Joint Pain

[Hmac]

However, in some studies glucosamine and chondroitin had an analgesic effect similar to one of moderate NSAID dosages without attendant side effects.

Can you cite any of these studies, showing that to be true in humans?

[Gutshot John]

I'm actually doing the C25K app. It's been a mix of running/walking so far for about 30 minutes, covering about 2 miles+. Generally I'm using a treadmill or track though my at least one day pavement is what I have to use.

Though I'm working out 5 days a week, I'm only running 2 of those days, doing resistance, swimming and other cardio the other 3.

I've got a brand new pair of new balance running shoes so I'm pretty sure that's not the issue.

[knoxtnshooter]

I'm actually doing the C25K app. It's been a mix of running/walking so far for about 30 minutes, covering about 2 miles+. Generally I'm using a treadmill or track though my at least one day pavement is what I have to use.

Though I'm working out 5 days a week, I'm only running 2 of those days, doing resistance, swimming and other cardio the other 3.

I've got a brand new pair of new balance running shoes so I'm pretty sure that's not the issue.

If the shoes fit you, that is. I got fitted for running shoes, and the ones that I thought were the most comfortable weren't right for me at all. But I trusted the guy fitting me and went with his suggestion and my feet and ankles felt so much better after runs. My times have improved immensely as well.

[rdc0000]

I've been through this. For me it was the wrong "type" of shoe. I was using a non-neutral shoe, it slowed me down, hurt my hips and knees. The right shoe removed all the pain. Also I was running on the road edge that was curved. This did not help.

[YVK]

Can you cite any of these studies, showing that to be true in humans?

Nope, I don't have individual studies, rheumatology is not my specialty. The statement above was from BMJ (British Medical Journal) summary review, published in their "Evidence-Based Medicine" publication.

Cochrane Collaboration is another, probably the most reputable, evidence-based source, here is a link to their review http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/o/coc...946/frame.html. They quote 25 or so articles, but you need to subscribe to get full text.

[warpigM-4]

Get good shoes to absorb some of the shock.

Make sure your form isn't putting more pressure on your joints than need be.

Drop some ibuprofen.

Don't run on hard pavement unless you have to. Take up trail running or a track.

Start slooow. Do a mile for a couple of weeks, then work up to two miles, then three.

Give yourself proper recover time. Running 2 - 3 times a week is plenty.

Eat more, and hydrate plenty, which promotes healing and recovery.

I'm 36 and I've never been a great runner, but this is how I've played it, and I've improved my running time enough to pass the APFT every time, and not wreck my body in the process.

He hit it that is Basically what I was going to say

[Hmac]

Nope, I don't have individual studies, rheumatology is not my specialty. The statement above was from BMJ (British Medical Journal) summary review, published in their "Evidence-Based Medicine" publication.

Cochrane Collaboration is another, probably the most reputable, evidence-based source, here is a link to their review http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/o/coc...946/frame.html. They quote 25 or so articles, but you need to subscribe to get full text.

Yes, it doesn't seem to work better than placebo. OTOH, it's safe and without significant side effects.

[YVK]

I believe some of those studies were placebo-controlled; in fact, if you follow Cochrane link I provided, it actually says so. Heterogeneity of data is what throws a wrench here, I believe.

[dookie1481]

Weight loss by any alternative exercise before engaging in high-impact sports helps a lot.

A very important point.

A lot of people run because that's what they know. But if you are overweight, sedentary, or old(er), running is usually a poor choice, at least initially. If you just want to get in better shape and have no particular reason that you NEED to run, then there are better exercise choices.

I started running again because I enjoy it. There are better choices for most people, however.

[Gutshot John]

I used to enjoy running very much though I concede weight is probably the big factor.

I'm doing it as much because I not only want to lose the weight I've gained but also because I don't want to have to depend on a gym/club and no fundage or space even for a home elliptical.