Effects of Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate Supplementation in Addition to Resistance Exercise Training and Manual Therapy in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) IS one of the most common joint disorders, affecting not only the joints but also the surrounding muscles, which become weak. Resistance exercise reduces pain and improves function in patients with OA of the knee. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used by patients with OA to reduce pain and thereby maintain the ability to perform daily activities. However, there is accumulating evidence for a negative effect of NSAIDs, thus many patients with OA are treated with dietary supplementations such as glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, and some studies show a beneficial effects on cartilage and pain. However, their effect on OA symptoms and cartilage remains controversial. Thus, it is important to investigate whether a potentially beneficial effect of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate with resistance exercise and manual therapy in patients with knee OA.