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What Are the Uses of Collagen for Arthritis?

Kristeen Moore
Kristeen Moore

Collagen for arthritis is used as a medical supplement for the treatment of joint inflammation. The bones naturally contain levels of collagen, and taking such supplements can possibly help to grow this type of protein in the joints. At the same time, collagen for arthritis is often used to decrease the pain associated with the disease. When treating arthritis, a specialist will likely utilize collagen as a way to complement other forms of treatment, so patients should follow medical instructions carefully. They should consider discontinuing collagen for arthritis if any side effects occur.

Arthritis refers to a group of joint diseases that cause pain and inflammation in areas such as the knees and wrists. In some severe cases, the joints can be broken down and lead to other types of bone loss. Collagen is a type of protein that is found in the bones as well as the joints that is utilized by some patients. In some cases, arthritis can be treated with the use of collagen supplements under the instruction of a doctor.

Collagen is sometimes used in an attempt to regrow protein in arthritic joints.
Collagen is sometimes used in an attempt to regrow protein in arthritic joints.

The production of collagen can be disrupted in some people, which is one of the causes of arthritis. Some patients take collagen for arthritis in the hopes of growing the protein in the joints. The protein also becomes less prevalent in the body as people age. When a doctor recommends an oral collagen supplement for the treatment of arthritis, the goal is to help to regrow the protein in order to reduce the chances of bone and joint loss.

Arthritis causes pain and inflammation in the joints.
Arthritis causes pain and inflammation in the joints.

Another reason why patients take collagen for arthritis is to reduce painful symptoms. When the joints become inflamed, they swell and become difficult to move, and many patients find that they cannot perform everyday tasks. Collagen cannot only possibly rebuild joints, but it might also reduce symptoms of inflammation in some patients.

As of 2011, research is still being conducted on collagen’s effects during the treatment of arthritis. Some medical doctors recommend the use of the oral supplement on a daily basis in conjunction with other methods of treatment for the joint disease. Patients should always check with a doctor before purchasing and using collagen for arthritis on their own.

Overweight individuals have an increased risk of developing arthritis.
Overweight individuals have an increased risk of developing arthritis.

Just like any supplement, collagen poses the risk of side effects in some patients. Nausea, headache, and dizziness are some of the most common side effects associated with using collagen for arthritis. Also, some sufferers might not experience any improvements in their joint symptoms. Whether a patient experiences adverse effects or a lack of arthritis improvement, he or she should consider discontinuing collagen supplements with the advice of a doctor.

Discussion Comments

Talentryto

@spotiche5- That is a good point. My grandfather has tried both kinds of collagen supplements, and he said that the liquid type does work much better. Regardless of the type of collagen you choose, taking it with some food will help reduce the chances that you will experience an upset stomach after taking it.

Spotiche5

Another problem with taking collagen supplements is that the pills are usually very large and hard to swallow. I've heard that the liquid variety absorbs better than pills, and is much easier to take.

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    • Collagen is sometimes used in an attempt to regrow protein in arthritic joints.
      By: Fenton
      Collagen is sometimes used in an attempt to regrow protein in arthritic joints.
    • Arthritis causes pain and inflammation in the joints.
      By: maska82
      Arthritis causes pain and inflammation in the joints.
    • Overweight individuals have an increased risk of developing arthritis.
      By: Dave
      Overweight individuals have an increased risk of developing arthritis.
    • Genetics and family history are among the risk factors for developing arthritis.
      By: bst2012
      Genetics and family history are among the risk factors for developing arthritis.
    • Practicing yoga may help ease the symptoms associated with arthritis.
      By: magann
      Practicing yoga may help ease the symptoms associated with arthritis.
    • Collagen supplements may decrease joint inflammation, making it easier to perform everyday tasks.
      By: Monkey Business
      Collagen supplements may decrease joint inflammation, making it easier to perform everyday tasks.
    • In severe cases of arthritis, the joints in the wrist can break down and lead to other types of bone loss.
      By: Giuseppe Porzani
      In severe cases of arthritis, the joints in the wrist can break down and lead to other types of bone loss.