Improvement of joint range of motion (ROM) and reduction of chronic pain after consumption of an ergothioneine-containing nutritional supplement.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate anti-inflammatory properties of a nutraceutical blend containing L-ergothioneine in concert with other anti-inflammatory and analgesic ingredients, combined with nutritional cartilage support. METHODOLOGY: Twelve human subjects were tested over a 6-week period of product consumption followed by a 6-week wash-out period, conducted at NIS Labs during late fall/early winter 2010. Range of motion (ROM) assessment of joint motility was performed using JTECH dual digital inclinometry and included flexion, extension, and rotation through the vertical weight-bearing column (neck, thorax, lumbar, hip, knees) and shoulders. Pain evaluation included questionnaires and Visual Analogues Scales regarding primary and secondary pain complaints at rest and at use. RESULTS: ROM improvements were seen after 1 week, and further improved at 6 weeks (primary pain area P<0.2, secondary pain area P<0.03). Pain in primary and secondary areas at use was significantly reduced already at 1 week, compared to baseline (P<0.05). Pain reduction for both primary and secondary pain areas during use reached a high level of statistical significance at 6 weeks (P<0.004), and remained highly significant after the 6-week wash-out period. CONCLUSION: Pain reduction and improved ROM were observed during the 6-week consumption. Residual effects were seen 6 weeks after stopping consumption of the ergothioneine supplement.