NEM brand eggshell membrane has been found to improve flexion in cranes with chronic tarsal issues, according to an independent study presented at the North American Crane Workshop (The Proceedings of the North American Crane Workshop 12:27-32).
The placebo-controlled, crossover pilot study found an average increase in flexion of 7.2 degrees with NEM supplementation compared to the placebo over the course of five weeks. The makeup of cartilage in birds and humans is different, however there are physical and biological similarities between birds and people in regards to the development of joint issues. NEM has already been found to improve joint flexibility in humans, but this emerging evidence suggest, it may help birds as well. According to the International Crane Foundation, musculoskeletal abnormalities are prevalent in cranes and found these abnormalities to be the second leading cause of morbidity in the endangered whooping crane.
“We are always gratified to learn of further extensions of the benefits of NEM supplementation. This intriguing work in cranes is a first of its kind on a number of levels, with birds being the furthest species from humans to have been studied to date," said Kevin J. Ruff, Ph.D., director of scientific and regulatory affairs for ESM Technologies, manufacturer of the NEM ingredient.