In this article, you will find out everything you need to know about glucosamine gel and the most effective alternatives, including an advanced treatment called Prolotherapy.
Table of Contents
- What is Glucosamine?
- Why Use Glucosamine Gel?
- Benefits of Glucosamine Gel
- Side Effects of Glucosamine Gel
- How to Apply Glucosamine Gel
- How Long Does It Take to Work?
- Who Should Not Use Glucosamine?
- Best Product Brand of Glucosamine
- Other Ways to Help Your Pain (Prolotherapy)
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Contact ProHealth Clinic
- Author Bio
- References
With people living longer and pain on the rise, more and more people are turning to supplements like glucosamine gel to help with their joint health and pain relief.
Glucosamine gel plays an important part in repairing knee cartilage damage and supporting cartilage in other joints, but it does have its limitations. It is most effective when combined with other cartilage-building treatments. Glucosamine gel can be part of a comprehensive approach to addressing joint health, especially for active individuals. For those facing challenges like cycling-related knee discomfort, using glucosamine alongside strengthening exercises and anti-inflammatory therapies may yield better results. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
The majority of glucosamine found in supplements and topical gels is extracted from shellfish shells—vegans can opt for synthetic alternatives.
What is Glucosamine?
There are three main types of glucosamine:
- Glucosamine sulphate / Glucosamine Potassium Hydroxide
- Glucosamine hydrochloride
- N-acetyl-glucosamine
The majority of studies have been performed using glucosamine sulphate, often combined with chondroitin, Benzoic Acid, Eucalyptus Oil, Sorbic Acid, and Capsicum Frutescens.
Glucosamine is produced naturally in the body and found in the synovial fluid of our joints. It helps with the synthesis of essential macromolecules for connective tissue such as tendons and ligaments, forming part of these tissues via glycosaminoglycans.
As we age, synovial fluid and natural glucosamine levels decrease, leading to joint degeneration. Research shows glucosamine may help prevent cartilage breakdown and relieve symptoms of osteoarthritis, but it is most effective when combined with other therapies.
Why Use Glucosamine Gel?
Oral glucosamine supplements may not be fully absorbed through the stomach, and since cartilage lacks a blood supply, it’s unclear how much reaches the synovial fluid. Glucosamine gel is applied directly to the joint, potentially allowing better absorption through the skin and mucous membranes.
Benefits of Glucosamine Gel
Non-sticky and non-greasy glucosamine gel, often combined with other ingredients, may offer:
- Reduced joint tissue and muscle pain
- Increased mobility
- Reduced body inflammation
Side Effects of Glucosamine Gel
While most side effects are associated with oral supplementation, topical gels can still cause:
- Rashes
- Constipation
- Stomach upsets
- Diarrhoea
- Headaches
Some gels may include other ingredients with their own side effects, such as:
- Menthol, Chondroitin, MSM, Devils claw, Phenoxyethanol, Capsicum, Propylene glycol, Methylparaben, Acrylates, Essential oils (e.g., lavender), Propylparaben, Glycerin, Triethanolamine, Glycolipids, Glycoproteins, Imidazolidinyl urea, Disodium EDTA
Chondroitin helps cartilage resist compression and reduce inflammation. MSM helps with stiffness and pain relief.
How to Apply Glucosamine Gel
Apply a thin layer of gel to the affected area, ideally after a warm bath. Most gels are non-sticky and non-greasy and should absorb well.
How Long Does It Take to Work?
Some people feel relief immediately, while for others it may take 4 to 8 weeks. Gels that combine glucosamine with other natural substances may provide additional benefits.
Who Should Not Use Glucosamine?
- People sensitive to any of the ingredients
- Pregnant women
- Children under 12 years old
- Those with shellfish allergies
- People undergoing chemotherapy
- Do not use on broken skin
Best Product Brand of Glucosamine
- Cartonica – a 60-day money back guarantee is offered with this product.
Oral glucosamine is also available in supplement form, often with multivitamins and natural ingredients. Always check ratings, reviews, and company details before purchasing.
Other Ways to Help Your Pain
Prolotherapy
In recent years, Prolotherapy has built its reputation within the medical community for its clinically proven ability to treat pain.
Published research has proven its pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory and regenerative benefits.
Prolotherapy involves injecting a natural regenerative solution with tiny needles. This stimulates the production of collagen cells, which are needed to repair damage and help pain. By enhancing the body’s natural healing processes, prolotherapy promotes tissue regeneration and strengthens ligaments. Many patients report significant improvements in mobility and a substantial reduction in pain, leading to a better quality of life. As a result, healthcare professionals are increasingly considering it among the most effective treatment options for sacroiliac joint pain, offering hope to those who have struggled with chronic discomfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does glucosamine gel really work for pain?
Some studies and user reports suggest glucosamine gel may help reduce pain and inflammation, especially when combined with other therapies. However, results can vary and more research is needed.
Is glucosamine gel safe for long-term use?
Generally, glucosamine gel is considered safe for most adults when used as directed. Always check for allergies and consult your healthcare provider for long-term use.
Can I use glucosamine gel with other pain relief treatments?
Yes, glucosamine gel can often be used alongside other treatments such as physical therapy, exercise, and anti-inflammatory medications. Always consult your doctor before combining therapies.
Are there vegan or vegetarian glucosamine gels?
Yes, synthetic glucosamine is available for those who avoid animal products. Always check the label for the source.
How does prolotherapy compare to glucosamine gel?
Prolotherapy is an advanced, minimally invasive treatment that stimulates tissue repair and regeneration, often providing longer-lasting relief than topical gels. It is typically administered by a healthcare professional.
Contact ProHealth Clinic Today for Your FREE 15-Minute Discovery Call
Don’t let pain control your life any longer. Join the thousands of patients who have found lasting relief through prolotherapy at ProHealth Clinic.
Get in Touch
Phone: +441234380345
Email: info@prohealthclinic.co.uk
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Author Bio
Having performed over 10,000 procedures, Mr Eaton is one of the UK’s leading practitioners in the field of treating pain, with patients travelling to see him from across the UK, Europe, and the Middle East.
With over 12 years of clinical experience, Oliver is dedicated to helping patients understand their symptoms associated with pain and providing effective treatment options to alleviate them.
He qualified in Prolozone Therapy and Prolotherapy in America with the American Academy of Ozonotherapy. He continued on to complete further qualifications at the Royal Society of Medicine, Charing Cross Hospital in London, Keele University’s Anatomy & Surgical Training Centre, and the medical department of Heidelberg University in Germany.
Over the years he has had the privilege of treating many elite-level athletes, including both Olympic and Commonwealth medallists.
LinkedIn profile
References
- Henrotin Y, et al. (2012). Efficacy of topical glucosamine for the management of osteoarthritis: a systematic review. PubMed
- WebMD. Glucosamine sulfate: Uses, side effects, interactions, dosage, and warning. WebMD
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Glucosamine and chondroitin for osteoarthritis. NCCIH
- ProHealth Clinic. Prolotherapy for pain. ProHealth Clinic
- Case Study: Prolotherapy for chronic knee pain. NCBI