Glucosamine is an amino compound naturally found in the fluid of connective tissues throughout the body. It's a fundamental element of polysaccharides, large molecules responsible for giving cartilage its' elastic qualities. It's also offered as a supplement for the purposes of restoring tissue damaged by injury or degenerative disease. Glucosamine is essential in the arrangement of materials found in the blood vessels, ligaments, synovial fluid and heart valves. Supplementary glucosamine is commonly extracted from the shells of sea crustaceans. In treatment, it is often paired with chondroitin, a similar composite.
Lower Spine Damage
Glucosamine, taken with chondroitin, has been shown to significantly reduce pain resulting from advanced lumbar degenerative disc disease. Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Peter Sharkey, from The Rothman Institute, says: "You must have both glucosamine and chondroitin. Patients who took glucosamine and chondroitin together had better pain relief than patients who took Celebrex. These were people who had moderate to severe arthritis."
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints and surrounding tissues, sometimes to the point of deformation. It's typically most prevalent in the feet, wrists and hands. The anti-inflammatory effects of glucosamine have been shown to alleviate some symptoms of the disease such as pain, stiffness and swelling. Although there is no known cure for the disease, supplements such as glucosamine may significantly slow its progression.
Athletes
Chondropathia patalae is a weakening of the kneecap caused by excessive friction with the lower thigh bone joint. It's most common in young athletes. Left untreated, this condition could lead to severe degenerative disorders of the joint. In 1984, a German scientist found glucosamine to accelerate repair in athletes with this condition. Volunteers were given 1,500mg a day for three months. Those who continued the treatment for 12 months reported no residual pain.
Member Comments