A recent double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study published in Joint Diseases and Related Surgery has highlighted the potential benefits of collagen supplementation in managing osteoarthritis (OA)-related pain and improving quality of life. The study assessed the effects of Naturagen® 4 Joint, a supplement combining type 1, 2, and 3 collagen, over an eight-week period. The trial involved 31 patients aged 35 to 65 years with Grade 2-3 OA as per the Kellgren-Lawrence classification.
Results demonstrated significant reductions in pain and improvements in quality of life across key metrics, including Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, and the Short Form Health Survey (SF-12). Functional evaluations showed notable gains in balance and walking capacity, as indicated by the Berg Balance Scale and the 6-Minute Walking Test. However, tests like the Timed Up and Go, Five Repetition Sit-to-Stand, and Stair Climbing Test did not reveal significant differences between the collagen and placebo groups.
Collagen, a fibrous protein composed of peptides with a unique molecular structure, provides both strength and elasticity and is present in all animals. Its natural production in the body is believed to decline with age. Collagen is a key component of the solid matrix in articular cartilage, and its supplementation has gained attention for its potential to slow cartilage degradation and support healing after the onset of OA. Two commonly used forms of collagen supplementation for knee joint health are hydrolyzed collagen peptides and non-hydrolyzed collagen, each with distinct mechanisms of action. Non-hydrolyzed collagen, frequently utilized in OA management, has demonstrated benefits in improving joint comfort in clinical studies. However, its low absorption rate limits its effectiveness unless hydrolyzed.
Hydrolyzed collagen, on the other hand, consists of amino acids and peptides of varying lengths that resist further hydrolysis, resulting in superior bioavailability. This enhanced absorption makes hydrolyzed collagen a physiologically effective supplement for supporting joint health and managing OA symptoms. A meta-analysis by García-Coronado et al. of randomized placebo-controlled trials found that collagen supplementation significantly improved OA symptoms. The results demonstrated a substantial reduction in the total WOMAC index score and the stiffness subscore, while changes in the pain and functional limitation subscores were not statistically significant. Additionally, collagen supplementation led to a marked decrease in VAS scores, highlighting its potential efficacy in managing OA symptoms.
These findings underscore the potential of collagen supplementation as a supportive measure in OA treatment, particularly in alleviating pain and enhancing quality of life. While the short duration of the study limited long-term insights, the results suggest that collagen may serve as a valuable addition to OA management strategies. Future research with larger sample sizes, more targeted age ranges, and sex-specific evaluations could provide deeper insights into collagen’s efficacy. Additionally, exploring biomarkers related to OA and collagen metabolism may elucidate the physiological mechanisms underlying these improvements. Extending the supplementation period and conducting detailed component analyses could further clarify the role of collagen in managing OA symptoms.
References
- Genç AS, Yılmaz AK, Anıl B, Korkmaz Salkılıç E, Akdemir E, Sancaklı A, et al. Effect of supplementation with type 1 and type 3 collagen peptide and type 2 hydrolyzed collagen on osteoarthritis-related pain, quality of life, and physical function: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study. Jt Dis Relat Surg. 2025 Jan 2;36(1):85-96.
- García-Coronado JM, Martínez-Olvera L, Elizondo-Omaña RE, Acosta-Olivo CA, Vilchez-Cavazos F, Simental-Mendía LE, et al. Effect of collagen supplementation on osteoarthritis symptoms: a meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials. Int Orthop. 2019 Mar;43(3):531-538.