MSM has been consistently shown in studies to be effective in combating joint pain. The effectiveness of Chondroitin and Glucosamine is still up for debate due to conflicting studies. On a personal note, I experienced an auto accident at age 21 in 1997 and my knees became creaking and painful. MSM was the only supplement that worked to reduce my pain. One tab a day for 40 days brought me back to normal. I only take it a couple of times a year during flare ups. I also gave MSM to a friend who recently experienced a stroke and was suffering from horrible joint pain. It did not completely eliminate the pain, but it was reduced to where he could lead a normal life. Do not take it before bed due to possible insomnia. If you have a sensitive stomach, you may want to take it with food.