Arthrosamine: For Total Joint Health
Arthrosamine: For Total Joint Health
 
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Is it really for people?
Does it really work?
Why are there only four ingredients in Arthrosamine™?
Why should I take Glucosamine Sulphate?
How many do I have to take?
How long will the bottle last?
Why is this better than the Glucosamine I get at a national chain store?
Why is Arthrosamine™ better than Celebrex®?
Can I use it when I take other medication (such as heart or blood pressure medicine)?
I'm allergic to Sulpha Drugs. Will the Glucosamine Sulphate or MSM hurt me?
Why is sulphur required in a joint supplement?
Are there differences in MSM?
I'm allergic to shell fish. Can I take your product?
I'm diabetic. Can I take this product even if my doctor says I can't?
Are there any side effects?
I'm taking an anti-inflammatory medication. Can I still use Arthrosamine™?
Can someone overdose on Arthrosamine™?
Does it interfere with any other therapy or treatment?
Will it help all joint-related problems?
Will I have to use this product for the rest of my life?
My vet told me to use Isoxiprien, How will it affect your product or vise versa?
Why does my physician not prescribe this supplement?
How is it administered?
 
Customer Specific Questions & Answers
Aging and the Joints
Arthroscopic Surgery (before surgery)
Arthroscopic Surgery (after surgery)
Genetics and the Joints
Joint Cracking and Popping Sounds
OTC (Over the Counter) Drugs for Pain Relief
Soreness – Knees & Hips
Weather and the Joints
Weight Loss and the Joints
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Is it really for people?
Yes. MD's Choice started out in 1996 with human products. This is just one of 87 human supplements currently sold through medical doctors, surgeons, chiropractors, nutritionists, and holistic specialists. This is one of the few products MD's Choice has that is "retail ready"
   
Does it really work?
Yes, Arthrosamine™ really works, and MD's Choice guarantees its results! This is nutrition. It does NOT contain painkillers or herbs to mask the symptoms, therefore, it usually take 4 to 6 weeks for the average adult to notice a difference. MD's Choice wants their product to work for you and guarantee 3 bottles without question. Either you'll feel the results or you get your money back! What do you have to lose? How many other companies are that sure of their product?

Advil® and Tylenol®, the popular pain relievers, which my family and I use when necessary, have a new set of TV commercials claiming that nothing works better for arthritis pain than [their product]. Well, that may be true if you are comparing quick pain relievers, but MD's Choice's Arthrosamine™ product WILL outdo any ibuprofen or acetaminophen-based product, given time!

Arthrosamine™ treats the problems, not the just mask the symptoms. It could take as long as 4 to 6 weeks to realize the difference, but Arthrosamine™ can actually rebuild cartilage, strengthen connective tissues, and improve lubricating fluids, which can solve the problem, increase mobility and flexibility, and not just mask the pain!

The follow articles and medical journals were referenced for some of this information:

bullet Efficacy and safety of glucosamine sulfate versus ibuprofen in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Qiu-GC, Gao-SN, Giacovelli-G;Rovati-L, Setnikar-I, Arznimittelforschung, 1998 May; 48(5):469-74)
bullet Glucosamine Sulfate in the treatment of osteoarthritis, Delafuente-JC; Rhem-Dis-Cli-North-AM 2000 Feb; 26(1): 1-11, vii
bullet Clinical research in osteoarthritis: design and results of short-term and long-term trials with disease modifying drugs. Rovati-LC, Int-J-Tissue-React. 1992; 14(5):243-51
   
Why are there only four ingredients in Arthrosamine™?
Simply put, because that's all that needs to be in it. Here's the facts on each of the ingredients that are in Arthrosamine™ and why they're in there:

Glucosamine Sulphate 2KCl – Important to building and maintaining joint (synovial) fluids, hyaline cartilage and other connective tissues, such as tendons and ligaments, which are vital for joint health. Arthrosamine™ uses the Potassium Salt form of Glucosamine, which is readily absorbable and usable by the body.

MSM – Supplies biologically active sulfur, which is an important element in connective tissue, as well as skin, hair, immune function, amino acid formation and numerous other reactions in the body.

Manganese (Amino Acid Chelated) – This nutrient has been found to be essential in the formation of skeletal cartilage. Manganese supplementation can improve the overall health of joints and other connective tissues. Severe deficiencies can lead to joint disease. It also helps make the Glucosamine work better. The Amino Acid Chelated form is the most bioavailable and useful to the body.

Ascorbate – Widely known as Vitamin C, this nutrient is essential in collagen synthesis, which is vital to the health of a joint. Humans and guinea pigs are the only mammals that do not make their own Vitamin C.

Beware of products that have lots of different ingredients listed on their label. In many cases. . .

  1. The amounts are so low that many of those ingredients are not available to the body and, therefore, not therapeutic
  2. It's merely marketing, not there to be effective. All those ingredients on the label sure look good, don't they, even if they don't help.
  3. Some companies believe in the "shotgun approach" to a specific problem and don't understand that having directed nutrition is the best way to deal with specifics. The professionals at MD's Choice know that a directed approach is much more effective and offers your body the most for the money when it comes to solving and/or dramatically helping specific problems.
Know what you are putting into your body. Be aware of what the positives AND negatives are (especially the long-term ones).
   
Why should I take Glucosamine Sulphate?
Over 40 years of studies worldwide – done independently and by raw ingredient manufacturers, academia, and nationally recognized associations (NIH, AMA & AVMA being the biggest) – have been done on Glucosamine Sulphate (Note: SULPHATED form). More than 350 scientific investigations and research articles exist, with over 50 of those studies being double-blind clinical trials. The research has proven that Glucosamine SULPHATE supplementation can provide the body with the raw material to help repair and regenerate its cartilage, improving the health of the joints, halt further cartilage destruction, and even reverse negative effects in a high percentage of cases.

Glucosamine is widely accepted as an effective treatment for arthritis. It has been proven safe and extremely effective IN THE RIGHT FORM. Caution is given when listening to anyone that continually refers to "glucosamine" without a "last name" (form). Most "professionals" only have the basic training in the field of nutrition. Many perfectly good general practitioners, brilliant surgeons, and otherwise incredible doctors haven't spent much time reading or evaluating the massive amount of research articles, abstracts, and studies associated with the differences in "glucosamine" and the various other ingredients commonly used in arthritis and joint supplements. While others have seen or heard enough to know it works, they don't know or understand the differences. MD's Choice's professionals clearly understand the differences and strive to maintain the best oral supplement offering "Total Joint Health" that available on the market, through both professional and retail channels.

There are, in fact, two forms of Glucosamine Sulphate. MD's Choice's joint supplements are unique because they use Glucosamine Sulphate 2KCl (lower case "L"), the potassium salt form of Glucosamine Sulphate. They believe that science shows it works better within the body. Most bodies, especially mammals, have more than enough sodium (NACl) in their diet, so MD's Choice conscientiously chooses not to use NACl, focusing on 2KCl instead.

The follow articles and medical journals were referenced for some of this information:

bullet Glucosamine sulfate for osteoarthritis; da-Camara-CC; Dowless-GV;Ann-Pharmacother. 1998 May; 32(5): 580-7)
bullet Oral glucosamine sulphate in the management of arthritis. Tapadinhas, Rivera, Bignamin. Pharmatherapeutica 1982; 3, 157)
bullet Efficacy and safety of intramuscular glucosamine sulfate in osteoarthritis of the knee. A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study. Reichelt-A, Forster-KK, Fischer-M, Rovati-LC, Setnikar-I. Arzneimittelforschung. 1994 Jan; 44(1): 75-80
bullet Crolle, G., and D'Este, E., (1980). Glucosamine suphate for the management of arthrosis: a controlled clinical investigation. Curr. Med. Res. Opin., 7, 104
bullet D'Ambrosio, E., Casa, B., Bompani, R., Scali, G., and Scali, M., (1981). Glucosamine sulphate: a controlled clinical investigation in arthrosis. Pharmatherapeutica. 2, 504
bullet Drovanti. A., Bignamini, A. and Rovati, A. (1980) Therapeutic activity of oral glucosamine suphate in osteorthrosis: a placebo controlled double-blind trial. Clin. Ther.. 3, 260
bullet Hunold, Hl. (1981) Ergebnisse einer Kurzzeittherapie mit Dona 200-5. Allg. Med., 57, 1686
   
How many do I have to take?
Proper dosing is dependent on weight, age, severity, location, and continued use. There is no "one size fits all" dose for proper nutrition and a balanced diet.

Contrary to what many supplement companies state or imply in their "one size fits all" labeling, bottling, and marketing, a 100 lb. person will generally require half as many nutrients as a 200 lb. person. A runner or roofer (constantly on their knees or pounding nails) will require more than the same size and age white collar worker that's not active. Knees, hips, and shoulders usually see results more quickly than the spine because they are larger joint capsules, having bigger ligaments and tendons and a more massive cartilage area than the spine. Plus, they can be more easily isolated and "babied" in the event of pain or injury than the spine can.

Most people start at a higher level (loading or treatment level dose) and, as healing occurs, are usually able to work their way down to a maintenance or even preventative level dose in a few months.

   
How long will the bottle last?
On average, a person weighing 100 to 175 pounds, with reasonable time off during the healing process (i.e., not continuing to aggravate that joint area), will go through one bottle the first month and, possibly, a second bottle the second month (depending on the severity and location of the problem), then will usually be at a bottle every couple of months for the next few months.

Once the initial treatment period is past, a 120 count bottle of Arthrosamine™ will last most people 60 to 120 days. Because of the quality of ingredients and bioavailability, once healing has occurred, maintenance of health becomes easier (requiring less product). People who weigh more than 175 pounds, have a spinal issue, pending joint replacement, or continued overuse and abuse of that joint area will require more for a longer period of time. Often, depending on the body, the average person is able to get to one capsule a day in 2 to 3 years, which make a bottle last up to four months! Most people who reduce their intake to one or two capsules a day sooner, within a year or so, are still able to notice a difference in how their joints feel compared to not taking the product at all, but this also depends on how much the joints are used and the severity of the problem.
   
Why is this better than the Glucosamine I get at a national chain store?
Scientists worldwide have proven that only Glucosamine SULPHATE 2KCl (Potassium Salt) and Glucosamine Sulphate NACl (Sodium Salt) actually get to the joint tissues. Recent studies have shown that very little Glucosamine HCl gets into the joint tissue, yet many of the Glucosamine supplements you will find in national chain stores contain this form of Glucosamine rather than Glucosamine Sulphate. Glucosamine HCl does not contain a sulphur source and, therefore, has NO EFFECT on the body in that form. It is necessary for it to undergo changes before it can be used in connective tissues. The HCl must be removed and a sulphate added. Because of this, Glucosamine HCl is not sold by itself, but, rather, with other ingredients that provide the sulphur. One of the most popular things added to these supplements is Chondroitin Sulfate. The problem with Chondroitin Sulfate is that it has larger molecules, which affects how well it gets into the joints. Even with the best Chondroitin Sulfate on the market (which is NOT what you'll find in a chain store), as much as 70% ends up in the urine and feces. That number is even higher with the Chondroitin Sulfate you'll find in most supplements. Does this sound like a wise use of your money?

N-acetyl-(D)-glucosamine has been proven to have no active uptake from the gut and, therefore, never reaches the joint tissues, yet it's a common ingredient in many joint supplements simply because it contains the word "glucosamine".

Generally, MD's Choice's products are priced competitively with the better quality products found in chain stores. The doctors that own MD's Choice stand behind their products. Even Walmart's wonderful product return policy limits the return to 1 used bottle, making MD's Choice's Results Based Guarantee superior.

In addition, MD's Choice doesn't scrimp on ingredient quality, unlike many of the mass-produced product companies do. Just take a look at the other supplements a company makes to determine how much they really know about nutrition and care about their customers. Most have a general vitamin/mineral supplement that contains oxides & carbonates, which are the least bioavailable and effective forms. If these companies really cared, wouldn't they use premium ingredients? You will never find limestone (calcium carbonate) or rust (iron oxide) in any of MD's Choice's products, because they know that those ingredients don't do their job and are a waste of your money!

MD's Choice's products are consistent from batch to batch, whereas at least three of the popular mass-marketed products sold through national chain stores fail to define what type (form) of glucosamine they are using, which enables them to change to whatever is the least expensive from batch to batch. A couple of other common products attempt to hit all marketing bases by claiming to have some of all types of glucosamine in their product, but with no specific numbers, which allows the contents to be easily changed.

The follow articles and medical journals were referenced for some of this information:

bullet T. H. Wilson and G. Wiseman, J. Physiol. Long. 123, 116 (1954)
bullet H.A.. Krebs and K. Henseleit, Z. physiol. Chem. 210 33 (1932)
bullet I.H. Rosenberg, A. L. Coleman, L.E,. Rosenberg, Biochim, bio-phys. Acta 102, 161 (1963)
bullet R.K. Crane and P. Mandelstam, Biochim, biophys. Acta 45, 460 (1960)
bullet S. G. Schultz and L. Yu-Tu, Biochim, biophys. Acta 196, 351 (1970)
bullet B. Tesoriere, R. Vento, D. Magistro and F. Dones, Ital. J. Bio-chem. 19, 139 (1970)
   
Why is Arthrosamine™ better than Celebrex®?
MD's Choice's products are safe, effective, natural to the body, don't negatively interact with or interfere with other systemic responses, medical treatments or medications, and can actually help support the tissues those other products have been shown to harm.
   
Can I use it when I take other medication (such as heart or blood pressure medicine)?
Yes, Arthrosamine™ has been used with a wide variety of drugs and treatments over the years. The ingredients used in it have had numerous safety and absorption studies done on them.

There are patients being treated for diabetes, epilepsy, high blood pressure, hormonal imbalances, cancer, HIV, and virtually every common disease, aliment, and problem who are taking MD's Choice's products on a regular basis without problems or negative side effects. Only in the case of IBS and insulin dependent diabetes must caution be used in taking this product. (See below for more details.)
   
I'm allergic to Sulpha Drugs. Will the Glucosamine Sulphate or MSM hurt me?
No, absolutely not. Individuals allergic to sulfates and sulfite compounds can safely take Glucosamine Sulphate since the sulphur in it refers only to the mineral sulfur, which no living person is allergic to (sulphur is found in every cell in the human body). It's highest concentration is in red meats and dark green vegetables. The "Sulpha" drugs were a synthetic sulphur, which an estimated 35% of the human population is allergic to.
   
Why is sulphur required in a joint supplement?
Sulphur plays a key role in maintaining the structural integrity of cartilage and is required to form the glucosamine chains within the body. Glucosamine knocks on the cell wall, but it is sulphur that opens the door. Without the sulphur molecule, glucosamine is only fractionally beneficial to the body. Without the Chondroitin SULPHATE added to supplements that use Glucosamine HCl, that type of glucosamine has little to no chance within the body. It relies on the body to EXCHANGE the HCl molecule with a SULPHATE molecule in order to function within the body (although, still, to only a fractional degree). (See above for details.)
   
Are there differences in MSM?
Absolutely! There are only 6 companies in the entire world that mass produce MSM. Two are in the U.S., the rest overseas. Of the two in the U.S., one is in Alabama, the other in Washington (state). Only the plant in Washington (Cardinal Nutrition, which produces Opti-MSM) has the license and the rights for their special distillation process based on 26 human and 26 animal patents for use, process, and efficacy. They are the only company approved for human pharmaceutical grade production, and every production run of their raw MSM is tested for 32 different common contaminates, including E coli, lead, cadmium, salmonella, and mercury, just to name a few.
   
I'm allergic to shell fish. Can I take your product?
MD's Choice uses highly purified ingredients, and they have many customers that have shellfish allergies that use their glucosamine products. However, for the sake of safety, it is best to consult your physician. If your past allergic reactions are not life-threatening, you could try one capsule to verify that there aren't any problems with taking it. If you don't notice any adverse effects or negative symptoms, then try two capsules (waiting at least two hours). In other words, don't just jump into the full dose. While MD's Choice uses the best and purest ingredients they can for the money, they also understand exceptions may exist.
   
I'm diabetic. Can I take this product even if my doctor says I can't?
In the majority of cases, the answer to this is yes. MD's Choice has dozens of diabetic customers that use their glucosamine products without any problems. Glucosamine (of any type) is not presently known to be contra-indicated (bad) in diabetic people. However, it is an amino sugar, so insulin dependent diabetics may require specific directions for use. A small percentage of insulin dependent diabetics react to amino sugars (estimated at about 2%). Some of these diabetics are able to successfully use it without a raise in their blood sugar levels only if they take no more than 1 capsule at a time, no closer than 2 hours apart. If you monitor your blood sugar levels, try one capsule to verify there aren't any spikes in your blood sugar levels. If you don't notice any, then try two capsules (waiting at least two hours). Don't just jump into the full dose. If in doubt, seek another doctor's opinion.

That having been stated, a report in the Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism (Pouwels, MJ, et al, 2001: 86, 5,: 2099-2103) concluded that, ". . . even when glucosamine was infused directly into the brachial artery of 18 healthy subjects, there was absolutely no evidence of blood sugar irregularities or disruption of insulin secretion." Note: 18 subjects aren't a lot, and these people were described as "healthy" (and not specifically diabetics). So, while this study is important to "normal" healthy people, the relevance it has to a person that has active blood sugar control issues is uncertain.

You must understand that the average medical doctor only received one or two semesters on nutrition during all of their schooling. Less than 1% of the doctors in the U.S. have any serious nutritional training in their background, although more of the newer doctors are getting nutrition in their education. It is, therefore, very possible that your doctor is not aware of all the details and studies done on Glucosamine Sulphate in regards to its effects on diabetics. A specialist in nutrition may be able to give you a more accurate answer.

Here's something else to consider. As the Glucosamine Sulphate helps joint health and reduces pain, arthritic patients often become more active. This can lead to a reduction in excess body weight and improved general cardiovascular health. All of these things can result in an improvement in insulin sensitivity, thereby reducing the dependence on insulin injections. It is always recommended to keep your physician aware of what you are doing and taking. Your doctor can monitor your progress and flag any potential negatives for your safety.
   
Are there any side effects?
None, other than what is stated with IBS and insulin-dependent diabetics. (See above for more details.)
   
I'm taking an anti-inflammatory medication. Can I still use Arthrosamine™?
Yes, you can take Arthrosamine™ concurrently with prescription and non-prescription anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen.

If you have been using anti-inflammatories (or painkillers) for a prolonged period of time, you may need to "wean" yourself off them over a period of several weeks (verses "cold-turkey", which is NOT recommended).

Please note that certain steroids and NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) actually BLOCK or inhibit the body's ability to use glucosamine and sulphur.

Also important to note is that misuse, overuse, and/or abuse of steroids (such as Yucca) can not only actually inhibit the bodies ability to repair itself, but can also cause harm with daily prolonged use.

The follow article was referenced for some of this information:

bullet Vialy Plana, Bizzarri, D., and Rovati, A.L., (1978) Articular cartilage pharmacology In vitro studies on glucosamine and non-steriodial anti-inflammatory drugs. Pharmacol. Res. Commun, 10, 557.
   
Can someone overdose on Arthrosamine™?
No, a human being can not take enough Arthrosamine™ to overdose. What your body doesn't use will pass through it.
   
Does it interfere with any other therapy or treatment?
No. Hundreds of people being treated for a wide variety of problems and health issues have effectively benefitted from MD's Choice products.
   
Will it help all joint-related problems?
Yes. It allows the body to heal and improve the joint health in almost all situations. Note: This is NOT a cure or complete solution for rheumatoid arthritis. Remember that MD's Choice's premium joint supplements carry a 100% RESULTS BASED GUARANTEE! So, what do you have to lose by trying it?
   
Will I have to use this product for the rest of my life?
That's entirely up to you. Remember, you didn't get this way overnight, and when you don't feel pain, that means Arthrosamine™ is doing its job! Most people are able to maintain on one capsule a day within 2 to 4 years of beginning supplementation, thus making a 120 count bottle last them FOUR MONTHS! Furthermore, if you have an injury or serious joint problem while on Arthrosamine™, the average person heals 25 to 50% faster than a person with the same problem not using it. Simply raise the current dose to a treatment level during the healing period. So, if you want to continue seeing the benefits of improved joint health, then you should remain on Arthrosamine™ permanently.
   
How does Arthrosamine™ compare to Cosemine?
If you feel you must use Chondroitin Sulphate, Nutramax, the makers of CosaminDS®, has the best in the industry, bar none. They have a special patent on a process that causes the Chondroitin Sulphate in their finished product to be at least 75% smaller (molecularly) than everyone else's. However, though they do have the best chondroitin, up to 70% of it still ends up in the urine and feces! This IS the best Chondroitin/Glucosamine HCl product on the market, but MD's Choice believes that their Arthrosamine™ is better, and their Results Based Guarantee is a safe way for you to prove or disprove it!

CosaminDS® also uses Glucosamine HCl as its secondary ingredient, rather than Glucosamine Sulphate (the sulphated form that is the primary ingredient of Arthrosamine™). MD's Choice believes that this is a vital issue because there are over 30 years of independent scientific research and double-blind placebo crossover studies that have been done on Glucosamine SULPHATE that have proven it to be effective and successfully used by the body time and time again. Both the AMA and AVMA have also done independent studies on Glucosamine Sulphate that further proves it has the power and ability to be effectively used by the joints and to help the body's health. Recent studies have shown that very little Glucosamine HCl gets into the joint tissue.

This doesn't mean that Nutramax's CosaminDS® is an ineffective product. It has been proven to work, especially as a preventative and maintenance level product in combination with other treatments or as a post-surgery benefit. Furthermore, Nutramax cares about the purity and quality of their product just as much as MD's Choice does. Their product is safe and has no negative side effects or contraindications (just like Arthrosamine™). However, MD's Choice believes it falls short of Arthrosamine™ as a standalone joint supplement, particularly on more serious joint related issues.

The bottom line is that MD's Choice's Arthrosamine™, when compared to similar strengths and bioavailability, has a lower daily cost in virtually every setting – professional or retail – than most quality joint supplements. In addition, MD's Choice's Results Based Guarantee is incredibly superior to the current 30-day money back guarantee that CosaminDS® and so many joint supplements have.
   
Why does my physician not prescribe this supplement?
It's not a drug, so a prescription is not required. Furthermore, most medical doctors either shy away from any nutritional supplements or have been "sold on" some type of multi-level marketing product where they get a continued residual. Understand that the average medical doctor was trained and educated about drugs, but only received one or two semesters on nutrition during all of their schooling. Less than 1% of the doctors in the U.S. have any serious nutritional training in their background. More of the newer doctors are getting nutrition in their education.
   
How is it administered?
Orally, in a fast-dissolving gel capsule containing a dry powder.
   
Customer Specific Questions & Answers
The specifics may not directly apply to you. Please call for answers specific to your needs.
   
Aging and the Joints

Q: I'm middle aged, and I think I'm still in pretty good shape and a lot more active than many of my co-workers and friends; however, I'm finding it difficult to get started in the mornings. My joints are stiff, and shoulders are a bit achy feeling. When I get down on the ground or floor, I find that it's nearly impossible to get up without help or something to grab on to. Rough-housing with the kids, playing foot ball with the boys, and many recreational activities are fine that day, but I usually "pay" for them for days afterward. I realize I'm getting older, but surely there is something that can help me have less pain and continue my active life style! I've had a few broken bones, and minor injuries throughout my life. Do you think anything will realistically help me?

A: The answer is yes, with more than a 90% likelihood. First, understand that you didn't get that way overnight, and the fix won't be overnight. You probably aren't getting a balanced diet on a regular basis, which helps justify proper supplementation for your body and for your lifestyle. Be careful that you aren't taking "feel good" products, which merely mask the symptoms. Those products help a lot now, and can hurt you a lot later. Check out www.jointsreport.com for ingredients commonly found in joint supplements. Also, you would probably benefit from regular flexibility and stretching exercises, even for 5 or 10 minutes a day.
   
Arthroscopic Surgery (before surgery)

Q: I've been using your product for nearly 6 months, and while I definitely notice a difference with my knees and shoulders, my hips are still sore and causing me problems. My doctor said that I should have my hip replaced, what do you suggest? Should I continue using the Arthrosamine?

A: There are a few reasons why a person could feel a difference in some joints, but not in others. First, the severity of the damage is worse in the joint that is still having problems, and it will take longer to fix. Human beings consistently favor one side over the other. One hand is used to write or eat or catch a ball with, the other isn't worked as much. One leg kicks a ball better than the other. Therefore, the amount of wear, damage, and time required for repair will obviously be different.

In some cases, surgery can be completely avoided, while, in others, surgery on a specific joint may be necessary to achieve optimum health and comfort. Everything eventually comes down to time or money – the faster you want to truly "fix" a problem, the more it will cost. Proper evaluation of the severity is vital.

If you are "bone on bone" in a given joint and there isn't any cartilage to work with, then Arthrosamine™ will help all the OTHER joints (used to compensate for the hurt joints), but will have a hard time repairing that joint. The joint in the worst shape may well become more apparent as the other joints stop hurting and have increased mobility.

Note: The doctor has actually seen the condition your joint is in, having taken x-rays and done other tests on you. Depending on what the specific problem is, the severity of the problem, how you are currently using that joint, and the time frame you have for the healing (and ability to pay for the surgery), you should realistically consider all these factors before deciding whether or not to go through with the surgery. Pain can be difficult to live with, and, in most non-severe cases, nutrition should be the first step, surgery second, if the nutrition isn't doing the job fast enough. Regular drug use should be always be the last resort because of the contra-indications. (See www.herbsaredrugs.com for more information.)

So, to answer your question, yes, whether you choose to go through with the surgery or not, you should continue using Arthrosamine™, because most people will heal 25 to 50% faster than if they weren't taking it. Also, if the problem is serious, then you shouldn't be on a "maintenance" dose, you should be using a "treatment level" dose. More than half of MD's Choice's customers have reported that they were either able to completely eliminate their joint replacement surgery or postpone it. While others report faster healing than their surgeon projected after the surgery was done. Many orthopedic surgeons are handing people Arthrosamine™ prior to and after the surgery, because a difference is noticed. And the differences are HUGE!
   
Arthroscopic Surgery (after surgery)

Q: I've had surgery on my right knee three times and my left knee once. The doctor said that short of a complete knee replacement, there is nothing more that can be done for my right knee. A friend told me about your product. Can it help me? Will I still need to have knee replacement?

A: Good questions, but they lead to other questions. Did the same doctor do all the surgeries? Did you do anything to cause reinjury? How long after the surgery did the problem happen again? Was it the same problem as before? These are all questions you need to know the answer to.

There are only a few reasons why you would be having that many joint problems:

  1. Multiple or repeat accidents
  2. Intense athletic activities that have resulted in severe joint injury
  3. Your body isn't getting the nutrients it needs for healthy joints
  4. You suffer from a disease that causes degeneration of the cartilage and other joint tissue
  5. The problem is genetic, something that is in your family history
  6. Your doctor didn't do the best job the first time
Without knowing more about your specific case, it's impossible to second guess your doctor. However, because of all your joint related problems, you should definitely be on a good quality joint supplement. Arthrosamine™ can help your joints be healthier. How much it can affect your right knee (the worst one) depends on what your doctor has done to it. Arthrosamine™ improves the quality of the synovial fluids (lubrication), strengthens the ligaments and tendons (adding flexibility and mobility), and supplies the body what it needs to build healthy cartilage, in a form it can use. At the very least, it WILL help all of your other joints and may possibly help those you have had surgery on.

You are welcome to call MD's Choice for a FREE nutritional consultation and case-specific suggestions of things you should talk to your doctor about.

One more thing. More than two surgeries on the same joint is rare and worth getting a second (or third) opinion on.
   
Genetics and the Joints

Q: My father had painful arthritis in his hands for years. Does that mean I'm going to suffer from that, too?

A: A study published in the British Medical Journal in 1996 demonstrated that the chance of a human being inheriting OA (OsteoArthritis) may run as high as 65%. However, the study may not have taken enough factors into account. Multiple genes are likely to be involved, as well as a variety of environmental factors (the son of a carpenter, who becomes a carpenter also, is more likely to have problems with their back, shoulders and wrists, than the son of the same carpenter who becomes a white collar worker). Runners are more likely to have knee problems than swimmers. Those are a couple of examples of environmental issues that didn't appear to be taken into account when evaluating the genetic link. So don't give up. While genetics definitely play a significant role in the possibilities, how you use and care for your joints is likely very different from how your parents did at your age, and, therefore, the risks, while still present, wouldn't be as great. Because of your awareness, you CAN institute preventative measures. Proper diet and supplementation may be especially important to your body.

Using a quality joint supplement BEFORE the potential problem occurs would be both prudent and give you the highest chance of eliminating many of the genetic possibilities. If you want to learn about the ingredients commonly found in joint supplements, please read www.jointsreport.com for the human article, www.equinearthritis.com for the equine version, and www.beefychewables.com for the canine article.
   
Joint Cracking and Popping Sounds

Q: I am in my late 20s and have recently noticed that my joints crack a lot more than they used to. Why is this happening? Is it age-related? Are there any dietary supplements or exercises that would help?

A: Cracking and popping of joints is actually normal and nothing to be concerned about. The most common cause is that nitrogen bubbles in the fluid inside the joint are rapidly brought into or out of solution when the joint is manipulated, such as cracking the knuckles in the hand. There is no long-term damage because of these noises, and there is no basis for the reprimand based on the old wives tale that cracking your knuckles can lead to arthritis. The only time to worry about cracking or popping of a joint is if there is pain when the joint pops, and/or the pops occur during normal and ordinary movements. Swelling is not normal and should be evaluated, especially if it accompanies the noises. If the joint gets locked or stuck when it pops or cracks, then it may indicate a joint problem, which should be evaluated.

Using a quality joint supplement, such as Arthrosamine™, will help improve the quality of the lubricating fluid and strengthen the ligaments and tendons, as well as supply the body what it needs, in forms it can use, to build healthy cartilage. While it will not eliminate a "forced pop" (by cracking knuckles), it usually eliminates the sounds during normal fluid movement and range of motion.
   
OTC (Over the Counter) Drugs for Pain Relief

Q: When my knee, hips, neck, or back start bothering me, I take over-the-counter pain relievers. Lately, I've been at, and sometimes above, the maximum dosage on the bottle and still not getting relief. Can I take more? How much is too much? What should I do?

A: Over-the-counter (OTC) medication dosing directions are designed to balance efficacy (effectiveness) with concerns over toxicity (overdose) or negative effects on the body (stomach, liver, kidneys). They generally assign the dosage for a "normal" sized adult (120 to 175 pounds), so the answer to your question is that the company that manufactures the product should be able to tell you what the "safe" upper levels and conditions are regarding their product. Also, you should really consult your doctor if the pain persists.

Logic dictates that if two bodies that are the same age, the same basic physical shape, and have the same problems, the larger body will require more nutrients and "drugs" for treatment. Note: the more a body is active and the harder it works, the more calories it can take, the more energy producing foods it can deal with, and the more nutrients it will need for optimum health. Also, some body systems assimilate (use) nutrients more easily.

Many of the OTC products for "treating arthritis" are nothing more than painkillers or pain blockers, and belong to a class of drugs known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). One of the well-known side effects of these medications is an increased risk of stomach irritation. Misuse of these products can lead to potentially serious side effects, including an increased risk of stomach bleeding, changes within the blood (some bodies may experience thinning, while others could experience clotting), and potential damage to the liver, kidneys, or even the heart. Water retention and dehydration can also be side effects from some of the drugs on the market. That is why is it wise to limit the use of painkillers and blockers, including herbs (which ARE, in fact, plant derived drugs).

The best thing you can do is have a balanced diet. Take quality supplemental nutrients that your body can use and benefit from that either don't have any harmful side effects or have known side effects you choose to chance.

Make educated choices, and don't be afraid to ask.  Look things up, learn to understand the label, do the math on products, educate yourself, and determine reasons why you should do business with a company. Consider guarantees and the people behind the product. Understand that many companies asking you to ingest their product don't guarantee anything past 30 days or 1 bottle. The truth is that nutrition cannot solve most problems overnight or even within a few days, so why accept a guarantee that's limited to 30 days or just one bottle? With MD's Choice, you don't have to. Their guarantee is for up to 3 bottles and generally 16 to 24 weeks (average treatment period). It either works or you get your money back! With an 87% customer retention rate, MD's Choice's confidence is founded, and their products are definitely worth giving a try.
   
Soreness – Knees & Hips

Q: When I ride my horse on the weekends, I really pay the price afterwards. My knees are really achy, and my hips are very sore. I keep telling myself it was fun and worth a little discomfort. But it's lasting longer and starting to interfere with my life. Could it be arthritis?

A: This symptom may represent strain on the soft tissues surrounding the joint, but it may also represent the early stages of osteoarthritis (OA). If this symptom persists or worsens or if the knees become swollen, consider giving a therapy level dose of Arthrosamine™ a try. Odds are it will take 6 to 8 weeks to notice a significant difference, and, with MD's Choice's Results Based Guarantee, you have nothing to lose.
   
Weather and the Joints

Q: I'd swear my shoulder can tell me when it's about to rain. Does the weather really affect arthritis? Is that why I hurt worse during colder weather?

A: The pain and stiffness of osteoarthritis are frequently worsened in cool, damp or rainy weather. This association is because there are atmospheric pressure changes, which alter the pressure within a person's body, specifically their joints. Some people are more sensitive to these changes.

Bundle up a little more, layer your clothing, and help protect your joint areas. Increasing the dose of a premium joint supplement, such as Arthrosamine™, will likely help your body have healthier joints and less discomfort during the colder winter months.
   
Weight Loss and the Joints

Q: A friend lost 20 pounds and said her arthritis went away. Is that possible?

A: Weight loss might reduce the risk of developing osteoarthritis, slow the progression of an existing disease, and possibly make the symptoms less noticeable. Your friend's arthritis did NOT go away because of her weight loss, but her more bothersome symptoms may have lessened significantly or even completely. Her knees and hips are lifting less weight (due to the weight loss) and, therefore, not working quite as hard. However, the problem in the joints is still there, and, although further damage will be slowed due to the weight reduction, it will likely continue. Exercise, stretching, and diet all play an important role in the health of our body.

Arthrosamine™ has been proven to be very effective against osteoarthritis. Even though your friend isn't hurting now, she might still want to consider taking this joint supplement, which really can help eliminate her arthritis.

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