Should I be taking Glucosamine for my joint pain?

In seeking relief from joint pain, many people have turned to glucosamine and MSM in recent years. But, controversy exists about whether or not it actually helps relieve pain. This article provides both perspectives as well as some of the risks with taking this compound.

All about Glucosamine

Glucosamine is actually naturally occurring chemical compound found in healthy joints. Using it in supplement form is thought to help with soreness and creaking in joints like hips, knees, and backs, which is often caused by arthritis. It is thought that this compound keeps joints healthy, but over time as a person ages, this compound decreases and joint deterioration.

Taken as a supplement most often found as glucosamine sulfate or glucosamine and MSM. Glucosamine is thought to counteract this deterioration. Since this compound is not found in any foods, it can only be taken in supplemental form. It has also been used to treat other conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease, sports injuries, chronic low back pain, asthmas, allergies and chronic venous insufficiency.

The Arguments For and Against Glucosamine

Those against glucosamine cite research studies where the conclusions were that it was no more effective than a placebo given to some of the participants. Even studies that studied the longer term effects of taking glucosamine did not find any real benefit of positive change in terms of pain relief.

Despite these studies, there are people who have taken glucosamine who say they have gotten some relief from it. Yet, no one can say exactly how it helps.

Potential Risks of Taking Glucosamine

There are some risks, interactions, and precautions that have been discovered and should be noted when considering this supplement. The studies have found mild side effects from taking glucosamine that included drowsiness, heartburn, headache and upset stomach. Any potential overdose amount is not known.

Anyone with allergies to shellfish may want to avoid glucosamine. It is a good idea to consult with your physician if you have a history of heart or kidney disease, diabetes, bleeding disorders or high blood pressure.  Those with these conditions and that are on medication for them, such as insulin, blood thinners, diuretics and heart medications will also want to check with their doctor first. Glucosamine is not recommended for children or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Conclusions about Taking Glucosamine

In trying to answer the question of whether you should take glucosamine for your joint pain, it is best to consult with your doctor about taking any supplements and consider any other options available for treating joint pain before making a decision on whether to take it or not. While it does not appear to be harmful unless you have one of the medical conditions listed, there may be other options to consider for joint pain treatment.

Writer Bio:  Carly is a professional writer located in the UK.  She enjoys walking her two lovely doggies when not working.  She also enjoys reading and is training to compete in her first 5K charity race.