If you've ever had backaches and chronic joint pain, your doctor may have diagnosed you as having osteoarthritis. This can be a painful and debilitating type of arthritis that affects the bones and can cause joint pain and stiffness, as well as back pain and tight joints.

What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis or OA, is a degenerative bone disease that can cause bone spurs and eroded cartilage. Common drug treatments can include various types of pain relievers and anti-inflammatories, as well as physical therapy, rehabilitation, surgery, ultrasound, and topical ointments as pain relievers.

Natural and herbal remedies may help but you need to speak to your doctor about any potential side effects depending on your medical history and any pre-existing medical conditions.

What are Chondroitin and Glucosamine?

Chondroitin is an herbal supplement. It's commonly sold over the counter as Chondroitin Sulfate.

Glucosamine, on the other hand, is a compound that's harvested from shellfish.

Whether you're thinking about Chondroitin Sulfate or Glucosamine, or the version considered Glucosamine Chondroitin Sulfate, consult a physician before use to ensure you have no adverse side effect and you can have these supplements as they may not be appropriate for people with diabetes or kidney disorders.