Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) has been investigated for its potential to support joint health, including in cases of cartilage damage, primarily due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Some clinical studies have evaluated MSM for osteoarthritis and joint pain, conditions often associated with cartilage degradation. A few randomized controlled trials have shown that MSM supplementation can reduce pain and improve physical function in people with osteoarthritis, which may indirectly benefit cartilage by reducing inflammation and mechanical stress. However, direct evidence that MSM repairs or regenerates cartilage is limited.

Most scientific evidence focuses on symptom relief rather than structural improvement of cartilage. For example, a 2006 study by Kim et al. found that MSM improved pain and physical function in knee osteoarthritis over 12 weeks, but did not directly assess cartilage repair. Laboratory and animal studies suggest MSM may reduce inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress, which could theoretically slow cartilage breakdown. Nevertheless, high-quality human studies specifically demonstrating cartilage preservation or regeneration are lacking.

Overall, while MSM is scientifically studied and shows some benefit for joint symptoms, the evidence for its use to directly treat or repair cartilage damage is weak (rated 2/5). Its use is based more on symptom management than on robust proof of cartilage restoration.

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