Balchem’s OptiMSM reduces knee joint discomfort in healthy adults, clinical study suggests

05 Dec 2023 --- A clinical study conducted in Japan on the use of OptiMSM, the Balchem Human Nutrition & Health brand of methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), demonstrates a significant reduction in morning and nocturnal joint pain, as well as pain while standing.

“We are particularly excited about this study as it was the first carried out on healthy adults and to highlight OptiMSM’s potential to be effective at just two grams per day,” says Dr. Eric Ciappio, strategic development manager and nutrition scientist for Balchem. 

“This trial provides us with the confirmation that all the benefits reported from clinical and pre-clinical studies on patients with osteoarthritis could be applied to healthy adults, changing the landscape of joint health formulations,” Ciappio continues. 

After the 12-week study, the participants who received an OptiMSM dose reported an improved condition and decreased pain.Relieving mild knee pain
The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial conducted by scientists based in Japan set out to determine the effects of oral MSM intake in relieving mild knee joint pain. The study results were published in the journal Nutrients. 

During the trial, 88 healthy adults who reported mild knee pain received a daily dose of two grams of OptiMSM or a placebo for 12 weeks. 

The participants received pain and stiffness evaluations at four, eight and 12 weeks, which included reports on pain while walking, ascending or descending stairs, range of motion and fluid build-up in the joints.

At the end of the 12 weeks, evaluations using the Japanese Knee Osteoarthritis Measure revealed a “significant” reduction in pain in the morning and at night while standing and an improvement in the overall health condition of the participants compared to the placebo group. Nocturnal pain and pain while standing improved after eight weeks. 

Effects of sulfur on joints and tissue
MSM supplements are a source of sulfur, a building block of joints and connective tissues, which require the chemical for their proper structure and function. 

OptiMSM has further been shown in other pre-clinical and clinical studies to have the potential to support joint health and the production of antioxidant glutathione, manage oxidative stress and repair joints post-exercise and activity.

The supplement has also been shown through studies to relieve pain in patients diagnosed with osteoarthritis.

“Joint health is a priority for people across multiple generations who are proactively seeking ways to ensure a good quality of life as they age,” says Lauren Eisen, strategic marketing and BD manager at Balchem.

 “In addition, according to the WHO, by the end of the decade, one in six people worldwide will be over 60, which presents the opportunity to prioritize staying active,” she concludes. 

Last year, Balchem acquired the MSM manufacturer Bergstrom Nutrition, based in Vancouver, Canada.

By Milana Nikolova