Chondroitin sulfate is a naturally occurring component present in the matrix of the cartilage of the joints. Supplementation with this compound has been widely studied for its effects on lessening the symptoms of osteoarthritis. Many studies have shown that chondroitin sulfate is effective in relieving joint pain and improving mobility in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. A recent meta-analysis has provided further support for chondroitin sulfate’s role in battling osteoarthritis by showing that it may also have structure-modifying effects, resulting in a reduced rate of joint space loss.
The meta-analysis included the results of four randomized, placebo-controlled trials lasting at least 52 weeks. All of the studies evaluated the effects of chondroitin sulfate supplementation vs. a placebo on patients with osteoarthritis of the knee, and reported the change in minimum joint space width of the participants. The pooled results demonstrated that chondroitin sulfate supplementation resulted in a significant decrease in the rate of decline of minimum joint space of 0.07 mm/year.
The results of this meta-analysis are noteworthy as they indicate that chondroitin sulfate is not only effective in combating the pain of osteoarthritis, but also has direct benefits on supporting joint structure. Loss of joint space is an indicator of cartilage loss and is an indication of worsening osteoarthritis.
Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain chondroitin sulfate’s actions on joint health including: reduction in inflammation through interleukin-1 mediated pathways, inhibition of cartilage degrading enzymes, stimulation of the production of cartilage matrix components, and a reduction in apoptosis of cartilage cells. All of these mechanisms, alone or in combination, could explain the structure-modifying effects of chondroitin sulfate.
Hochberg MC, Zhan M, Langenberg P. The decline of joint space width in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials of chondroitin sulfate. Current Medical Research and Opinions. 2008; 24(11): 3029-3035.
For more information see CS/G 900
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