I neglected stretching when I was younger and paid the price for it for a long time until I got into the habit of being as disciplined in that as I am in my workouts.
Most chronic joint issues are caused by a combination of muscle imbalances/ weaknesses. Correct those before permanent damage is done and you can be relatively joint pain free.
The claims of Glucosamine is that increases synovial fluid release in the joint & assists in rebuilding cartilage. The science on the supplement is inconsistent, with studies claiming it's beneficial as well as others claiming it to be pure placebo. The science on glucosamine is consistent with the vast majority of all supplements in the sense of hard scientific data on benefits being lacking, leaving decisions up to consumers to decide if a supplement product actually benefits them or not.
In contrast, the science on joint mobility exercises including static & dynamic stretching for reducing chronic joint pain is quite solid. This is what I did to correct my chronic back, joint pain after my two hip replacement surgeries & it worked extremely well.
Presently I'm taking glucosamine, MSM & Boswella. When I run out I'm not going to take it for 2 months to see if I notice any significant difference. Odds are, I won't. The only two supplements I've ever used that are clearly beneficial is Creatine Monohydrate & BCAA. I don't consider protein powder or anabolics "supplements." One is food & the other is drugs. That's quite different from OTC supplements.