Arthritis - Alternative TreatmentsType II CollagenType two collagen is a protein derived from chicken sternum cartilage. Type II chicken collagen is un-denatured (in its natural state), as opposed to denatured or hydrolyzed collagen To date, only one manufacturer produces un-denatured Type II chicken collagen. It is said to relieve arthritis pain, inflammation, swelling and stiffness of Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoarthritis, JRA and gout.
Small amounts of collagen, taken by mouth, appear to reduce Rheumatoid Arthritis symptoms by suppressing the autoimmune response. Research has shown results are very dose sensitive. Dose Sensitive FindingSeveral studies from Harvard University and Germany have shown positive effects on the symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis. One of the largest studies involving a multi-centered, double-blind, placebo controlled group of 274 people with Rheumatoid Arthritis tested four dosages: 20 mcg, 100 mcg, 500 mcg or 2,500 mcg (2.5 mg). Only the lowest dose demonstrated significant improvement, which included a reduction in inflammation and joint arthritis pain. High doses had no effect.Un-denatured Type II collagen also appeared to reduce swollen and tender joints in JRA subjects in a three-month study from Harvard. Here, patients were given 100 mcg daily the first month, followed by 500 mcg for the next two. Several German studies on Rheumatoid Arthritis and un-denatured Type II collagen have also found a positive outcome. In contrast to un-denatured type II collagen, studies at Harvard Medical School found that the use of hydrolyzed or denatured type II collagen proved ineffective in treating the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. According to the Harvard researchers, denatured type II collagen has no observable effect on the incidence and severity of the disease. Precautions:No known drug interactions or side effects in small doses; large doses can cause nausea. Do not take if allergic to chicken or eggs. Only un-denatured Type II chicken collagen has been shown to be safe and effective in clinical trials. Denatured or collagen hydrolysate has not. Bovine cartilageTaken from the windpipe and trachea of cows, it's supposed to act as an anti-inflammatory agent in the treatment of Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis. A few animal and laboratory studies are promising, but there are no human studies to support claims. Researchers also think it may promote re-growth of cartilage. AcupunctureA review published in 2001 evaluated the results of studies of acupuncture for osteoarthritis of the knee. The reviewers found seven studies they rated as significant, involving a total of 393 participants. Although not all studies were positive, overall the reviewers concluded that “strong evidenceâ€
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