In reply to O.C.'s question, the Consultants didn't make out scripts for Glucosamine. Out of interest, the following is taken from my home copy of the BNF (British National Formulary Sept 08 - the most recent version is at work!):
"GLUCOSAMINE: Indications: Symptomatic relief of mild to moderate OA of the knee (My note: Yes, it specifically just says "knee")
Cautions: Impaired glucose tolerance (monitor blood glucose concentration before treatment and periodically thereafter), predisposition to cardiovascular disease (monitor cholesterol), asthma
Contra-indications: shellfish allergy; pregnancy
Side effects: nausea, abdominal pain, indigestion, diarrhoea, constipation, headache, fatigue - less commonly flushing, rash, prutitis, hypercholesterolaemia also reported".
So there you have it - not without it's risks!
In the latest catalogue which came this morning from Healthspan in Guernsey, there's an article on Glucosamine - possibly on their website too? (Haven't looked to see).
I really think it's a question of horses for courses.