DEAR DR. ROACH: I am a 66-year-old male who often experiences achiness in my lower joints (hip arthritis and occasional knee pain). A good friend of mine who is also a doctor recommended that I consider taking a daily supplement of glucosamine and chondroitin.

Do you recommend it for reducing inflammation and joint pain? Does it work? I mostly manage my pain with Aleve, but long-term use of it is apparently not recommended as it can increase blood pressure in certain people.

My doctor friend’s wife says she has been taking it for 30 years and swears by it for helping her joint pain. What are the odds that it would be beneficial for me?

— V.F.

ANSWER: Aleve (naproxen) is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, which is effective for many people with arthritis. It has many possible side e

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