Alternative Health Blog

In a study involving 36 low active subjects with mild to moderate osteoarthritis of the knee or hip, supplementation with 1500 mg/d glucosamine sulphate along with participation in a 12-week progressive walking program (walking 3-5 days/week, gradually walking up to 3000 steps/d during the first 6 weeks (approximately 30 minutes of walking), and increasing up to 6000 steps/d during the following 6 weeks), was found to improve physical activity levels, physical function, and total WOMAC Osteoarthritis Index scores. Additional improvements in these outcomes were seen at 24 weeks follow-up. The authors conclude, "In people with hip or knee OA, walking a minimum of 3000 steps (~30 minutes), at least 3 days/week, in combination with glucosamine sulphate, may reduce OA symptoms. A more robust study with a larger sample is needed to support these preliminary findings."   Reference: "Efficacy of a progressive walking program and glucosamine sulphate supplementation on osteoarthritic symptoms of the hip and knee: a feasibility trial," Ng NT, Heesch KC, et al, Arthritis Res There, 2010 Feb 12; 12(1): R25. (Address: KC Heesch, The University of Queensland, School of Human Movement Studies, Blair Drive, St Lucia Campus, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia )