Your body produces glucosamine naturally in healthy cartilage and the tissue that connects muscles, bones and joints. MayoClinic.com states the substance is found in the cartilage matrix and synovial fluid that lubricates joint surfaces. Inadequate amounts of glucosamine may be restored with glucosamine supplements, but be sure to check with your doctor to be sure it won't adversely affect any other medication or condition you may have.
Joint Strengthening
Your muscles and joints may seem stronger and more pain free with adequate amounts of glucosamine. MayoClinic.com says that glucosamine sulfate is useful in treating osteoarthritis in joint areas, including the knee. The site states that cartilage around the knee joint is strengthened and glycoaminoglycans synthesize more readily if the sulfate is present in the viscous synovial fluid found in joints.
Aids in Cartilage Regeneration
Damaged cartilage doesn't heal itself easily, but added glucosamine may assist healing, which in turn can seem to strengthen muscles connecting bones, joints and cartilage. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons says that besides surgical repair, restoring articular cartilage, the name given to the smooth, white tissue that covers bone ends where they connect to form joints, with the introduction of glucosamine may help to stimulate repair and aid in the growth of new cartilage. While surgical techniques for cartilage regeneration are evolving, supplements such as glucosamine may aid in the body's ability to heal itself.
Combined with Chondroitin
Glucosamine is usually taken as a supplement in combination with chondroitin, which is made from articular cartilage. MayoClinic.com states that the combination is often used when treating patients with osteoarthritis. Use of Glucosamine chondroitin may mean patients can take lower doses of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents than they would otherwise need.
Less Friction Enables Easier Muscle Movement
Muscles may seem stronger when you take glucosamine supplements because joints move more freely. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons states that when cartilage is healthy, joint surfaces have less friction and the bones glide over each other easily, putting less stress on muscles.
Member Comments