Numerous supplements may help treat your knee problems. According to the MedlinePlus website, knee pain may be caused by overuse injuries, poor form or technique during physical activity, insufficient warm-up or cool-down or trauma. Some causes of knee pain may self-resolve. However, some causes of knee pain may require the help of a qualified health care professional. Before taking supplements for your knee problems, talk with your doctor about possible side effects and proper dosage.
Glucosamine
Glucosamine may be an effective dietary supplement for knee problems. According to the Mayo Clinic, glucosamine, also known as glucosamine sufate, is a natural compound that is found in healthy cartilage. Glucosamine sulfate is a component of glycosaminoglycans, or GAGs, in your cartilage matrix and synovial, or joint, fluid. The Mayo Clinic states that evidence from randomized controlled trials has shown that glucosamine sulfate is effective in the treatment of osteoarthritis, or degenerative joint disease, of the knee. Glucosamine sulfate is thought to strengthen your knee cartilage and assists GAG synthesis. GAGs are long chains of sugar molecules that help build cartilage. Glucosamine is often taken in conjunction with chondroitin, a GAG derived from your articular cartilage. Before taking glucosamine for your knee problems, talk with your doctor about possible side effects and proper dosage.
Meadowsweet
Meadowsweet is an herb and dietary supplement that may help treat your knee problems. Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of the book "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," states that meadowsweet, also known as Filipendula ulmaria, is a diaphoretic, diuretic, astringent, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial. The flowers and upper aerial parts of meadowsweet are used medicinally to treat colds, flu, chronic gastritis, rheumatoid arthritis and inflammation of your nerves, muscles and skin. Any knee problem that involves burning and inflammation may benefit from the anti-inflammatory properties of this herb and dietary supplement. According to Tilgner, meadowsweet contains flavonoids and essential oils. Before taking meadowsweet as a dietary supplement to treat your knee problems, talk with your doctor about possible side effects and proper dosage.
MSM
Methysulfonylmethane, or MSM, may be effective for treating your knee problems. According to the Arthritis Today website, MSM is an organic sulfur compound found naturally in certain fruits, vegetable and grains. MSM is purported to reduce pain and inflammation throughout your body, including your knees. MSM may help your body form connective tissue, and it may act as an analgesic by decreasing nerve impulses that transmit pain. A 2006 study by L. S. Kim and colleagues published in the journal "Osteoarthritis and Cartilage" states that taking 3 g of MSM two times per day can decrease your osteoarthritis-related knee pain and improve your knee function. The underlying mechanisms behind MSM's beneficial health effects are not fully understood. Before taking MSM to treat your knee problems, talk with your doctor about possible side effects and proper dosage.
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