How Does Glucosamine Help Joint Pain?

Glucosamine is the precursor to Glycosaminoglycans, amino acids that are naturally produced in your body to help form cartilage. Based on this, Glucosamine, in supplement form, is being used to treat joint pain stemming from osteoarthritis. Glucosamine is becoming vastly popular among arthritis sufferers as it is easily available at health food stores and pharmacies and is less expensive than some prescription drugs for joint pain. Although there seems to be mixed opinions in the medical world about how effective Glucosamine really is, patients have been singings its praises.

Is it safe?

Studies show that as a treatment for minor osteoarthritis pain, Glucosamine has been proven relatively harmless, though long-term use or use in large doses has not been studied enough to have any conclusive results. Some concerns you may wish to bring up to your doctor are if you are diabetic, as high levels of Glucosamine may interfere with blood glucose levels; if you are nursing or pregnant; or if you have a shell fish allergy. Many Glucosamine supplements are made from the shells of shellfish, and while an allergy usually occurs from eating the flesh of said fish, you may want to take precautions when using a supplement derived from the shells. There have not been any recorded problems from allergies recorded, but it is always best to monitor yourself to play it safe. As always, read the directions of the manufacturers and consult with your physician as well.

Does it work?

Early clinical tests in Europe were not well conducted, leaving dubious results; however, recent studies are proving to be promising to those with joint pain. Many doctors are skeptical of Glucosamine's healing abilities, as the clinic results look as though it works for "some" people "sometimes," but are not opposed to a person trying it, as it couldn't hurt. Full clinical studies are available online for you to examine the results for yourself. Other doctors are enthusiastic about its possibilities and would recommend it by itself or in combination with Chondroitin, which is often combined with Glucosamine in a supplemental form. When used in combination with physical therapy and other forms of pain management, these supplements can be very helpful. Often, patients will report that they don't notice a significant benefit to Glucosamine until after they have missed using it for a day or two. Many people, despite lack of scientific evidence, swear by Glucosamine and its benefits.

Conclusion?

Since Glucosamine is considered safe and has promising clinical study results, it would make sense to at least try it and see if you notice any significant difference in your joint pain. If it doesn't work for you, you can then try other more aggressive treatments for osteoarthritis pain and consult with your doctor. However, if it does work, you'll feel less pain in your joints and will be able to resume every day tasks without as much pain and stiffness. The risk is minimal, and the benefits could be substantial.

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