Results of the largest-ever glucosamine and chondroitin trial have recently revealed the astonishing role these dietary supplements can play in combating joint problems.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most widespread joint problem, suffered by approximately eight million people in the UK. Commonly affecting the knees, hips, spine and hands, symptoms include the pain, swelling and stiffness of joints, often resulting in decreased mobility. Previously thought to be irreversible, the damage caused by OA may be halted or even reversed, as we now know that during the earlier stages, cartilage cells in the joints are very active and repair mechanisms produce new tissue that can often counteract the damage.

In June 2001, following the accumulation of evidence from over 1,000 subjects taking part in clinical trials, the erstwhile conservative American Arthritis Foundation issued a statement declaring glucosamine to be an appropriate treatment for osteoarthritis.

Chondroitin has lagged behind glucosamine regarding its efficacy in the treatment of OA, with particular scepticism surrounding the ability of the body to absorb its large molecules. However, in 1995, research demonstrated that small amounts were indeed able to reach the bloodstream intact and clinical studies have demonstrated the benefits of chondroitin supplementation for the alleviation of knee arthritis compared with placebo treatment.become exercise, weight loss, less joint pain and more activity. Physiotherapy and osteopathy can be of great help too.

If exercise and activity are to be achieved and the benefits of these gained, then first of all the painful symptoms of osteoarthritis need to be relieved. Conventional painkillers or complementary treatments can usually achieve this. Good natural treatments are extract of green-lipped mussel and devils claw. Ginger is a very good natural anti-inflammatory that can be eaten or taken as a supplement. Omega 3 fish oil works in a similar way to conventional anti-inflammatory medicines and so a daily dose helps many to overcome their joint problems. Garlic is also believed to help by increasing blood flow to an affected joint that in turn helps to calm down inflammation. Bromelain comes from the stem of the pineapple plant and is an effective pain-reliever, as is MSM. Another popular natural anti-inflammatory is curcumin found in the Ayurvedic spice turmeric.

Probably the most talked about supplements for joint health are glucosamine, a substance formed naturally in the body that is involved in cartilage manufacture and repair, and chondroitin. Glucosamine and chondroitin taken together or separately have long been believed to help reduce the pain of osteoarthritis and to help keep the joints strong. Its thought that they may even help to repair damaged joints. A recent large study Glucosamine Arthritis Intervention Trial (GAIT) found that those with moderate to severe osteoarthritis pain had significant relief when taking glucosamine and chondroitin. A separate part of this study is still ongoing and is examining whether the combination of glucosamine and chondroitin can reduce or actually halt the progression of osteoarthritis.

Although there is a degree of inevitability with regards to osteoarthritis, it is not inevitable that the condition will cause a person problems since despite having osteoarthritis, many people are not troubled by it. When problems do arise, however, its no longer a case of just having to put up with it. Being positive about overcoming pain combined with appropriate treatments and supplements enables many people with osteoarthritis to continue doing the activities they enjoy and want to do.