OSTEOARTHRITIS TREATMENT TO ATHLETES – A REVIEW OF THE RECENT LITERATURE REGARDING THE SLOW ACTING DRUGS

CHRONIC DISEASE AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

OSTEOARTHRITIS TREATMENT TO ATHLETES
– A REVIEW OF THE RECENT LITERATURE REGARDING THE SLOW ACTING DRUGS

A. Murgu, A. Ionescu, C. Ciocan, M. Baroga
University of Medicine “Carol Davila” Bucharest, National Institute of Sports Medicine, Romania

BACKGROUND. Osteoarthritis is a major social and medical problem by its incidence and consequent functional deficit. Incidence of the disease varies from 7% to men and 2% to women of 18-24 years of age to 100% to old people in their 80’s.
METHODS. A review of the last ten years specific literature shows the latest news regarding the role and action of the nutraceuticals (glucosaminoglicans and condroitinsulphate) as a part of the therapeutic EULAR protocol of osteoarthritis. A meta-analysis made by JAMA in 2000 evaluates the studies published between 1966 an 1999 selected only 15 studies rigorously written.
RESULTS. The studies presented are a strong evidence for the therapeutical eficacity, well defined joint protection role and very low side effects of the dietary supplements mentioned above.
CONCLUSION.  Glucosaminoglicans and condroitinsulphate are safe and officially included in the therapeutical protocole for osteoarthritis