Walking and Glucosamine: A Winning Combo for Joint Health

Researchers in Australia recently reported on a 12-week study of 36 osteoarthritis patients that showed that walking combined with glucosamine supplements reduced arthritis pain and improved physical function.

All of the patients took 1,500 mg of glucosamine daily for 6 weeks. Then they began walking either 3 or 5 days a week, building to 3,000 steps on those days, in the first 6 weeks. During the second 6-week period, they increased to 6,000 steps. They continued taking their glucosamine for the duration of the study. It’s important to note that they were asked to walk a minimum of 1,500 steps at a time, which is equal to about three quarters of a mile.

The patients used pedometers to record their activity and in the long run, both the 3-day-a-week and 5-day-a-week groups walked about the same amount of steps and saw the same rate of improvement. Most of the improvement in reduced pain and stiffness and improved function were seen between week 6 and week 12.

These people were not active before starting the program. Their patience and persistence rewarded them with improved quality of life. And in addition, their activity mostly likely improved their mood, self-esteem and other health related factors, as already proven in dozens of studies.