Body builders are renowned for putting their joints and muscles under extreme stress and so joint and muscle pain is a fact of life.

Being in top shape physically is one way to help prevent joint injuries but, even then, sprains and strains do still occur.  Many amateur body builders aren’t 100% fit and so are more prone to these sort of injuries.

As we get older, and this is relevant to body builders as well, we are subject to the effects of an aging body with arthritis and tendinitis just a couple of potential problems.

There are many types of muscle and joint conditions that body builders can suffer from.  These include lower back pain, knee joint pain, hip pain, shoulder pain and sore legs and ankles.

Fortunately there is a multitude of joint pain remedies to choose from. Some are available over the counter at your pharmacy while others require a doctor’s prescription. There are also natural ways to relieve joint and muscle pain.  It is very wise to consult with your doctor if you have any muscle or joint pain problems to ensure you get the best advice that will lead to the best result.

OVER THE COUNTER JOINT PAIN MEDICATIONS

There are a number of anti-inflammatory drugs available that contain ibuprofen.
Anti-inflammatory medications help to reduce the swelling in the painful joint which lessens the pain. They are marketed under such brand names as Nurofen, Advil, Motril, Nuprin and others.

PRESCRIPTION JOINT PAIN MEDICATION

As the title implies these must be prescribed by your doctor. They cover a range of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs which again help to reduce joint pain by reducing swelling.

With both over the counter and prescription medications, it is important to discuss any side effects of these drugs with your GP and to use them exactly as directed.

NATURAL JOINT PAIN REMEDIES

Many body builders prefer to use natural methods to control their muscle aches and joint pain and these can often be quite effective.

The most common natural treatment is using Glucosamine combined with Chondroitin and MSM.

• GLUCOSAMINE, made up of glucose and L-Glutamine, is found naturally in the body in cartilage, tendons and ligaments, the connective tissues of the body.  It helps repair damage done to these tissues and can also provide relief from the pain of osteoarthritis and cartilage deterioration in the major joints.
• CHONDROITIN is another compound that occurs naturally in the cartilages in our bodies.  The cartilage is responsible for cushioning our joints and can be damaged through being subjected to excessive stresses, like in body building and weight lifting.  Chondroitin can help prevent the cartilages from breaking down and aids in reducing swelling in the joints.
• MSM, a natural source of sulfur, is an anti-inflammatory.  It is found in the joints and cartilage in our bodies.

Glucosamine, Chondroitin and MSM are most commonly taken together in capsule form or as a powder and are available in premixed formulas containing the correct ratio of each.

In the following video, a well known doctor discusses various knee injuries.

Please remember to consult your GP if you have any muscle or joint pain that lasts more than a few days and before taking any medication to treat the pain.

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