Evidence supporting the use of: Glycosaminoglycan
For the health condition: Tendonitis

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

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

Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), such as chondroitin sulfate, are sometimes used as dietary supplements with the intent to support connective tissue health, including tendons. The rationale for their use in tendonitis is based on their role as structural components of the extracellular matrix in cartilage and connective tissues. However, scientific evidence specifically supporting the use of glycosaminoglycans for treating or supporting tendonitis is limited and of low quality.

Some in vitro and animal studies suggest that GAGs may have anti-inflammatory effects and may help modulate the extracellular matrix, potentially supporting tendon healing. However, clinical trials in humans are scarce. Most of the research on GAG supplementation focuses on osteoarthritis rather than tendonitis, and results are mixed even in that context.

Systematic reviews and meta-analyses have not demonstrated robust or consistent benefits of GAGs for tendon repair or tendonitis. The level of evidence is therefore low, and major clinical guidelines do not recommend glycosaminoglycans as a treatment for tendonitis. Use is sometimes extrapolated from their use in other joint conditions, but direct scientific validation for tendonitis is lacking.

In summary, while there is a biological rationale and some preclinical evidence, robust clinical evidence supporting glycosaminoglycan supplementation for tendonitis is weak, so the scientific justification is limited.

More about Glycosaminoglycan
More about Tendonitis

Products containing Glycosaminoglycan

We currently have no products on Caring Sunshine that contain this ingredient.