Magnesium & Joint Pain

Taking supplements to cure joint pain is often preferable to costly drugs, as supplements found naturally in the body often cause less side effects and are easier for the body to process. Many factors can cause joint pain, including wear-and-tear from overuse or injury, osteoarthritis, gout and joint infections. Occasionally no cause can be found for joint pain.

Magnesium and Joint Pain

• Magnesium is a quick and easy supplement to take to ease joint pain. Magnesium is found in the body and maintains normal muscle and nerve function, regulates heart rhythm and supports the immune system. It also regulates blood pressure and glucose levels.

  Note that a balanced diet usually contains all the magnesium you need, so consult a doctor before adding this or any other supplement to your daily diet. Magnesium supplements are often taken by those who do not get an adequate amount because of illness or treatment with certain medications.

  Magnesium aids in relaxing muscles and is often used in analgesics before surgery. Taking it before bed will also help you sleep better and allow you to wake with relaxed muscles. This is why this supplement is preferred for relieving joint pain.

Symptoms of Joint Pain

• Symptoms of joint pain include swelling, stiffness, aching and warmth in the joints. Persistent pain that lasts more than a few days should alert you to see a doctor, as this could be a sign of a serious condition.

Recommended Dosage

• Magnesium supplements are recommended in small doses three to five times a day. Adult males should take no more than 270mg to 400mg per day and adult females should not exceed 280mg to 300 mg per day.

Side Effects

• Side effects of too much magnesium can include diarrhea, stomach and muscle cramps, nausea and low blood pressure. If you take diuretics or have any type of intestinal disease you should consult your doctor before taking magnesium supplements.

  When taking magnesium, remember that excess amounts in the body must be filtered by the kidneys. It is difficult to overdose on magnesium from only dietary sources, but overdose with supplements is possible especially in patients with impaired kidney function.

Where to Buy

• You can buy magnesium in tablet, powder and liquid form. You can find it at health food or drug stores and even some supermarkets.