Supplements for Knee Pain

Glucosamine and chondroitin are two of the most popular supplements that are used for osteoarthritis and knee pain. Annual sales is estimated to be near $700 million, but do these supplements really work?

The evidence is a mixed bag of results. Some studies have shown that 3 years of therapy with glucosamine slowed progression of osteoarthritis as seen on xrays. The GAIT study showed that no benefit was seen in patients with mild pain, but that the pain was reduced significantly in patients who had moderate to severe pain and who received a combination of glucosamine plus chondroitin. (I received many phone calls from patients wanting to know if they shoud continue their supplements after the results of this study came out because it was not clear in the news reports that some patients did indeed benefit). Finally in a new study presented at the 10th World Congress of the Osteoarthritis Research Study it was concluded that 1500-mg daily dose of glucosamine relieved pain significantly better than a daily 3000 mg dose of acetominophen (Tylenol).

Bottom line is that since it is difficult to predict which patients will benefit from these supplements and since there is data to support their efficacy as well as their low side effect profile then it may be reasonable to consider a 3 to 6 months trial of a combination of these supplements in addition to exercise and physical therapy. If symptoms improve then consider continuing the supplements otherwise it may not be indicated to take them.

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References: please see specific links.
Photo: courtesy of eorthpod.com