How Glucosamine Helps With Plantar Fasciitis

According to The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, about 2 million Americans suffer from conditions associated with heel pain annually. Of these, plantar fasciitis is one of the most common, and it may hinder regular ADL. Thankfully, there are many treatments for plantar fasciitis. One way is to use glucosamine, but there are also many herbs and vitamins to treat your plantar fasciitis.

What Is Glucosamine?

Glucosamine is a naturally occurring compound in the body. Often classified as an amino sugar, glucosamine acts as a building block for different functional substances in the body. It plays a primary role in the development and maintenance of cartilage in the joints.

In addition to the body producing glucosamine, you can also get it from external sources. Plantar fasciitis supplements are easily available and are made from shells, animal bones, and fungi, or from synthetic substances. There are, however, possible side effects from taking glucosamine such as nausea, diarrhea, and heartburn. Side effects can be alleviated by adjusting the glucosamine dosage.

Glucosamine is used in treating multiple conditions, including bone and joint disorders like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. It is also used to treat inflammatory conditions.

Effect of Glucosamine on Plantar Fasciitis Symptoms

There is no clear evidence supporting the use of glucosamine to ease plantar fasciitis symptoms, but it does appear to have some benefits. In particular, when glucosamine is paired with chondroitin, it reduces inflammation, which consequently leads to heel pain relief.

This natural treatment for plantar fasciitis improves tissue health, helping to speed up the healing of plantar fasciitis and the resolution of symptoms.

As previously mentioned, glucosamine isn't the only way to treat plantar fasciitis. However, glucosamine should be incorporated as part of the management of plantar fasciitis for faster and more effective results.