Topic: Joint supplements

[John Mosca]

Does anyone take these supplements? Do they help?

[Dane Hussey]

Does anyone take these supplements? Do they help?

   
   
John,    
   
Here is my experience -    
I had not experienced any knee problems  during the 20 years that I did lift.    
   
I was experiencing major pain in my left knee in May 2003. I could not walk up or down steps without holding onto the handrail. Walking was difficult also. I was not lifting and had not for 19 years. I had been running instead. My doctor gave me Vioxx. I used it for 5 months with no change.  An MRI showed degeneration of the posterior meniscus (No tears). I went to the orthopedic surgeon. He said that the degeneration was not caused by doing years of squatting movements. I opted for a cortisone injection (1cc, Depo Medrol). The doctor did not push for this treatment, he gave me alternatives such as physical therapy, and riding a bike instead of running. The injection worked and I have not experienced any pain. I quit running and started walking. In September 2004, my right knee and heel began giving me problems. I suspected Plantar Fasciitis which is common in people who run a lot. I went back to the orthopedic surgeon, got another cortisone injection in the right knee, began lifting a month later. (certain exercises and an orthotic shoe insert took care of the Plantar Fasciitis) Since the Depo Medrol is a prohibited substance, I filed an ATUE (Abbreviated Therapeutic Use Exemption) with the USADA.    
   
Hang in there I am almost done, didn't mean to get so long winded, but wanted to give you the history of the whole thing.    
   
I began taking Glucosamine Chondroitin about 6 weeks ago, just to see if it would help the old bones. It seems to help. I only take half of the recommended dose, one pill per day.  Glucosamine Hydrochloride 750 mg, Chondroitin Sulfate 600 mg.

Dane