Doc Tel Boy

Does Glucosamine Work?



Posted: Wednesday, April 02, 2008

by
Back Trouble UK

In the last two years Glucosamine as a dietary supplement has become increasingly popular with the public as an effective treatment for many musculoskeletal conditions such as osteoarthritis. Whilst the public perception of the supplement gains in popularity, the current negative research trend surrounding the drug has led health experts to question its effectiveness in the treatment of the conditions mentioned.

BACKGROUND

Glucosamine is used in the formation of glycosaminoglycans, proteoglycans, and glycolipids. These three substances are vital components of the synovial fluid that lubricates a joint and the cartilage that provides the smooth surface at the ends of the bones that form a joint. In some conditions such as osteoarthritis, the cartilage can become worn and the synovial fluid can change from a relatively thick and viscous fluid to one of a more watery consistency. These factors lead to the painful rubbing of the bone ends in the joint and induces an inflammatory response. It is thought that taking glucosamine in the form of glucosamine sulphate can increase production of glycosaminoglycans, proteoglycans, and glycolipids and therefore repair some of the damage that occurs in the previously mentioned conditions. The dosage of glucosamine is vital in providing effectual pain relief therefore it is advisable to consult your doctor or specialist to discuss the best dosage and products available that will benefit you as an individual.

Terry O'Brien

Back Trouble UK.

REFERENCES

Reginster J. Y., Bruyere O, Fraikin G, Henrotin Y. (2005) Current concepts in the therapeutic management of osteoarthritis with Glucosamine. Bull Hosp Jt Dis. 2005, 63, (1-2), pp. 31-36.

Terry has been involved in General Medicine for over 20 years, he is a keen sports player and still turns out most Saturdays on the Rugby pitch, although his body wishes that he didn't!

Dragged up in Liverpool and supporting the BLUE half of Merseyside. Terry went on to study Medicine and initially serve in HM Forces, serving all over the world and completing just over 15 years service.

Terry launched Back Trouble UK, during 2008, however the Therapist Directory did not go online until January 2009. The main reason that Terry launched the website was so that people in the UK who were suffering from a Back Condition. Would have access to quality, clear, jargon free Back Pain Health Information, and online access to UK Registered Back Pain Practitioners.

At www.BackTrouble.co.uk

This Article has been viewed 188 times. (Not updated in real-time.)
No comments yet.
We want your comments! If you can read this, you don't have javascript enabled, so you can't use this comment system. Please enable javascript.