Glucosamine MSM For Knee Pain | Effectiveness, Dosage, And More!

Written By on April 18, 2022 — Medically Reviewed By Mitch Torres (PT)

Written by on April 18, 2022 — Medically Reviewed By: Mitch Torres (PT)

A popular supplement for joint problems is glucosamine MSM. For knee pain, this combination may help relieve the symptoms.

In fact, taking glucosamine in combination with MSM can provide better relief in certain conditions like knee osteoarthritis. At least compared to taking the supplements alone. (1)

Below, you’ll learn all about the benefits of both glucosamine and MSM for knee pain, whether taken in combination or alone. Also, the best dosage of each for maximum effects and other supplements available.

This is what we’ll cover – tap on any of the topics to navigate easier through the article:

Benefits of glucosamine and MSM for knee pain

MSM can enhance the effectiveness of glucosamine and other supplements used to treat arthritis.

For example, a study found that combining MSM with glucosamine and chondroitin was more effective in reducing knee pain and stiffness. At least compared to glucosamine chondroitin alone. (1)

Also, glucosamine boosted by MSM promotes the creation and maintenance of healthy joints.

This is because glucosamine can build and repair cartilage, while MSM prevents its breakdown.

Also, both glucosamine and MSM have anti-inflammatory and analgesic benefits for knee pain. (1)

How does MSM help reduce pain?

MSM can reduce inflammation and prevent the breakdown of cartilage – a connective tissue that cushions joints. (2, 3)

This compound can also help manage joint swelling and stiffness. This effect ultimately leads to improved knee joint functions in people with arthritis, for example. (4)

What about glucosamine?

Glucosamine is a natural substance found in joints. Taking it as a supplement not only can help maintain healthy cartilage – it can also help reduce inflammation. (5)

Its properties for cartilage rebuilding and swelling management make it a particularly beneficial supplement for knee pain relief.

This is regardless of the form – glucosamine hydrochloride or sulfate – or the condition that’s causing the pain – osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, for example.

Learn more: Our complete guide on glucosamine for knee pain

Dosage of glucosamine sulfate and MSM for knee joint pain relief

Several studies have found that taking 500 mg of glucosamine combined with 500 mg of MSM can help provide relief from knee pain.

For best results, evidence suggests taking these supplements 3 times per day, for at least 12 weeks. (6)

Read more: What’s the best dosage of glucosamine for knee pain?

Wait – what is MSM?

A wooden spoon with a white powder to represent MSM

Methylsulfonylmethane, commonly known as MSM, is a natural chemical that contains sulfur. In supplement form, it looks like a colorless, grainy powder.

However, MSM can be naturally obtained through the consumption of foods such as grains, vegetables, fruits, beer, wine, milk, and tea. (7)

In those with knee pain, MSM supplementation in pill form can be a great strategy.

This will ensure they get an adequate dietary intake of this compound.

There’s clinical evidence that supports the use of MSM for health problems. It shows this compound has beneficial effects in (8, 9):

  • Joint pain management.
  • Keeping healthy bones.
  • Inflammatory conditions like arthritis.
  • Allergies.
  • Autoimmune diseases.
  • Cancer chemoprevention.
  • Muscle recovery following exercise.

Other supplements for knee pain

Apart from glucosamine and MSM, there are other supplements available that can help manage knee pain. These include:

However, please remember that supplements are not the best treatment for reducing pain and other knee joint problems.

To feel significant improvement in your knee pain, you need to know the root cause of your symptoms. Going to a physical therapist is the best way to do so.

Further reading: 8 supplements for knee pain backed by evidence

FAQs

Does MSM help knee pain?

Yes, it can help relieve knee pain in some people.

Is glucosamine good for knee pain?

Yes. Glucosamine can enhance the growth of cartilage and may protect it from damage.

What are the benefits of glucosamine MSM for knee problems?

It can promote the healing of muscle damage caused by exercise. It can also help treat osteoarthritis by managing knee pain and swelling.

What are the side effects of glucosamine MSM?

The most common side effects include nausea, heartburn, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.

Conclusion: Does glucosamine MSM help knee pain?

MSM is useful for relieving pain associated with knee osteoarthritis. Combining MSM with glucosamine not only provides relief from knee pain but also helps improve knee joint stiffness.

Glucosamine MSM’s role in promoting cartilage regeneration combined with its anti-inflammatory properties makes it superior to other treatments of knee pain such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Resources

  1. Lubis, Andri MT, et al. “Comparison of glucosamine-chondroitin sulfate with and without methylsulfonylmethane in grade I-II knee osteoarthritis: a double-blind randomized controlled trial.” Acta Med Indones 49.2 (2017): 105-111.
  2. Ezaki, Junko, et al. “Assessment of safety and efficacy of methylsulfonylmethane on bone and knee joints in osteoarthritis animal model.” Journal of bone and mineral metabolism 31.1 (2013): 16-25.
  3. Hwang, Jeremy C., et al. “Methyl-sulfonyl-methane (MSM)-induced acute angle closure.” Journal of Glaucoma 24.4 (2015): e28-e30.
  4. Butawan, Matthew et al. “Methylsulfonylmethane: Applications and Safety of a Novel Dietary Supplement.” Nutrients vol. 9,3 290. 16 Mar. 2017.
  5. Kantor, Elizabeth D et al. “Associations between glucosamine and chondroitin supplement use and biomarkers of systemic inflammation.” Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.) vol. 20,6 (2014): 479-85.
  6. Usha, P. R., and M. U. R. Naidu. “Randomised, double-blind, parallel, placebo-controlled study of oral glucosamine, methylsulfonylmethane and their combination in osteoarthritis.” Clinical drug investigation 24.6 (2004): 353-363.
  7. Butawan, Matthew et al. “Methylsulfonylmethane: Applications and Safety of a Novel Dietary Supplement.” Nutrients vol. 9,3 290. 16 Mar. 2017.
  8. Kim, Linda S., et al. “Efficacy of methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) in osteoarthritis pain of the knee: a pilot clinical trial.” Osteoarthritis and cartilage 14.3 (2006): 286-294.
  9. Withee, Eric D., et al. “Effects of Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) on exercise-induced oxidative stress, muscle damage, and pain following a half-marathon: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial.” Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition 14.1 (2017): 1-11.
Author
Sony Sherpa (MD)
Sony Sherpa is a board-certified clinical doctor and currently, she is working as a medical officer in the emergency department of a renowned hospital. With a medical degree completed at a young age, she writes medical articles with accuracy owing to her medical knowledge and thorough background research.