Methylsulfonylmethane is a compound that is in the news these days for its ability to give relief from joint pain. Across the U.S., about one in four adults suffer from severe joint pain that occurs due to arthritis. That’s about 15 million people in the U.S. alone and experts believe that there may be scores more undiagnosed with this condition but living with persistent pain in the joints. This is why remedies for such pain are popular. Methylsulfonylmethane uses are not restricted to joint pain relief and this is another reason why this compound, also known as MSM, can be found in so many supplements today.

The sulfur connection

MSM benefits for joint pain arise from the fact that it is rich in sulfur. What does the body use sulfur for?  

• Repairing DNA
• Building DNA
• Repairing cell damage
• Metabolizing foods and extracting essential nutrients
• Maintaining skin, hair, nails
• Producing proteins 
• Rebuilding bones, teeth
• Repairing collagen 
• Regulating blood sugar

In short, sulfur is a very critical need for the body in keeping various parts and organs healthy and also in carrying out the regular repair and maintenance of worn- out cells and tissue.

What is MSM good for?

MSM is good for any of the body’s needs that require sulfur. Now sulfur is one of the most abundant minerals in the human body. We get it from diet, especially from plant based foods, proteins mainly. 

But of 20 amino acids, only 2 contain sulfur that our body can use.  Of the two, one (methionine) cannot be synthesized by the body on its own. The only way to get it is from food. Even the other amino acid that does have sulfur (cysteine) is required in constant supply to keep up with the body’s need. The challenge here is to ensure adequate supply of sulfur within the body. Remember that sulfur from plant sources is often destroyed when the food is processed. 

MSM can be taken as a supplement to fulfill the body’s needs. There are several MSM benefits for the body.

Also Read: MSM – Not Just For Joint Pain

Apart from joint pain, what is MSM good for?

One of the most valuable MSM benefits is how it works to alleviate sore muscle. We know that exercise is important for good health. In fact, doctors recommended regular, light exercise as a simple remedy for joint aches (see also 'Why Your Joints Ache After 50 and What You Can Do About It?'). However, to maintain a regular exercise schedule, you must be pain free. Also, if a workout causes immense muscle soreness, you are not motivated to keep at it. Studies carried out on athletes state that MSM benefits extend to reducing the pain experienced after an exhaustive workout session. 

Methylsulfonylmethane uses include reducing oxidative damage that is caused by exercise. It also reduces the oxidative stress, meaning that the muscle damage caused by a workout is controlled and thus muscle soreness and pain too are minimal when the individual takes MSM.  

MSM for joints is popular also because it helps reduce joint degeneration. The pain or inflammation in joints arises because the cartilage between the bones deteriorates due to age and/ or wear and tear. When the cartilage wears down or is damaged, the bones scrape against each other when you move. This causes pain and swelling and stiffness too. MSM actively prevents the degeneration here and thus protects the joints from stress.  

Reducing the body’s tendency to react to stimuli with inflammation is also one of the MSM benefits to note. This compound reduces the release of inflammatory molecules and thus keeps swelling to a minimum post an exhaustive workout session. 

A common question asked by first time users is: Is MSM safe?

The studies mentioned above have not reported any severe side effects from the use of MSM. This compound has been in use for a number of years now with positive responses from uses. As long as a safe dosage (2–6 gm per day) is taken the product has no adverse reactions. 

The right supplement for MSM

To get the best of MSM benefits, you must choose the right supplement that is made with high grade, pure ingredients and is additives free. Physio Flex Pro is one such supplement that you can confidently use thanks to the extensive testing that it undergoes before it comes to market. Physio Flex Pro combines MSM benefits with glucosamine and chondroitin, also well-known for their joint pain relief properties. A supplement that comes recommended by physiotherapists, Physio Flex Pro (see also 'Physio Flex Pro Joint Capsules Explained') is the right choice for you.