Does glucosamine work for joint pains?

[Dwayne L]

I am 33 years old and have been into weight training since my teens. Over the past few years I have changed the style of training from heavy lifting to more of a cardio based style with light weights. The problem I am having now is, I am suffering from shoulder pains which are preventing me from doing even the lightest lifting. Is there some type of solution for this. I have heard alot about this Glucosamine. Have any of you tried it? Does it really work or is it just he latest fad?Thanks,Dwayne

[tikimookie7]

YES. actually - my friend's american bulldog (120 lbs) has major joint issues and was prescribed "human" glucosamine for it. my grandparents also take it. :D

[guyster]

The studies are not very convincing. It seems to help *some* people *somewhat*. Same with MSM and chondroitin.You're probably better off with ibuprofen and ice.If you search for glucosamine, say, on Wikipedia, it has great information. It explains the early studies that showed that it worked were funded by it's patent-holder. Subsequent studies have not been impressive. That is to say, no better than placebo.

[CrG]

Yes, it really works but I would see a doctor.

[bostonianinmo]

It hasn't done me any good at all. I messed up my knees and hips during 21 years in the military. It's been a total waste of money for me.It sounds like you may have thoracic outlet syndrome. See your physician. Some simple exercises to tone up your upper chest and neck muscles along with rest may help immeasurably. They worked wonders for me.