MSM

MSM is a ubiquitous, naturally occurring substance, that has may purported positive health effects. MSM functions as an anti-inflammatory agent by reducing cytokine expression (which can also lead to cartilage preservation by suppressing the deleterious effects of several cytokines) and may also have an indirect inhibitory role on MAST cell mediation of inflammation. MSM exerts its antioxidant properties by influencing the activation of multiple transcription factors involved in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). While it possibly has effects on reducing muscle soreness associated with exercise, cancer prevention, seasonal allergies, improving skin quality and texture, as well as other health issues, it was included in ARTHRO-EASE for its anti-inflammatory, cartilage preservation, and antioxidant properties.

In 2006, a randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled trial evaluating the efficacy of MSM on knee OA showed improved symptoms of pain and physical function during the 12 week trial, without any major adverse events. 2006 “Osteoarthritis and Cartilage” https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16309928/

In 2011, a prospective, randomized, double-blind, controlled trial evaluating the efficacy of MSM on knee OA, was published in “Complementary Medicine and Therapies.” Its authors concluded that patients with OA of the knee taking MSM for 12 weeks showed an improvement in pain and physical function. However, improvements were small and clinical significance was uncertain. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3141601/#

A 2014 double-blind RCT published in the “International Journal of Orthopedics” evaluating the effect of MSM on OA large joints and mobility concluded that MSM improved all physical symptoms in the WOMAC scale during the 26 week intervention without any adverse events. 2014 http://96.126.98.199/index.php/ijo/article/view/745

While more recent studies are lacking (and needed),these cited studies, and others, do show MSM to be safe and effective in decreasing arthritic symptoms and improving joint function.