DMSO is amazing. No need to be skeptical. If you have any kind of pain, knees, ankles, whatever put some castor oil on your skin and then add a few drops of DMSO. The cast help it burn less on your skin and quickens the transdermal effect. It’s great stuff you can also take half a teaspoon or so of it in your favourite cup of juice, but that will make you smell funny, but it definitely works. It’s all sulphur based and incredibly healing. Also check out food grade non-aluminum contained baking soda. All of these natural remedies are based on bringing more hydrogen and sulpher into your system.
OOOOHhhh yes! Castor oil! I used castor oil with the ginger & turmeric to survive my black belt test. I haven't yet needed to try it with the DMSO for pain, but it's a good one.
I have, but I do not recall any specifics as to which concoction of it to use for injured joints. Lots of general information on what it it useful for but light on what form is best for each ailment. Did I miss something?
It's one of my small frustrations with Midwestern Doc. S/he tells us so much - but you really kind of have to biohack and do your own research to get a solution.
That said - each of us is an experiment of N=1, so while DMSO is universally good, HOW you need to use it may be different.
I wish I could have him/her as a Doc and just TELL ME what I need to do! I'm so weary of biohacking, and finding a doc to help me sort my stuff is impossible.
It's a very long article. I did scroll very far down for the section on treating musculoskeletal injuries before I sent the link but I didn’t look for forms or dosages. I will have an opportunity to check for that late tomorrow afternoon (while my garage door is being repaired!).
Kitsune: While I could not find any specifics on DMSO formulation or dosage in the text for knee injuries, I pulled out a couple quotes:
"It’s very easy to overdose on an NSAID or Opioid, whereas a meticulous human study found taking 90 days of DMSO at 3-30 times the standard dosage did not cause any toxicity and was well tolerated by the research subjects (whereas almost any other drug would be extremely dangerous at doses that high).
Also relevant is 'Harriet's e-mail':
"Thank you for your email on DMSO. I had severe pain in my piriformis for over 2 months and couldn't walk, and tried everything without success. I work in orthopedics, and have tried multiple injections, etc. When I read your article, I remembered using DMSO in the past for athletic injuries. I found an old bottle of DMSO 99% pure that I bought at a "Feed and Seed" store, for horses, about 25 years ago, but never threw it out. I immediately applied it to the painful areas, and it really worked! — Harriet
I am not a medical professional. But these two pieces of information would cause me, if I were treating myself, to seek a pure form, use a tiny amount and make certain the spot I was treating was as clean as possible, including free of soap residue. This would be important due to the following caution: "It rapidly spreads throughout the body once it contacts the skin (or is ingested), and if mixed with anything, brings that into the body as well."
Here's another promising quote relevant to your knee from AMD:
"It (DMSO) significantly increases blood circulation throughout the body and simultaneously removes edema and excess fluid from where it does not belong. This is particularly important for the joints, as their structure predisposes them to having a limited blood supply (especially when they are damaged and need that blood to heal)."
This was also encouraging:
"While DMSO is a remarkably effective painkiller and wound healing agent, by far its number one use was the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions, particularly those which created a functional immobility. In turn, many of the early adopters of DMSO went from skeptics to believers because of the rapid and dramatic improvements they saw from it (e.g., as they had patients with a debilitating bursitis in the shoulder recovering within minutes of receiving DMSO)."
Two more relevant quotes:
"(T)he pioneer of DMSO would typically use injections rather than topical applications for the hips and knees (although we’ve found the knees frequently respond to topical DMSO)."
"Two horses with LPS induced synovitis in their mid-carpal joints received topical (90%) DMSO gel, and compared to controls were found to have a decrease in joint inflammation (e.g., less neutrophils present). Additionally, DMSO was found within both the joints and serum."
Wish I could be of service. I have never heard of DMSO. I looked it up but I am sure You had as well. I have had problems with my shoulder and neck area--the most excruciating pain in my life. This ended when I started walking more. I occasionally do a light mobility routine and this has also helped I feel. I wouldn't recommend doing it when injured however.
Did the extra walking coincide with spending more time outdoors? Walking isn't bad, certainly helps soften up the neck and shoulders if nothing else. But, as a bonus, both UVB and infrared have been found to help with healing in various ways.
Meanwhile, the sunlight which permeates windows are generally just about only visible light and UVA, so basically just cancerous death rays.☀️
There are DMSO gel formulations. E.g., 70% DMSO/30% aloe vera from dmsostore.com. You just put it on where it hurts, up to 3 times a day. Wash it off after 20 min to reduce the itching that may result.
If it were just a matter of getting the surgery, no problem. But having to wear a mask 24 hours a day while in the hospital is enough for me to say, “No way.”. Then I have figure out how to pay for, rearrange the house so that I have a place to sleep down stairs and miss however many weeks (months) of work with no pay. Of these, the in hospital masking is the biggest hurdle, not that the others are small.
But you can at least complete proper diagnosing procedures to know where you are with your knee and if something is damaged beyond the blunt trauma? I'd certainly start with that. And you'll find out, if any surgery is recommended, how long you'll be out of commission and how long the surgery and hospital stay will last.
Good evening to you K, from Virginia, USA. Ms Taylor's ref was invaluable to me as a starting point for DMSO research. To access the complete substack be prepared to sign up for the short free trial subscription.
I emailed myself the link in early October, along with some preliminary info which I share here. Apologies in advance for this excessively long reply/note:
Disappointing in lack of detail, but references the work in the UK 1985 on DMSO:
"The first medical report on the use of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as a pharmacological agent was published in 19641. A year later, the use of DMSO in humans was terminated because experimental studies had shown refractive index changes to the lens of the eye1,2. Years later, DMSO was again approved for use in humans since this side effect was only proven in animal studies2. DMSO has since been used for a variety of purposes, such as treatment of musculoskeletal and dermatological diseases, cryopreservation of stem cells, treatment of interstitial cystitis, treatment of increased intracranial pressure, and many more3–9"
Further along, this quote:
"In conclusion, adverse reactions due to DMSO are often mild and transient and do not qualify as serious adverse events. Cardiovascular and respiratory adverse reactions occur mostly when DMSO is administered intravenously, whereas dermatological reactions have a higher incidence when DMSO is administered transdermally. An important finding is that the occurrence of adverse reactions seems to be related to the dose of DMSO, and it therefore seems safe to continue the use of DMSO in small doses."
One such response to my own questions in the postings on DMSO was a recommendation to find the purest available rated by pharmacological regulators product you can find.
I purchased a 99% DMSO gel made in the USA, (not for human use) 1 pound tub of equine solution for $33 US. I am STILL investigating the subject of anti-inflammatory effect vs possible ill effects. According to the articles I've read, the videos I've watched and the unofficial advice with medical-disclaimer-caveats, using DMSO topically requires PRISTINE, CLEAN, unadulterated by anything SKIN. DMSO transdermally inserts whatever accompanies it directly into the surface.
The short answer: the midwestern doctor appears to be worth consulting for dosage and application advice for use.
Midwestern Doctor is actually where I first about DMSO. He wrote at length about it and I saved it to read in full later. Scanning it, I did not notice any indications for joint injury but I was not looking for such as I did not think there could be a substance that could that worked this way.
After his post on it, DMSO is popping up everywhere. But it was not until someone suggested it for my damaged knee that I looked in to it for this purpose. It does seem to good to be true but worth a try. Not wanting to visit a hospital for any reason, especially an extended stay.
I'm right there with you on the negative-to-hospital visit.
Trying DMSO gel 1X every other day on husbands twisted neck, applied with my achy-joint hands. Will let you know whether his neck and/or my hands’ conditions improve.
Have you thought about getting a diagnosis. If you’ve got a torn ligament, the best you can do is to mildly mitigate the symptoms, but that’s not addressing the root cause of the pain and swelling.
Yes. My brother in law is a physical therapist. Given the time since the injury, he recommended an X-ray to learn where it is damaged and suspects surgery is needed. But that means wearing a mask the whole time I am in the hospital, most likely still need to be shot up with clot shots and boosters, tested for Covid and if a single positive result is indicated, the whole ventilator death protocol.
If they even dare to mention the vaccine again sue them for £10,000.
No one messes with you once you learn a little bit about the law.
Also my knee only responds to physiotherapy exercises. Do those everyday and the muscles all around it take all the strain away from the joint so it is worth a try.
Physical therapy and prescribed home exercises also worked surprisingly well for a family member with severe arthritis in both knees. He now uses a cane rather than a walker and is pain-free.
if it's soft tissue damage x-ray is a waste of time that will only identify bone pathology. MRI would prob be more appropriate if it was tendon or ligament related. But I completely understand where you are coming from on the hospital thing - my goal is to go the remainder of my life without ever having to set foot in a hospital again as a patient! But I do go to them for my work - I sell these devices, something like this might be helpful if you can find a therapist that offers it.....https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLPhoBvsuzqYWymJpPIPra5-7u5EHhg7rP&si=Tysa0YlQLPjNtSXN
But also not as effective. And keep in mind the "shock" wave is actually just an acoustic wave.....and the treatments should never be painful. You feel a "good uncomfortable" as in a massage....
I raised this exact question. His reply was along the lines of, Yes, that is true. But an X-ray will show where the bones are and their alignment or misalignment and that would indicate where the soft tissue is injured and to what degree or even if it is. MRI’s are expensive, the X-ray may prevent needing to pay for one. That was what he suggested.
In the US the vast majority of providers will order x-rays reflexively - yes there COULD be a diagnostic benefit in many cases. But in all cases it's a "defensive" play (just making sure) that happens to be another service that is billable to insurance. Having said that, there is no downside to getting one. Just may not provide much insight depending upon the issue.....good luck. FYI in the US I pay generally around $350-400 for an MRI
I've masked up for a couple quick clinic and hospital visits in Japan recently - no inquiries at all about vax status. Had a CT scan a couple years back and wasn't asked then, either.
I don't think they're incentivized to kidnap and kill you here - at least not to the degree of in the US.
You might consider going to a 接骨院(sekkotsuin) or 整形外科 (seikeigaika) that deal with sprains, strained muscles, joints, etc. They have x-ray, ultrasound, etc., probably can assess what's going on - covered by health insurance and pretty reasonable even without it.
I have gone to one such twice. Very helpful but this is a rather nasty injury. I have private insurance, but not the national insurance. In the past, not problematic, now it can be.
Taking it orally sounds strange? The only effect, that cannot be explained as placebo, seem to be some regulation of gastric acid production.
Have you tried getting rid of every sort of seed oil and sugar in your diet? For me that resulted in scars I've had for over half a decade just simply fading out. Another thing worth a shot is fasting for 5 days or so every other week for two months to promote rejuvenation via autophagy.
As for DMSO, perhaps it could be worth combining it with cartilage cream?
Most papers on DMSO appear to be paywalled, but the most relevant sections appear accessible via the Science Direct directory
"Several severe reactions have caused the FDA to halt clinical trials on DMSO as some studies reported eye damage and life-threatening allergic reactions"
"DMSO may increase the effects of blood thinners, steroids, cardiac medications, and sedatives. Its extensive permeability may cause contaminants, toxins, and other medications to readily permeate the skin and have unexpected effects"
"Chronic pain patients may need to apply DMSO for nearly 6 weeks prior to noticing an effect."
"concentrations greater than 60% required to show optimum efficacy "
"DMSO is known to denature proteins and change the intracellular keratin conformation from helical to β sheet"
"Antiemetic agents such as prochlorperazine have been useful for ameliorating nausea and vomiting. "
"DMSO 50% is a particularly potent scavenger of the hydroxyl radical and may relieve pain by blocking peripheral C fibers."
The highlights above are taken from the following sections of papers and publications:
.
"""
Topical and Transdermal Drug Delivery
S. Narasimha Murthy, H.N. Shivakumar, in Handbook of Non-Invasive Drug Delivery Systems, 2010
Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is a powerful aprotic solvent that is colorless, odorless, and hygroscopic. Studies have demonstrated that DMSO is effective in promoting the permeation of a number of hydrophilic and lipophilic permeants. It has been found to enhance the permeation of beta blockers (Kai et al., 1993) and ephedrine hydrochloride (Singh et al., 1993). The enhancer effect is reported to be concentration dependent, with concentrations greater than 60% required to show optimum efficacy (Williams and Barry, 2004). However, erythema and wheals of the stratum corneum have been reported at these relatively high concentrations of DMSO, which have also resulted in protein denaturation (Anigbogu et al., 1995). Human volunteer studies have demonstrated erythema, scaling, contact urticaria, stinging and burning sensations, and some systemic symptoms (Kligman, 1965). The skin penetration mechanisms of the aprotic solvents, and DMSO in particular, are complex. Upon application to human skin, DMSO is known to denature proteins and change the intracellular keratin conformation from helical to β sheet (Oertel, 1997). DMSO is said to interact with the head group of the lipid bilayers to distort the packing geometry. Further partitioning of the drug from the formulation into DMSO present within the tissue is favored.
"""
.
"""
Transfusion Reactions to Blood and Cell Therapy Products
William Savage, in Hematology (Seventh Edition), 2018
Dimethyl Sulfoxide Toxicity
The most common reactions to HSC have been attributed to dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), the most widely used cryopreservative. A variety of symptoms are associated with DMSO infusion and are generally dose-dependent. A garlic odor commonly accompanies DMSO infusion, and nausea and vomiting are often reported. Additional DMSO-related symptoms include flushing, coughing, chest tightness, dyspnea, abdominal pain, hypotension, hypertension, cardiac toxicity (such as bradycardia and other arrhythmias), and rarely, neurologic toxicity (such as syncope and transient encephalopathy). Some cases of DMSO toxicity are thought to arise from the release of histamine. Agents such as diphenhydramine have been used for the treatment and prevention of DMSO-related toxicity. Antiemetic agents such as prochlorperazine have been useful for ameliorating nausea and vomiting.
"""
.
"""
Pharmacologic Management of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
Rena Beckerly MD, MBA, Honorio T. Benzon MD, in Essentials of Pain Medicine (Fourth Edition), 2018
Mechanism of Action
DMSO reduces inflammation through several different mechanisms including acting as an antioxidant and a free radical scavenger at the site of injury. DMSO 50% is a particularly potent scavenger of the hydroxyl radical and may relieve pain by blocking peripheral C fibers.
Pharmacology
DMSO is an organosulfur compound that readily passes through membranes depending on the strength of the preparation. DMSO 70%–90% will readily pass through the skin. This permeability allows the drug to enhance the diffusion of other medications across membranes (e.g., morphine sulfate, penicillin, steroids, and insulin). Relief is reported almost immediately and lasts up to 6 hours. This has made DMSO ideal for acute pain in athletes who require immediate pain relief. The agent is quickly eliminated from the body. Chronic pain patients may need to apply DMSO for nearly 6 weeks prior to noticing an effect.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of DMSO are headache (especially at higher doses), and rash/skin irritation on contact with the skin. Several severe reactions have caused the FDA to halt clinical trials on DMSO as some studies reported eye damage and life-threatening allergic reactions. The FDA has since allowed clinical trials to resume and has approved DMSO for the treatment of interstitial cystitis. It is currently marketed as an alternative medicine.
DMSO may increase the effects of blood thinners, steroids, cardiac medications, and sedatives. Its extensive permeability may cause contaminants, toxins, and other medications to readily permeate the skin and have unexpected effects. The drug may be neurotoxic at doses lower than 0.3 mg/kg, which is especially concerning in children as this dose is exceeded during bone marrow transplantation. Less concerning is the foul, garliclike odor that is produced with DMSO application.
Over the weekend, I did a trial of 3 days oral DMSO, a small tsp per day (my only metal measuring spoon was 1 tsp, I tried to make it 1/2 tsp, but failed).
For the first time in months, I got through a whole Monday. Usually, I get through first 2 classes, and show up for the 3rd, but barely participate. Tonight, I was present and participating in all 3 classes, with no visible pain. In these 3 classes, I had no arthritic stumbles (I feel these, but my students can't see them), no "catches," and no obvious complaints.
I'd say it reduced my pain levels by about 25%, and that tells me that the other things it is doing must be good, too.
On the 3rd day, I did have a histamine flare, my skin itched all over! So I put on a little benadryl cream, and topical DMSO. Fine. All is well. Just warning you that there can be reactions, too much can send you into Herxheimer reactions.
And sorry, Kitsune, my Maskless friend, but you hit on one of my "special topics!"
OH ! If you do as I suggest in my long post (below? I never know on Substack) and buy the pure liquid - you can buy glucosamine / MSM / Chondroitin cream and use THAT with the DMSO. No Rx required.
So in the case of the knee perhaps attempting to mix it with some ointment consisting of proteoglycan proteins, collagen, and phospholipids could viably encourage such when used with DMSO given how it almost seems to act as an organic solvent.
My neighbour (in his 60's?) was telling me how he took this high quality collagen powder in his drink, and it felt like it put sponges in his knees, like he was walking on air.
I get my collagen via homemade bone broth. Beef has the highest collagen level.
Buy DMSO in glass containers only! DMSO transports other substances along with it into the body. Plastics can contain hormone disrupting PFAA's.
People have reported tasting fabric softeners after application of DMSO because it had transfered to their skin from their clothing. So clean your skin before applying.
I am well experienced with twisted knees. I blew my right meniscus jumping a fence in a state forest, then blew the ACL when I missed a turn, skiing. Suffered with it from 1992 - 2021 when I finally replaced the knee. They wanted to do a reconstruction in 1999. I was a poor, uninsured American, there was no way I could.
My first recommendations (in accompaniment to DMSO) are to take Glucosamine Sulfate / Chondroitin Sulfate / MSM (it often comes as a combo). I take 2000mg / 1600 mg / 1600 mg daily (that's 4 large tablets) in combination plus 3g additional of MSM (in my morning beverage). I've been doing this for 30 years, and delayed needing a knee replacement for 20 of those. Doing karate, bicycling, rollerblading, etc.: very active on a busted knee. These supplements help build cartilage.
Then there's Fish Oil, which helps lubricate everything. I take 6000 IU daily. More if I were injured. (Great story, there was a miner in West Virginia who was trapped too long, went into a coma, wouldn't wake up. Docs were desperate, decided, wouldn't hurt to try high dose fish oil. Administered 100,000 IU for 3 days. Miner woke up.) You live in Japan, which is rich in Omega 3 seafood, so you may not need this. Think fatty, cold water fish. (but of course, too much fish is toxic, so I take the purified capsules). BONUS: Good for the brain.
DMSO. Here's my latest protocol. I bought 99.5% pure liquid from local source. Glass bottles preferred.
I am a bit of an herbalist nerd, and often make my own preparations - saves money, and I know all the ingredients.
So I source (Amazon, ebay) glass roller bottles with PET roller. I put in 1/3 DMSO and 2/3 distilled water. Handy rollerball, 30% solution. This can be rolled onto skin, easy to use.
Combined with different ingredients like Vit E oil, ginger, turmeric, aloe, magnesium oil, lidocaine (the recipes are endless!) - different effects can be produced with the DMSO. You are looking for cell repair and pain relief. Magnesium oil and/or lidocaine would be good to combine with. Aloe is always soothing, and works well with DMSO. Ginger and Turmeric would be good experiments too - I used poultices of them to survive my black belt test (without DMSO) but haven't used them with the DMSO yet.
WASH THE SKIN BEFORE APPLYING ANYTHING. DMSO transports whatever is on the skin to your cells within. So be careful here.
I first apply lidocaine from a roller ball (like a deodorant bottle) all over the sore knee. Then I apply DMSO. I leave it to air dry for 20 minutes before putting clothes back on. I also have the option of putting a CBD ointment on top - aaaaaaahhhhhhhh!
It's working beautifully.
(helpful tip: soaking in magnesium - epsom salts - bath is amazingly healing and helpful for pain)
I might add a little qigong: stand, then shift your weight to left foot. Step right foot a small step forward, then gradually shift your weight to the front, putting weight on the knee. Release and step back. Repeat on other side, 3x (or more, if you like) each side. This is a gentle squeeze and release technique which stimulates the synovial fluid (think HEALING!) to the knee. Put weight on the front, bent knee, then release. Squeeze the joint (with weight) then release. Don't need to hold long - it's the pulsing which stimulates. You can do in a chair, too, by pushing on the floor. Squeeze and release. Easy to do, easy to teach in class - hard to write about!
I'm sure there are manufactured products - but the advantage of having the pure liquid, is you can make different strengths. Maybe 30% isn't strong enough, and you want to use 70%. Just change the ratio. I bought a pre-mix DMSO horse liniment here, and it's only 1%. I also got some results with that. Gawd knows what the rest of it is - and - it is "portalled" into your body through the skin with DMSO.
DMSO is amazing. No need to be skeptical. If you have any kind of pain, knees, ankles, whatever put some castor oil on your skin and then add a few drops of DMSO. The cast help it burn less on your skin and quickens the transdermal effect. It’s great stuff you can also take half a teaspoon or so of it in your favourite cup of juice, but that will make you smell funny, but it definitely works. It’s all sulphur based and incredibly healing. Also check out food grade non-aluminum contained baking soda. All of these natural remedies are based on bringing more hydrogen and sulpher into your system.
OOOOHhhh yes! Castor oil! I used castor oil with the ginger & turmeric to survive my black belt test. I haven't yet needed to try it with the DMSO for pain, but it's a good one.
Wow, good for you as high as I got was my green belt
See later discussion and RSVP, If you want.
I've sent you an email with info. I've used DMSO successfully as far back as 2007, not for myself but for relief of knee pain for my father (osteoarthritis). Here's a link for a PDF book "The DMSO Handbook for Doctors" -- https://www.eden-shop.eu/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Scott-Archie-DMSO-Handbook.pdf
A ton of great info in there. Thanks.
Have you seen this article?
https://www.midwesterndoctor.com/p/dmso-is-a-miraculous-therapy-for
I have, but I do not recall any specifics as to which concoction of it to use for injured joints. Lots of general information on what it it useful for but light on what form is best for each ailment. Did I miss something?
It's one of my small frustrations with Midwestern Doc. S/he tells us so much - but you really kind of have to biohack and do your own research to get a solution.
That said - each of us is an experiment of N=1, so while DMSO is universally good, HOW you need to use it may be different.
I wish I could have him/her as a Doc and just TELL ME what I need to do! I'm so weary of biohacking, and finding a doc to help me sort my stuff is impossible.
So true.
It's a very long article. I did scroll very far down for the section on treating musculoskeletal injuries before I sent the link but I didn’t look for forms or dosages. I will have an opportunity to check for that late tomorrow afternoon (while my garage door is being repaired!).
Kitsune: While I could not find any specifics on DMSO formulation or dosage in the text for knee injuries, I pulled out a couple quotes:
"It’s very easy to overdose on an NSAID or Opioid, whereas a meticulous human study found taking 90 days of DMSO at 3-30 times the standard dosage did not cause any toxicity and was well tolerated by the research subjects (whereas almost any other drug would be extremely dangerous at doses that high).
Also relevant is 'Harriet's e-mail':
"Thank you for your email on DMSO. I had severe pain in my piriformis for over 2 months and couldn't walk, and tried everything without success. I work in orthopedics, and have tried multiple injections, etc. When I read your article, I remembered using DMSO in the past for athletic injuries. I found an old bottle of DMSO 99% pure that I bought at a "Feed and Seed" store, for horses, about 25 years ago, but never threw it out. I immediately applied it to the painful areas, and it really worked! — Harriet
I am not a medical professional. But these two pieces of information would cause me, if I were treating myself, to seek a pure form, use a tiny amount and make certain the spot I was treating was as clean as possible, including free of soap residue. This would be important due to the following caution: "It rapidly spreads throughout the body once it contacts the skin (or is ingested), and if mixed with anything, brings that into the body as well."
Here's another promising quote relevant to your knee from AMD:
"It (DMSO) significantly increases blood circulation throughout the body and simultaneously removes edema and excess fluid from where it does not belong. This is particularly important for the joints, as their structure predisposes them to having a limited blood supply (especially when they are damaged and need that blood to heal)."
This was also encouraging:
"While DMSO is a remarkably effective painkiller and wound healing agent, by far its number one use was the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions, particularly those which created a functional immobility. In turn, many of the early adopters of DMSO went from skeptics to believers because of the rapid and dramatic improvements they saw from it (e.g., as they had patients with a debilitating bursitis in the shoulder recovering within minutes of receiving DMSO)."
Two more relevant quotes:
"(T)he pioneer of DMSO would typically use injections rather than topical applications for the hips and knees (although we’ve found the knees frequently respond to topical DMSO)."
"Two horses with LPS induced synovitis in their mid-carpal joints received topical (90%) DMSO gel, and compared to controls were found to have a decrease in joint inflammation (e.g., less neutrophils present). Additionally, DMSO was found within both the joints and serum."
Wishing you success in your recovery.
Wish I could be of service. I have never heard of DMSO. I looked it up but I am sure You had as well. I have had problems with my shoulder and neck area--the most excruciating pain in my life. This ended when I started walking more. I occasionally do a light mobility routine and this has also helped I feel. I wouldn't recommend doing it when injured however.
Did the extra walking coincide with spending more time outdoors? Walking isn't bad, certainly helps soften up the neck and shoulders if nothing else. But, as a bonus, both UVB and infrared have been found to help with healing in various ways.
Meanwhile, the sunlight which permeates windows are generally just about only visible light and UVA, so basically just cancerous death rays.☀️
Yes. Outside. I think that is it. I don't think many people understand the importance of walking outside. I will keep it up.
There are DMSO gel formulations. E.g., 70% DMSO/30% aloe vera from dmsostore.com. You just put it on where it hurts, up to 3 times a day. Wash it off after 20 min to reduce the itching that may result.
Thanks. Not just pain though. I injured it badly, hoping to help it heal.
If you've torn some ligaments, you better go for a surgery fast to reconnect them.
That’s what I am afraid of.
The sooner the better, because after the muscles contract, it becomes a permanent damage with no possibility of a surgery.
If it were just a matter of getting the surgery, no problem. But having to wear a mask 24 hours a day while in the hospital is enough for me to say, “No way.”. Then I have figure out how to pay for, rearrange the house so that I have a place to sleep down stairs and miss however many weeks (months) of work with no pay. Of these, the in hospital masking is the biggest hurdle, not that the others are small.
But you can at least complete proper diagnosing procedures to know where you are with your knee and if something is damaged beyond the blunt trauma? I'd certainly start with that. And you'll find out, if any surgery is recommended, how long you'll be out of commission and how long the surgery and hospital stay will last.
Good evening to you K, from Virginia, USA. Ms Taylor's ref was invaluable to me as a starting point for DMSO research. To access the complete substack be prepared to sign up for the short free trial subscription.
I emailed myself the link in early October, along with some preliminary info which I share here. Apologies in advance for this excessively long reply/note:
Disappointing in lack of detail, but references the work in the UK 1985 on DMSO:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3916302/
And this, regarding cellular effects attributed to DMSO published this year 2024:
https://exp-oncology.com.ua/index.php/Exp/article/view/400
Fairly recent sports medicine focused 2011 on DMSO use:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22030943/
From this 2019 recent publication summarizing historical studies of DMSO:
https://f1000research.com/articles/7-1746/v2
"The first medical report on the use of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as a pharmacological agent was published in 19641. A year later, the use of DMSO in humans was terminated because experimental studies had shown refractive index changes to the lens of the eye1,2. Years later, DMSO was again approved for use in humans since this side effect was only proven in animal studies2. DMSO has since been used for a variety of purposes, such as treatment of musculoskeletal and dermatological diseases, cryopreservation of stem cells, treatment of interstitial cystitis, treatment of increased intracranial pressure, and many more3–9"
Further along, this quote:
"In conclusion, adverse reactions due to DMSO are often mild and transient and do not qualify as serious adverse events. Cardiovascular and respiratory adverse reactions occur mostly when DMSO is administered intravenously, whereas dermatological reactions have a higher incidence when DMSO is administered transdermally. An important finding is that the occurrence of adverse reactions seems to be related to the dose of DMSO, and it therefore seems safe to continue the use of DMSO in small doses."
One such response to my own questions in the postings on DMSO was a recommendation to find the purest available rated by pharmacological regulators product you can find.
I purchased a 99% DMSO gel made in the USA, (not for human use) 1 pound tub of equine solution for $33 US. I am STILL investigating the subject of anti-inflammatory effect vs possible ill effects. According to the articles I've read, the videos I've watched and the unofficial advice with medical-disclaimer-caveats, using DMSO topically requires PRISTINE, CLEAN, unadulterated by anything SKIN. DMSO transdermally inserts whatever accompanies it directly into the surface.
The short answer: the midwestern doctor appears to be worth consulting for dosage and application advice for use.
Thanks.
Midwestern Doctor is actually where I first about DMSO. He wrote at length about it and I saved it to read in full later. Scanning it, I did not notice any indications for joint injury but I was not looking for such as I did not think there could be a substance that could that worked this way.
After his post on it, DMSO is popping up everywhere. But it was not until someone suggested it for my damaged knee that I looked in to it for this purpose. It does seem to good to be true but worth a try. Not wanting to visit a hospital for any reason, especially an extended stay.
I'm right there with you on the negative-to-hospital visit.
Trying DMSO gel 1X every other day on husbands twisted neck, applied with my achy-joint hands. Will let you know whether his neck and/or my hands’ conditions improve.
Best Regards.
Have you thought about getting a diagnosis. If you’ve got a torn ligament, the best you can do is to mildly mitigate the symptoms, but that’s not addressing the root cause of the pain and swelling.
Yes. My brother in law is a physical therapist. Given the time since the injury, he recommended an X-ray to learn where it is damaged and suspects surgery is needed. But that means wearing a mask the whole time I am in the hospital, most likely still need to be shot up with clot shots and boosters, tested for Covid and if a single positive result is indicated, the whole ventilator death protocol.
If you need to go to hospital serve them with this legal notice first.
https://peacekeepers.org.uk/notices-first-notice-caution/
If they even dare to mention the vaccine again sue them for £10,000.
No one messes with you once you learn a little bit about the law.
Also my knee only responds to physiotherapy exercises. Do those everyday and the muscles all around it take all the strain away from the joint so it is worth a try.
Good luck and get well soon.
Not sure that would apply in Japan. They are as likely as not just turn me away from treatment. I will have it on hand just in case though, thanks.
Physical therapy and prescribed home exercises also worked surprisingly well for a family member with severe arthritis in both knees. He now uses a cane rather than a walker and is pain-free.
God bless you for sharing!!
if it's soft tissue damage x-ray is a waste of time that will only identify bone pathology. MRI would prob be more appropriate if it was tendon or ligament related. But I completely understand where you are coming from on the hospital thing - my goal is to go the remainder of my life without ever having to set foot in a hospital again as a patient! But I do go to them for my work - I sell these devices, something like this might be helpful if you can find a therapist that offers it.....https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLPhoBvsuzqYWymJpPIPra5-7u5EHhg7rP&si=Tysa0YlQLPjNtSXN
Also red light / infrared / ultrasound is beneficial for tissue healing. (and not as "shocking"?)
But also not as effective. And keep in mind the "shock" wave is actually just an acoustic wave.....and the treatments should never be painful. You feel a "good uncomfortable" as in a massage....
Certainly interested. May know someone who uses this or something like it. Thanks.
I raised this exact question. His reply was along the lines of, Yes, that is true. But an X-ray will show where the bones are and their alignment or misalignment and that would indicate where the soft tissue is injured and to what degree or even if it is. MRI’s are expensive, the X-ray may prevent needing to pay for one. That was what he suggested.
In the US the vast majority of providers will order x-rays reflexively - yes there COULD be a diagnostic benefit in many cases. But in all cases it's a "defensive" play (just making sure) that happens to be another service that is billable to insurance. Having said that, there is no downside to getting one. Just may not provide much insight depending upon the issue.....good luck. FYI in the US I pay generally around $350-400 for an MRI
I've masked up for a couple quick clinic and hospital visits in Japan recently - no inquiries at all about vax status. Had a CT scan a couple years back and wasn't asked then, either.
I don't think they're incentivized to kidnap and kill you here - at least not to the degree of in the US.
You might consider going to a 接骨院(sekkotsuin) or 整形外科 (seikeigaika) that deal with sprains, strained muscles, joints, etc. They have x-ray, ultrasound, etc., probably can assess what's going on - covered by health insurance and pretty reasonable even without it.
I have gone to one such twice. Very helpful but this is a rather nasty injury. I have private insurance, but not the national insurance. In the past, not problematic, now it can be.
Here are some comments from a physical therapist that I work with in Santa Fe.....https://photos.app.goo.gl/DhCqWknMC6tooCdo9
Please try to do everything possible to stay out of the hospital.
Have you probed him about the requirements placed on patients for taking that x-ray? Probably worth a shot; no, not that shot!
Taking it orally sounds strange? The only effect, that cannot be explained as placebo, seem to be some regulation of gastric acid production.
Have you tried getting rid of every sort of seed oil and sugar in your diet? For me that resulted in scars I've had for over half a decade just simply fading out. Another thing worth a shot is fasting for 5 days or so every other week for two months to promote rejuvenation via autophagy.
As for DMSO, perhaps it could be worth combining it with cartilage cream?
Most papers on DMSO appear to be paywalled, but the most relevant sections appear accessible via the Science Direct directory
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/dimethyl-sulfoxide
"Several severe reactions have caused the FDA to halt clinical trials on DMSO as some studies reported eye damage and life-threatening allergic reactions"
"DMSO may increase the effects of blood thinners, steroids, cardiac medications, and sedatives. Its extensive permeability may cause contaminants, toxins, and other medications to readily permeate the skin and have unexpected effects"
"Chronic pain patients may need to apply DMSO for nearly 6 weeks prior to noticing an effect."
"concentrations greater than 60% required to show optimum efficacy "
"DMSO is known to denature proteins and change the intracellular keratin conformation from helical to β sheet"
"Antiemetic agents such as prochlorperazine have been useful for ameliorating nausea and vomiting. "
"DMSO 50% is a particularly potent scavenger of the hydroxyl radical and may relieve pain by blocking peripheral C fibers."
The highlights above are taken from the following sections of papers and publications:
.
"""
Topical and Transdermal Drug Delivery
S. Narasimha Murthy, H.N. Shivakumar, in Handbook of Non-Invasive Drug Delivery Systems, 2010
Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is a powerful aprotic solvent that is colorless, odorless, and hygroscopic. Studies have demonstrated that DMSO is effective in promoting the permeation of a number of hydrophilic and lipophilic permeants. It has been found to enhance the permeation of beta blockers (Kai et al., 1993) and ephedrine hydrochloride (Singh et al., 1993). The enhancer effect is reported to be concentration dependent, with concentrations greater than 60% required to show optimum efficacy (Williams and Barry, 2004). However, erythema and wheals of the stratum corneum have been reported at these relatively high concentrations of DMSO, which have also resulted in protein denaturation (Anigbogu et al., 1995). Human volunteer studies have demonstrated erythema, scaling, contact urticaria, stinging and burning sensations, and some systemic symptoms (Kligman, 1965). The skin penetration mechanisms of the aprotic solvents, and DMSO in particular, are complex. Upon application to human skin, DMSO is known to denature proteins and change the intracellular keratin conformation from helical to β sheet (Oertel, 1997). DMSO is said to interact with the head group of the lipid bilayers to distort the packing geometry. Further partitioning of the drug from the formulation into DMSO present within the tissue is favored.
"""
.
"""
Transfusion Reactions to Blood and Cell Therapy Products
William Savage, in Hematology (Seventh Edition), 2018
Dimethyl Sulfoxide Toxicity
The most common reactions to HSC have been attributed to dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), the most widely used cryopreservative. A variety of symptoms are associated with DMSO infusion and are generally dose-dependent. A garlic odor commonly accompanies DMSO infusion, and nausea and vomiting are often reported. Additional DMSO-related symptoms include flushing, coughing, chest tightness, dyspnea, abdominal pain, hypotension, hypertension, cardiac toxicity (such as bradycardia and other arrhythmias), and rarely, neurologic toxicity (such as syncope and transient encephalopathy). Some cases of DMSO toxicity are thought to arise from the release of histamine. Agents such as diphenhydramine have been used for the treatment and prevention of DMSO-related toxicity. Antiemetic agents such as prochlorperazine have been useful for ameliorating nausea and vomiting.
"""
.
"""
Pharmacologic Management of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
Rena Beckerly MD, MBA, Honorio T. Benzon MD, in Essentials of Pain Medicine (Fourth Edition), 2018
Mechanism of Action
DMSO reduces inflammation through several different mechanisms including acting as an antioxidant and a free radical scavenger at the site of injury. DMSO 50% is a particularly potent scavenger of the hydroxyl radical and may relieve pain by blocking peripheral C fibers.
Pharmacology
DMSO is an organosulfur compound that readily passes through membranes depending on the strength of the preparation. DMSO 70%–90% will readily pass through the skin. This permeability allows the drug to enhance the diffusion of other medications across membranes (e.g., morphine sulfate, penicillin, steroids, and insulin). Relief is reported almost immediately and lasts up to 6 hours. This has made DMSO ideal for acute pain in athletes who require immediate pain relief. The agent is quickly eliminated from the body. Chronic pain patients may need to apply DMSO for nearly 6 weeks prior to noticing an effect.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of DMSO are headache (especially at higher doses), and rash/skin irritation on contact with the skin. Several severe reactions have caused the FDA to halt clinical trials on DMSO as some studies reported eye damage and life-threatening allergic reactions. The FDA has since allowed clinical trials to resume and has approved DMSO for the treatment of interstitial cystitis. It is currently marketed as an alternative medicine.
DMSO may increase the effects of blood thinners, steroids, cardiac medications, and sedatives. Its extensive permeability may cause contaminants, toxins, and other medications to readily permeate the skin and have unexpected effects. The drug may be neurotoxic at doses lower than 0.3 mg/kg, which is especially concerning in children as this dose is exceeded during bone marrow transplantation. Less concerning is the foul, garliclike odor that is produced with DMSO application.
"""
Over the weekend, I did a trial of 3 days oral DMSO, a small tsp per day (my only metal measuring spoon was 1 tsp, I tried to make it 1/2 tsp, but failed).
For the first time in months, I got through a whole Monday. Usually, I get through first 2 classes, and show up for the 3rd, but barely participate. Tonight, I was present and participating in all 3 classes, with no visible pain. In these 3 classes, I had no arthritic stumbles (I feel these, but my students can't see them), no "catches," and no obvious complaints.
I'd say it reduced my pain levels by about 25%, and that tells me that the other things it is doing must be good, too.
On the 3rd day, I did have a histamine flare, my skin itched all over! So I put on a little benadryl cream, and topical DMSO. Fine. All is well. Just warning you that there can be reactions, too much can send you into Herxheimer reactions.
And sorry, Kitsune, my Maskless friend, but you hit on one of my "special topics!"
Interesting results. Especially with how fast acting it appeared in your case. What was the proportion of DMSO in the solution used?
This was 99.5%. I took it in lemon water with my usual barley greens. Tastes awful.
Your post compliments my post and v.v. ...
Attempting to find a "carrier oil" for lack of a better term, to dilute the 99%gel is what I'm working on.
Fayanne suggests Castor oil, Kim suggests cartilage cream.
The MSM/glucosamine purveyors have a gel combo with DMSO but it's made in Greece, reviewed in Russian and only available by Rx.
OH ! If you do as I suggest in my long post (below? I never know on Substack) and buy the pure liquid - you can buy glucosamine / MSM / Chondroitin cream and use THAT with the DMSO. No Rx required.
Sorry for complicating things. 😅
I figure you should optimise it for your needs. So in the case of a knee injury: cartilage cream.
Although, it seems there may be a chance of rebuilding cartilage under certain conditions: https://med.stanford.edu/news/all-news/2020/08/Researchers-find-method-to-regrow-cartilage-in-the-joints.html
So in the case of the knee perhaps attempting to mix it with some ointment consisting of proteoglycan proteins, collagen, and phospholipids could viably encourage such when used with DMSO given how it almost seems to act as an organic solvent.
Brilliant. Collagen.
My neighbour (in his 60's?) was telling me how he took this high quality collagen powder in his drink, and it felt like it put sponges in his knees, like he was walking on air.
I get my collagen via homemade bone broth. Beef has the highest collagen level.
I have heard such of others too. Especially at that age when the body requires more proteins, collagen, and lipids to maintain itself effectively.
Bone broth is wonderful. The miso of meat!
https://substack.com/app-link/post?publication_id=748806&post_id=150637970&utm_source=post-email-title&utm_campaign=email-post-title&isFreemail=true&r=rnvyk&token=eyJ1c2VyX2lkIjo0NjQ2NDE0MCwicG9zdF9pZCI6MTUwNjM3OTcwLCJpYXQiOjE3MzAwNzE0ODksImV4cCI6MTczMjY2MzQ4OSwiaXNzIjoicHViLTc0ODgwNiIsInN1YiI6InBvc3QtcmVhY3Rpb24ifQ.OZCnohxqO_uXO_iq5d55xd6FB3fkJVxKZAIAaXiGYoE
https://substack.com/app-link/post?publication_id=748806&post_id=148929239&utm_source=post-email-title&utm_campaign=email-post-title&isFreemail=true&r=rnvyk&token=eyJ1c2VyX2lkIjo0NjQ2NDE0MCwicG9zdF9pZCI6MTQ4OTI5MjM5LCJpYXQiOjE3MjY0NDQ2MzUsImV4cCI6MTcyOTAzNjYzNSwiaXNzIjoicHViLTc0ODgwNiIsInN1YiI6InBvc3QtcmVhY3Rpb24ifQ.YIZp0NK04IwroCXUG8nl-wxa0KdN1Vx3bkqYdmS09MU
https://substack.com/app-link/post?publication_id=748806&post_id=148982648&utm_source=post-email-title&utm_campaign=email-post-title&isFreemail=true&r=rnvyk&token=eyJ1c2VyX2lkIjo0NjQ2NDE0MCwicG9zdF9pZCI6MTQ4OTgyNjQ4LCJpYXQiOjE3Mjc2NTU2MTksImV4cCI6MTczMDI0NzYxOSwiaXNzIjoicHViLTc0ODgwNiIsInN1YiI6InBvc3QtcmVhY3Rpb24ifQ.7SuI6bRY-gtZnReSC0EgQSqkxKeQaVjOOgOY5_j5PMk
https://substack.com/app-link/post?publication_id=748806&post_id=148477459&utm_source=post-email-title&utm_campaign=email-post-title&isFreemail=true&r=rnvyk&token=eyJ1c2VyX2lkIjo0NjQ2NDE0MCwicG9zdF9pZCI6MTQ4NDc3NDU5LCJpYXQiOjE3Mjk0NTY5MDYsImV4cCI6MTczMjA0ODkwNiwiaXNzIjoicHViLTc0ODgwNiIsInN1YiI6InBvc3QtcmVhY3Rpb24ifQ.Nl-dtoIhxuT_bl4QwM-JLdlzYMZrTgdwIworeaDZ-Rw
Thx Cindi!!
For what? I wish I knew what these links were BEFORE I spend time on them.
We're here to communicate.
Any knee updates?
Buy DMSO in glass containers only! DMSO transports other substances along with it into the body. Plastics can contain hormone disrupting PFAA's.
People have reported tasting fabric softeners after application of DMSO because it had transfered to their skin from their clothing. So clean your skin before applying.
I am well experienced with twisted knees. I blew my right meniscus jumping a fence in a state forest, then blew the ACL when I missed a turn, skiing. Suffered with it from 1992 - 2021 when I finally replaced the knee. They wanted to do a reconstruction in 1999. I was a poor, uninsured American, there was no way I could.
My first recommendations (in accompaniment to DMSO) are to take Glucosamine Sulfate / Chondroitin Sulfate / MSM (it often comes as a combo). I take 2000mg / 1600 mg / 1600 mg daily (that's 4 large tablets) in combination plus 3g additional of MSM (in my morning beverage). I've been doing this for 30 years, and delayed needing a knee replacement for 20 of those. Doing karate, bicycling, rollerblading, etc.: very active on a busted knee. These supplements help build cartilage.
Then there's Fish Oil, which helps lubricate everything. I take 6000 IU daily. More if I were injured. (Great story, there was a miner in West Virginia who was trapped too long, went into a coma, wouldn't wake up. Docs were desperate, decided, wouldn't hurt to try high dose fish oil. Administered 100,000 IU for 3 days. Miner woke up.) You live in Japan, which is rich in Omega 3 seafood, so you may not need this. Think fatty, cold water fish. (but of course, too much fish is toxic, so I take the purified capsules). BONUS: Good for the brain.
DMSO. Here's my latest protocol. I bought 99.5% pure liquid from local source. Glass bottles preferred.
I am a bit of an herbalist nerd, and often make my own preparations - saves money, and I know all the ingredients.
So I source (Amazon, ebay) glass roller bottles with PET roller. I put in 1/3 DMSO and 2/3 distilled water. Handy rollerball, 30% solution. This can be rolled onto skin, easy to use.
Combined with different ingredients like Vit E oil, ginger, turmeric, aloe, magnesium oil, lidocaine (the recipes are endless!) - different effects can be produced with the DMSO. You are looking for cell repair and pain relief. Magnesium oil and/or lidocaine would be good to combine with. Aloe is always soothing, and works well with DMSO. Ginger and Turmeric would be good experiments too - I used poultices of them to survive my black belt test (without DMSO) but haven't used them with the DMSO yet.
WASH THE SKIN BEFORE APPLYING ANYTHING. DMSO transports whatever is on the skin to your cells within. So be careful here.
I first apply lidocaine from a roller ball (like a deodorant bottle) all over the sore knee. Then I apply DMSO. I leave it to air dry for 20 minutes before putting clothes back on. I also have the option of putting a CBD ointment on top - aaaaaaahhhhhhhh!
It's working beautifully.
(helpful tip: soaking in magnesium - epsom salts - bath is amazingly healing and helpful for pain)
I might add a little qigong: stand, then shift your weight to left foot. Step right foot a small step forward, then gradually shift your weight to the front, putting weight on the knee. Release and step back. Repeat on other side, 3x (or more, if you like) each side. This is a gentle squeeze and release technique which stimulates the synovial fluid (think HEALING!) to the knee. Put weight on the front, bent knee, then release. Squeeze the joint (with weight) then release. Don't need to hold long - it's the pulsing which stimulates. You can do in a chair, too, by pushing on the floor. Squeeze and release. Easy to do, easy to teach in class - hard to write about!
I'm sure there are manufactured products - but the advantage of having the pure liquid, is you can make different strengths. Maybe 30% isn't strong enough, and you want to use 70%. Just change the ratio. I bought a pre-mix DMSO horse liniment here, and it's only 1%. I also got some results with that. Gawd knows what the rest of it is - and - it is "portalled" into your body through the skin with DMSO.
Let us know how your experiments go!
check out the latest post on the james roguski substack