A joint’s crackling sound is technically referred ‘crepitus’. This term identifies a broken-down, decaying, degenerative, decrepit joint as the noisy type-an actual symptom of Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis. Osteoarthritis is also called degenerative joint disease because the wear-and-tear of connective tissue and cartilage becomes inflamed, deformed, declining with time and creating continued discomfort and/or limited motion.

Symptoms may start as creaking joints with inflammation and worsen with stiffness and progress to more pain and limitations. Weight is one of the biggest stressors and overuse will certainly accelerate wear and tear. As the aging process declines cellular regeneration and ability to restore cartilage, this decrease compounds the primary degenerative problem on the joint’s ability to maintain integrity.  There are secondary factors that can lead to arthritic conditions, such as infection, surgery, other trauma or inflamed conditions (ex. Gout), and inherited weakness or tendency.

Proper care of our joints and to protect against Osteoarthritis means maintaining a healthy lifestyle, healthy weight, antioxidant rich diet, and proper vitamin/mineral supplementation. Other supplements famous for supporting healthy joints and recovery include glucosamine sulfate, chondroitin sulfate, and MSM.

Glucosamine‘s main function is to stimulate the manufacture of glycosaminoglycans, a fundamental aspect of cartilage structure. Glucosamine sulfate addressing the root problem by supporting cartilage synthesis, symptoms may improve and repair damaged joints. The typical dosage for glucosamine sulfate is 1,500 mg per day.

MSM(methyl-sulfonyl-methane) is safe and important element for cells and tissue throughout the body. While nourishing, MSM supports connective tissue of cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. The standard dosage of MSM is 1,200 to 2,000 mg per day.

Chondroitin sulfate is made of derivatives from glucosamine with attached sugar molecules.  Chondroitin acts as a natural sponge drawing water and other vital nutrients into the cartilage matrix and offers anti-inflammatory benefits. The recommended dosage for chondroitin sulfate is 1,200 mg daily.