In other words: A Permutation is an ordered Combination. There are basically two types of permutation: 1  Repetition is Allowed: such as the lock above. It could be 333.  No Repetition: for example the first three people in a running race. You can't be first and second.
For this reason, the idea that collagen supplementation can be an effective treatment for joint pain, osteoarthritis, or any other condition, is highly implausible, if not impossible in principle.
Collagen is one of the best materials you can take for arthritis and joint pain. However, just like with most conditions, there is no single supplement that will heal all instances of pain in all patients.