Joint Pain

Many people recognize glucosamine as part of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate supplements – the most effective combination for fighting the progression of osteoarthritis.  But, what is glucosamine and how does it work?

Osteoarthritis
First, it is essential to understand what osteoarthritis is and how it progresses.  Osteoarthritis is a degenerative, chronic joint disease characterized by cartilage breakdown and the development of bone spurs.  Cartilage cushions the ends of bones allowing joints to move easily.  Can you imagine how your body would feel if your bones were rubbing on top of other bones?  Well, that is exactly what happens with cartilage breakdown.  Bones rub against each other, causing joint pain, early morning stiffness, joint stiffness after periods of rest, pain that worsens with joint use, and loss of joint function.

Osteoarthritis is the most common joint disease.  In fact, an astounding 75% of people over the age of 65 suffer from osteoarthritis.  Obesity and mechanical stress are two of the top contributing factors leading to osteoarthritis.  And, with the growing obesity epidemic, the number of people suffering from osteoarthritis is expected to grow accordingly.

Both glucosamine and chondroitin are taken up by the cells in cartilage (chondrocytes) and used to build new cartilage.  In addition, some research indicates that both may help prevent cartilage breakdown – a hallmark of osteoarthritis.  See picture below depicting the process of osteoarthritis. Several research studies indicate that glucosamine chondroitin supplements offer a safe, effective alternative to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) for relieving osteoarthritis pain.
 
The supplement form of glucosamine is derived from sugar and very similar to the glucosamine formed by chondrocytes.  In the body glucosamine is incorporated into connective tissue, skin, tendons and ligaments.

Chondroitin and collagen fibers together form the structure of joint cartilage much like steel beams form the structure of a building.  Chondroitin is incorporated into connective tissue, skin, tendons, ligaments, cartilage and mucous secretions.  It gives joints their elasticity by drawing fluid into cartilage tissue.  This elasticity is essential given the stress and strain we put on our joints every time we engage in activity.  Chondroitin also inhibits enzymes that break down joint cartilage.

Both glucosamine and chondroitin have been used in Europe for over 20 years without significant adverse side effects.  Additionally, glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate have been consumed safely in the US for several years and side effects are considered uncommon and minor.  However, people with shellfish allergies, asthma or those taking diabetes medications or blood thinning medications such as warfarin (Coumadin) should speak with their physician first prior to starting glucosamine supplements.

Anyone suffering from the pain of osteoarthritis or even those who are in the beginning stages of osteoarthritis may benefit from taking glucosamine chondroitin sulfate supplements.  By taking this combination daily, you may prevent further cartilage breakdown and also minimize any joint pain that you have.  Try keeping a bottle of liquid glucosamine and chondroitin on your kitchen counter or even in your bathroom, it’s easier to remember to take 2 Tbsp a day.  It becomes a routine just like brushing your teeth or making our morning cup of coffee!

References:
Sem Arthritis Rheum 2001;31:58-68.
Arthritis Rheum 2001; 44:1089-1095.
Connect Tissue Res 1975; 3:115-122.
Prog Drug Res 2001; 55: 81-103.
N Engl J Med 2006;354:795-808.
Dahmer S, Schiller RM.  Glucosamine. Am Fam Physician 2008;78(4):471-6.