Methylsulfonflmethane (MSM) is a naturally
occurring substance with pain-relieving
properties. MSM blocks the transmission of nerve
impulses that travel along C fibers, specialized
nerve cells that send messages of deep, aching
pain to your brain. Unlike acute pain, which
serves as a warning that something is wrong, this
chronic type of pain is seemingly without purpose
and is therefore especially cruel. It's also much
more resistant to treatment, which is why MSM is
such a blessing for the many patients who have
benefited from it.
MSM also reduces inflammation. When tissues
become inflamed, they swell with fluid, which
puts pressure on nerves and causes pain.
Inflammation is a characteristic feature of
arthritis, and the most popular drugs for
arthritis pain- nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs ( Motrin, asprin etc.) achieve their
analgesic effects by blocking the inflammatory
process. Unfortunately, that's not all they do.
They also damage the lining of the stomach and
accelerate cartilage destruction. MSM eases
inflammation without these unwelcome side
effects. It is extremely safe ... studies have
found it to be less toxic than table salt. Its
only side effect, seen at high doses, is minor
gastrointestinal discomfort.
The "S" is MSM stands for sulfur, the likely
source of its healing and pain-relieving
properties. This mineral, which is present in
virtually all cells, is concentrated in the
muscles and connective tissues. Sulfur
containing compounds are abundant in cartilage
and in the synovial fluid that lubricates your
joints. In a 1995 study, researchers found that
the sulfur concentration in arthritic cartilage
was approx. one-third the level of normal
cartilage. Other studies have shown that
arthritic patients have lower levels of
sulfur-containing amino acids, the building
blocks of protein. Understanding the importance
of sulfur to protein-rich tissues as muscle and
cartilage, it is clear that sulfur has a history
of use in the treatment of various joint
pain.
Finally, MSM dilates blood vessels and
enhances blood flow. Though this doesn't directly
affect pain, it does hasten the delivery of
vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients to speed
healing. MSM is not a quick fix but instead a
long-term solution that addresses the underlying
causes of arthritis pain - inflammation, poor
blood flow and deficiencies of tissue-building
nutrients. Even though MSM can be effective
alone, it is more effective when combined with
other joint-healing supplements.