The cartilage must absorb nutrients from the fluid that surrounds it, through a process known as imbibition, which mimics the action of a sponge, pushing those essential nutrients such as blood, oxygen, and vitamins and minerals into the joint space. Although these drugs are used extensively in the United States, and may produce short-term relief, research is showing that these drugs may be accelerating joint destruction and cause many other clinical problems later on. A common underlying complaint in those patients suffering from arthritis is pain and inflammation. It results from the stimulation of responsive cells, such as mast cells, by various physical, chemical, and immunological factors. Leukotrienes activate macrophages, monocytes and neutrophils, making them undergo chemotactic response and oxidant release.
Arachidonic acid is an essential oil found in all human cell walls.
Once traumatized, arachidonic acid is released into circulation precipitating the inflammatory process. Recent research has found that the inflammatory process and the subsequent pain are also modulated by a group of polypeptide substances known as cytokines. Various nutrients have been shown to modify the production and biological activity of these cytokines. Work at Tufts University has shown that nutrients like vitamin E, omega-3 EPA, and other members of the antioxidant family all have an impact on the release of these cytokines. So, to review, many agents trigger the inflammatory cascade, which ultimately results in pain and inflammation.