Osteoarthritis is a chronic disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage in your joints, causing pain, inflammation and stiffness. Cartilage is found at the end of your bones, where it cushions the bone and allows for easy movement. According to the Arthritis Foundation, osteoarthritis affects 27 million Americans. One supplement that is marketed for its ability to reduce pain and inflammation of osteoarthritis is methylsulfonylmethane, commonly known as MSM. As when starting any new treatment, consult your doctor before taking MSM.
Osteoarthritis
The older you are, the more likely you are to have some degree of osteoarthritis. This is due to wear and tear on the joints over your lifetime. However, osteoarthritis is not a normal part of the aging process; it is a disease, and therefore not everyone develops it. Arthritis due to injury or obesity may also develop earlier in life if, for example, you are an athlete or if your job involves repetitive motion. In addition, increased body weight adds stress to your lower joints. One pound of body weight adds four pounds of pressure to your knees.
MSM
MSM is an organic sulfur compound that is found naturally in fruits, vegetables, grains, animals and humans. The theory behind MSM supplements is that they deliver sulfur to your joints in a usable way. Specifically, sulfur strengthens the tissues that make up your joints. MSM supplements are available over-the-counter as a tablet, capsule, liquid, powder and topical solution.
MSM Research
Not enough evidence is available to conclude if MSM is superior to placebo in the treatment of mild to moderate OA of the knee, according to a systematic review of available evidence published in the April 2008 issue of "Osteoarthritis and Cartilage." Although existing evidence suggests that 3 g of MSM taken three times daily may improve physical function and provide relief from pain, further large-scale human studies are required to determine the optimum dosage and safety.
Side Effects
Side effects of taking MSM supplements may include stomach upset, diarrhea and headache. Long-term side effects of MSM have not been examined. According to the Mayo Clinic, it is safe to take MSM for up to 12 weeks. Further research is needed to assess its safety for long-term use.
References
- Mayo Clinic, MSM for Arthritis Pain: Is it safe? 2009
- "Osteoarthritis and Cartilage;" Systematic review of the nutritional supplements dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) in the treatment of osteoarthritis; Sarah Brien et al.; 2008
- Arthritis Foundation; What is Osteoarthritis; 2011
