Chondroprotectors: what is it, classification and advice for choosing * Crossfit

Chondroprotectors are a group of active substances, the action of which is aimed at strengthening the constituent elements of the musculoskeletal system. This is evidenced by the name itself - "chondro" is translated as cartilage, and "protection" means protection.

Substances

The main components of chondroprotectors are:

Collagen - easily absorbed due to the small size of the molecule, is the basis of the skeleton of connective tissue cells, due to which their firmness and elasticity are preserved.
Chondroitin - has a different molecular weight depending on how it was synthesized. Its action is mainly aimed at restoring cartilage.
Glucosamine is found in the body in the form of two salts, it is responsible for the quality of joint lubrication and the fluid level in the joint capsule.

Classification of chondroprotectors

Russian specialists have divided chondroprotectors into several generations:

Generation 1. This includes trace elements synthesized from cartilage and plant extracts.
Generation 2. Glucosamine, chondroitin, collagen and hyaluronic acid are collected here in pure form.
Generation 3. Includes a complex combination of chondroprotectors, sometimes supplemented with vitamins and minerals.

Components of the first generation do not always enter the body in the required amount, especially for those who adhere to various diets and specialized sports nutrition. But they are consumed much more intensively with regular physical activity. Therefore, to maintain the health of the elements of the musculoskeletal system, it is recommended to take substances of the second and third generations.

Act

The value in the use of chondroprotectors lies mainly in the fact that they are able to independently find the most damaged locations, acting on them in the first place. Components of this group of medicines help cartilage cells to recover faster from damage. With prolonged use, the strength of the cell membrane increases, its resistance to injury and the ability to withstand large external loads increase.

The active molecules of chondroprotectors catch free radicals and prevent them from having a detrimental effect on the body. Supplements keep joints lubricated, increasing shock absorption and preventing bone abrasion. An important condition for normal motor activity is the maintenance of the required level of fluid in the joint capsule, since it is this that prevents the development of inflammatory processes that arise due to increased friction and pinching of nerve endings. Glucosamine is responsible for this function. There are no blood vessels in the bones, so the synovial fluid is a breeding ground for them. When bending, it lubricates the cartilage and transfers to it some of the useful microelements, instead of which, under favorable conditions, new ones are formed.

It should be noted that the restorative effect of the components is possible only when the cartilage and joints are not completely destroyed, and there are tissues that can still be helped. Therefore, it is important to take care of the preventive intake of chondroprotectors in advance, without bringing the health situation to a critical point.

Release form

External remedies are represented by ointments and creams, act locally, basically only relieving symptoms (swelling and pain), practically do not affect the regenerative function of cells.
Tablets and capsules - accelerate the regeneration of cartilage and joints, but require long-term use (2-3 months) due to the cumulative effect.
Intramuscular injections are used for acute pain and severe inflammation, are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream, and have a powerful restorative effect. The duration of the course is, as a rule, 10 days, after which oral medications are prescribed.
Joint fluid simulators - are introduced into the joint, replenishing the lack of synovial fluid. This procedure is performed by a doctor if there are certain indications.

Choice of chondroprotectors

Only a doctor can help you decide which supplement you need. For the prevention or in the initial stage of diseases, a course of capsules is sufficient. And serious disorders in the work of the musculoskeletal system require complex treatment and the use of strong drugs of accelerated action.

Hyaluronic acid complex

Hyaluronic acid is an important component of the artificially created synovial fluid, which is injected into the cavity of the joint capsule in case of its natural deficiency (Synvix, Fermatron).

Latest developments

Recently, complex biological additives, which contain various chondroprotectors in their pure form, have gained wide popularity among athletes due to their high effectiveness. They are often additionally enriched with vitamins and minerals (Inoltra, Artrolone, Teraflex and Teraflex Advance).

Homeopathic remedies

Maintains cartilage health but requires long-term use. Produced in various forms, they are not addictive and affect the entire body as a whole. As a rule, such additives practically do not cause side effects and allergic reactions, since the real concentration of substances in them is negligible, which does not affect their effectiveness in any way (Traumeel C and Objective T).

Colloidal solutions

It is believed that solutions of this type have better permeability and are able to quickly penetrate into the focus of damage, since they are extremely small. These include the Arthro Complex.

Intra-articular injections

They are used in severe stages of joint diseases and consist in the introduction of an artificially created solution that imitates the fluid of the articular bag (Alflutop, Adgelon, Notprex).

The use of chondroprotectors in different cases

When choosing chondroprotectors, you need to pay attention not only to their appearance, but also to the appointment of the appointment, the patient's age, the absence or presence of physical activity in his life, anamnesis and other points.

In childhood

Without the testimony of a pediatrician, chondroprotectors should not be used in children under 15 years of age. To strengthen the baby's skeletal system, there are harmless homeopathic remedies based on soy and avocado. They can be given to a child from the age of three, but you should not get carried away with uncontrolled reception.

Athletes

With regular exercise, cartilage and joints are subjected to severe stress and wear out much faster. Therefore, athletes are the first in the rheumatological risk group. They should choose the most balanced supplements that will not only strengthen the skeletal system, but also increase the protective properties of the body, enhance endurance, and support the cardiovascular system.

During pregnancy

Chondroprotectors should not be taken by pregnant women without a special doctor's prescription. All intra-articular interventions must be postponed until the baby is born, taking into account the lactation period. The only permissible use with caution is in the form of a small amount of ointments for severe pain and swelling.

With osteochondrosis

Osteochondrosis is a serious disease associated with damage to the intervertebral cartilage tissue. His treatment should be carried out strictly under the supervision of a physician. Chondroprotectors alone will not be enough to cope with the disease on their own, since it requires an integrated approach. Cartilage cells decompose much faster than they regenerate. And chondroprotectors only slightly accelerate the regeneration process, but do not affect the formation of new cells. Therefore, they are powerless if the cartilage tissue is completely destroyed. Doctors recommend taking second and third generation chondroprotectors for osteochondrosis, as well as developing a diet, optimizing physical activity and losing weight.

For fractures

Chondroprotectors are prescribed for fractures associated with damage to the periarticular region. In this case, injections are used and an additional intake of second and third generation chondroprotectors is prescribed for early healing. After the injections, the supplement is prescribed in the form of tablets or capsules. The duration of the course is determined by the attending physician.

Instructions for use

The duration and methods of admission depend on the medical prescription. The tablets are applied in a course, the duration of which is approximately 2-3 months. Injections are performed once, no more than 10 days in a row. And sometimes 3-5 injections are enough to restore the level of the joint fluid.

Interaction

Chondroprotectors work well with other drugs that are taken to relieve inflammation, reduce pain, and repair tissue. But it is not recommended to take with a large dose of alcohol, since the breakdown products of ethyl are quite toxic to the body. A glass of wine is allowed.

Contraindications and side effects

For athletes, there are practically no contraindications to the use of additives, with the exception of individual intolerance to the components. But for children under 14 years old, pregnant and lactating women, self-medication is strictly not recommended. It should be taken with caution in case of oncological diseases, after consulting a doctor.

Violation of the dosage of use can cause: