Alternative For Joint Pain

Fifteen trials totalling 1,775 patients, with 1,020 given glucosamine and 755 given chondroitin, were pooled and analysed to evaluate the effects of these supplements on knee and hip osteoarthritis.

Outcomes that were evaluated included joint space narrowing and assessment of pain and mobility. Reduction in joint space narrowing was demonstrated for those taking glucosamine, but not those on placebo. Both glucosamine and chondroitin treated patients experienced significant decreases in symptoms and pain, and increased mobility compared with placebo.

Both supplements were safe and well tolerated during these studies.

The analysis concluded that glucosamine may be a structural and symptom modifying agent, and chondroitin may potentially reduce symptoms of knee osteoarthritis.