What Orthopedic surgeon says about Glucosamine supplements?

If you are hitting 50 and beginning to feel an ache in the joints, do consult your orthopaedician rather than popping a glucosamine supplement pill, available easily over the counter.

Though there are no side effects of glucosamine, no research has shown it to be effective in cartilage growth and hence more supple joint movement. It is often recommended for people who have arthritis or osteoporosis, especially in the West, where supplements are heavily marketed.

Orthopaedic doctors explain that glucosamine is an amino sugar, an organic chemical compound, found naturally in the synovial fluid that surrounds our joints. Along with another substance chondroitin, it helps to keep the joints cushioned and lubricated. But with age and lack of exercise, the synovial fluid becomes thick and less elastic. That is when we experience stiffness or swelling in the ankle, knee and other joints.

Glucosamine is not a quick-fix solution to pain that arises from joint-related problems. In terms of its long-term effect, orthopaedic surgeon in Madurai Dr Sathish Devadoss says the claimed benefits are based principally on clinical observations, and it may have a placebo effect.