Osteoarthritis is characterized by inflammation of the joints, often in the knee and hip. Although rarely life-threatening, osteoarthritis can cause severe pain and limited mobility. In many cases, patients require the use of anti-inflammatory medications to treat the symptoms of osteoarthritis. In addition to symptom management, supplements may provide benefits in slowing the deterioration of joint cartilage. The most common supplements used for joint health include glucosamine, chondroitin and methylsulfonylmethane (MSM).
Step 1
Select a product that contains glucosamine and chondroitin. Evidence suggests that these supplements have the most benefit for joint health, according to an article by Thomas E. Hyde, DC, published on the Spine-Health website.
Step 2
Decide whether to use a once-a-day product or a supplement that requires multiple dosing times per day. In either case, the daily dose of glucosamine should be approximately 1,500 mg per day. The daily dose of chondroitin should be around 1,200 mg per day.
Step 3
Consider using a glucosamine chondroitin product that also contains MSM. MSM is usually found in supplements designed to be dosed multiple times daily, since the recommended dose of MSM is 500 mg three times a day.
Step 4
Perform a self-test to determine if your supplements have reduced joint pain or improved mobility. It may take up to three months of continuous daily use before benefits are seen.
Step 5
Watch for adverse side effects, including nausea and abdominal pain. Discontinue use and contact a physician if allergic reaction, abnormal bleeding or other serious adverse effects occur. Glucosamine can cause allergic reactions in people with shellfish allergies. Chondroitin is structurally similar to heparin, a commonly used blood thinner.
Step 6
Obtain the approval of your health care provider before using any supplements. Glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM can interfere with medications and exacerbate certain health conditions. Together with your provider, establish goals of therapy and a plan for follow-up.
Tips and Warnings
- Glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM are often packaged together as combination products for joint health. Pay close attention to the package size and instructions for use, as some products are used once daily versus multiple times daily.
- Dietary supplements can interfere with medications and exacerbate certain health conditions. Always make your physician aware of any known health conditions and medications you are taking.
