Firstly, what is "osteoarthritis"?

The literal translation comes from the Greek "osteo" (of the bone), "artho" (joint) and "itis" (inflammation) - but it is pain rather than inflammation which is the major characteristic of this problem. It is the number one cause of movement disability and possibly the number one cause of disability full-stop when you consider that aches and pains may lead to people becoming sedentary. Osteoarthritis symptoms include pain, stiffness, crackling, enlargement and joint deformities with inflammation occurring in the more advanced stages. The most frequent indicator that something may be amiss is joint pain/stiffness worsened by movement but alleviated by rest, tending to get worse by the end of the day. Morning stiffness is common lasting up to 30 minutes. Eventually joint degeneration leads to a scenario where a bone on bone situation arises resulting in constant pain and swelling. At this point the only real option is surgery and joint replacement.

Osteoarthritis is not the same as Rheumatoid Arthritis even though the names are similar and both afflict the joints. Rheumatoid Arthritis is an immune system disorder where the body actually attacks its own tissues and symptoms include fever, fatigue, anaemia and joint inflammation.

Treatment for Osteoarthritis:

In an interview concluded with a panel of leading American physicians specialising in the treatment of osteoarthritis all seven panellists returned favourable reports as to the use of 800-1200mg of chondroitin sulfate with glucosamine as a means of safeguarding against (and treating) osteoarthritis in athletes involved in endurance sports. One of the physicians involved in the panel (Dr. Robert Schenck - The Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery and Head of Sports Medicine at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, USA) made the following statement in relation to athletes:

"Treatment is specific to the involved joint. For example, the treatment of a weight-bearing joint may involve an exercise program that does not irritate the joint. Comfortable shoes and shock absorption are useful, and physical therapy is an important aspect. Studies have shown that osteoarthritis symptoms are improved with a physical therapy program. Classic treatment regimens incorporate acetaminophen; however orthopaedic surgeons are frequently consulted after this regimen has been unsuccessful. Physicians also may consider the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). Another option is a nutritional supplement, such as a low-molecular-weight (LMW) chondroitin sulfate with glucosamine. There are minimal to no adverse effects with chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine (Ed. note: Unlike the continued use of oral anti-inflammatories)."

With osteoarthritis there is a progressive degeneration of the articulating surface (cartilage) of the bones which form the basis of the joint capsule - endurance athletes (particularly runners because of the weight bearing and impact nature of the sport) may be of greater risk of suffering from this ailment, particularly in ankle, knee and hip joints. As elucidated by Professor Schenck and his co-panellists, a review of the current scientific literature suggests that regular supplementation with chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine appears to maintain, and help in the regeneration of, the cartilage matrix, which makes up the smooth articulating surface of the bone ends, while at the same time lowering the instance of joint pain and inflammation. All of which is good news for the endurance athlete considering their long term health and wellbeing beyond their 40's.

The effect of chrondroitin sulfate with glucosamine appears to be cumulative, improving over time, so the prescription is to dose up with 800-1200mg of the supplement on a daily basis over a 2-3 month period, during which time the symptoms of your ailment should diminish with notable improvements in joint function being realised at this time. While the effectiveness of some nutritional supplements is, at best, questionable, the jury appears to be in on the use of low molecular weight chondroitin sulfate with glucosamine as being a safe and effective means of alleviating the symptoms and improving the integrity of joints - all of which is good news for you as you lace up your shoes and head out the door for another 20km road run!