subject: Is MSM an Effective Remedy for Joint Pain? [print this page] Does MSM work? Is MSM an effective remedy for joint pain?
MSM, or methylsulfonylmethane, is a naturally occurring sulfur compound found in the body. MSM supplies the body with an organic form of sulfur which plays a crucial role in forming muscles, nails, hair and skin, as well as in building healthy cells. Sulfur is also necessary for making collagen, the primary constituent of cartilage and other types of connective tissue. MSM levels decline with age, which can lead to a variety of health problems, including joint pain and stiffness.
MSM was discovered by Stanley Jacob, a medical doctor and researcher, and Robert Herschler, a biological chemist and inventor, in the late 1970s. They were intrigued by the potential pain relieving and anti-inflammatory properties of MSM. Dr. Jacob now has more than 25 years of clinical experience using MSM and holds several patents on MSM.
Many foods, such as grains, fruits, vegetables and milk, contain MSM, but the amount is often small and the MSM can be easily destroyed when food is stored, cooked or processed. Supplemental MSM (which is derived from certain plants or synthetically produced) is the best way to to obtain an effective amount of MSM.
Supplemental MSM has been touted as a remedy for many types of pain and inflammatory conditions, such as joint pain and arthritis, back pain, headache, muscle pain, fibromyalgia, tendintis, bursitis and allergies.
While few clinical trials involving supplemental MSM have been performed to date, numerous case studies and empirical evidence have shown supplemental MSM to be very effective at relieving pain and inflammation.
Here are three tips for supplementing with MSM:
1. Take MSM for a minimum of four weeks before assessing its effectiveness. The effects of MSM occur over time, not right away.
2. Once joint pain subsides, continue taking MSM to prevent joint pain from occurring in the future.
3. Try taking MSM instead of common pain killers such as Ibuprofen. MSM treats both the causes and symptoms of joint pain, while common pain killers only treat the symptoms and can often produce negative side effects.
In conclusion, if you suffer from joint pain, you should consider giving MSM a try. It just might be the remedy for joint pain that you've been looking for.
