Overview

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Questionable
Based on 29 Researches
6.9
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 5 Reviews
8.4
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 1 Softgel
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Vitamin D3 (as Cholecalciferol) (From Lanolin)
1,250 mcg (50,000 IU)
6250%

Top Medical Research Studies

We explored the potential benefits of vitamin D3 supplementation in alleviating knee pain associated with osteoarthritis (OA). In this open-label clinical trial, we assessed the effects of daily doses of 4000 IU vitamin D3 over three months in 80 patients suffering from knee OA.

Our findings revealed notable improvements in pain levels and overall physical function. The patients showed significant reductions in pain scores measured by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) subscores after the treatment period. Remarkably, 86.7% of those treated responded positively to the therapy.

Interestingly, we observed changes in systemic cytokine levels: while some pro-inflammatory markers increased, others, including TNF-α and IL-17, showed significant reductions. This suggests that vitamin D3 not only helps with pain relief but also may influence inflammatory processes in the body.

Overall, our results indicate that vitamin D3 supplementation could be a promising therapeutic option for managing symptoms of knee OA. Nonetheless, future research should further investigate the role of specific inflammatory mediators, like IL-33, in the progression of knee osteoarthritis.
1
Vitamin D3 shows no benefit
We conducted a thorough investigation into the effects of vitamin D3 supplementation on knee pain and cartilage volume in people suffering from knee osteoarthritis, particularly those with low vitamin D levels. This study took place in Tasmania and Victoria, Australia, and was designed as a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

Over a span of two years, we divided participants into two groups: one received a monthly dose of oral vitamin D3 (50,000 IU), while the other group received a placebo. Our main focus was to evaluate any changes in tibial cartilage volume, measured through MRI, as well as the participants' knee pain levels as indicated by the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) pain score.

The results showed that, compared to the placebo group, those who received vitamin D3 experienced no significant differences in either tibial cartilage volume or reported knee pain over the two years. This indicates that vitamin D3 supplementation does not provide meaningful benefits for reducing tibial cartilage loss or improving knee pain in patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis.
1
Vitamin D3 ineffective for knee pain
We conducted a thorough investigation into whether vitamin D3 supplementation could alleviate knee pain in individuals with osteoarthritis. Our study involved 146 participants, all experiencing symptomatic knee osteoarthritis. They were either given a placebo or oral doses of vitamin D3, specifically aimed at achieving serum levels greater than 36 ng/mL over two years.

The main focus was on evaluating changes in knee pain and cartilage loss, utilizing the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities (WOMAC) pain scale for symptoms and magnetic resonance imaging for cartilage assessment. Unfortunately, our findings revealed that vitamin D supplementation did not lead to any significant reduction in knee pain or cartilage loss when compared to the placebo.

While we were hopeful that vitamin D3 might provide some relief, the results clearly indicated that this approach did not yield the desired effects in patients suffering from knee osteoarthritis. This outcome is crucial as it helps to shape future treatment approaches for this common condition.

Most Useful Reviews

9.5
Pain relief noted
A magical product. One pill effectively alleviates back and leg pain, yet follow-up is necessary. Excellent quality and wonderful ingredients at a good price. The dosage is one pill weekly.
9.5
Knee pain relief
I tried this product for knee pain after several others failed to help. Within days, my knee felt much better. I chose this brand because it contains no fillers.
8.8
Improved mobility
The neurosurgeon prescribed D3 50,000 ME for my relative’s lumbar compression fracture. After two weeks, they began to move more comfortably and moan less from pain. Fast delivery from iHerb was appreciated.

Medical Researches

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Questionable
Based on 29 Researches
6.9
  • All Researches
9
Vitamin D alleviates knee pain
We focused on the effects of vitamin D (VITD) in reducing knee pain linked to osteoarthritis (OA) using a study conducted on Wistar rats. The rats were induced with OA through a combination of surgical methods known as ACLT (anterior cruciate ligament transection) along with medial meniscectomy. This allowed us to closely observe the direct impact of VITD on pain levels and cartilage health.

Our investigations revealed that VITD not only alleviated pain but also minimized cartilage destruction. We measured pain severity through various tests, examined knee structure through histopathological studies, and analyzed different biological markers including inflammatory cytokines and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which are linked to cartilage degradation.

The results were quite promising. Not only did VITD show a significant reduction in pain, but it also decreased inflammation and the destruction of chondrocytes, or cartilage cells. These benefits appear to stem from VITD's ability to lower the expression of MMPs, which are known contributors to cartilage breakdown in OA.

Overall, our findings strongly suggest that adding vitamin D to treatment regimens could be beneficial for those suffering from knee pain related to osteoarthritis, making it a potential ally in managing this common joint condition.
We aimed to understand the therapeutic impact of vitamin D3 on knee pain associated with osteoarthritis (OA). In a 3-month open-label clinical trial, we observed 80 patients with knee OA who took an oral supplement of vitamin D3 at a dosage of 4000 IU per day.

Over the course of the study, we measured the participants' pain levels and functionality using WOMAC subscores and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) assessments. Excitingly, we found that the average pain intensity decreased significantly after treatment. In fact, about 87% of the participants showed a notable positive response to the vitamin D3 supplementation.

Alongside improvements in pain, we also noted changes in certain inflammation markers in the blood. There was a significant decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α and IL-17, while levels of IL-33 increased. This suggests that vitamin D3 might play a role in modulating the inflammatory processes related to knee OA.

Ultimately, our findings highlight the potential of vitamin D3 supplementation as a promising therapeutic option for managing knee OA symptoms. Further research is warranted to delve deeper into the role of IL-33 and its implications for osteoarthritis.
9
Vitamin D3 aids post-surgery recovery
We explored the effects of vitamin D (D3) on knee pain recovery after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). In our study, we enrolled 60 patients and categorized them into three groups based on their vitamin D levels. Some patients had sufficient vitamin D, while others were either given large doses of oral or intramuscular supplementation if they were found to be insufficient.

Our findings revealed that patients with insufficient vitamin D experienced significant improvements in their knee function after receiving large oral doses. In fact, those who received oral supplements showed recovery comparable to patients who already had sufficient vitamin D. Conversely, while intramuscular supplementation did increase vitamin D levels, it was less effective compared to the oral method and only showed noticeable improvement by the two-week mark.

Interestingly, we also noted that about 25% of patients who initially had sufficient vitamin D levels became insufficient within the first two weeks post-surgery. This indicates that even those with adequate levels may need to consider supplementation after undergoing TKA to maintain optimal recovery.

In summary, our study suggests that quickly addressing vitamin D deficiency with oral supplementation can play a crucial role in enhancing recovery and reducing knee pain following TKA.
9
Vitamin D3 alleviates knee pain
We aimed to understand how vitamin D3 supplementation influences knee pain and muscle strength in individuals suffering from knee osteoarthritis (KOA). The study involved 67 patients over the age of 30, all experiencing knee pain for at least a month and showing signs of vitamin D deficiency.

Participants received a weekly dose of 50,000 IU of oral cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) for a span of two months. By the end of the treatment, nearly all participants had sufficient levels of vitamin D. Significant improvements were observed; serum vitamin D levels rose, quadriceps muscle strength increased, and knee pain decreased for the majority of participants.

Specifically, the pain reduction was measurable through standard pain assessment methods. The findings suggest a clear link between correcting vitamin D deficiency and improvements in both muscle strength and pain levels for those living with KOA.
9
Case study of knee pain relief
We examined the impact of vitamin D3 in a patient suffering from adult Fanconi syndrome, who experienced notable knee pain among other symptoms. This individual, a 42-year-old female, presented with various issues including progressive proximal muscle weakness and marked bone discomfort, particularly in the knees. After a thorough evaluation that included electromyography and a muscle biopsy, she was diagnosed with this rare condition, which often results in deficiencies that can lead to significant pain and discomfort.

Following a comprehensive treatment plan, which included tricalcium phosphate, vitamin D3, and sodium bicarbonate, we observed positive changes in her symptoms. The patient's knee pain, along with other discomforts, notably improved after a six-week supplementation regimen. However, it's essential to clarify that while vitamin D3 was part of a combined treatment, the specific contribution of vitamin D3 to alleviating knee pain is hard to isolate. We conclude that vitamin D3 may offer some benefits when included in a broader treatment framework, but further research would be needed to fully understand its role in managing knee pain specifically.

User Reviews

USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 5 Reviews
8.4
  • All Reviews
  • Positive Reviews
  • Negative Reviews
9.5
Pain relief noted
A magical product. One pill effectively alleviates back and leg pain, yet follow-up is necessary. Excellent quality and wonderful ingredients at a good price. The dosage is one pill weekly.
9.5
Knee pain relief
I tried this product for knee pain after several others failed to help. Within days, my knee felt much better. I chose this brand because it contains no fillers.
8.8
Improved mobility
The neurosurgeon prescribed D3 50,000 ME for my relative’s lumbar compression fracture. After two weeks, they began to move more comfortably and moan less from pain. Fast delivery from iHerb was appreciated.
7.5
Good results
This effective supplement significantly improved my leg pain due to vitamin D deficiency. I’m reordering as I had great results.
0
Health concerns noted
This product didn’t work for me. After my first pill, I experienced discomfort in my kidney area, which disrupted my sleep. I’m hesitant to try it again and will return to a 5000 IU dose.

Frequently Asked Questions

9.5
Knee pain relief
I tried this product for knee pain after several others failed to help. Within days, my knee felt much better. I chose this brand because it contains no fillers.
8.8
Improved mobility
The neurosurgeon prescribed D3 50,000 ME for my relative’s lumbar compression fracture. After two weeks, they began to move more comfortably and moan less from pain. Fast delivery from iHerb was appreciated.
9.5
Pain relief noted
A magical product. One pill effectively alleviates back and leg pain, yet follow-up is necessary. Excellent quality and wonderful ingredients at a good price. The dosage is one pill weekly.
7.5
Good results
This effective supplement significantly improved my leg pain due to vitamin D deficiency. I’m reordering as I had great results.
0
Health concerns noted
This product didn’t work for me. After my first pill, I experienced discomfort in my kidney area, which disrupted my sleep. I’m hesitant to try it again and will return to a 5000 IU dose.
We sought to understand the connection between vitamin D levels and knee pain in older adults suffering from osteoarthritis (OA). In our analysis, we looked at data from 105 OA patients alongside 152 control participants to explore how vitamin D deficiency might relate to functional impairment.

Our findings revealed that those with lower levels of vitamin D experienced more severe symptoms of OA. Specifically, the patients demonstrated higher levels of pain and were more functionally impaired according to the WOMAC questionnaire. Interestingly, we also found a connection between vitamin D deficiency and increased levels of inflammation markers, TNF-α and IL-6, suggesting that vitamin D may play a role in managing both pain and inflammation in OA.

Overall, this study highlights the potential importance of maintaining adequate vitamin D levels to alleviate knee pain and improve functionality in individuals with osteoarthritis. However, further research is needed to determine if vitamin D supplementation could effectively mitigate symptoms of arthritis and slow disease progression.
7
Vitamin D aids knee osteoarthritis relief
We explored the potential benefits of vitamin D in managing knee pain associated with osteoarthritis (OA) through a well-structured study using a rat model. The research involved dividing male Wistar rats into different groups, where some received curcumin, some received vitamin D, and others were given a combination of both, while a control group remained untreated.

Our observations indicated that vitamin D, either alone or combined with curcumin, significantly reduced pain in these models of knee OA. The combined treatment even showed enhanced pain relief compared to either supplement on its own. We also noted an increase in anti-inflammatory markers in the serum, suggesting that vitamin D helps not only in alleviating pain but also in combatting inflammation linked to OA.

Importantly, the combination of vitamin D and curcumin helped preserve joint and cartilage integrity, as revealed through histological analysis. Overall, this research suggests that vitamin D can play a vital role in managing knee pain and delaying the progression of osteoarthritis when used alongside curcumin.

Our findings support the idea that integrating natural supplements like vitamin D into treatment plans may offer meaningful relief for those suffering from knee OA.
We aimed to understand the therapeutic impact of vitamin D3 on knee pain associated with osteoarthritis (OA). In a 3-month open-label clinical trial, we observed 80 patients with knee OA who took an oral supplement of vitamin D3 at a dosage of 4000 IU per day.

Over the course of the study, we measured the participants' pain levels and functionality using WOMAC subscores and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) assessments. Excitingly, we found that the average pain intensity decreased significantly after treatment. In fact, about 87% of the participants showed a notable positive response to the vitamin D3 supplementation.

Alongside improvements in pain, we also noted changes in certain inflammation markers in the blood. There was a significant decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α and IL-17, while levels of IL-33 increased. This suggests that vitamin D3 might play a role in modulating the inflammatory processes related to knee OA.

Ultimately, our findings highlight the potential of vitamin D3 supplementation as a promising therapeutic option for managing knee OA symptoms. Further research is warranted to delve deeper into the role of IL-33 and its implications for osteoarthritis.
8
Vitamin D3 aids knee pain relief
We conducted a thorough analysis of several randomized controlled trials to see how vitamin D3 affects knee pain, particularly in those suffering from osteoarthritis (OA). By examining data from four studies involving over 1,100 participants, we looked specifically at pain relief and functional improvement as measured by the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC).

Our findings are quite revealing: while vitamin D3 significantly reduced pain and improved function for those with knee OA, it did not prevent cartilage loss in the knee joints. This is an important distinction, as many may assume pain relief could also equate to structural benefits.

Interestingly, vitamin D3 supplementation of more than 2,000 IU daily showed the most promise in terms of reducing pain and enhancing functionality. However, it's worth noting that the treatment did not increase the risk of adverse effects when compared to placebo groups.

Overall, while vitamin D3 may help alleviate knee pain and improve overall mobility, the evidence does not support its use in slowing down the progression of knee osteoarthritis itself. This indicates a need for further research to explore more comprehensive treatment options for those managing OA.
We explored how vitamin D supplementation impacts knee pain and other related factors in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). A group of 165 KOA patients received 40,000 IU of vitamin D weekly for six months, and their treatment was compared against 25 healthy individuals.

Our findings revealed that patients with KOA had notably higher levels of an autophagosome protein, LC3A, compared to the healthy controls. After vitamin D supplementation, there was a significant reduction in serum LC3A levels, pointing toward an improvement in the autophagy process. This decrease in LC3A levels was also linked with a reduction in pain and better functional scores.

Additionally, we saw improvements in muscle strength and overall physical performance among those who received vitamin D. In essence, vitamin D not only helped lower inflammatory markers but also contributed to alleviating knee pain and enhancing mobility for KOA patients.

Overall, the evidence suggests that vitamin D can be an effective ally in managing knee pain and improving physical performance in individuals suffering from KOA.

References

  1. Montemor CN, Fernandes MTP, Marquez AS, Bignardi PR, Poli RC, et al. Impact of Reduced Vitamin D Levels on Pain, Function, and Severity in Knee or Hip Osteoarthritis. Nutrients. 2025;17. doi:10.3390/nu17030447
  2. Mende LK, Kuthati Y, Wong CS. Curcumin and Vitamin D Supplement Attenuates Knee Osteoarthritis Progression in ACLT + MMx Rat Model: Effect on Cartilage Protection and Pain Reduction. Nutrients. 2025;17. doi:10.3390/nu17020349
  3. Rajani AM, Mittal A, Kulkarni VU, Rajani KA, Rajani KA. Role of Pre-operative Correction of Vitamin D3 Deficiency in Controlling Post-operative Bone Pain after Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty. Malays Orthop J. 2024;18:7. doi:10.5704/MOJ.2411.002
  4. Gottreich JR, Katz JN, Jones MH. Nonsurgical Knee Osteoarthritis Treatments for Reducing Inflammation as Measured on MRI Scans: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials. Orthop J Sports Med. 2024;12:23259671241272667. doi:10.1177/23259671241272667
  5. Zuo A, Jia Q, Zhang M, Zhou X, Li T, et al. The association of vitamin D with knee osteoarthritis pain: an analysis from the Osteoarthritis Initiative database. Sci Rep. 2024;14:30176. doi:10.1038/s41598-024-81845-6
  6. Wang QW, Ong MT, Man GC, Yeung YM, He X, et al. The effectiveness of vitamin D supplementation in patients with end-stage knee osteoarthritis: Study protocol for a double-blinded, randomized controlled trial. PLoS One. 2024;19:e0309610. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0309610
  7. Saengsiwaritt W, Jittikoon J, Chaikledkaew U, Tawonsawatruk T, Honsawek S, et al. Effect of vitamin D supplementation on circulating level of autophagosome protein LC3A, inflammation, and physical performance in knee osteoarthritis. Clin Transl Sci. 2023;16:2543. doi:10.1111/cts.13646
  8. Wang Z, Zhu Z, Pan F, Zheng S, Parameswaran V, et al. Long-term effects of vitamin D supplementation and maintaining sufficient vitamin D on knee osteoarthritis over 5 years. Arthritis Res Ther. 2023;25:178. doi:10.1186/s13075-023-03167-8
  9. Wang R, Wang ZM, Xiang SC, Jin ZK, Zhang JJ, et al. Relationship between 25-hydroxy vitamin D and knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Front Med (Lausanne). 2023;10:1200592. doi:10.3389/fmed.2023.1200592
  10. Busa P, Huang N, Kuthati Y, Wong CS. Vitamin D reduces pain and cartilage destruction in knee osteoarthritis animals through inhibiting the matrix metalloprotease (MMPs) expression. Heliyon. 2023;9:e15268. doi:10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e15268
  11. Shen J, Lin X, Lin Y, Xiao J, Wu C, et al. Supplementation of hyaluronic acid injections with vitamin D improve knee function by attenuating synovial fluid oxidative stress in osteoarthritis patients with vitamin D insufficiency. Front Nutr. 2023;10:1026722. doi:10.3389/fnut.2023.1026722
  12. Divjak A, Jovanovic I, Matic A, Lucic AT, Gajovic N, et al. The influence of vitamin D supplementation on the expression of mediators of inflammation in knee osteoarthritis. Immunol Res. 2023;71:442. doi:10.1007/s12026-022-09354-0
  13. Lin T, Peng S, Lu S, Fu S, Zeng D, et al. Prediction of knee pain improvement over two years for knee osteoarthritis using a dynamic nomogram based on MRI-derived radiomics: a proof-of-concept study. Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 2023;31:267. doi:10.1016/j.joca.2022.10.014
  14. Strath LJ, Hernandez PV, Nodarse CL, Johnson AJ, Edberg JD, et al. Clinical vitamin D levels are associated with insular volume and inferior temporal gyrus white matter surface area in community-dwelling individuals with knee pain. Front Neurosci. 2022;16:882322. doi:10.3389/fnins.2022.882322
  15. Jin X, Ding C, Hunter DJ, Gallego B. Effectiveness of vitamin D supplementation on knee osteoarthritis - A target trial emulation study using data from the Osteoarthritis Initiative cohort. Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 2022;30:1495. doi:10.1016/j.joca.2022.06.005
  16. Peng HM, Weng XS, Li Y, Feng B, Qian W, et al. Effect of alendronate sodium plus vitamin D tablets on knee joint structure and osteoarthritis pain: a multi-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study protocol. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2022;23:584. doi:10.1186/s12891-022-05521-4
  17. Rajani AM, Mittal A, Kulkarni VU, Rajani KA, Rajani KA. Role of Pre-operative Correction of Vitamin D3 Deficiency in Controlling Post-operative Bone Pain after Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty. Malays Orthop J. 2024;18:7. doi:10.5704/MOJ.2411.002
  18. Qi L, Guo Y. Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva: A Case Report. Cureus. 2024;16:e55528. doi:10.7759/cureus.55528
  19. Divjak A, Jovanovic I, Matic A, Lucic AT, Gajovic N, et al. The influence of vitamin D supplementation on the expression of mediators of inflammation in knee osteoarthritis. Immunol Res. 2023;71:442. doi:10.1007/s12026-022-09354-0
  20. Peng HM, Weng XS, Li Y, Feng B, Qian W, et al. Effect of alendronate sodium plus vitamin D tablets on knee joint structure and osteoarthritis pain: a multi-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study protocol. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2022;23:584. doi:10.1186/s12891-022-05521-4
  21. Maniar RN, Maniar AR, Jain D, Bhatnagar N, Gajjar A. Vitamin D Trajectory after Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Method for Quick Correction in Deficient Patients. Clin Orthop Surg. 2021;13:336. doi:10.4055/cios20147
  22. Tu L, Zheng S, Cicuttini F, Jin X, Han W, et al. Effects of Vitamin D Supplementation on Disabling Foot Pain in Patients With Symptomatic Knee Osteoarthritis. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken). 2021;73:781. doi:10.1002/acr.24371
  23. Gao XR, Chen YS, Deng W. The effect of vitamin D supplementation on knee osteoarthritis: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Int J Surg. 2017;46:14. doi:10.1016/j.ijsu.2017.08.010
  24. Xu C, Ma C, Bai Y. A pediatric hypophosphatemic rickets on MRI, Tc-MDP bone scan and F-FDG PET/CT. Hell J Nucl Med. 2017;20:93. doi:10.1967/s002449910515
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  26. Heidari B, Javadian Y, Babaei M, Yousef-Ghahari B. Restorative Effect of Vitamin D Deficiency on Knee Pain and Quadriceps Muscle Strength in Knee Osteoarthritis. Acta Med Iran. 2015;53:466.
  27. McAlindon T, LaValley M, Schneider E, Nuite M, Lee JY, et al. Effect of vitamin D supplementation on progression of knee pain and cartilage volume loss in patients with symptomatic osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA. 2013;309:155. doi:10.1001/jama.2012.164487
  28. Cao Y, Jones G, Cicuttini F, Winzenberg T, Wluka A, et al. Vitamin D supplementation in the management of knee osteoarthritis: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials. 2012;13:131. doi:10.1186/1745-6215-13-131
  29. Lian LM, Chang YC, Yang CC, Yang JC, Kao KP, et al. Adult Fanconi syndrome with proximal muscle weakness and hypophosphatemic osteomalacia: report of a case. J Formos Med Assoc. 1994;93:709.
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