primary care doctor to assist in the process.

Be wary of false claims
Don’t fall for big promises made by big supplement companies. Many often pose exciting assurances, such as “rebuilds damaged joints,” which are far from the truth. Legally, supplements cannot claim to diagnose, cure, treat, or prevent diseases.

Consult the doctor
When in doubt, talk to the primary healthcare physician. Ask them if it’s safe to have a certain supplement and how it may interact with other ongoing treatments. Enquire if the dosage is correct to address one’s current levels of arthritis and joint pain.

At the same time, it is essential to note that doctors may not always have the best advice on supplements, since this is not a vital part of their training. For the best guidance, consider consulting a doctor with an integrative medical fellowship.

Look for the seal
Some third-party organizations do their due diligence to perform quality tests and check the ingredients on the label. These are the U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP), ConsumerLab.com, and NSF International. Look for a seal of approval from either of these organizations to confirm that the supplement delivers what it promises and does not contain harmful toxins.

Check the lot and batch number
This can be crucial in the case of the production of a faulty batch that needs to be recalled. Generally, companies that keep track of the lot and batch numbers hold themselves to a high degree of accountability, which can benefit customers. With lot and batch numbers, companies can trace the product and alert their customers promptly, reducing the risk of unpleasant side effects.

Consider the cost
The cost of supplements can add up quickly. A one-month supply of glucosamine and chondroitin alone costs around $30 on average. This equates to $360 per year on supplements for joint health alone. This can increase significantly with experimentation to find the right products for one’s needs. Save these costs by consulting an integrative health specialist or a rheumatologist. Ask for their advice before buying any new supplements.

Shop smartly
There are thousands of brands of supplements to choose from, with easy availability in general stores, pharmacies, supermarkets, and even online retailers. When buying from any of these sources, opting for well-renowned and reputable brands is a safer bet, as they are likely to have better research and development teams and facilities. This can make a real difference in the effectiveness of the supplement itself. If a site or a store looks questionable, stay an arm’s length away from it!

If nothing seems to be working, it may be time to visit the doctor again. They can help by adjusting one’s current arthritis or pain prescriptions or offering alternatives such as physical therapy to reduce pain and stiffness in the body.