Supplement glucosamine is one of the most commonly used natural treatments for knee pain. But in a recent research, it appears to be ineffective in repairing cartilage deterioration.

A team of researchers from the University of Arizona carried out a well-controlled study with an objective to know the effects of the supplement glucosamine on mild to moderate painful knee joints.

No difference was found in cartilage deterioration or bone marrow lesions when researchers compared the MRIs of the group taking the supplement and the group who received a placebo.

The study was "double blind meaning" as neither doctors nor patients knew which pill they were receiving. It is quite a startling revelation as the supplement has an enormous market. One in 10 US adults takes the supplement and global sale was $2 billion in 2010.

Glucosamine is a naturally occurring compound in human body. It is quite vital for the strengthening of cartilage. When taken in the form of supplement, it helps the body with cartilage production and general joint strength.

The study had 201 participants having medical history of knee problems. An experiment was carried out in which 98 participants were in the glucosamine test group and 103 were in placebo group. But being the nature of study, they were not aware whether they are taking placebo or supplement.

The test period continued for 24 weeks and MRI scans were carried out with an aim to get clearer picture. Along with the scans, urine tests were also carried out. It was found that both the groups had very similar results.

There were no signs of reduction in cartilage corrosion in the supplement group. There was no pain relief and also no improvement in the functioning of patient's knees. In all, 70% of participants did not feel any improvement, 18% experienced worsened conditions and 10% felt an improvement.

"Our study found no evidence that drinking glucosamine supplement reduced knee cartilage damage, relieved pain or improved function in individuals with chronic knee pain", said lead author Dr. C. Kent Kwoh of the University of Arizona College of Medicine.