|
MSM (Methyl Sulfonyl Methane) is a
natural sulfur compound found in all living things. MSM is
a biologically active form of the mineral sulfur, which is the fourth
most plentiful mineral in the body and is found in every cell of the
body. MSM is sold as a dietary supplement to treat the
symptoms of osteoarthritis. Many people swear by it as a pain
reliever for osteoarthritis. It is believed that MSM may also reduce
the rate of cartilage deterioration.
The mechanisms by which MSM bring about
pain relief are believed to be as follows:
It inhibits pain impulses along a
major nervous system network (C fibers).
It reduces inflammation.
It promotes blood flow.
It reduces muscle spasms.
In a randomized, double blind placebo
controlled 2005 study, 50 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee
were given 3 g of MSM or placebo twice a day for 12 weeks. Compared
to the placebo, MSM brought about significant reductions in pain and
significant improvements in physical function. MSM also produced
improvement in performing activities of daily living when compared to
placebo.
(Kim, L.S., Axelrod, L.J., Howard, P.,
Buratovich, N., Waters, R.F. Efficacy of methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)
in osteoarthritis
pain
of the knee: a pilot clinical trial. Osteoarthritis
Cartilage. 2006 Mar;14(3):286-94. Epub 2005 Nov 23). The standard dosage of MSM is 1,200 to
2,000 mg per day.
|
