Health briefs: Two new studies of arthritis pain

Glucosamine works no better than a placebo against arthritis pain, according to two studies. In a Norwegian trial of people with back pain and osteoarthritis of the spine, half took glucosamine sulfate (1,500 milligrams a day), the others a placebo. After six months, both reported similar levels of disability, pain and life quality. Also, findings from a well-known GAIT study say glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate, taken singly or together for two years, are no better than a placebo at reducing pain from knee arthritis.

Home relief

Make your own frozen gel pack for icing injuries by partially filling a heavy-duty plastic freezer bag with a mixture of one-quarter rubbing alcohol and three-quarters water. Seal the bag, then seal it inside a second plastic bag. Place it in the freezer. The gel will remain soft (the more alcohol you use, the softer it will be), making it gentler on injuries than ice packs.

The University of California at Berkeley Wellness Letter, copyright October 2010, wellnessletter.com