One of the more unusual treatments for knee problems, including moderate to severe osteoarthritis, may be seaweed extract.

In a 12-week study at the University of Minnesota, 70 people were given either a daily seaweed supplement or the standard treatment of glucosamine suphate. Others took a placebo.

Both the seaweed and glucosamine groups showed significant progress compared with the placebo group. But the seaweed takers improved twice as much as those who were given glucosamine.

Kelp and other seaweed tablets may be just the job for stiff, painful knees.