We at CHN believe movement and exercise are a critical element of long term health. But if you are in pain, that can be a challenge. Joints, cartilage, ligaments, tendons and synovial fluid (for joint lubrication) undergo a continuous but slow turnover and remodeling process. This is affected by many physiological factors such as diet, supplements, activity, stress, gut health, allergies, immune status, infections, aging, hormones, toxic load and/or various medications. The continuous repair of joints and tissue depends on these nutrients: glucosamine, sulfur (MSM), hyaluronic acid, copper and vitamin C for collagen synthesis (found in tendons, cartilage, ligaments). Minerals are also very important because they stick to the collagen and provide structural support.
Four of the most common destructive processes that can impair the health of the connective tissue and shift the body towards degeneration and away from repair are:
• Inflammation: Short term inflammatory responses are good they bring immune cells and collagen building precursors to an area to promote healing and regeneration. Chronic low grade inflammation that could be caused by excessive joint wear and tear, and/or low body stores of anti-inflammatory fatty acids (GLA, EPA) and/or excess of the inflammatory fatty acids (arachidonic acid). Many natural compounds such as turmeric, boswellia, NAC, resveratrol, MSM, green-lipped mussel, phytocannabinoids and cetyl myristoleate (CMO) have been shown to support this in the repair direction.
• Oxidative stress resulting from free radicals generated from various causes including excessive inflammation, infections, poor diet, oxidized fats, toxic metals: Oxidative stress can be significantly reduced by dietary antioxidants such as resveratrol, turmeric, NAC, and by an adequate supply of essential minerals selenium, copper, manganese, magnesium, zinc and vitamin C.
• Autoimmune conditions could be caused by toxic metal/chemical load, intestinal infections, dietary allergies, microbial overload, prolonged stress and other chronic illness. Various nutrients such as niacinamide, NAC, astragalus, DHEA and vitamin D to name a few help support and modulate the immune system.
• Catabolic factors: Excessive cortisol production (stress hormones) or steroid treatments such as cortisone can have a devastating effect on the ability to form collagen, which is a major component of cartilage, tendons and ligaments.
We help guide you though lifestyle and nutrition changes, as well as recommend targeted supplements and herbs for joint repair and pain relief, offer treatments to enhance oxygen and nutrient delivery such as hyperbaric oxygen, peptides and ozone therapies, and provide expert care in regeneration through platelet rich plasma (injections) and adipose derived mesenchymal stem cells. We want you to move through your life and feel well doing it.