Vitamin B3 (Niacin). Some research suggests that vitamin B3 may have some benefits for people with osteoarthritis.
 | Click the icon to see an image of the benefits of vitamin B3. |
 | Click the icon to see an image of the sources of vitamin B3. |
Calcium and Vitamin D. Calcium and vitamin D are important for strong bones. Although osteoarthritis is primarily a disease of joints, bone strength is also important, particularly in older people.
 | Click the icon to see an image of osteoporosis. |
Many experts now recommend 1,000 mg of calcium a day for most adults and 1,200 to 1,500 mg for adolescents. Pregnant women, postmenopausal women not on estrogen therapy, and those on corticosteroids should get 1,500 mg per day; breast feeding women should get 2,000 mg/day. Because calcium supplements increase the risk for kidney stones, an upper limit of 2,500 mg is recommended.
Current guidelines recommend 400 IU of vitamin D per day and 600 IU per day after age 60. Lack of sunlight and unhealthy diets contribute to deficiencies in vitamin D. Good dietary sources include fortified milk, sardines, herring, salmon, tuna, liver, dairy products, and egg yolks. Although supplements are often necessary, vitamin D can be toxic in high doses, and no one should take more than 1,200 IU per day.
Selenium. Selenium is a trace mineral found in grains, nuts, vegetables, and some meats and seafood. Preliminary research suggests that people who do not get enough selenium in their diet may be more likely to develop knee osteoarthritis. Researchers are investigating whether selenium supplements may help protect against osteoarthritis and prevent it from worsening.
Heat and Ice
Ice. When a joint is inflamed (particularly in the knee) applying ice for 20 to 30 minutes can be effective. If an ice pack is not available, a package of frozen vegetables works just as well.
Heat Treatments. Patients afflicted with osteoarthritis of the hands can relieve pain with hot soaks and warm paraffin application. Osteoarthritis of the hip can be treated with heating pads.
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