Osteoarthritis is the most common form of joint disease found in both pets and humans. The resulting stiffness, pain and loss of mobility can seriously degrade the affected individual's quality of life. Treatment has classically involved the use of anti-inflammatory drugs and surgery in advanced cases that no longer can be medically managed.

Significant claims have been made for 'dietary supplements' glucosamine and chondroitin as a treatment for osteoarthritis. While some test results offer real promise, the full clinical benefits of glucosamine and chondroitin have yet to be unequivocally established by scientific trials. Despite this, enthusiastic coverage in the popular media and even to some degree in the medical press have engendered a public perception that glucosamine and chondroitin are the new 'wonder treatment' for osteoarthritis.

This is a real concern. Many supplements are advocated as useful in the management of common but challenging-to-treat diseases. Inevitably commercial interests and unconditional promotion will overstate the benefits that would be checked by regulatory guidelines if the agent were classified as a drug. The result is that the perceived benefits often far exceed those established by scientific trials.

As always, our aim is to separate hyperbole from fact to allow the reader to make an informed decision about what is best for their pets and possibly also highly relevant to their own health.

Is a degenerative joint disease most usually associated with 'wear and tear'. Over time the normally smooth cartilage overlying the ends of joint bones is gradually eroded. Exacerbating factors can be trauma to the joints, obesity and strenuous repetitive use. Although osteoarthritis is not always accompanied by inflammation this is a common sign, as is joint pain, loss of mobility and bony remodelling which many elderly pets and owners will experience to some degree or other. These joint changes typically progress with time and can become increasingly debilitating to the affected individual.

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