Ask Dr. Lisa

Q: Will glucosamine/chondroitin ease my achy knee pain?

Possibly, especially if you have osteoarthritis, which is associated with wear and tear of joint cartilage. It's not uncommon among women in their 30s and 40s who have been lifelong athletes or had a knee injury. Glucosamine, found in shells of crabs, lobsters and shrimp, is thought to be a good source of the building blocks needed to grow cartilage; chondroitin, which the body produces, is believed to prevent breakdown. With your M.D.'s OK, take 1,500 milligrams of glucosamine and 1,200 milligrams of chondroitin a day for two months. If it doesn't work, see your doc for other options.

Lisa Callahan, M.D., is the author of The Fitness Factor. Send your questions to drlisa@self.com.