What Is the Best Supplement For Joint Pain?

Joint pain might be common, but that doesn’t make it normal.

Here are the best supplements for pain and inflammation so you can get back to living pain-free.

 

Whether it stems from arthritis, an old injury, or everyday wear and tear, ongoing joint discomfort can limit your mobility and affect your quality of life. While over-the-counter pain relievers can offer short-term relief, they don’t address the underlying causes (and long-term use can come with side effects).

For many people, dietary supplements are a natural, research-supported way to reduce inflammation, rebuild joint tissue, and support lasting pain relief. In fact, the right combination of vitamins, minerals, and anti-inflammatory nutrients can help your body protect and repair itself from within.

In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best supplements for joint pain and inflammation, explain how each one supports joint health, and share important safety notes on how to take them effectively. You’ll also learn how chiropractic care complements these supplements by addressing the root mechanical causes of joint pain.

Because when your joints are properly aligned and nourished, your body moves—and heals—at its best.

 

Why Supplements Can Help With Joint Pain

When joint pain flares up, most people turn to quick fixes—such as Tylenol, Motrin, or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). While these drugs are very effective at reducing inflammation (and easing your discomfort for a few hours), they don’t address the root cause of pain.

Over time, relying on them too often may even interfere with the body’s natural healing process.

Dietary supplements take a different approach. Instead of masking symptoms, they give your body the raw materials it needs to rebuild and protect joint structures. The best supplements for joint pain and inflammation can:

• Deliver key nutrients that strengthen cartilage and connective tissue
• Support immune system function and tissue repair
• Provide natural anti-inflammatory properties to help reduce pain and stiffness
• Promote long-term mobility by helping the body reduce inflammation at the source

While prescription medications focus on short-term pain relief, supplements are designed to enhance the body’s resilience and repair systems over time.

When combined with lifestyle adjustments, proper nutrition, and chiropractic care, supplements can be a valuable part of a holistic strategy for reducing joint pain and restoring healthy movement.

 

The Best Supplements for Joint Pain and Inflammation

When it comes to supporting joint health, there isn’t a single “miracle pill.” Your ideal combination will depend on your health needs, age, activity level, and the underlying cause of your discomfort.

Below are some of the most well-researched supplements for joint pain and inflammation along with practical tips for how to take them safely and effectively.

1. Vitamin D

Vitamin D is essential for strong bones, muscles, and joints. It helps your body absorb calcium, keeping your skeletal system stable and your joints moving smoothly. When levels are low, cartilage and bone can weaken—leading to stiffness, pain, and slower recovery from injury or inflammation.

Even in sunny Florida, many people don’t get enough vitamin D. Spending time indoors and using sunscreen limit your sun exposure. In these cases, a daily supplement can help restore healthy levels and support long-term joint comfort.

Tip: If you take a higher-dose vitamin D supplement, choose one that also includes vitamin K2. Vitamin K helps direct calcium into bones instead of arteries, supporting both bone and heart health.

You can also boost vitamin D naturally through moderate sunlight exposure and foods such as salmon, tuna, eggs, and fortified dairy products.

2. Collagen

Collagen is the main protein that gives structure to your cartilage, ligaments, and connective tissues. As we age, collagen production slows down, which can lead to joint stiffness.

Taking a collagen supplement may help replenish what your body loses over time. Studies show that collagen peptides can support cartilage repair, improve joint function, and reduce activity-related pain—especially in people with arthritis or age-related wear and tear.

Tip: Collagen supplements absorb best when taken with vitamin C, which helps your body produce new collagen fibers. Look for hydrolyzed collagen (also called “collagen peptides”) for easier digestion and better results.

You can also increase collagen naturally through foods like bone broth, chicken skin, fish, and egg whites—all rich in the amino acids your joints depend on.

3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids (Fish Oil)

Omega-3 fatty acids are well known for their heart and brain benefits, but they’re also among the best supplements for pain and inflammation. These healthy fats—found in fish oil and certain plant sources—help reduce inflammation throughout the body, including in the joints.

Studies show that omega-3s can decrease joint tenderness, improve flexibility, and even reduce the need for drugs in people with arthritis.

Tip: Look for fish oil supplements that contain both EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), as these are the active forms your body uses most. Take them with food to improve absorption and reduce the risk of fishy aftertaste.

Natural food sources include salmon, mackerel, sardines, chia seeds, flaxseeds, and walnuts. People who take blood-thinning medications should talk to their doctor before starting high-dose omega-3s, as they can have mild anticoagulant effects.

4. Glucosamine and Chondroitin

Glucosamine and chondroitin are naturally occurring compounds found in healthy cartilage—the tissue that cushions your joints. Together, they help your body maintain and repair cartilage while reducing the friction that causes stiffness and pain.

Studies show that these supplements can help reduce joint pain and slow cartilage breakdown, especially in people with arthritis or age-related joint degeneration. Some research even suggests that long-term use may improve mobility and delay the need for stronger pain medications.

Tip: Look for a supplement that combines both glucosamine and chondroitin for the best results. These compounds are often derived from shellfish, so if you have a shellfish allergy, choose a synthetic or plant-based option instead. It may take several weeks of consistent use to notice improvement.

You can also support your joints naturally by staying active and maintaining a healthy weight—both of which reduce stress on cartilage and help your supplements work more effectively.

5. Turmeric (Curcumin)

Turmeric, a golden spice long used in traditional medicine, contains an active compound called curcumin—a natural anti-inflammatory that can help reduce pain and swelling in the joints, but without the long-term side effects of traditional painkillers.

Studies show that curcumin may ease symptoms of arthritis, improve mobility, and support overall joint comfort when taken consistently.

Tip: Curcumin is not easily absorbed on its own. For better results, choose a supplement that includes black pepper extract (piperine) and take it with a meal that contains healthy fats—both significantly increase absorption.

Turmeric can also be added to food or smoothies for mild daily support, but supplements are typically needed to achieve therapeutic levels.

6. Boswellia Serrata (Indian Frankincense)

Boswellia Serrata, also known as Indian frankincense, is a herbal extract valued for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties. It works by blocking enzymes that contribute to inflammation, helping to reduce joint pain and stiffness in conditions including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Studies show that Boswellia can improve joint comfort, increase mobility, and may even help prevent cartilage loss when taken regularly. Its effects are similar to turmeric, but the two can also be taken together for greater pain relief and reduced swelling.

Tip: Boswellia is best absorbed when taken with food. Look for standardized extracts that contain at least 65% boswellic acids—the compounds responsible for its anti-inflammatory benefits.

Most people tolerate Boswellia well, but it may cause mild digestive upset in high doses, so start small and increase gradually as tolerated.

7. MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane)

Methylsulfonylmethane—better known as MSM—is a natural compound that supports joint health by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. It also provides sulfur, an essential nutrient your body uses to form collagen and connective tissue.

Studies show that MSM can help reduce pain and swelling, improve flexibility, and enhance recovery in people with joint discomfort or arthritis. It’s often combined with glucosamine and chondroitin for greater joint protection and overall comfort.

Tip: MSM is generally well tolerated, but starting with a lower dose can help minimize mild side effects such as bloating or stomach upset. For best results, take it with food and plenty of water to support absorption.

You can also find MSM naturally in small amounts in foods like leafy greens, fruits, and grains—but supplements provide a more concentrated and consistent source.

8. Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is a gel-like substance naturally found in your joints, skin, and connective tissues. Its main job is to keep the spaces between your bones well-lubricated, reducing friction and allowing smooth, pain-free movement.

As we age—or if inflammation is present—your body produces less hyaluronic acid, which can lead to stiffness and joint discomfort. Supplementing can help restore lubrication, improve mobility, and relieve pain, particularly in the knees.

While injections are sometimes used in clinical settings, oral supplements and creams are also available.

Tip: Hyaluronic acid supplements work best when taken consistently over several weeks. Choose a high-quality product from a reputable brand, and pair it with adequate hydration to enhance its lubricating effects.

You can also boost hyaluronic acid naturally by eating foods rich in bone broth, soy, citrus fruits, and leafy greens.

9. Magnesium

Magnesium is an essential mineral that supports hundreds of processes in the body—including muscle relaxation, nerve function, and energy production. When levels are low, muscles can tighten and joints may feel stiff or achy.

Although magnesium isn’t a direct pain reliever, it helps maintain proper muscle and nerve balance around the joints, which can ease tension and improve mobility. Studies show that adequate magnesium levels may help reduce inflammation and support overall joint and bone health.

Tip: Magnesium is best absorbed in forms such as magnesium glycinate or magnesium citrate. Take it with food to minimize stomach upset. Avoid very high doses unless directed by your doctor, as too much magnesium can cause digestive discomfort.

Good dietary sources include leafy greens, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and legumes—all of which contribute to long-term joint and muscle wellness.

10. SAM-e (S-adenosylmethionine)

SAM-e is a naturally occurring compound made in the body that supports joint function, mood balance, and liver health. It helps produce and repair cartilage while influencing neurotransmitters that regulate pain perception.

Studies show that SAM-e can be as effective as some drugs in reducing joint pain—but with fewer gastrointestinal side effects. It may also help improve mood in people whose chronic pain is linked to emotional stress or depression.

Tip: SAM-e is best taken on an empty stomach for optimal absorption. Start with a low dose and gradually increase as tolerated, since higher amounts can sometimes cause mild digestive upset or restlessness.

Because SAM-e can interact with certain supplements and medications (including antidepressants), it’s best to talk to your doctor before adding it to your routine.

Choosing Safe and Effective Supplements

With so many options on the market, finding the best supplement for joint pain can feel overwhelming. Not all supplements are created equal, and quality matters just as much as the ingredients themselves. Since dietary supplements aren’t reviewed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for safety or effectiveness before sale, it’s important to be selective about what you take.

Here are a few key things to consider:

• Check for third-party testing. Look for verification from organizations like NSF International. This ensures your supplement actually contains what the label claims and is free from harmful contaminants.

• Choose reputable brands. Research the manufacturer’s reputation and avoid products with vague ingredient lists or unrealistic health claims.

• Be mindful of dosage. More isn’t always better. High doses of certain nutrients can cause side effects or interact with supplements and medications you already take.

• Consult your healthcare provider. Always talk to your doctor before starting a new supplement, especially if you have chronic health conditions or take prescription drugs.

• Look for combination formulas. Some nutrients, such as glucosamine and chondroitin or turmeric and black pepper, work best when taken together for optimal absorption and results.
  
  

By taking a thoughtful, evidence-based approach, you can safely incorporate supplements into your daily routine and get the most benefit from them.

 

Chiropractic Care for Joint Pain

There’s a good reason they’re called “supplements.” Over-the-counter products are not designed to be a solution to your joint pain, but to work in conjunction with other methods.

When your spine or other joints are even slightly out of place, it can lead to uneven wear, inflammation, and discomfort. Chiropractic adjustments help correct these imbalances, allowing your body to move more efficiently—and giving supplements a better foundation to work from.

In addition to hands-on adjustments, chiropractors may use other therapies to promote healing and reduce inflammation, such as:

• Massage therapy to relax tight muscles and improve circulation
• Laser therapy to decrease pain and stimulate tissue repair
• E-stim therapy to calm irritated nerves and speed recovery

Your chiropractor can also recommend the right dietary supplements and lifestyle changes to support ongoing joint health. This combination of nutritional and structural care can be especially helpful for conditions including arthritis, sports injuries, or repetitive stress pain.

By aligning your body and nourishing it from within, you can experience more complete, lasting pain relief—not just symptom control.

 

Move Better, Feel Better

Finding the best supplement for joint pain isn’t just about easing discomfort, it’s about helping your body heal, move, and thrive again.

At Oviedo Chiropractic, we take a whole-body approach to joint health. From targeted chiropractic adjustments to cutting-edge laser therapy, our team helps you find the balance your body needs to move freely and live comfortably.

If joint pain is slowing you down, don’t wait for it to get worse. Reach out today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced chiropractors. We’ll take the time to understand your unique health conditions, perform a detailed evaluation, and create a care plan designed to get you moving—and feeling—your best.